When I first bit into a Chicken Wonton Taco at Applebee’s, the explosion of flavor captivated me instantly. I was welcomed by the tantalizing crunch of the crispy wonton shell, followed by the tender, honey-garlic chicken and a refreshing slaw that danced on my taste buds. Inspired by this delightful dish, I decided to recreate it at home, but with a twist that prioritizes health without sacrificing flavor.
Imagine serving these crispy tacos at your next gathering, or enjoying them as a quick weeknight meal. They provide the perfect canvas for custom toppings, and with simple swaps, you can create a delicious low-carb version or add extra protein to suit your family’s needs. Each bite delivers a satisfying crunch and a burst of taste that will have everyone asking for seconds. Join me as we dive into making these irresistible homemade Chicken Wonton Tacos that are sure to impress while keeping your kitchen stress-free!
Why will you love Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos?
Deliciously Nutritious: These tacos boast a healthy profile, with approximately 350 calories per serving, making them perfect for guilt-free indulgence.
Easy to Customize: Tailor the dish to your preferences with various toppings and substitutions, such as using lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.
Quick Prep: The straightforward instructions ensure that you can whip up these tasty tacos in no time, ideal for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Crowd-Pleaser: Serve them at your next party, and watch as everyone raves over the crispy exterior and savory filling!
Kid-Friendly: With flavors that appeal to all ages, these tacos are bound to become a family favorite that keeps everyone satisfied.
Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos Ingredients
For the Chicken Filling
- Chicken Breasts – The primary protein source, finely diced for quick cooking; feel free to substitute with boneless skinless thighs for a richer flavor.
- Hoisin Sauce – Adds sweetness and depth; if unavailable, mix soy sauce with a touch of honey for a similar taste.
- Sesame Oil – Delivers a distinct nutty flavor; canola oil works in a pinch but lacks the signature sesame essence.
- Soy Sauce – Enhances saltiness and umami; use tamari for a gluten-free alternative.
- Garlic & Ginger – Infuse aromatic depth; fresh is best, but powder can substitute if necessary.
For the Slaw
- Coleslaw Mix – Provides a crunchy and fresh texture; customize with fresh vegetables like cabbage, carrots, or kale for added nutrients.
- Green Onions – Offer a mild onion flavor; while optional, they add a lovely freshness to your dish.
For Assembling
- Wonton Wrappers – Create the taco shell; swap for large lettuce leaves for a delightful low-carb option.
- Sweet Chili Sauce – Adds a perfect drizzle of sweetness and tang; consider making a homemade version with hot sauce and honey.
- Chopped Cilantro & Sesame Seeds – Final touches that bring in freshness and texture; ideal for garnishing before serving.
These delicious ingredients come together to create mouthwatering Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos, helping you craft a delightful dish right in your kitchen!
How to Make Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos
- Preheat the oven to 375°F. Spray or brush wonton wrappers with oil, then drape them over the sides of a 9×13 baking dish. Bake for 7-8 minutes until they are pliable and slightly golden.
- Separate the wonton shells carefully while they’re still pliable, then bake them again for another 7-8 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they reach a crispy, golden-brown texture.
- Mix diced chicken with hoisin sauce, sesame oil, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger in a bowl. Sauté the mixture in a hot skillet for 7-8 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and juicy.
- Prepare the coleslaw by mixing your choice of fresh vegetables in a separate bowl until well combined. This adds that essential crunch and freshness to your tacos!
- Assemble the tacos by filling each crispy wonton shell with the honey-garlic chicken, topping with coleslaw, drizzling with sweet chili sauce, and garnishing with cilantro and sesame seeds for a burst of flavor.
Optional: Serve with a side of your favorite dipping sauce to elevate the taste!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos
- Wonton Shell Care: Make sure not to overbake the wonton wrappers; they can burn easily. Keep an eye on them for that golden crisp!
- Fresh Assembly: Fill the tacos just before serving to maintain their crunch. Assembled tacos can become soggy if left too long.
- Storing Leftovers: Cool the cooked chicken before refrigerating. Store it separately from the wonton shells to keep everything fresh for 3-4 days.
- Veggie Variations: Don’t hesitate to experiment with vegetables! Adding sliced bell peppers or grated carrots can enhance both flavor and nutrition.
- Sauce Substitution: If you don’t have sweet chili sauce, mixing hot sauce and honey creates a lovely alternative for your Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos.
Make Ahead Options
These crispy Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos are a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can prepare the chicken filling and coleslaw up to 3 days in advance, storing them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to serve, bake the wonton wrappers just before assembling to ensure they stay crispy. Simply reheat the chicken mixture in a skillet until warm, then assemble the tacos with the slaw and a drizzle of sweet chili sauce. This prep-ahead strategy saves you valuable time on busy weeknights while delivering the same delicious flavor that will have your family coming back for more!
What to Serve with Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos?
Enhance your dining experience by pairing these delicious tacos with tempting sides that complement their flavor and crunch.
