As I unwrapped a warm wonton shell, the tantalizing aroma of sweet hoisin glazed chicken wafted through the air, making my mouth water in anticipation. These homemade Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos are not just a delightful twist on classic flavors but also incredibly convenient to prepare, perfect for whipping up on busy weeknights or impressing guests. With their crunchy exterior and savory filling, they turn simple ingredients into a budget-friendly masterpiece that feels restaurant-worthy. Plus, the vibrant crunch of fresh slaw adds a refreshing bite that balances everything perfectly. Ready to try them for yourself? Let’s dive in and get you rolling (literally!) with these delicious tacos!
Why Are These Tacos a Must-Try?
Crispy Perfection: The delightful crunch of freshly baked wonton shells sets these tacos apart from anything you’ll find in a fast-food joint.
Savory Filling: Combining hoisin-glazed chicken with fresh veggies creates an incredibly flavorful experience that tantalizes the taste buds.
Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time, you can whip up these tacos in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
Budget-Friendly: This recipe makes it easy to enjoy restaurant-quality food at home without breaking the bank.
Versatile Options: Feel free to customize your tacos with various sauces or toppings like avocado or spicy mayo, making it a perfect choice for any occasion.
Elevate your weeknight dinners with these Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos; they’re a crowd-pleaser that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!
Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos Ingredients
For the Chicken Filling
• Chicken Breasts – Provides protein and texture; can substitute with ground chicken for faster cooking.
• Hoisin Sauce – Adds sweetness and depth to the chicken glaze; can be replaced with teriyaki sauce for a milder flavor.
• Sesame Oil – Imparts a rich, nutty flavor; divided into two uses (for cooking chicken and slaw).
• Garlic – Enhances savory flavor; always use fresh for best results.
• Fresh Ginger – Adds a warm spice that complements the sweetness; pre-minced ginger can be used for convenience.
For the Slaw
• Coleslaw Mix – Offers crunch and texture; pre-packaged for convenience.
• Green Onions – Adds brightness and crunch; sliced thinly for best flavor distribution.
• Rice Vinegar – Provides acidity to the slaw mix; can substitute with white vinegar.
• Honey – Balances flavors with natural sweetness; use maple syrup as a vegan substitute if needed.
For the Tacos
• Wonton Wrappers – Form the taco shells; look for gluten-free options as needed.
• Sweet Chili Sauce – Perfect for dipping; chili garlic sauce can serve as a spicy alternative.
• Cilantro/Sesame Seeds – Used as garnish for color and flavor; can be omitted based on preference.
Dive into making your own Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos and savor the deliciousness!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos
Step 1: Prepare Taco Shells
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray a muffin tin with cooking spray, ensuring each cup is well-coated. Drape a wonton wrapper over the inverted muffin cups, pressing gently to create a taco shape. Place in the oven and bake for 5–7 minutes, or until the edges are crispy and golden brown, filling your kitchen with a delightful aroma.
Step 2: Cook Chicken
While the taco shells are baking, heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the diced chicken breasts in a single layer. Sauté for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink, showcasing a nice golden-brown color.
Step 3: Add Flavors
To the cooked chicken, stir in the hoisin sauce, soy sauce, minced garlic, and freshly grated ginger. Continue cooking for an additional 2–3 minutes, ensuring the chicken is well-coated and the sauces thicken slightly, bringing out a rich, savory aroma that perfectly complements the crunchy taco shells.
Step 4: Prepare Slaw
In a mixing bowl, combine the pre-packaged coleslaw mix, sliced green onions, the remaining sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and honey. Toss everything together until the slaw is evenly coated with the dressing. The mixture should be bright and colorful, adding a refreshing crunch that beautifully contrasts the hearty chicken filling.
Step 5: Assemble Tacos
Carefully remove the baked wonton shells from the muffin tin, and set them on a serving platter. Fill each shell generously with the savory chicken mixture, followed by a topping of the vibrant slaw. Drizzle with sweet chili sauce and garnish with fresh cilantro and sesame seeds for an aesthetically pleasing finish and extra flavor before serving.
Expert Tips for Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos
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Shell Perfection: Ensure wonton wrappers are draped evenly over muffin cups to avoid uneven cooking. This way, you’ll achieve perfectly crispy taco shells every time.
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Flavor Boost: For a more robust flavor, marinate the chicken in hoisin sauce for 30 minutes before cooking. This enhances the taste of your Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos.
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Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh garlic and ginger for the best flavor. Dried versions may not provide the rich, aromatic depth that makes these tacos so delicious.
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Assemble Just Before Serving: To maintain their crispy texture, fill the wonton shells with chicken and slaw only moments before serving.
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Customize with Heat: If you love spice, consider adding chopped jalapeños to the slaw or drizzling some sriracha on top of your tacos for an extra kick!
Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos Variations
Feel free to explore these delicious twists on the classic Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos for a customized experience!
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Ground Chicken: Swap diced chicken for ground chicken for quicker cooking and a different texture. This is a great option when time is tight but taste is still a priority!
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Tamari for Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version without sacrificing flavor. This adjustment keeps the essence of the dish while accommodating gluten sensitivities.
