Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos

Introduction

There’s something about crispy tacos that just makes my heart sing. And when those tacos are filled with tender, flavorful chicken and wrapped in perfectly crunchy wonton shells? Well, that’s next-level deliciousness! Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos have been a go-to appetizer for many, and it’s easy to see why. Each bite is a delightful explosion of flavor, thanks to the savory chicken, crisp lettuce, and zesty Asian-inspired sauce.

I first fell in love with these tacos during a casual dinner out with friends. We ordered a bunch of appetizers to share, and I couldn’t stop raving about how delicious these tacos were. The combination of textures—from the crispy wonton shell to the tender chicken—was just irresistible. Since then, I’ve been on a mission to recreate this dish at home, and let me tell you, it’s been a hit with my family!

Not only are these Chicken Wonton Tacos packed with flavor, but they’re also surprisingly easy to make. Whether you’re looking for a fun dinner option or a crowd-pleasing appetizer for your next gathering, these tacos are sure to impress. So, grab your apron, and let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe that will make your taste buds dance with joy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are just a few reasons why Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos are a must-try:

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and quick prep time, these tacos can be whipped up in no time, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of seasoned chicken, fresh veggies, and a delicious sauce creates a taste sensation that’s hard to resist. You’ll find yourself going back for seconds (or thirds!).
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a party with friends, these tacos are sure to be a hit. They’re fun to eat, and everyone loves the crispy wonton shells.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste. Add more veggies, switch up the proteins, or even make them vegetarian—endless possibilities!

Picture biting into a crunchy taco, only to be greeted by tender chicken bursting with flavor, fresh lettuce, and that zesty sauce drizzled on top. It’s a dish that brings a smile to your face, and it’s incredibly satisfying to make it yourself.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 4 (makes 12 tacos)
• Nutrition Facts: Calories per serving: 350, Protein: 25g, Carbs: 30g

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious Chicken Wonton Tacos:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the dish! Chicken provides a great source of protein and a tender base for the tacos.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for cooking the chicken and adding a bit of flavor.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic adds a wonderful aromatic flavor to the chicken.
• 1 teaspoon ginger, minced: Fresh ginger gives a zesty kick that enhances the overall flavor profile.
• ½ cup soy sauce: This brings a savory, umami richness to the chicken.
• 1 tablespoon honey: Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the savory flavors.
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil: This provides a nutty aroma that’s characteristic of Asian cuisine.
• 12 wonton wrappers: These crispy shells hold all the delicious filling together.
• 1 cup shredded lettuce: For a fresh crunch that balances the richness of the chicken.
• 1 green onion, sliced: Adds a pop of color and a mild onion flavor.
• 1 avocado, sliced: Creamy avocado enhances the texture and taste of the tacos.
• Sweet chili sauce (for drizzling): Optional, but highly recommended for an extra kick of sweetness and heat.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ready to bring these delicious tacos to life? Follow these easy steps to create your Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos:

1st Step: Cook the Chicken

1. Prepare the Chicken: Start by cutting your chicken breasts into small, bite-sized pieces. This helps them cook quickly and ensures they fit perfectly in your tacos.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and ginger, sautéing for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. This will make your kitchen smell amazing!
3. Add the Chicken: Add the diced chicken to the skillet. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s no longer pink and cooked through.
4. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, and sesame oil. Pour this sauce over the cooked chicken, stirring to coat evenly. Let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

2nd Step: Prepare the Wonton Shells

5. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure your wonton wrappers get perfectly crispy.
6. Shape the Wontons: Lightly grease a muffin tin with cooking spray. Take a wonton wrapper and gently press it into the muffin cup, forming a little bowl shape. Repeat with the remaining wrappers.
7. Bake the Wontons: Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for about 8-10 minutes, or until the wonton shells are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them, as they can go from perfect to burnt quickly!

