Picture this: you walk into a cozy kitchen, and instantly, the delightful aroma of savory chicken mingled with ginger and sesame oil greets you. I can’t help but smile at the thought of Homemade Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos that have become a staple in my home. After a long week of takeout fatigue, I knew it was time for a fun and flavorful twist on dinner.
These tacos are an Asian-inspired masterpiece that’s not only budget-friendly but also incredibly easy to whip up. The crispy wonton shells cradle a perfectly glazed chicken filling, while a vibrant slaw adds a refreshing crunch. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a lively girls’ night in, these tacos promise to impress without causing a dent in your wallet.
Join me as we embark on this delicious culinary adventure and transform your weeknight meals with a touch of homemade magic!
Why are Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos a must-try?
Easy to Make: This recipe is perfect for home cooks of any skill level, bringing restaurant flavors into your kitchen without the hassle.
Crispy and Flavorful: The wonton shells provide a satisfying crunch that holds all the savory chicken and vibrant slaw beautifully.
Versatile for Dietary Needs: You can easily swap ingredients to make these tacos gluten-free or vegetarian—perfect for accommodating guests!
Budget-Friendly: Enjoying delicious tacos doesn’t have to break the bank; simple ingredients make this recipe wallet-friendly.
Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for gatherings, these tacos are sure to impress friends and family alike, turning any meal into a fiesta!
When you’re ready to dive into this delectable dish, don’t forget to check out my tips for keeping those taco shells crispy!
Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create your own scrumptious Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos at home.
For the Chicken Filling
- Chicken Breasts – The main protein source for the tacos; ground chicken can be used for quicker cooking.
- Hoisin Sauce – Adds a sweet and savory depth; consider swapping it with teriyaki sauce for a milder flavor.
- Sesame Oil – This oil provides a nutty, aromatic base for cooking; it’s what gives your chicken that delightful flavor profile.
- Soy Sauce – Adds saltiness and umami; if you’re looking for a gluten-free option, tamari can be used instead.
- Garlic (minced) – Enhances flavor with a punch of pungency.
- Fresh Ginger (minced) – Adds warmth and a lovely zing to the filling.
For the Slaw
- Coleslaw Mix – Provides critical crunch and freshness to balance the chicken.
- Green Onions (sliced) – Offers sharpness and pops of color to your tacos.
- Rice Vinegar – This ingredient adds acidity to balance flavors in the slaw.
- Honey – Sweetens the slaw for a delightful contrast.
For the Tacos
- Wonton Wrappers – These create the crunchy taco shells; opt for gluten-free versions if needed.
- Sweet Chili Sauce – For drizzling and added sweetness when serving your tacos.
- Cilantro (chopped) – A fresh garnish that lifts your dish.
- Sesame Seeds – Adds an extra crunch for garnishing.
Gather these ingredients, and you’re all set to create a memorable meal that will leave everyone craving more!
How to Make Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos
-
Prep Muffin Tin: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly spray the back of a muffin tin with cooking spray. This will help achieve that golden crispy texture.
-
Form Taco Shells: Drape wonton wrappers over the inverted muffin cups and bake for 5-7 minutes. Keep an eye on them until they’re crisp and golden; this is where the magic happens!
-
Cook Chicken: In a skillet, heat sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken and cook for 3-4 minutes until browned. Stir in hoisin sauce, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger, then cook for another 2-3 minutes until the chicken is beautifully glazed.
-
Prepare Slaw: In a bowl, mix together the coleslaw, green onions, sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and honey. Toss well until everything is coated and looks fresh and vibrant.
-
Assemble Tacos: Carefully fill the crispy wonton shells with the cooked chicken, top them with the vibrant slaw, drizzle with sweet chili sauce, and garnish with chopped cilantro and sesame seeds. Serve immediately for maximum crunch!
Optional: For an extra kick, add a drizzle of sriracha on top before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Homemade Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos are fantastic for meal prep and perfect for busy weeknights! You can prepare the chicken filling and coleslaw up to 3 days in advance; simply store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their fresh flavors. For the wonton shells, bake them up to 24 hours ahead of time and keep them in an airtight container to stay crisp. When you’re ready to serve, fill the taco shells with the chicken and slaw, drizzle with sweet chili sauce, and garnish with cilantro and sesame seeds. This way, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in minutes, without sacrificing quality—just as delicious as if you made them fresh!
Storage Tips for Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos
- Fridge: Store cooked chicken and slaw separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
- Freezer: If you have extra taco shells, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 1 month.
- Reheating: Re-crisp shells in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes before filling them again for the best texture.
- Assemble Just Before Serving: To keep the wonton shells crispy, it’s best to assemble your Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos just before enjoying them.
Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos Variations
Feel free to get creative with your tacos; these tasty twists will elevate the flavor and cater to your preferences!
- Dairy-Free: Omit any cheese and use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a lighter flavor.
