There’s nothing quite like the satisfying crunch of a freshly baked taco, especially when it’s filled with tender chicken and zesty slaw. When I first tried Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos, I couldn’t shake the delightful combination of flavors and textures that danced on my palate. Inspired to recreate this experience at home, I whipped up a copycat version that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or game day festivities.
Picture this: a crispy wonton shell cradling sweet and savory honey-garlic chicken, topped with a refreshing coleslaw that adds the perfect bite. Not only are these tacos a fantastic way to bring your family together for a delicious meal, but they’re also high in protein, making them a guilt-free indulgence. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just someone craving something homemade, these Chicken Wonton Tacos will elevate your culinary repertoire without overwhelming your busy schedule. Let’s dive into this easy recipe that promises to become a crowd favorite in no time!
Why are Chicken Wonton Tacos a must-try?
Easy to Make: The straightforward steps mean you won’t be in the kitchen all night. Flavor Explosion: Sweet and savory honey-garlic chicken meets zesty slaw for a taste experience. Kid-Friendly: This recipe is a great way to sneak in veggies—they won’t even notice! Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it ahead for effortless weeknight dinners. Elevate your snack game and impress guests with these delightful bites that everyone will rave about.
Chicken Wonton Taco Ingredients
For the Chicken Filling
• Chicken Breasts – Provides the essential protein; use pre-cooked chicken for quicker preparation.
• Hoisin Sauce – Adds a sweet depth of flavor; teriyaki sauce can be an interesting substitute for variety.
• Sesame Oil – Infuses a lovely nutty aroma; olive oil works well if you prefer a milder flavor.
• Soy Sauce – Enhances umami taste; opt for low-sodium soy sauce for a healthier option.
• Garlic (cloves, minced) – Delivers a strong aromatic flavor; garlic powder is a quick alternative in a pinch.
• Fresh Ginger (minced) – Adds warmth and spice; ground ginger is a satisfactory substitute if fresh isn’t available.
For the Slaw
• Coleslaw Mix – Brings crunch and freshness; shredded cabbage and carrots can work as a substitute if needed.
• Green Onions – Contributes a mild onion flavor; regular onions can be used, but use sparingly due to stronger taste.
• Rice Vinegar – Balances flavors with its acidity; apple cider vinegar can serve as an effective alternative.
• Honey – Sweetens and balances the savory elements; maple syrup can be an option for those seeking a different sweetness.
For Assembly
• Wonton Wrappers – Forms the crunchy taco shell; consider lettuce wraps for a lighter, low-carb alternative.
• Sweet Chili Sauce – Drizzling adds sweetness; use Sriracha if you’re craving extra heat.
• Chopped Cilantro – Freshens up your dish; parsley can be swapped in for a different herb flavor.
• Sesame Seeds – Adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor; they’re optional but highly recommended for presentation.
These Chicken Wonton Tacos are all set to take your meal to the next level!
How to Make Chicken Wonton Tacos
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Preheat your oven to 375°F and prepare a 9×13 baking dish, making it ready for the wonton wrappers that will soon become your crunchy shells.
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Spray or brush both sides of the wonton wrappers with oil, then gently drape them over the edges of your baking dish. Bake for 7-8 minutes, until they start to feel slightly firm.
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Pull apart the wonton shells carefully while they’re still pliable, then return them to the oven for an additional 7-8 minutes, allowing them to bake until they turn crispy and golden brown.
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Combine the diced chicken in a bowl with hoisin sauce, sesame oil, soy sauce, minced garlic, and ginger, ensuring each piece is well-coated in the sweet and savory mixture.
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Sauté the chicken mixture in a skillet over high heat for about 7-8 minutes, cooking until everything is heated through and the flavors have melded together beautifully.
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Mix the coleslaw ingredients in a separate bowl, creating a refreshing and zesty topping for your tacos that balances the savory chicken perfectly.
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Assemble your tacos by filling each crunchy wonton shell with the chicken mixture, topping them with the prepared coleslaw, drizzling sweet chili sauce over the top, and garnishing with fresh cilantro and sesame seeds for that extra touch.
Optional: For added crunch and flavor, serve with extra sweet chili sauce on the side for dipping!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Chicken Wonton Tacos
Fridge: Store leftover Chicken Wonton Tacos in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their flavor and freshness for quick re-heating.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken filling separately in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Wrap wonton shells individually in plastic to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: To reheat, bake the filled tacos at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until the shells are crispy and the filling is heated through. Enjoy fresh, delicious tacos any time!
Preparation Tip: For best results, assemble just before serving. Store the chicken filling, shells, and slaw separately, and then bring them together when you’re ready to enjoy!
Chicken Wonton Tacos Variations
Feel free to customize these delightful tacos to suit your tastes and dietary needs!
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Lettuce Wraps: Swap out the wonton wrappers for crisp lettuce leaves for a refreshing low-carb version.
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Shrimp Twist: Use shrimp instead of chicken for a quick seafood variation. Just sauté until cooked through and juicy.
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Spicy Kick: Drizzle with Sriracha or add sliced jalapeños for an extra layer of heat that spice lovers will adore.