- Asian-Inspired Salad: A light salad with sesame dressing pairs perfectly, adding freshness and balancing flavors. Toss in some mandarin oranges for a sweet twist!
- Rice Noodles: These delicate noodles offer a soft counter to the crunchy tacos, with a hint of soy sauce for extra flavor. Drizzle with some sesame oil for a nutty aroma.
- Sweet Potato Fries: The natural sweetness and crispy exterior of sweet potato fries create a delightful contrast to the savory tacos, making for a satisfying combo.
- Cucumber Slaw: A refreshing slaw with a tangy dressing cleanses the palate and adds a crunchy texture, heightening the enjoyment of each taco bite.
- Soy-Glazed Green Beans: Tender green beans with a soy-glaze not only add color but also a savory bite that complements the wonton tacos beautifully. The umami flavor is a perfect match!
- Mango Salsa: Bursting with sweet and zesty flavors, this salsa brings a tropical touch to your meal. The freshness helps lighten the meal while enhancing the dish’s overall appeal.
- Asian Beer or Wine: A light beer or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc complements the flavors of the chicken and spices, enhancing the overall dining experience.
- Chocolate Mousse: End your meal on a sweet note. The rich, creamy texture of chocolate mousse is a delightful contrast to the crunchy tacos, creating a well-rounded finish.
How to Store and Freeze Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos
Fridge: Store leftover chicken filling in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days, keeping it separate from the wonton shells to maintain crispiness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken filling in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Recrisp wonton shells in the oven at 375°F for about 5 minutes for the best texture.
Assembling Fresh: It’s best to assemble Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos just before serving to preserve their delightful crunch!
Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine by mixing and matching flavors and ingredients in your tacos!
- Protein Swap: Use ground turkey or crumbled tofu instead of chicken for a hearty vegetarian option that still packs a flavor punch.
- Veggie Boost: Add extra toppings like grated carrots, sliced bell peppers, or diced avocado for a fresh and colorful twist in every bite.
- Low-Carb Delight: Replace wonton wrappers with large lettuce leaves for a refreshing, low-carb taco that still delivers all the delicious flavors.
- Flavorful Fusion: Go for a completely different flavor profile by substituting hoisin sauce with teriyaki sauce for a sweet, umami twist that everyone will love.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the chicken filling or drizzle with sriracha for a zesty kick that will awaken your taste buds.
- Creamy Addition: Top your tacos with a dollop of Greek yogurt or avocado crema for a creamy texture and a boost of richness that balances the flavors perfectly.
- Crunch Factor: Include fried onions or crispy shallots on top for an added crunch that brings textural contrast and elevates the dish to new heights.
- Herb Enhancement: Swap cilantro for fresh basil or mint if you want to introduce a vibrant and aromatic herb that brightens up your tacos delightfully.
Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe FAQs
What kind of chicken should I use for the filling?
Absolutely! I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced into small pieces for quick cooking. If you’re looking for a richer flavor, boneless skinless chicken thighs make a great substitute.
How do I know when my wonton wrappers are fresh enough to use?
Look for wonton wrappers that are smooth, without any tears or dark spots all over. Fresh wrappers will feel pliable and soft. If they look dry or are cracking, it might be best to choose a different package.
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What’s the best way to store Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos leftovers?
For sure! Store the cooked chicken filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. I recommend keeping it separate from the wonton shells to prevent sogginess. This way, you can enjoy the crunch of the tacos when you reassemble them!
Can I freeze the chicken filling for later use?
Yes, you can! To freeze, place the cooled chicken filling in freezer-safe bags, removing as much air as possible. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating in a skillet.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Very! If you or anyone you’re serving has gluten intolerance, simply use tamari instead of soy sauce and opt for gluten-free wonton wrappers. Adding fresh veggies not only enhances the flavor but also makes this dish more nutritious for everyone!
What should I do if I find my wonton shells soggy after assembling?
Don’t worry, it’s a common issue! If your wonton shells become soggy, I recommend storing the filling and shells separately until you’re ready to serve. To regain crispness, reheat the wonton shells in the oven at 375°F for about 5 minutes to restore that delightful crunch. Enjoy!
Crispy Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos You Can Make at Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375°F. Spray or brush wonton wrappers with oil, then drape over sides of a baking dish. Bake for 7-8 minutes until pliable and slightly golden.
- Carefully separate wonton shells while still pliable, then bake again for another 7-8 minutes until crispy and golden-brown.
- Mix diced chicken with hoisin sauce, sesame oil, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger in a bowl. Sauté until the chicken is thoroughly cooked, about 7-8 minutes.
- Prepare coleslaw by mixing fresh vegetables in a separate bowl until well combined.
- Assemble tacos by filling each crispy wonton shell with the honey-garlic chicken, topping with coleslaw, drizzling with sweet chili sauce, and garnishing with cilantro and sesame seeds.