- Gluten-Free: Swap traditional soy sauce for tamari and ensure your wonton wrappers are gluten-free.
- Vegetarian: Switch out the chicken for crumbled tofu or tempeh, sautéing it until lightly golden.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños to the slaw or mix sriracha into the chicken filling for some heat.
- Zesty Slaw: Introduce lime juice and zest to the slaw for a fresh twist that brightens every bite.
- Crunchy Add-Ins: Toss in roasted peanuts or cashews to the slaw for an extra layer of texture and nuttiness.
- Asian-Inspired Sauce: Replace hoisin with a spicy peanut sauce for a creamy, rich flavor that pairs beautifully with the chicken.
- Veggie Boost: Mix in additional chopped vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, or shredded carrots for more freshness and crunch.
Let your creativity roam free and enjoy exploring these delightful variations!
What to Serve with Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos?
Elevate your dining experience with delightful pairings that complement the sweet and savory flavors of these crispy tacos.
- Crispy Vegetable Spring Rolls: These provide a crispy counterpart to the tacos, adding crunch and a variety of fresh flavors. Perfect as an appetizer to start your meal on a high note.
- Asian Cucumber Salad: Bright and refreshing, this salad made with cucumbers, rice vinegar, and sesame oil balances the sweetness of the tacos beautifully. It’s a light, zesty side that won’t overpower your main dish.
- Mango Sticky Rice: For those with a sweet tooth, this Thai-inspired dessert is a rich and comforting treat, bringing a tropical sweetness that pairs well with the savory tacos.
- Chilled Sake or Green Tea: Savor a cold sake or refreshing green tea to cleanse your palate between bites and enhance the entire dining experience with its subtle flavors.
- Sesame Garlic Noodles: These noodles pack an umami punch and bring a satisfying chewiness that complements the crispness of your tacos. Toss them in a sesame oil and garlic sauce for added depth.
- Fruit-Infused Sparkling Water: Light, bubbly, and fruity—this refreshing drink is an excellent choice to balance the flavors of the meal and keep things cool and vibrant.
Serve these alongside your Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos for a balanced, mouthwatering feast that’ll leave everyone wanting more!
Expert Tips for Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos
- Keep It Crispy: Fill the wonton shells just before serving to prevent them from getting soggy. Leaving them empty until the last moment preserves that crunch!
- Watch the Heat: Use medium-high heat when cooking the chicken to ensure it browns nicely without burning, keeping the flavors of the hoisin and soy sauce pronounced.
- Perfectly Layered Slaw: Don’t skip the honey in the slaw; it balances the flavors beautifully. Adjust the sweetness to your liking for the best overall taste experience.
- Customize Easily: Feel free to swap out the chicken for tofu or ground turkey. This makes Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos versatile and accommodating for different dietary needs.
- Enjoy Extras: Serve with extra sweet chili sauce for dipping on the side—it’s the perfect way to elevate these tacos for a party or family dinner!
Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right chicken for my tacos?
Absolutely! For this recipe, I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for their clean flavor and tenderness. If you’re in a hurry, feel free to substitute with ground chicken as it cooks faster and absorbs the flavors beautifully.
What’s the best way to store leftover tacos?
Very important! Store the cooked chicken and slaw separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you need to keep the wonton shells crispy, it’s best to store them in an airtight container at room temperature.
Can I freeze these tacos?
Yes, you can! For freezing, first, cook your chicken and prepare your slaw. Freeze the chicken and slaw separately, ensuring they are in airtight containers or freezer bags. Wonton shells can be frozen in a single layer on a baking sheet and then transferred to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. To serve, re-crisp the shells in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5 minutes.
What should I do if my wonton shells aren’t crisping up?
If your wonton shells aren’t crisping properly, ensure you’re not overlapping them when draping over the muffin cups. Also, check if your oven is calibrated correctly as different ovens can vary in cooking temperature. Sometimes, an extra minute or two in the oven can make all the difference!
Are there any dietary considerations for these tacos?
Definitely! To make these tacos gluten-free, simply use tamari instead of soy sauce and opt for gluten-free wonton wrappers. If you have guests who are vegetarian, swap the chicken for tofu or additional veggies like bell peppers and carrots.
Can I make these tacos in advance for a party?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and slaw ahead of time, storing them separately as mentioned. I often set up a taco bar with the crispy wonton shells and toppings for guests to assemble their own tacos just before serving. This way, everyone enjoys that delightful crunch!
Homemade Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos for the Win!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly spray the back of a muffin tin with cooking spray.
- Drape wonton wrappers over the inverted muffin cups and bake for 5-7 minutes until crisp and golden.
- In a skillet, heat sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken and cook for 3-4 minutes until browned. Stir in hoisin sauce, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger, then cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix together the coleslaw, green onions, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and honey. Toss well until everything is coated.
- Fill the wonton shells with the cooked chicken, top with slaw, drizzle with sweet chili sauce, and garnish with cilantro and sesame seeds.