Welcome to the ultimate taco experience! If you adore the delicious Chicken Wonton Tacos from Applebee’s, then you’re about to love this homemade version even more. These tantalizing tacos are not only crispy but also bursting with flavor, making them an irresistible choice for taco nights or gatherings. Imagine a tantalizing filling of seasoned ground chicken paired with a refreshing slaw nestled in a delightful wonton shell. Every bite offers a perfect crunch followed by a burst of savory goodness. Not only do these Chicken Wonton Tacos tantalize your taste buds, but they’re also incredibly easy to prepare, making them apt for both seasoned cooks and kitchen beginners alike.

What’s great about this recipe is that it beautifully balances rich and zesty flavors while keeping the prep time low. You can whip up a batch in no time, perfect for a quick family meal, or even impress your friends at a dinner party! With vibrant colors and an appealing crunch, these wonton tacos will not only taste great but they will also brighten up your dinner table. The combination of fresh ingredients and Asian-inspired flavors contributes to a mouthwatering dish that captures the essence of both tacos and wontons. Let’s dive into the delightful world of Chicken Wonton Tacos and discover how you can bring the restaurant experience right into your home.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe

Crispy Wonton Shells: Enjoy a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the succulent chicken and creamy slaw.
Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires minimal cooking skills and a short preparation time, making it suitable for any occasion.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of soy sauce and teriyaki sauce infuses the chicken with rich umami flavors.
Versatile Servings: Customize with your favorite toppings like cilantro, onions, or lime wedges to suit your palate.
Healthier Choice: Using fresh cabbage and carrots not only adds nutrients but also a satisfying crunch without the guilt.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before starting your culinary adventure with Chicken Wonton Tacos, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen effectively. Begin by gathering all your ingredients and ensuring they are fresh for the best flavor. Use a large mixing bowl for combining the slaw ingredients, and a skillet (preferably non-stick) to cook the chicken until it’s perfectly browned and crumbly. Additionally, you’ll need an inverted muffin tin to shape the wonton wrappers into taco shells. Having everything ready to go will streamline the cooking process and ensure an enjoyable cooking experience.

Once your ingredients are prepped, preheat your oven to about 350°F (175°C) to get the perfect crispy wonton shells later on. Take the time to read through the entire recipe beforehand to familiarize yourself with the steps involved. This preparation will not only save you time but will also allow you to focus on creating a delicious meal with confidence.

Ingredients

⅓ head of red cabbage (thinly sliced and chopped)
4 small carrots (peeled and grated)
¼ cup coleslaw dressing
¼ cup red wine vinegar
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons teriyaki sauce
2 tablespoons sesame oil
1 pound ground chicken
¼ cup stir-fry sauce (store-bought or homemade)
14 wonton wrappers
Optional Add-ons: Chopped cilantro, red or sweet onions, and lime wedges for serving.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crunchy Slaw

Start by mixing together the chopped red cabbage, grated carrots, coleslaw dressing, red wine vinegar, soy sauce, and teriyaki sauce in a large bowl. Stir until the mixture is well combined. For a more intense flavor, I recommend refrigerating the slaw for at least one hour, or even overnight if you have the time. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste of your tacos.

Step 2: Cook the Savory Chicken

Next up, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the sesame oil. Once the oil is hot, add the ground chicken. Stir frequently to ensure it cooks evenly, browning for about 5-7 minutes until it’s crumbly and cooked through. Once it’s fully cooked, pour in the stir-fry sauce, lower the heat, and cover the skillet. Let it simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step is crucial as it keeps the chicken juicy and flavorful.

Step 3: Shape the Wonton Wrappers

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, take your wonton wrappers and carefully shape each one into a taco form. To do this, place them between the cups of an inverted muffin tin. This technique not only keeps their shape but allows even cooking, creating a perfect shell for your tacos.

Step 4: Bake the Wonton Shells

Once your cantina is prepped, pop the muffin tin into the oven. Bake the wonton shells for about 4-5 minutes. Keep an eye on them—they should turn firm and lightly browned. This ensures they will have the right texture for holding all the delicious filling!

Step 5: Assemble Your Tacos

Now it’s time for the best part: assembly! Spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of the seasoned chicken mixture into each baked wonton shell. Top them with the chilled slaw you prepared earlier and garnish with fresh lime wedges and chopped cilantro. These delightful tacos are best enjoyed right away to maximize that incredible crunch!

Variations

Protein: Swap out the ground chicken for ground turkey, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Vegetables: Add more crunch by including diced bell peppers, green onions, or even jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Spices: Incorporate additional spices like garlic powder, ginger, or chili flakes to the chicken mixture for extra flavor.

Cooking Notes

Chill the slaw to enhance the flavor infusion; a good rest allows the ingredients to meld.
To keep your wonton shells from becoming soggy, add the chicken just before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a side of guacamole or salsa for a delightful addition.
Pair with crispy tortilla chips to complement the flavors of the tacos.

Tips

Wrap any leftover chicken filling in lettuce for a low-carb option.
Experiment with sauces by trying sweet chili or hoisin for a twist on flavors!

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 300 per serving
Protein: 25g
Sodium: 600mg

FAQs

What type of sauce can I use for the chicken?

You can use any stir-fry sauce, soy sauce, or even teriyaki sauce based on your preference. Feel free to get creative!

Can I make the slaw ahead of time?

Absolutely! Preparing the slaw ahead of time allows the flavors to deepen. Just remember to keep it in the fridge until you are ready to use.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

You can easily substitute regular soy sauce with gluten-free tamari and ensure the wonton wrappers are gluten-free.

Can the wonton shells be made in advance?

While it’s best to make wonton shells fresh for the best texture, you can prepare them ahead of time and reheat them just before serving if needed.

Conclusion

These Chicken Wonton Tacos are truly a flavor-packed dish that will leave you craving for more! With a combination of savory chicken enveloped in a crispy wonton shell and topped with a refreshing slaw, they make for a perfect meal or appetizer. The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its mouthwatering taste but also in its versatility; you can customize it to fit your preferences. I hope you give this Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe a try, and if you do, please let me know how it turned out in the comments below. Enjoy the journey of taste and share this delightful recipe with friends and family!