Chicken Wonton Tacos

Chicken Wonton Tacos are a delightful fusion of flavors that make a perfect appetizer for any occasion. This recipe mimics the popular Applebee’s dish, featuring crispy wonton shells filled with honey-garlic chicken and a refreshing Asian slaw. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a cozy family dinner, or simply craving something delicious, these tacos deliver on taste and presentation. The combination of sweet chili sauce, sesame seeds, and cilantro adds an extra layer of flavor that will keep everyone coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all levels.
• Full of Flavor: The honey-garlic chicken pairs beautifully with the tangy slaw, creating a mouthwatering experience.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a game day snack or a fancy dinner party, these tacos fit right in.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the level of spice or add your favorite toppings to make it your own.
• Impressive Presentation: The crispy wonton shells and vibrant toppings make for an eye-catching dish.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare Chicken Wonton Tacos successfully, having the right tools is essential. These tools will help streamline the cooking process and ensure great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Muffin tin
• Medium bowl
• Large pan
• Measuring spoons
• Knife & cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Muffin tin: This tool is critical for shaping the wonton wrappers into crispy shells that hold all the delicious fillings.
• Large pan: A good-sized pan ensures even cooking of the chicken without overcrowding, allowing it to sauté perfectly.

Ingredients

Chicken Ingredients

• 2 skinless boneless chicken breasts (thinly sliced)
• 2 Tablespoons teriyaki sauce
• 1 Tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 Tablespoon low sodium soy sauce
• 2 teaspoons fresh garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger (minced)

Slaw Ingredients

• A bag coleslaw
• 1/4 cup green onions (diced)
• 1 Tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 Tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 Tablespoon low sodium soy sauce
• 1 Tablespoon honey

Taco Assembly Ingredients

• 16 wonton wrappers
• Sweet chili sauce
• Sesame seeds
• Chopped cilantro

How to Make Chicken Wonton Tacos

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. Slice fresh raw chicken breasts into long thin slices.
2. In a medium bowl, combine sliced chicken with teriyaki sauce, sesame oil, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. Toss well.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to marinate. Alternatively, place all ingredients in a large ziplock bag and refrigerate.

Step 2: Prepare Wonton Shells

1. Preheat oven to 375 F (190 C).
2. Turn a muffin tin upside down. Press the middle of each wonton wrapper between two muffin cups to create a V shape.
3. Bake for 7–9 minutes until golden brown; watch closely to prevent burning. Remove from oven and set aside.

Step 3: Cook Chicken

1. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add marinated chicken to the hot oil and sauté while tossing frequently until fully cooked through.
3. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 4: Prepare Slaw Mixture

1. In a large bowl, combine coleslaw mix and diced green onions.
2. In another medium bowl, whisk together sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and honey to create the slaw dressing.
3. Pour dressing over coleslaw mixture and toss until well combined.

Step 5: Assemble Tacos

1. Take a baked wonton shell and layer in some cooked chicken.
2. Add coleslaw mixture on top followed by a drizzle of sweet chili sauce.
3. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped cilantro before repeating with remaining wonton tacos.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve immediately while still warm for the best flavor experience! Enjoy your homemade Chicken Wonton Tacos!

How to Serve Chicken Wonton Tacos

Chicken Wonton Tacos are a delightful appetizer that can be enjoyed in various ways. Serving them creatively can enhance their appeal and make them a hit at any gathering.

With Dipping Sauces

• Sweet Chili Sauce: This sauce adds a sweet and spicy kick that complements the chicken well.
• Soy Sauce: A classic choice, offering a salty contrast to the sweetness of the tacos.
• Sriracha: For those who enjoy heat, sriracha provides a fiery touch that elevates the flavors.

On a Platter

• Garnished with Cilantro: Place your wonton tacos on a platter and sprinkle fresh cilantro for added color and flavor.
• Accompanied by Lime Wedges: Adding lime wedges allows guests to squeeze fresh juice over their tacos for an extra zing.

As Part of a Taco Bar

• Build-Your-Own Style: Set up a taco bar where guests can customize their Chicken Wonton Tacos with different toppings and sauces.
• Offer Various Fillings: Alongside chicken, consider providing shrimp or tofu for variety.

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How to Perfect Chicken Wonton Tacos

To achieve the best Chicken Wonton Tacos, focus on these essential tips.

• Marinate the Chicken Well: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least an hour helps infuse flavor into every bite.
• Watch the Wrappers Closely: When baking the wonton wrappers, keep an eye on them to prevent burning; they should be golden brown.
• Don’t Overfill: When assembling, avoid overloading with filling to ensure each taco holds together well.
• Serve Immediately: Enjoy them fresh out of the oven for maximum crispiness; they taste best right away.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Wonton Tacos

Pairing side dishes with your Chicken Wonton Tacos can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delicious options:

1. Asian Noodle Salad: A refreshing salad with noodles, veggies, and sesame dressing that complements the flavors of wonton tacos.
2. Edamame Beans: Lightly salted edamame makes for a healthy and protein-rich side option.
3. Cucumber Salad: Crisp cucumbers in vinegar provide a cool contrast to the warm tacos.
4. Vegetable Spring Rolls: These crispy rolls filled with veggies add another layer of texture and flavor.
5. Fried Rice: A flavorful fried rice dish can serve as a hearty side that pairs well with Asian-inspired meals.
6. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup is comforting and balances the meal’s richness nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Wonton Tacos, it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Incorrect chicken preparation: Failing to slice the chicken thinly can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure you slice your chicken into long, thin pieces for even cooking and better flavor absorption.
• Overbaking wonton wrappers: Cooking wonton wrappers too long can make them overly crispy or burnt. Watch them closely in the oven and remove them once they are lightly golden.
• Neglecting marination time: Skipping the marination step can result in bland chicken. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least one hour for the best flavor.
• Not using fresh ingredients: Using stale or old ingredients can affect the taste and texture of your tacos. Always use fresh produce and check expiration dates on sauces.
• Skipping garnishes: Missing out on toppings like sesame seeds or cilantro can make your tacos less appealing. Don’t skip these final touches; they add flavor and visual appeal.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Chicken Wonton Tacos in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chicken Wonton Tacos

• Freeze cooked Chicken Wonton Tacos in a single layer before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be stored for up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating Chicken Wonton Tacos

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, but note that this may soften the wonton wrappers.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about making Chicken Wonton Tacos, here are some common questions answered.

How do I customize my Chicken Wonton Tacos?

You can customize your Chicken Wonton Tacos by adding different vegetables like bell peppers or carrots. You might also try various sauces, such as sriracha for spice!

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute chicken with shrimp, tofu, or even beef for a different twist on these delicious tacos.

What should I serve with Chicken Wonton Tacos?

These tacos pair well with a light salad or some steamed rice. You could also serve them with dipping sauces on the side for extra flavor.

Are Chicken Wonton Tacos gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce and ensure your wonton wrappers are made from gluten-free ingredients.

Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the filling a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble your tacos.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Wonton Tacos are not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. They make a fantastic appetizer or light meal. Feel free to customize with your favorite toppings or fillings for an even more delightful experience!