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Vegetarian Delight: Replace chicken with a medley of sautéed mushrooms and tofu for a hearty vegetarian option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
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BBQ Flavor: Try barbecue sauce in place of hoisin sauce for a smoky twist that’s perfect for summer gatherings.
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Tropical Touch: Add diced pineapple to the filling for a sweet, fruity flavor explosion that complements the savory elements beautifully.
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Crispy Additions: Top your tacos with crispy fried onions or crunchy wonton strips for added texture and surprise in every bite.
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Extra Crunch: Incorporate sliced almonds or chopped peanuts over the filling to give a satisfying crunch and rich nutty flavor to every taco.
Make Ahead Options
These crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos are a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can prepare the chicken filling and coleslaw up to 3 days ahead of time. Simply cook the chicken mixture and allow it to cool before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, the coleslaw can be mixed ahead and kept separate to maintain its crunch. The wonton wrappers can be baked right before serving; this ensures they stay crispy and delicious. When you’re ready to enjoy your tacos, just crisp the wonton shells and assemble the tacos for an effortless meal that tastes fresh and satisfying!
What to Serve with Chicken Wonton Tacos?
Enhance your meal experience with thoughtful pairings that complement the delightful flavors of your tacos.
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Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: Their slight sweetness and crunchy texture contrast beautifully with the savory filling of the tacos. Plus, they add a fun twist to your meal!
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Zesty Guacamole: Creamy avocado with lime adds a rich and refreshing element that enhances every bite, creating a balanced flavor profile that everyone will love.
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Fresh Garden Salad: Light and crunchy, a salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing counterbalance to the warm and crispy tacos.
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Spicy Asian Slaw: Complementary in flavor, this fiery slaw accentuates the honey-garlic chicken and adds an extra layer of texture that makes the meal feel complete.
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Coconut Rice: The slight sweetness of coconut rice pairs harmoniously, enhancing the Asian-inspired flavors of the tacos while offering a creamy texture that invites a second helping.
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Iced Green Tea: A refreshing drink with light notes complements the savory and sweet flavors of the tacos, providing a perfect palate cleanser between bites.
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Chocolate Mousse Cups: For dessert, these airy cups of chocolate lend a rich treat to round out the meal, creating a satisfying conclusion to your flavor-filled fiesta.
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Fruit Sorbet: Light and fruity, this dessert offers a refreshing finish that is easy on the palate while cleansing your taste buds after the tacos.
Expert Tips for Chicken Wonton Tacos
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Chicken Prep: Opt for pre-cooked chicken to save time without sacrificing flavor while preparing your Chicken Wonton Tacos.
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Shell Crispiness: To achieve perfectly crispy wonton shells, ensure you pull them apart while still warm. This prevents them from sticking together.
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Sauce Variations: Experiment with different sauces; teriyaki or spicy mayo can provide new flavor profiles to your Chicken Wonton Tacos.
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Storing Leftovers: Store any leftover chicken filling in an airtight container for 3-4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months for easy access to future tasty tacos.
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Veggie Sneak-In: If your family is picky about vegetables, try using finely chopped veggies in the coleslaw mix; they add nutritional value without overwhelming flavors.
Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe FAQs
How do I know if the chicken is cooked properly?
Absolutely! Ensure that your chicken is cooked until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. This is the safe standard for poultry. You can use a meat thermometer for accuracy, or cut into the chicken to check that it’s no longer pink.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Very! You’ll want to thaw the chicken thoroughly in the fridge overnight or in cold water before using it in your Chicken Wonton Tacos. If you have to cook from frozen, be sure to boil or bake it until it reaches the safe internal temperature.
How do I store leftover Chicken Wonton Tacos?
For sure! Place leftover Chicken Wonton Tacos in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To maintain their crunch, I recommend storing the chicken filling and wonton shells separately, and assembling them just before eating.
Can I freeze the chicken filling?
Absolutely! You can freeze the chicken filling in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just be sure to cool it completely before freezing. When you’re ready to use it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a skillet before assembling your tacos.
What if my wonton wrappers are sticking together?
Oh no! If your wonton wrappers are sticking, it may be because they are getting too moist. Always keep them covered with a damp cloth while working with them. If they stick during baking, gently pull them apart while they’re still warm to maintain their shape.
Are these tacos suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, indeed! To make gluten-free Chicken Wonton Tacos, simply use gluten-free wonton wrappers or substitute with lettuce wraps. For the soy sauce, opt for a gluten-free version, or use coconut aminos as a tasty alternative!
Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos: A Fun Family Favorite
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and prepare a 9x13 baking dish for the wonton wrappers.
- Spray or brush both sides of the wonton wrappers with oil, draping them over the edges of the baking dish.
- Bake for 7-8 minutes until slightly firm.
- Carefully pull apart the wonton shells while they're pliable and return to the oven for an additional 7-8 minutes until crispy.
- Combine diced chicken with hoisin sauce, sesame oil, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger, ensuring it's well-coated.
- Sauté the chicken mixture in a skillet over high heat for 7-8 minutes until heated through.
- Mix coleslaw ingredients in a separate bowl.
- Assemble tacos by filling each wonton shell with chicken, topping with slaw, drizzling with chili sauce, and garnishing with cilantro and sesame seeds.