As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of sesame oil sizzling on the stove brought back memories of bustling Asian eateries, where every bite felt like a cherished moment. Today, I’m excited to share my take on Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos—a recipe that transforms this restaurant favorite into a delightful homemade experience. These crispy tacos are not only budget-friendly but also easy to whip up, making them an ideal choice for any gathering or a cozy night in with loved ones. Picture sweet and savory chicken nestled in crunchy wonton shells, topped with zesty slaw and drizzled with sauces that make your taste buds dance. Ready to impress your guests or simply indulge in some taco joy? Let’s dive into this culinary adventure together!
Why Are These Tacos So Irresistible?
Crispy, the golden wonton shells provide the perfect crunch that complements the savory filling. Flavorful, the combination of hoisin sauce and garlic brings an unmistakable depth to the dish. Quickly made, ready in just 30 minutes, they’re perfect for spontaneous gatherings. Budget-friendly, these tacos won’t break the bank yet deliver restaurant-quality taste. Versatile, customize with grilled chicken, sriracha, or even a fresh salad mix. For additional meal ideas, check out my Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps for a crowd-pleasing feast!
Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos Ingredients
• Dive into this sensational recipe with easy-to-find ingredients!
For the Chicken Filling
- Chicken Breasts – Provides the main protein and filling; can substitute with ground chicken for quicker cooking.
- Hoisin Sauce – Adds sweetness and depth to the chicken flavor; substitute with teriyaki sauce for a milder taste.
- Sesame Oil – Used for sautéing the chicken and flavoring the slaw; adds a distinct nutty aroma.
- Soy Sauce – Enhances savory flavor; swap with tamari for a gluten-free option.
- Garlic (minced) – Offers aromatic depth and flavor; fresh garlic elevates the dish’s taste.
- Fresh Ginger (minced) – Adds warmth and a hint of spice to the filling.
For the Slaw
- Coleslaw Mix – Provides crunch and freshness for the taco filling; a quick way to add vegetables.
- Green Onions – For topping and additional flavor in the slaw; they add color and zest.
- Rice Vinegar – Adds tanginess to the slaw, balancing the sweetness of the honey.
- Honey – Balances flavors and adds a hint of sweetness to the slaw.
For the Taco Shells
- Wonton Wrappers – Forms the crispy taco shells; ensure to use gluten-free wrappers if desired.
For Serving
- Sweet Chili Sauce – For serving, offers a sweet and spicy kick; drizzled on top makes it extra flavorful.
- Chopped Cilantro – For garnish and a fresh flavor boost; it adds a delightful pop of color.
- Sesame Seeds – For garnish, add a nice crunch and a touch of visual appeal.
Now, you’re ready to embark on a cooking journey that brings restaurant-inspired Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos into your home kitchen!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos
Step 1: Prepare Taco Shells
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray the back of a muffin tin generously with cooking spray. Drape wonton wrappers over the inverted muffin cups, ensuring they form into little taco shapes. Bake for 5-7 minutes until they turn golden and crispy. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning; you’ll want them nice and crunchy for your Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos!
Step 2: Cook Chicken
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of sesame oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add diced chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently until the chicken is no longer pink and starts to brown. The chicken should be tender and juicy, becoming the delicious filling for your tacos.
Step 3: Glaze Chicken
Reduce the heat to medium and stir in hoisin sauce, soy sauce, minced garlic, and ginger into the cooked chicken. Continue sautéing for another 2-3 minutes until the chicken is evenly coated with the glossy glaze. You’ll know it’s ready when the sauce thickens slightly, and the aroma fills your kitchen with a sweet and savory scent.
Step 4: Prepare Slaw
In a large mixing bowl, combine coleslaw mix, chopped green onions, sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and honey. Toss everything together until well-coated and vibrant. This fresh slaw adds crispness and crunch that perfectly complements the rich flavors of the chicken in your Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos.
Step 5: Assemble Tacos
Once the wonton shells are crispy, fill each one generously with the glazed chicken mixture. Top with the prepared slaw for added crunch, and drizzle sweet chili sauce over each taco for that perfect sweet-spicy kick. Garnish with chopped cilantro and sesame seeds before serving, ensuring everything looks as delicious as it tastes!
Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists to elevate your Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos and make them your own!
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Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure your wonton wrappers are gluten-free.
For a wholesome twist, look for certified gluten-free options at your local grocery store. -
Smoky Grilled Chicken: Switch the diced chicken for grilled chicken thighs for added flavor.
The smoky aroma from the grill gives these tacos a lovely depth that is sure to impress guests. -
Creamy Avocado Ranch: Drizzle avocado ranch dressing on top for a creamy contrast.
This twist adds a luscious texture, making each bite even more satisfying. -
Spicy Kick: Add sriracha to the chicken mix or drizzle on top before serving for heat.
This addition provides a delightful zing that will appeal to spice lovers! -
Crunchy Veggie Mix: Replace coleslaw mix with shredded carrots, cucumber, and radishes for crunch.
This colorful mix brightens up the tacos while enhancing the freshness of every bite. -
Sweet and Tangy Pineapple: Mix diced pineapple into the chicken filling for a sweet twist.
