Start by preparing the marinade. In a large bowl, combine the cold water, balsamic vinegar, kosher salt, bay leaf, 1 teaspoon of Herbes de Provence, and onion powder. Stir until the salt is dissolved. Add the chicken wings to the marinade, making sure they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
When you're ready to cook, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature is key to achieving crispy wings.
In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic, a pinch of kosher salt, olive oil, ground black pepper, onion powder, crushed red pepper flakes, and 2 tablespoons of bread crumbs. This mixture will give the wings a delicious flavor and crunchy texture.
After marinating, remove the chicken wings from the marinade and place them on a paper towel-lined plate. Pat them dry thoroughly to ensure they crisp up nicely in the oven.
In a large mixing bowl, toss the dried chicken wings with the garlic butter mixture until they are evenly coated. Then, sprinkle half of the grated Parmesan cheese over the wings and toss again to combine.
Arrange the wings in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the wings are golden brown and crispy.
Remove the wings from the oven and immediately sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese and the rest of the Herbes de Provence over the hot wings. This will help the cheese melt slightly, creating a deliciously cheesy topping.
Transfer the wings to a serving platter and enjoy them hot. These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Wings pair perfectly with your favorite dipping sauces, like ranch or blue cheese, and a side of celery sticks for a classic touch.