As I stood in my kitchen, the sizzling sound of marinated chicken meeting the pan instantly transported me back to that lively restaurant atmosphere where the flavors danced on my palate. Today, I’m thrilled to share my take on Crispy Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos, a delightful copycat recipe that brings restaurant-quality taste straight to our homes. Not only is it a fun appetizer that’s sure to impress your guests, but its quick prep time means you’ll spend less time slaving over the stove and more time enjoying laughter-filled moments at the table. With tender honey-garlic chicken nestled in crunchy wonton shells and an Asian-inspired slaw drizzled with sweet chili sauce, each bite promises a vibrant explosion of textures and flavors. Curious how easily you can whip these up? Let’s dive into this delicious adventure!

Why You’ll Love These Tacos

Irresistible Flavor Fusion: Each bite of these Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos combines tender honey-garlic chicken with a vibrant Asian slaw, delivering a unique taste experience.

Quick and Simple: With a fast prep time, you can whip up these crowd-pleasers in no time—perfect for an appetizer at gatherings or a fun weeknight meal.

Versatile Creations: Feel free to customize with your favorite proteins or veggies. Like shrimp or chickpeas? The possibilities are endless, keeping things fresh and exciting!

Restaurant-Quality at Home: Bring the restaurant charm into your kitchen! The crunchy wonton shells and rich flavors will impress your guests just like a night out.

Family-Friendly Fun: These tacos are not just delicious, but they also make for a great cooking project to enjoy with the entire family—laughter guaranteed!

For more delightful chicken ideas, check out my Parmesan Chicken Transforms and Hot Honey Chicken.

Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos Ingredients

For the Chicken Filling
• Chicken Breasts – The main protein in this dish. You can substitute with turkey or tofu for a different option.
• Teriyaki Sauce – Adds sweetness and depth. Opt for soy sauce for a low-sodium alternative.
• Sesame Oil – Provides a rich, nutty aroma. Olive oil works in a pinch but will change the flavor profile.
• Low Sodium Soy Sauce – Seasoning for the chicken, reducing overall sodium. Regular soy sauce offers more flavor but with higher sodium content.
• Garlic (minced) – Enhances the savory notes of the dish. Garlic powder can be used if fresh isn’t on hand.
• Ginger (minced) – Adds warmth and spice; ground ginger is a great time-saver.

For the Asian Slaw
• Coleslaw Mix – Adds a refreshing crunch; you can create your own with shredded cabbage and carrots.
• Green Onions – Offers a mild onion flavor for the slaw. Shallots work well as an alternative.
• Rice Vinegar – Balances flavor in the dressing. Apple cider vinegar can be substituted if needed.
• Honey – Brings sweetness to the slaw; agave nectar is a suitable substitute.

For the Taco Shells and Garnishes
• Wonton Wrappers – Create the crispy taco shells; use egg roll wrappers for a thicker option.
• Sweet Chili Sauce – Drizzled on top for a delightful sweet and spicy finish; hoisin sauce can be a tasty alternative.
• Sesame Seeds – Add crunch as a garnish; chopped nuts can be a fun substitution.
• Cilantro – Fresh herb finish that brightens the dish; parsley works if you prefer a milder flavor.

Dive into these Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos and enjoy every delicious bite!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos

Step 1: Marinate Chicken
Begin by slicing your chicken breasts into thin strips. In a mixing bowl, combine teriyaki sauce, sesame oil, low sodium soy sauce, minced garlic, and ginger. Toss in the chicken strips, ensuring they are well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to infuse the flavors, making your Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos extra delicious.

Step 2: Prepare Taco Shells
While the chicken marinates, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take an inverted muffin tin and place the wonton wrappers over the cups to create a “V” shape. Bake the wonton shells for 7-9 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crisp. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning, as this is crucial for achieving the perfect taco shell.

Step 3: Cook Chicken
Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil. Once hot, add the marinated chicken strips in a single layer, ensuring they don’t overcrowd the pan. Sauté the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are fully cooked through and have a crispy exterior. This step is essential for the texture of your Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos.

Step 4: Make Slaw
As the chicken cooks, prepare the slaw by combining the coleslaw mix and sliced green onions in a large bowl. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the dressing ingredients: sesame oil, rice vinegar, low sodium soy sauce, and honey. Pour the dressing over the coleslaw mix and toss well to combine, ensuring the flavors meld beautifully for your tacos.

Step 5: Assemble Tacos
Once the chicken is cooked and the wonton shells are ready, it’s time to assemble your Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos. Start by spooning a generous amount of sautéed chicken into each taco shell. Top them with the vibrant Asian slaw for a crunchy finish. Drizzle sweet chili sauce over the top, and sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped cilantro for added flavor and flair.

Variations & Substitutions for Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos

Explore the delightful ways you can personalize your Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos to suit your taste buds!

Dairy-Free: Swap out any creamy dressings for a simple sesame oil and vinegar mix to keep it light and flavorful. You won’t miss the creaminess!
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free wonton wrappers or make your shells from scratch using rice flour. It’s an adventure worth trying!
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of sriracha to the chicken marinade for a delightful heat level that packs a punch.
Vegetable Boost: Toss in some diced bell peppers or shredded carrots to the Asian slaw to elevate both color and nutrition. Each bite becomes a crunchy surprise!
Protein Swaps: Replace chicken with shrimp, tofu, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian twist. The flavors will adapt beautifully, creating a brand new experience!
Flavorful Marinade: Experiment with different marinades, like a hoisin-based sauce, for a sweet and tangy alternative to teriyaki.
Herbal Infusion: For a fresh twist, incorporate other herbs like mint or basil in the slaw. It adds an aromatic complexity that’s utterly refreshing.
Fruity Notes: Add diced mango or pineapple into the slaw for a hint of sweetness that complements the savory chicken. You’ll be amazed at how bright and vibrant the tacos become!

