The aroma wafting through my kitchen takes me back to that magical first bite of Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos—an explosion of tangy goodness wrapped in crispy wonton shells. This easy-to-make recipe allows me to recreate that deliciousness at home, perfect for nights when I want comfort food without the takeout wait. Whether I’m entertaining friends or simply treating myself to something special, these tacos come together in a flash and are gentle on the wallet. Plus, they can easily be tailored for gluten-free diets, so everyone can join in on the fun! Are you ready to bring this delightful fusion of flavors to your dinner table? Let’s dive in!

Why are Chicken Wonton Tacos a Must-Try?

Delectable Flavor Explosion: Each bite of these scrumptious tacos offers a delightful mix of savory chicken and vibrant slaw, creating a mouth-watering experience that’s hard to resist.

Quick & Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this dish in no time—perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests.

Versatile & Customizable: Feel free to swap out ingredients for a personalized touch; use ground chicken or add your favorite sauces for a unique twist, like a touch of sriracha for spice.

Gluten-Free Option: This recipe welcomes everyone to the table; simply choose gluten-free wonton wrappers and enjoy the same delicious flavors without worry.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: These tacos are sure to delight guests, making them a fantastic choice for gatherings or casual dinners.

Get ready for a culinary delight, and don’t forget to explore more inspirations, like Thai Peanut Chicken Wraps or Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole, to elevate your meal plan!

Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos Ingredients

For the Chicken Filling
• Chicken Breasts – Main protein source; finely dice for quicker cooking.
• Hoisin Sauce – Adds sweetness and depth; substitute with teriyaki sauce for a milder flavor.
• Sesame Oil – Enhances flavor and richness; consider using light sesame oil for a milder profile.
• Soy Sauce – Contributes savory umami notes; use tamari as a gluten-free alternative.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced) – Adds aromatic flavor; fresh is best, but powdered works in a pinch.
• Fresh Ginger (1 tsp, minced) – Brings warmth and zest; ground ginger can substitute, though fresh is preferred.

For the Slaw
• Coleslaw Mix (1 bag) – Provides crunch and freshness; substitute with finely shredded cabbage if unavailable.
• Green Onions (4, thinly sliced) – Adds a mild onion flavor; can be replaced with chives or omitted if needed.
• Rice Vinegar – Balances flavors with acidity; apple cider vinegar serves as a suitable substitute.
• Honey – Brings sweetness to the slaw; maple syrup can be used for a vegan option.

For the Wonton Tacos
• Wonton Wrappers (16) – Form the taco shells; look for gluten-free options for a worry-free treat.
• Sweet Chili Sauce – For drizzling on top; optional for those preferring less sweetness.

For Garnish
• Chopped Cilantro & Sesame Seeds – Add extra flavor and visual appeal; both are optional but recommended.

Bring the joy of Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos to your kitchen with these vibrant ingredients!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos

Step 1: Prepare Taco Shells
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray a muffin tin with cooking spray, then gently drape the wonton wrappers over the inverted cups, forming a taco shape. Bake the shells for 5-7 minutes until they are crispy and golden brown, ready to hold the tasty filling of your Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos.

Step 2: Cook Chicken
In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add the finely diced chicken and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring often until no longer pink. Then, stir in the hoisin sauce, soy sauce, minced garlic, and fresh ginger, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until the chicken is perfectly glazed and flavorful.

Step 3: Make Slaw
In a large mixing bowl, combine the coleslaw mix, thinly sliced green onions, sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and honey. Toss everything together until the slaw is well-coated, creating a fresh and vibrant topping that will complement the rich chicken in your Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos beautifully.

Step 4: Assemble Tacos
Carefully take the baked wonton shells from the muffin tin and fill each with the savory chicken mixture. Top with the prepared slaw, allowing its crunch and zing to shine through. For an extra layer of flavor, drizzle sweet chili sauce over the top, then finish with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro and sesame seeds to enhance your Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos.

Step 5: Serve Immediately
To enjoy the full crunch of the wonton shells, serve your delicious Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos immediately after assembling. This ensures a delightful balance of textures and flavors, making for an irresistible dish that is perfect for sharing with friends or family at your dinner table.

Make Ahead Options

These Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the chicken filling and slaw up to 3 days in advance, storing each in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Simply cook the chicken and mix the slaw, letting the flavors meld overnight. The wonton shells can also be baked ahead of time and stored at room temperature, although filling them just before serving is crucial to keep them crispy. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat the chicken mixture, assemble your tacos, and serve – you’ll have a delicious, homemade dinner ready in minutes!

How to Store and Freeze Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos

Fridge: Store leftover chicken and slaw separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual chicken and slaw portions in airtight freezer bags for up to 1 month. Just make sure to remove as much air as possible.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy your Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos, reheat the chicken in a pan and freshen up the shells in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 5 minutes for that crispiness!

Avoid Sogginess: To keep the wonton shells crispy, assemble tacos just before serving to prevent moisture from the slaw from affecting their texture.

