As I pulled out a tray of crispy wonton taco shells from the oven, the warm aroma of honey-garlic chicken filled the kitchen and instantly transported me to my favorite restaurant. These Crispy Applebee’s Style Chicken Wonton Tacos deliver the perfect crunch, all while being a delightful, family-friendly appetizer or a creative dinner twist. With simple ingredients, like vibrant Asian slaw that adds a refreshing kick, you’ll be surprised at how fast they come together! Plus, they’re easy to make ahead and assemble just before serving, ensuring deliciousness is always at your fingertips. Ready to impress your loved ones with a unique dish that brings the restaurant experience home? Let’s dive into these tasty tacos!

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Why Are These Tacos So Irresistible?

Crispy shells: The wonton wrappers create a delightful crunch that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
Bold flavors: Infused with honey-garlic chicken, these tacos burst with flavor in every bite.
Fresh slaw: The zesty Asian slaw adds a refreshing balance, making each taco a harmonious experience.
Family-friendly: Perfect for both kids and adults, these tacos are a hit at any gathering, just like our delicious Shredded Chicken Tacos.
Quick preparation: Assemble the tacos right before serving for optimal crispiness, making this a wonderful option for busy weeknights.
Bring the taste of Applebee’s home with ease and impress your family and friends!

Copycat Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos Ingredients

For the Chicken

Skinless Boneless Chicken Breasts – The main protein; tender and absorbs flavors well. Substitute with turkey or tofu for a lighter option.
Teriyaki Sauce – Adds sweetness and umami; can substitute with homemade sauce or soy sauce for less sweetness.
Sesame Oil – Provides a nutty aroma; use canola or olive oil as an alternative, though flavor will differ.
Low Sodium Soy Sauce – Essential for seasoning; can use tamari for a gluten-free option.
Fresh Garlic – Boosts flavor; minced ginger can also complement dishes well.
Fresh Ginger – Adds a spicy kick; can be omitted or replaced with ginger paste.

For the Slaw

Coleslaw Mix – Provides crunch and fresh flavor; can replace with shredded cabbage if unavailable.
Green Onions – Enhances flavor with a mild onion taste; chives or shallots can be used as substitutes.
Rice Vinegar – Light acidity to balance flavors; apple cider vinegar is a good alternative.
Honey – Sweetener for the slaw; can substitute with agave syrup or maple syrup for a vegan option.

For the Tacos

Wonton Wrappers – Form the taco shells, but can be replaced with taco shells or lettuce wraps for a low-carb version.
Sweet Chili Sauce – For drizzling, provides sweetness and spice; can use sriracha mixed with honey as an alternative.
Sesame Seeds – Toppings for crunch; omit if allergic or replace with crushed peanuts.
Chopped Cilantro – Finishing touch for freshness; parsley can substitute if cilantro is not preferred.

With these Copycat Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos ingredients, you’re just steps away from a crowd-pleaser that will become a favorite in your home!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by slicing the skinless boneless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken with teriyaki sauce, sesame oil, low sodium soy sauce, minced garlic, and fresh ginger. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly and then cover the bowl with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 2: Prepare the Wonton Shells
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats up, take won’t wrappers and press them snugly into the cups of an upside-down muffin tin to create taco shapes. Make sure they sit securely for best results. Place the tin in the oven and bake for about 7–9 minutes, or until the wonton shells are golden brown and crispy.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken pieces and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally. The chicken should be cooked through and no longer pink. Remove from heat and set aside, allowing it to rest briefly while you prepare the slaw.

Step 4: Make the Slaw
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the coleslaw mix and chopped green onions. In a small bowl, whisk together rice vinegar, extra soy sauce, honey, and sesame oil to create the dressing. Pour this dressing over the slaw mixture and toss thoroughly until everything is well coated and vibrant.

Step 5: Assemble the Tacos
As your wonton shells are ready and crispy, fill each shell generously with the cooked chicken, allowing the meat to peek out for a delightful visual. Top each taco with a generous scoop of the prepared slaw, then drizzle with sweet chili sauce. For a finishing touch, sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped cilantro over the top of these Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos before serving immediately.

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What to Serve with Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos

As you gather around the table, the savory aromas of these tantalizing tacos will inspire ideas for delightful side dishes that harmonize beautifully.

Creamy Avocado Salad:
This refreshing salad adds a cool, creamy element that complements the crunchy tacos perfectly.
Asian Fried Rice:
Packed with vegetables and flavor, this dish echoes the Asian theme and makes for a satisfying accompaniment to your meal.
Crispy Spring Rolls:
Their crispy exterior and stuffed filling provide a delightful contrast in texture that guests will love.
Mango Salsa:
The sweetness of ripe mangoes and zesty lime creates a vibrant topping for the tacos, enhancing their flavors.
Coconut Milk Rice:
Rich and slightly sweet, this rice pairs nicely with the savory notes of the chicken wonton tacos, creating a balanced plate.
Chilled Edamame:
A healthy and fun finger food, edamame sprinkled with sea salt contrasts with the warm tacos, adding an interactive element to your meal.
Sweet Chili Dipping Sauce:
An extra drizzle or dip enhances the sweet-spicy flavor profile of your tacos, providing another layer of enjoyment.