For more delectable chicken ideas, you might also enjoy my Chicken Caesar Sandwich or my BBQ Chicken Mac.

Make Ahead Options

These Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos are a fantastic choice for meal prep, saving you precious time on busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance to enhance those rich flavors. The wonton wrappers can also be baked ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain their crispiness. When you’re ready to serve, simply sauté the marinated chicken (about 5-7 minutes), mix the slaw, and assemble the tacos right before enjoying. This means you can enjoy restaurant-quality taste at home with minimal last-minute effort! Remember to keep the chicken and assembled tacos separate to prevent sogginess for the best texture.

How to Store and Freeze Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos

Fridge: Store leftover chicken in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Avoid storing assembled tacos to maintain their crispiness.

Freezer: If you want to freeze, individually wrap uncooked wonton shells in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating: To reheat cooked chicken, warm it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, about 5 minutes.

Assembly Tip: For the best crispy texture, only assemble your Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos just before serving.

Expert Tips for Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos

Perfect Shells: Ensure wonton wrappers are evenly placed on the muffin tin to create uniform taco shapes, preventing uneven cooking.

Watch the Bake: Keep an eye on the wonton shells while baking; even a minute too long can lead to burnt edges, ruining your Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos.

Serve Fresh: For the best texture, assemble and serve the tacos immediately to prevent sogginess; filling them too early can compromise the crunch.

Prep Ahead: Consider prepping the chicken and slaw a day in advance. This saves time and ensures a quick assembly when you’re ready to serve.

Flavor Boost: Don’t hesitate to add extra spices or garnishes like sliced jalapeños for a kick, enhancing the overall flavor of your tacos.

What to Serve with Crispy Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos

Elevate your dining experience with delightful side dishes and drinks that perfectly complement these savory bites.

Creamy Avocado Salad: This fresh salad adds a rich creaminess contrasting the crunchy tacos, enhancing the overall meal experience. The cool avocado also offers a velvety texture to balance the crunchy shell.
Soy-Glazed Edamame: These tender, protein-packed bites are seasoned to perfection, adding a subtle umami flavor that pairs beautifully with the honey-garlic chicken.
Asian Cucumber Salad: Light and refreshing, this salad adds a crisp texture that cuts through the richness of the tacos. Tossed in rice vinegar, it brings a zingy freshness.
Rice Noodle Stir-Fry: This warm noodle dish, infused with crisp vegetables and a dash of soy sauce, brings a satisfying chewiness that complements the crunchiness of the tacos.
Sweet Chili Dipping Sauce: A side of extra sauce not only enhances the tacos but also invites your guests to get creative with dipping and drizzling.
Crispy Spring Rolls: With a crunchy exterior and savory filling, these rolls echo the taco’s texture while adding a delightful Asian flair to your appetizer spread.
Ginger-Lemon Sparkler: A refreshing fizzy drink with a hint of ginger and citrus pairs wonderfully, awakening the palate and balancing flavors before each bite.
Mango Sorbet: For a light dessert, this fruity sorbet offers a sweet, refreshing conclusion to your meal, cleansing the palate after the savory tacos.
Green Tea: This soothing beverage complements the flavors of the tacos without overpowering them, making it a perfect pairing for a cozy dinner.

Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, look for fresh, firm chicken breasts with no discoloration. If you find chicken with dark spots or a slippery texture, it might not be fresh. Additionally, organic or free-range chicken often has a richer flavor and is a great option for this dish.

What’s the best way to store leftover chicken wonton tacos?
To keep your leftovers fresh, store the cooked chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. However, it’s best to store the chicken separately from the wonton shells and slaw. This way, when you’re ready to enjoy them again, the shells will stay crispy and the slaw will retain its crunch.

Can I freeze these crispy chicken wonton tacos?
Yes, you can easily freeze the components! Wrap uncooked wonton shells individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to use them, just bake them straight from the freezer! For cooked chicken, reheat it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, about 5 minutes, before assembling your tacos.

What should I do if my wonton shells burn while baking?
Very! If you notice your wonton shells burning, it might be due to uneven exposure in the oven. I recommend checking them at the 7-minute mark and rotating the muffin tin if needed. Making sure to monitor them closely will help achieve that lovely golden brown color without the burnt taste.

Are there any allergy considerations for these tacos?
Yes, some ingredients in the Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos can cause allergies. The main allergens to consider are soy (in soy sauce and teriyaki sauce), gluten (in wonton wrappers), and sesame (in sesame oil and seeds). Always read labels and consider alternatives like gluten-free teriyaki sauce or rice wrappers to accommodate specific dietary requirements.

What can I substitute for the slaw mix?
If you want to switch things up, I often make my own slaw using shredded cabbage, carrots, and even bell peppers for extra color. You can also add more crunch with radishes or even chopped apples for a touch of sweetness. Mixing and matching veggies not only enhances nutritional value but makes it a delightful surprise with every bite!