Expert Tips for Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos

Crispy Shells: Ensure wonton shells are baked until golden; undercooking can result in sogginess, dulling your Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos’ crunch.
Filling Timing: Fill the taco shells just before serving. This keeps them crispy and prevents them from becoming mushy from the slaw.
Ingredient Quality: Use high-quality, fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Fresh garlic and ginger elevate the taste significantly over powdered variants.
Sauce Selection: If you enjoy kick, add sriracha to the chicken filling or drizzle it over assembled tacos for an exciting flavor boost.
Storage Solutions: Store leftover chicken and slaw separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Reheat the shells to restore their crunch when serving again.

Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos Variations

Feel free to get creative with your Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos and make them your own!

Ground Chicken: Use ground chicken instead of diced chicken for a quicker cooking time and easier assembly. This can make the tacos even more family-friendly!
Agave Syrup: Swap honey for agave syrup to make the slaw vegan-friendly without sacrificing sweetness. Your guests will never know the difference!
Rotisserie Chicken: Save time by using shredded rotisserie chicken; it’s a fantastic shortcut that still delivers a delicious flavor punch. You’ll have tacos on the table in no time!
Spicy Twist: For a kick, mix in some sriracha or chili garlic sauce into the chicken mixture. Just a little heat can take these tacos to the next level of yum!
Different Sauces: Try drizzling with peanut sauce or a spicy chili paste for a fun fusion twist à la Thai. Who doesn’t love a little adventure on their taco night?
Coleslaw Alternatives: Swap the coleslaw mix for a kale slaw or even a carrot and cabbage mix for added texture and nutrition. The crunch will still be delightful.
Gluten-Free Wontons: If needed, make these tacos gluten-free by seeking out gluten-free wonton wrappers, so everyone can dig in. They’ll still be just as tasty!
Crispy Add-Ins: Add crushed peanuts or fried shallots on top for a delightful crunch that elevates presentation and flavor. It’s all about those little extra touches!

For more delicious variety, you might enjoy exploring Dolly’s Chicken and Stuffing Casserole or indulging in a comforting dish like Thai Peanut Chicken Wraps. Take your meal planning to the next level!

What to Serve with Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos

Looking to elevate your homemade fiesta? These flavorful tacos are perfect for pairing with delightful sides and beverages that will keep the good times rolling.

Crispy Egg Rolls: A fantastic starter that adds a satisfying crunch and pairs perfectly with the Asian-inspired flavors of the tacos. Their savory filling complements the chicken beautifully.
Zesty Cucumber Salad: A refreshing contrast with its cool cucumbers and zesty dressing, this salad provides a delightful crunch that balances the richness of the tacos.
Sticky Rice: This dish absorbs flavors beautifully and offers a soft, chewy texture that enhances the overall dining experience, creating a comforting feel alongside the crispy tacos.
Sweet Chili Dipping Sauce: Not just for drizzling, this sweet yet spicy sauce can serve as a delightful dip, heightening the flavor experience for your tacos.
Mango Salsa: A sweet and spicy mango salsa adds a fresh twist to your meal. The burst of tropical flavor brightens each bite and keeps things lively!
Margaritas: Sip on a refreshing margarita to bring a festive touch to the table. The tartness of lime and sweetness of agave balance the savory elements of the meal.
Chocolate Mochi Ice Cream: For dessert, indulge in these chewy delights that provide a sweet, cold finish. Their rich chocolate flavor rounds out your meal beautifully.

Pair these sides and drinks with your Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos, and get ready for a deliciously satisfying gathering!

Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken should I use?
Absolutely! I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe, as they provide a tender and juicy filling. Finely dicing the chicken helps it cook quickly and allows the flavors to meld beautifully as it cooks in the sauce.

How should I store any leftover chicken and slaw?
The more the merrier! Store leftover chicken and slaw separately in airtight containers in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. This separation helps maintain the delicious crunch of the wonton shells if you decide to assemble the tacos later.

Can I freeze Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos?
Absolutely! To freeze, portion the chicken and slaw into airtight freezer bags, ensuring you remove as much air as possible. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge, reheat the chicken in a skillet, and warm the wonton wrappers in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 5 minutes for that much-desired crunch.

What can I do if my wonton shells become soggy?
Oh no, soggy shells are never fun! To keep your wonton shells crispy, assemble them just before serving. If you notice your shells have lost their crispness, try reheating them in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 5 minutes to regain that delightful crunch.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Very much! This recipe can easily accommodate gluten-free diets by choosing gluten-free wonton wrappers and tamari instead of soy sauce. As always, check labels for allergens, especially if you’re serving guests with food sensitivities.

What should I do if I can’t find hoisin sauce?
No worries! If hoisin sauce is not available, you can substitute it with teriyaki sauce for a milder flavor. Just adjust the amount to taste, as teriyaki sauce can be sweeter. If you’re feeling adventurous, try mixing soy sauce with a bit of honey or maple syrup to recreate that sweet and savory profile!