Incorporating these pairings will create a well-rounded dining experience that brings joy to every meal!

Make Ahead Options

These Crispy Applebee’s Style Chicken Wonton Tacos are perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken with teriyaki sauce and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring flavorful, tender meat. Additionally, the slaw can be prepared and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the wonton shells’ crispiness, it’s best to make them fresh, but you can shape them in advance and bake just before serving—this will only take about 7-9 minutes. Simply fill the shells with the cooked chicken and slaw, drizzle with sweet chili sauce, and enjoy restaurant-quality tacos effortlessly!

How to Store and Freeze Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos

Fridge: Store leftover cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Keep it separate from the wonton shells to maintain their crispiness.

Freezer: If you want to freeze, store the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Wonton shells should be cooked fresh for best results.

Reheating: To reheat chicken, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. Avoid reheating any assembled tacos to prevent sogginess.

Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare the chicken and slaw ahead of time, but assemble the crispy chicken wonton tacos just before serving for ultimate freshness.

Expert Tips for Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos

Perfect Shells: Ensure wonton wrappers are snugly pressed into the muffin tin; this prevents breakage and ensures they’re crispy.
Marinating Time: Don’t skip the one-hour marinating step! It tenderizes the chicken and infuses maximum flavor into your crispy chicken wonton tacos.
Fresh Assembly: Assemble tacos just before serving; unfilled wonton shells stay crispy longer than prepared ones, ensuring a delightful crunch.
Flavor Variations: Feel free to switch up the slaw ingredients—add diced bell peppers or bean sprouts for added crunch and freshness!
Leftover Storage: Store leftover cooked chicken in an airtight container for 3-4 days, but don’t store assembled tacos to avoid sogginess.

Variations & Substitutions for Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos

Customize your crispy chicken wonton tacos to fit your family’s preferences and dietary needs, and delight in new flavors and textures!

Dairy-Free: Omit any cheese in the recipe and use dairy-free sauces to cater to lactose sensitivities while keeping the essence delightful.
Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the slaw for an extra fiery twist. You’ll feel the heat mingling with the sweetness—an exciting combination!
Protein Swap: Substitute chicken for shrimp or diced jackfruit for a vegetarian delight. Both options breathe new life into this classic dish, ensuring everyone can enjoy it!
Herb Boost: Swap chopped cilantro for fresh basil or mint to introduce a refreshing aromatic note, perfect for those who prefer a different flavor profile.
Wonton Shell Alternative: Use corn or flour tortillas for a more traditional taco feel. Warm them up, and you’ll achieve a delightful, chewy texture!
Flavorful Slaw: Introduce diced bell peppers or shredded carrots to your slaw mix for a crunchy texture upgrade. The color contrast will also make your dish pop!
Low-Carb Option: Replace wonton wrappers with lettuce leaves for a fresh, low-carb variation. Crisp romaine or butter lettuce works beautifully and adds a refreshing crunch.
Sweetness Variation: Drizzle sriracha mixed with honey instead of sweet chili sauce for a sweet-heat contrast that’ll tantalize your taste buds.

Whatever twist you choose, these tacos can easily become your go-to dinner or appetizer option. For family-friendly ideas, consider serving these alongside a side of Cheesy Chicken Spinach or make it a feast with some Orange Chicken on the side!

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Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe ingredients for the slaw?
Absolutely! When choosing coleslaw mix, look for crisp, vibrant cabbage leaves with no dark spots or wilting. Fresh green onions should be firm and bright green. If you happen to find any limp, yellowing leaves, skip them for a fresher crunch!

What’s the best way to store leftover chicken?
For optimal freshness, store leftover cooked chicken in an airtight container placed in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to keep it separate from the wonton shells to preserve their crispiness. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in a skillet over medium heat, stirring until warmed through.

Can I freeze the chicken for later use?
Yes! To freeze, place the cooked chicken in a freezer-safe bag, squeezing out as much air as possible, and store for up to 2 months. This way, you’ll have a quick meal ready to go! When you’re ready to use it, just thaw it overnight in the fridge, then heat in a skillet to get it warm and ready for assembling your tacos.

What should I do if my wonton shells are soggy after assembly?
The more the merrier, but if soggy shells happen, don’t worry! It’s crucial to assemble the tacos just before serving. If you already have some assembled and they’re getting soggy, try popping them back into a 375°F (190°C) oven for a few minutes to crisp them back up, but remember, freshly prepared wonton shells will always provide the best texture!

Are these tacos safe for people with allergies?
If anyone has allergies, be cautious with certain ingredients like soy sauce or sesame oil. Opt for gluten-free tamari instead of soy sauce, and substitute sesame oil with canola or olive oil for a different flavor profile. Always check labels for cross-contamination if allergies are a concern, and I recommend discussing with your guests to ensure their safety!

Can I make the slaw ahead of time?
Oh, definitely! You can prepare the slaw up to a day in advance. Just mix all the ingredients and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Give it a good toss before serving to refresh it! Just remember, assemble your crispy chicken wonton tacos right before eating for that delightful crunch.