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Teriyaki Sauce: Experiment with teriyaki sauce in place of hoisin for a sweet and tangy flavor profile. It adds a delightful twist that works beautifully with the crunchy slaw.
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Avocado Addition: Top your tacos with sliced avocado for creaminess that complements the crunchy texture of the wonton shells. The lush, buttery goodness elevates your taco experience!
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Spicy Mayo: Drizzle spicy mayo on top for an extra kick that brings heat and richness. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a bit of spice in their meals!
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Add Nuts: Sprinkle chopped peanuts or cashews for a delightful crunch and extra nutty flavor. This adds a gourmet touch that’s sure to impress guests!
If you’re in the mood for something else, don’t miss our delightful Crack Chicken Tenders or the flavorful Mongolian Chicken for a wonderful array of home-cooked meals. Enjoy creating your perfect taco!
Storage Tips for 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. This keeps your Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos delicious for another meal.
Freezer: If you want to freeze the chicken mixture, place it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just be sure to cool it completely before sealing to avoid ice crystals.
Reheating: To reheat the chicken, warm it up in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. For the wonton shells, re-crisp them in the oven at 375°F for about 5 minutes for that delightful crunch.
Preparation: If preparing in advance, assemble the tacos just before serving for optimal crunchiness, keeping the chicken and slaw separate until you’re ready to enjoy!
What to Serve with Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos?
Enjoy a delightful meal that balances flavors and textures, elevating your dining experience with each bite.
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Crispy Fries: These golden, crunchy fries offer a satisfying contrast to the soft filling of the tacos, perfect for dipping in sauce.
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Sweet Chili Sauce: Perfect for drizzling or dipping, this sauce adds a touch of sweetness and spice that complements the flavors of the tacos.
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Mango Salsa: Bright and refreshing, this zesty salsa brings a tropical twist, enhancing the savory and sweet notes of the chicken filling.
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Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and buttery, these breadsticks are great for soaking up any extra sauce, making your meal even more indulgent.
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Refreshing Cucumber Salad: Light and crisp, a cucumber salad adds freshness and balances the hearty tacos beautifully, making each bite more delightful.
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Coconut Rice: The subtle sweetness of coconut rice pairs excellently with the savory chicken, creating a harmonious blend of flavors to savor together.
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Pineapple Coconut Smoothie: A tropical drink that refreshes the palate, this smoothie complements the sweetness of the tacos while adding a fun twist to the meal.
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Sliced Avocado: Creamy avocado slices bring richness and a buttery texture, enhancing the overall enjoyment of your Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos.
Make Ahead Options
These Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos are a fantastic meal prep option for busy weeknights! You can prepare the chicken filling and the slaw up to 3 days in advance, storing them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their delightful textures. For assembly, simply reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, while the slaw can be served cold directly from the fridge. Remember, to keep the wonton shells crispy, bake them fresh right before serving, which takes just 5-7 minutes. This way, you’ll enjoy restaurant-quality results with minimal effort, all while saving precious time during your hectic days!
Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe ingredients for the chicken filling?
Absolutely! For the chicken, look for breasts that are pink and firm without dark spots or an off odor. Fresh ginger should be smooth and aromatic, while garlic should be plump and mostly intact—any shriveled cloves can lose flavor.
What is the best way to store leftover Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos?
To store, keep the chicken filling and slaw in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps preserve their unique textures and flavors. Remember, never store the assembled tacos together as the wonton shells will become soggy.
Can I freeze the chicken filling? How do I do that?
Yes, you can freeze the chicken filling! To do this, let the chicken cool completely after cooking, then place it in a freezer-safe container or a zip-top bag, ensuring you remove as much air as possible. It can be stored for up to 2 months. When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently in a skillet.
How can I troubleshoot if my wonton shells turn out chewy instead of crispy?
Very! If your wonton shells end up chewy, it might be due to not baking them long enough. Make sure the oven is preheated and keep an eye on them; they should turn golden brown after 5-7 minutes. Also, ensure they are draped correctly over the muffin cups for even airflow while baking; this helps achieve that crunchy texture.
Are these tacos safe for people with allergies?
If you’re concerned about allergies, these tacos can be easily adjusted! Use gluten-free soy sauce and wonton wrappers for a gluten-free option. Ingredients like peanuts in the hoisin sauce can be substituted with alternative sauces that fit dietary needs. Always check ingredient labels, and if you have specific allergies, feel free to ask for alternatives!
How long do these tacos stay fresh if not consumed right away?
The chicken and slaw mixture can be stored safely for up to 3 days in the fridge, but for the best flavor and texture, I highly recommend assembling the tacos just before serving. The shells will stay crispy when filled fresh!
Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos: Crispy Flavor in Every Bite
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray a muffin tin with cooking spray, drape a wonton wrapper over the inverted muffin cups, and bake for 5–7 minutes.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sauté the diced chicken breasts for 3–4 minutes until fully cooked.
- Stir in the hoisin sauce, soy sauce, minced garlic, and freshly grated ginger into the cooked chicken, and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the coleslaw mix, sliced green onions, remaining sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and honey, tossing until evenly coated.
- Remove the baked wonton shells, fill each shell with the chicken mixture, add the slaw, drizzle with sweet chili sauce, and garnish with cilantro and sesame seeds.
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