3rd Step: Assemble the Tacos

8. Gather Your Ingredients: Once the chicken is cooked and the wonton shells are crispy, gather your shredded lettuce, green onions, avocado slices, and sweet chili sauce.
9. Fill the Wontons: Remove the baked wonton cups from the muffin tin. Start by adding a generous spoonful of the chicken mixture into each wonton shell.
10. Top with Fresh Ingredients: Add a handful of shredded lettuce on top of the chicken. Follow with sliced green onions and avocado. The fresh veggies add a delightful crunch and creaminess to each taco.
11. Drizzle with Sauce: Finally, drizzle sweet chili sauce over the top for that extra burst of flavor. This step is optional, but I highly recommend it for the added sweetness and spice.

How to Serve

These Chicken Wonton Tacos are best served fresh out of the oven. Here are some serving suggestions to make your meal complete:

• Plating: Arrange the tacos on a serving platter and garnish with extra sliced green onions for a pop of color.
• Pairing: Serve with a side of crispy Asian-style slaw for added crunch and a refreshing contrast.
• Beverage Options: Pair with a light, fruity drink like iced tea or a sparkling soda for a delightful meal experience.

These tacos are sure to be the star of the table, and I promise they’ll disappear in no time!

Additional Tips

Here are five tips to help you achieve taco perfection:

1. Don’t Overcook the Chicken: To keep the chicken tender and juicy, be sure to cook it just until no longer pink. Overcooking can lead to dry chicken, which is a no-go for these tasty tacos.
2. Customize Your Fillings: Feel free to add more toppings! Chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, or even a sprinkle of sesame seeds can elevate the flavor and presentation of your tacos.
3. Make It Ahead: You can prepare the chicken mixture in advance. Just store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake the wonton shells and assemble the tacos.
4. Wonton Wrapper Alternatives: If you can’t find wonton wrappers, you can use egg roll wrappers or even tortillas for a different take on this recipe.
5. Keep It Warm: If you’re serving a crowd, keep the assembled tacos in a warm oven (set to the lowest temperature) while you prepare the rest. This way, they stay crispy and warm until serving!

Recipe Variations

Feel free to get creative with these Chicken Wonton Tacos! Here are some delicious variations to consider:

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or Sriracha to the chicken mixture for some extra heat.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with a mix of sautéed mushrooms and bell peppers for a hearty vegetarian alternative. You can also add tofu for added protein.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free wonton wrappers or opt for lettuce wraps to keep it gluten-free while still enjoying the flavors.
• Different Sauces: Try swapping the sweet chili sauce for a spicy sesame sauce or a tangy teriyaki glaze for a different flavor profile.

These variations will keep things fresh and exciting, so you can enjoy this dish again and again without it feeling repetitive!

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Chicken Wonton Tacos with these delightful sides and beverages:

• Crispy Asian Slaw: A simple slaw made with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a light vinaigrette complements the flavors of the tacos beautifully.
• Chilled Edamame: Steamed edamame sprinkled with sea salt makes a great appetizer that balances the richness of the tacos.
• Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad with tropical fruits like mango and pineapple offers a sweet contrast to the savory tacos.
• Beverages: Serve with iced green tea, lemonade, or a light beer to enhance the meal experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I make the wonton shells ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake the wonton shells a few hours ahead of time. Once baked, let them cool completely and store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Just make sure to assemble the tacos right before serving to ensure the shells remain crispy.

2. What can I use as a substitute for wonton wrappers?

If you can’t find wonton wrappers, there are a few alternatives:

• Egg roll wrappers: Cut them into smaller squares to fit into a muffin tin for a similar crispy shell.
• Tortillas: Use mini tortillas or cut regular-sized tortillas into smaller rounds. While they won’t be as crispy, they make a delicious soft taco alternative.
• Lettuce wraps: For a low-carb or gluten-free option, use large lettuce leaves to wrap the chicken filling.

