The tantalizing aroma of sizzling chicken and toasted wonton shells wafts through my kitchen, instantly making my mouth water. With each carefully assembled bite, I’m reminded of those lively nights spent at Applebee’s, eagerly savoring their glorious Chicken Wonton Tacos. Today, I’m thrilled to share my homemade version that captures that same magic, yet it’s so much better! This recipe for Chicken Wonton Tacos is not just a treat for your taste buds; it’s a budget-friendly delight that comes together in no time. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or just looking for a satisfying bite to indulge yourself, these crunchy, savory creations are sure to impress. Curious about how to bring a bit of that restaurant excitement right to your dinner table? Let’s dive into the details!

Why Are Chicken Wonton Tacos a Must-Try?

Crispy, Golden Perfection: The baked wonton shells bring an irresistible crunch that pairs perfectly with the tender, savory chicken filling.
Flavor Explosion: A delightful explosion of sweet and savory ingredients like hoisin sauce and sesame oil keeps every bite exciting!
Quick and Convenient: With just a few simple steps and easily accessible ingredients, you can whip these up in no time.
Family-Friendly Fun: Perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner, these tacos are sure to please both kids and adults alike! Ready for a different twist? You might also enjoy our Chopped Chicken Bacon Ranch Sandwich as a tasty alternative.
Gluten-Free Option: Simply swap in gluten-free wonton wrappers and tamari for a delicious, inclusive meal that everyone can enjoy.

Chicken Wonton Tacos Ingredients

For the Chicken Filling

Chicken Breasts – Finely diced for quick cooking and filling that melts in your mouth.
Hoisin Sauce – Adds a sweet depth; you can substitute with teriyaki for a milder taste.
Sesame Oil – Infuses a nutty aroma; used both in chicken and slaw for flavor harmony.
Soy Sauce – Brings a rich umami; swap with tamari for a gluten-free option if needed.
Garlic – Minced for balanced distribution of its aromatic punch.
Ginger – Adds warmth; finely minced to blend seamlessly in the filling.

For the Crunchy Slaw

Coleslaw Mix – Offers fresh, crunchy texture; conveniently pre-packaged for your ease.
Green Onions – Thinly sliced to brighten the flavor and add a pop of color to your dish.
Rice Vinegar – Provides a tangy kick, elevating the slaw’s overall taste.
Honey – Adds natural sweetness; balances out the slaw’s tanginess beautifully.

For the Tacos

Wonton Wrappers – Forms the taco shell; they turn crispy when baked perfectly.
Sweet Chili Sauce – Drizzle this on top for a sweet and spicy finish!
Chopped Cilantro – Fresh garnish; adds a burst of color and flavor, optional but recommended.
Sesame Seeds – Sprinkle on top for a delightful crunch and visual appeal.

With these ingredients, you’re all set to create delicious homemade Chicken Wonton Tacos that rival Applebee’s!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is ideal for achieving perfectly crispy wonton shells. While the oven warms up, gather your muffin tin and cooking spray to prepare for shaping those delightful shells.

Step 2: Prepare Wonton Shells
Spray the muffin tin generously with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Drape the wonton wrappers over the inverted cups, creating taco shell shapes. Bake these in the preheated oven for 5-7 minutes, or until they’re golden and crisp. Keep an eye on them as they bake; you want that perfect crunchy texture!

Step 3: Cook the Chicken
While the wonton shells are baking, heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add your finely diced chicken breasts and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is no longer pink. It should be tender and slightly browned for that delicious flavor in your Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos.

Step 4: Flavor the Chicken
Once the chicken is cooked through, add in ¼ cup of hoisin sauce, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 2 minced garlic cloves, and 1 teaspoon of minced ginger to the skillet. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly, and let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until everything is well glazed and fragrant.

Step 5: Prepare the Slaw
In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of coleslaw mix, ¼ cup of thinly sliced green onions, 1 tablespoon of sesame oil, 2 tablespoons of rice vinegar, and 1 tablespoon of honey. Toss everything together until the veggies are well coated. This crunchy slaw will perfectly balance the savory filling of your Chicken Wonton Tacos.

Step 6: Assemble the Tacos
Take the crispy wonton shells from the oven and begin to assemble your tacos. Fill each shell generously with the cooked chicken mixture, then top them with the prepared slaw. For an extra touch of flavor, drizzle sweet chili sauce over the top and sprinkle with optional chopped cilantro and sesame seeds.

Step 7: Serve Immediately
These tasty Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos are best enjoyed right away while the shells are still crispy. Serve them warm and watch as everyone delights in the wonderful crunch and delicious flavors. They’re sure to become a family favorite!

How to Store and Freeze Chicken Wonton Tacos

Fridge: Store leftover chicken and slaw in separate airtight containers for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and crunch.

Freezer: You can freeze the cooked chicken filling for up to 2 months. When ready to use, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a skillet.

Wonton Shells: Freeze uncooked wonton wrappers in a sealed bag for up to 3 months. Thaw before baking for best results.

Reheating: To revive leftover filled tacos, re-crisp the shells in a 350°F oven for about 5 minutes, then add the chicken and slaw to enjoy your Chicken Wonton Tacos again!

What to Serve with Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos

Deliciously complement your homemade tacos with these mouthwatering additions for an unforgettable dining experience.

Creamy Guacamole:
Adds a smooth, rich texture that balances the crunchiness of the tacos perfectly.
Spicy Salsa:
Bright and zesty, a fresh salsa adds a burst of flavor that enhances every bite of the tacos.
Crispy Sweet Potato Fries:
Their natural sweetness and delightful crunch provide a comforting side that pairs beautifully with the savory tacos.
Tangy Cucumber Salad:
Cool and refreshing, this salad offers contrast and a lightness that offsets the rich flavors of the tacos.
Mango Margarita:
A fruity cocktail that brings a tropical flair, perfectly accentuating the flavors of the chicken.
Fruit Salad with Mint:
Sweet and vibrant, this salad brings freshness and a pop of color to your meal while cleansing the palate.
Chili Lime Corn on the Cob:
Spice and sweetness combine for a delightful side that echoes the flavors in your taco’s filling.
Chocolate Chip Cookies:
End on a sweet note with these warm, gooey cookies that everyone will adore after a savory meal.

Chicken Wonton Tacos Variations

Feel free to get creative with your Chicken Wonton Tacos and make them perfectly your own!

Ground Chicken: Use ground chicken instead of diced for a different texture; it cooks faster, making assembly a breeze!
Gluten-Free: Swap out regular wonton wrappers for gluten-free varieties to cater to dietary needs while keeping the delicious flavors intact. Enjoy worry-free!
Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a splash of sriracha in the chicken mix for an extra layer of heat. This fiery twist will excite your taste buds!
Veggie Option: Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or tofu for a delightful vegetarian alternative packed with flavor. It’s a delightful way to enjoy a lighter meal!
Tropical Twist: Add diced pineapple into the slaw for a refreshing, sweet contrast that brightens the dish. It adds a fabulous tropical flair that’s perfect for summer!
Smoky Flavor: Try adding smoked paprika to the chicken filling to create a smoky depth. This simple change lends a whole new dimension to your tacos.
Herbed Additions: Enhance the filling with fresh herbs such as basil or mint for a garden-fresh twist. This variation is fragrant and vibrant, giving a unique character to each bite.

After delighting in these variations, if you’re looking for more culinary inspiration, don’t forget to check out our delightful Buffalo Chicken Cottage or savor the flavors of our Honey BBQ Chicken for your next meal!

Make Ahead Options

These Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos are excellent for meal prep, saving you time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the chicken filling and coleslaw mixture up to 3 days in advance. Simply cook the chicken as directed, let it cool, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge. For the slaw, combine the ingredients and refrigerate separately; this keeps it fresh and crunchy. To maintain the quality of your wonton shells, bake them just before you’re ready to serve. When you’re set to enjoy, simply reheat the chicken briefly and assemble the tacos for a delightful meal that’s just as delicious as when freshly made!

Expert Tips for Chicken Wonton Tacos

Crispy Shells: Ensure wonton wrappers are evenly baked to achieve that perfect, crunchy texture. Monitor closely to avoid burning.
Flavor Balance: Experiment with the amount of hoisin sauce to suit your sweetness preference in these Chicken Wonton Tacos; more isn’t always better!
Dressing Timing: Add the slaw just before serving to keep it fresh and crunchy. This will ensure guests enjoy that delightful texture.
Prep Ahead: Cook the chicken and prepare the slaw in advance; assemble the tacos last minute for a crisp shell and vibrant flavors.
Garnishes Matter: Don’t skip the sesame seeds and cilantro; they enhance both the taste and visual appeal of your delicious tacos!

Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right chicken for my Chicken Wonton Tacos?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken breasts, look for those that are firm, have a pinkish color, and are free from dark spots or discoloration. For the best flavor, aim to buy fresh chicken that has been recently packaged.

What’s the best way to store leftover Chicken Wonton Tacos?
I recommend storing leftover chicken and slaw in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. This method helps preserve the crunchiness of the wonton shells and the texture of the slaw.

Can I freeze the Chicken Wonton Tacos?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken filling for up to 2 months! To do this, simply place it in a freezer-safe container and remove as much air as possible before sealing. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat in a skillet. For the wonton wrappers, you can freeze uncooked ones in a sealed bag for up to 3 months!

What should I do if my wonton shells are soft instead of crispy?
If your wonton shells come out soft, it may be due to excess moisture. To avoid this, ensure your oven is preheated before baking. Additionally, after baking, let them cool on a wire rack to prevent steam from getting trapped underneath. If they’re soft, simply re-crisp them in a 350°F oven for about 5 minutes.

Are these Chicken Wonton Tacos gluten-free?
You can easily make these Chicken Wonton Tacos gluten-free by substituting regular soy sauce with tamari and using gluten-free wonton wrappers. I’m all for making delicious meals accessible to everyone!

Can I adjust the filling if someone has allergies?
Absolutely! For those with allergies, you can replace chicken with ground turkey or tofu for a vegetarian option. Just be sure to check that all sauces and ingredients are allergy-friendly and suitable for your guests’ dietary needs.