The juicy fruit provides a tropical flair that balances beautifully with the savory tones. -
Baked Sweet Potato Wontons: Swap traditional wonton wrappers for baked sweet potato skins.
Creating a unique twist, this modification adds extra nutrition and a lovely sweetness to the dish.
For more inspiration, consider pairing these tacos with a refreshing salad or a side of Million Dollar Chicken Casserole for a wholesome meal. Indulge and enjoy!
What to Serve with Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos
Imagine a vibrant table filled with flavors that perfectly complement your crispy tacos, ensuring every bite is a celebration.
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Creamy Guacamole: A smooth dip that adds rich creaminess and enhances the fresh flavors of the tacos. Perfect for scooping!
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Spicy Salsa Fresca: This zesty salsa brings bright, tangy notes that contrast wonderfully with the sweet hoisin chicken and crunchy slaw.
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Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice infused with lime and cilantro serves as a refreshing side, balancing the savory profile of the tacos beautifully.
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Crunchy Asian Salad: A mix of cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing provides extra crispness and fresh flavor, elevating the meal’s palate.
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Charred Corn on the Cob: Grilled sweet corn sprinkled with chili powder adds a smoky sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
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Iced Green Tea: This light, refreshing drink serves as a perfect palate cleanser, offering a soothing contrast to the bold flavors of the tacos.
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Mango Sorbet: For dessert, this fruity treat cleanses the palate, providing a sweet end to your delightful fusion meal.
Elevate your dining experience with these pairing ideas, turning your taco night into an unforgettable feast.
How to Store and Freeze Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos
Fridge: Store the chicken filling and slaw separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess.
Freezer: If you have leftover chicken, freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To maintain crunch, re-crisp the wonton shells in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 5 minutes before adding the filling.
Assembly Tip: For best results, assemble your Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos just before serving. This prevents the shells from getting soggy and ensures maximum flavor!
Expert Tips for Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos
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Keep it Crispy: Fill the tacos right before serving to ensure the wonton shells stay crispy and don’t get soggy.
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Re-Crisp the Shells: If you’re making these ahead of time, re-crisp the baked wonton shells in the oven for a few minutes before filling them to regain their crunch.
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Avoid Overcooking Chicken: Cook the diced chicken just until no longer pink to prevent it from becoming dry; tender chicken is essential for great flavor.
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Adjust Spice Levels: For those who enjoy a kick, add sriracha to the chicken mixture or drizzle it on top of the assembled tacos for a delightful heat.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly minced garlic and ginger bring a vibrant flavor; don’t skimp on these aromatics for the best results with your Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos!
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Mix and Match: Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies for the slaw, or customize the toppings to suit your family’s taste!
Make Ahead Options
These Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos are a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can prepare the glazed chicken and slaw up to 3 days in advance, storing each component in separate airtight containers in the fridge. Make sure the chicken is cooled before refrigerating to retain its juicy texture. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake the wonton shells fresh for a crispy finish. Fill the shells with the cold chicken and slaw, then drizzle with sweet chili sauce. This approach saves you time on busy weeknights, ensuring your tacos are just as delicious and satisfying as if made fresh on the spot!
Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken should I use for best flavor?
I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a juicy and flavorful filling. If you’re short on time, ground chicken cooks quickly and is a great alternative. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly until browned!
How do I store leftover tacos?
Store the chicken filling and slaw separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. This will help maintain freshness and prevent the wonton shells from becoming soggy. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, just re-crisp the taco shells in the oven!
Can I freeze the chicken filling?
Absolutely! If you have leftover chicken filling, freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. When you’re ready to eat, a quick sauté in a skillet will revive its flavor and texture.
How can I prevent the wonton shells from getting soggy?
To ensure the wonton shells stay crispy, fill them right before serving. If you’ve made them ahead, re-crisp the baked shells in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 5 minutes before adding the filling. This helps keep your Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos nice and crunchy!
Are these tacos gluten-free?
You can easily make this recipe gluten-free by swapping regular soy sauce for tamari and using gluten-free wonton wrappers. Just check the labels to confirm, and you can enjoy this delicious dish worry-free!
Can I use different vegetables in the slaw?
Very! Feel free to mix the coleslaw with shredded cabbage, carrots, or even a fresh salad mix for added texture and nutrition. The key is to keep the slaw crisp and flavorful to complement the tasty chicken filling.
Crispy Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos for Taco Night Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray the back of a muffin tin generously with cooking spray. Drape wonton wrappers over the inverted muffin cups, ensuring they form into little taco shapes. Bake for 5-7 minutes until they turn golden and crispy.
- In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken breasts and cook for 3-4 minutes until no longer pink and starts to brown.
- Reduce heat to medium and stir in hoisin sauce, soy sauce, minced garlic, and ginger into the cooked chicken. Sauté for another 2-3 minutes until the chicken is evenly coated with the glossy glaze.
- In a mixing bowl, combine coleslaw mix, chopped green onions, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and honey. Toss everything together until well-coated.
- Fill each crispy wonton shell with the glazed chicken mixture. Top with slaw and drizzle sweet chili sauce over each taco. Garnish with cilantro and sesame seeds before serving.
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