3. Can I use leftover chicken?

Absolutely! If you have leftover cooked chicken, you can shred or dice it and toss it in the soy sauce, honey, and sesame oil sauce to reheat it. This will infuse the chicken with the same flavors, making it a quick and convenient option.

4. Can I freeze these Chicken Wonton Tacos?

While the chicken filling can be frozen, the wonton shells are best served fresh. If you want to prep ahead, you can make and freeze the chicken mixture for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw the chicken, reheat, and bake the wonton wrappers fresh.

5. How can I make this dish spicier?

To add more heat to the tacos, consider:

• Adding Sriracha or hot sauce to the chicken mixture.
• Drizzling spicy sweet chili sauce over the finished tacos.
• Incorporating a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of chili oil into the sauce for a spicier kick.

6. What other toppings can I add to these tacos?

The beauty of these tacos is that they’re incredibly versatile. Here are a few additional topping ideas to mix things up:

• Pickled red onions: Adds a tangy, sweet crunch.
• Cilantro: Fresh cilantro leaves bring a burst of herbal flavor.
• Shredded carrots: A pop of color and crunch for added texture.
• Sesame seeds: A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds extra nuttiness and visual appeal.

7. How can I make a vegetarian version of these tacos?

To make this recipe vegetarian, swap out the chicken for any of these options:

• Sautéed mushrooms: Use a mix of shiitake, cremini, or portobello mushrooms for a meaty texture.
• Tofu: Firm tofu can be crumbled or cubed, then sautéed with the same sauce for a protein-rich alternative.
• Tempeh: Another great meat substitute that soaks up the soy sauce mixture beautifully.

8. What should I do if my wonton shells are getting soggy?

Wonton shells can sometimes absorb moisture from the filling, causing them to lose their crispiness. To avoid this:

• Assemble just before serving: Don’t add the chicken and toppings until you’re ready to eat.
• Drain excess liquid from the chicken: If your chicken mixture seems a bit too saucy, drain off some liquid before filling the wonton shells to prevent sogginess.

9. Can I use dark chicken meat instead of chicken breast?

Yes, you can! Chicken thighs are a flavorful option that works just as well in this recipe. They tend to be juicier and more forgiving if you accidentally overcook them a bit. Just cut them into small pieces and follow the same steps for cooking.

10. How can I make the wonton wrappers crispy without using a muffin tin?

If you don’t have a muffin tin, you can still make crispy wonton shells by:

• Baking them flat: Lay the wonton wrappers flat on a baking sheet and bake until crispy. You can then fold them in half after baking to create a taco shell shape.
• Deep frying: Heat oil in a pan and fry the wonton wrappers until golden and crispy, then quickly shape them into tacos while they’re still pliable.

11. Can I serve these tacos cold or at room temperature?

While these tacos are best served warm with crispy wonton shells, they can be enjoyed at room temperature as well. However, for the best texture and flavor, I recommend serving them fresh and warm. If you have leftovers, reheat the chicken and bake new wonton shells for a crispy bite.

12. What should I serve with these tacos?

These Chicken Wonton Tacos pair perfectly with a variety of side dishes, such as:

• Crispy Asian Slaw: A crunchy, tangy slaw complements the savory chicken filling.
• Fried rice: Serve with a side of fried rice for a heartier meal.
• Edamame: Lightly salted, steamed edamame makes for a great, healthy side.
• Fruit salad: Fresh fruit like mango, pineapple, or watermelon balances the rich flavors of the tacos.

Print

Conclusion

There you have it—Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos made right in your own kitchen! These delicious tacos are a perfect blend of flavors and textures that will have everyone coming back for more. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a lively gathering with friends, this recipe is bound to impress.

The best part? You can easily customize the ingredients to fit your taste, making it a versatile dish that suits any occasion. So gather your loved ones, whip up a batch of these tasty tacos, and enjoy the deliciousness that is sure to bring smiles to everyone’s faces!

Happy cooking, and enjoy your homemade Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos!