Name: Delicious Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos for Home Cooks
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 cups Chicken Breasts (finely diced); 2 tablespoons Hoisin Sauce (substitute with teriyaki for milder taste); 2 tablespoons Sesame Oil (use for cooking chicken and dressing slaw); 2 tablespoons Soy Sauce (replace with tamari for gluten-free option); 2 cloves Garlic (freshly minced); 1 tablespoon Fresh Ginger (minced); 4 cups Coleslaw Mix (fresh); 2 stalks Green Onions (thinly sliced); 2 tablespoons Rice Vinegar (for balancing flavors); 1 tablespoon Honey (natural sweetness); 20 pieces Wonton Wrappers (gluten-free varieties work); 1 cup Sweet Chili Sauce (for serving); 1/4 cup Chopped Cilantro (for garnish); 2 tablespoons Sesame Seeds (for garnish)

As I took a bite of the first crispy shell, a delightful crunch echoed in the kitchen—pure magic! These homemade Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos bring that beloved restaurant experience right into your home. Not only is this recipe budget-friendly, but it also offers a quick and satisfying option for dinner or a snack, making it perfect for busy nights. With the tantalizing blend of sweet and savory chicken paired with a refreshing slaw, you’ll have a crowd-pleaser on your hands. Plus, for those who need a gluten-free alternative, I’ve included simple swaps that won’t sacrifice flavor. Are you ready to impress your friends or just treat yourself? Let’s dive into the delicious world of crispy wonton tacos!

What Makes These Tacos So Special?

Budget-Friendly: You can whip up these delicious tacos without breaking the bank, making them perfect for family dinners or impromptu gatherings.

Crispy Goodness: The baked wonton shells deliver a satisfying crunch that elevates every bite.

Flavor Explosion: Sweet, savory chicken meets a zesty slaw for a delightful medley of tastes.

Versatile Filling: Feel free to swap diced chicken for ground chicken or even mix in some veggies for a vegetarian twist!

Quick to Prepare: In just 30 minutes, you can dish up an impressive meal that rivals any restaurant offering.

Perfect for Sharing: Ideal as appetizers or main dishes, these tacos will delight everyone and leave them asking for seconds!

If you love these, be sure to check out my Cottage Cheese Chicken or Crack Chicken Tenders for more crowd-pleasing recipes.

Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos Ingredients

For the Chicken Filling

Chicken Breasts – Finely diced for quick cooking and tender texture.
Hoisin Sauce – Offers a sweet and savory flavor; substitute with teriyaki for a milder taste.
Sesame Oil – Adds richness and depth; use for both cooking the chicken and dressing the slaw.
Soy Sauce – Enhances umami flavor; replace with tamari for a gluten-free option.
Garlic – Freshly minced for the best aromatic and flavorful results.
Fresh Ginger – Minced for even distribution, adding warmth and a zing.

For the Slaw

Coleslaw Mix – Use fresh mix for optimal crunch and texture.
Green Onions – Thinly sliced for a refreshing crunch in every bite.
Rice Vinegar – Essential for balancing flavors with a touch of acidity.
Honey – Provides natural sweetness to counterbalance flavors in the slaw.

For the Taco Shells and Toppings

Wonton Wrappers – Create delightful shells for the filling; gluten-free varieties work perfectly!
Sweet Chili Sauce – Serve alongside for an extra kick of sweetness and heat.
Chopped Cilantro – Freshness and color add the perfect finishing touch.
Sesame Seeds – Garnish with these for a nutty flavor and appealing texture.

Enjoy crafting these scrumptious Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos that bring restaurant flair right to your dinner table!

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

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take a muffin tin and lightly spray the back with cooking spray. This will help create crispy shells for your Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos. Once ready, set it aside while you prepare the wonton wrappers.

Step 2: Create the Taco Shells
Drape the wonton wrappers over the inverted muffin cups to form taco shapes. Ensure they fit snugly without tearing, as this will hold the filling later. Place the tin in the oven and bake for 5–7 minutes, or until the wrappers turn golden and crisp, providing that delightful crunch.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken
In a skillet over medium-high heat, warm 2 tablespoons of sesame oil. Add your finely diced chicken breasts to the hot skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring frequently until the chicken is no longer pink. You’ll know it’s done when it turns white and nicely browned.

Step 4: Flavor the Chicken
Once the chicken is cooked, stir in the hoisin sauce, soy sauce, minced garlic, and fresh ginger. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to become fully coated. The mixture should appear glossy and aromatic.

Step 5: Make the Slaw
In a separate mixing bowl, combine the coleslaw mix, thinly sliced green onions, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and honey. Toss everything gently with a fork or tongs until the slaw is evenly coated and colorful. This will add a refreshing crunch to the tacos.

Step 6: Assemble the Tacos
Once the wonton shells are baked and cooled slightly, it’s time to assemble your Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos! Spoon the flavorful chicken mixture into each shell generously. Top with a hearty scoop of the slaw, then drizzle with sweet chili sauce, and sprinkle with chopped cilantro and sesame seeds for added flair.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your assembled tacos immediately while they’re still crunchy! You can present them on a platter for sharing or enjoy them solo as a delicious snack. Remember, the key to enjoying these Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos is to eat them fresh for the ultimate crispy experience.

Storage Tips for Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos

Fridge: Store the leftover chicken and slaw separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days to maintain freshness. This will keep your Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos from getting soggy.
Freezer: You can freeze the baked wonton shells without filling them. Place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven before filling.
Reheating: To reheat, place the fitted chicken in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Make sure to avoid reheating the wonton shells in the microwave, as that will make them lose their crispness.
Make-Ahead: Prepare the filling and slaw ahead of time. Just fill the wonton shells right before serving to keep everything crunchy and fresh!

What to Serve with Crispy Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos

Elevate your taco night with complementary side dishes that tantalize the taste buds and balance your meal perfectly.

Creamy Avocado Dip: The rich, buttery flavor of avocado complements the crispy tacos beautifully, adding a smooth texture. Serve alongside for a refreshing contrast.
Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness and crispy texture pair wonderfully with the savory and tangy notes of the chicken filling. A bite of sweet potato takes each taco experience to the next level.
Mango Salsa: This vibrant, tropical salsa brings a fruity zing that brightens up the dish, balancing the savory flavors with refreshing sweetness. The burst of flavor will have your guests coming back for more!
Garlic Edamame: Simple and delightful, a side of garlic edamame adds a pop of color and provides protein, making your meal feel balanced and fulfilling.
Crisp Garden Salad: A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette provides crunch and freshness, cutting through the richness of the tacos while enhancing the meal’s overall appeal.
Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio complements the flavors of the tacos beautifully, making every bite feel special.
Chocolate Mousse: End the meal with a light and airy chocolate mousse. It’s the perfect decadent treat to satisfy your sweet tooth without overshadowing your flavorful main dish.

Make Ahead Options

These Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos are fantastic for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prep the chicken filling and slaw up to 3 days in advance. Simply cook the chicken with hoisin and soy sauce, then let it cool before transferring it to an airtight container in the fridge. The slaw can be made by mixing the coleslaw mix with green onions, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and honey, and also stored separately. This prevents the slaw from wilting and ensures it stays crisp. When you’re ready to serve, bake the wonton shells fresh and assemble the tacos just before enjoying them. This way, you’ll have delicious, homemade tacos ready in a pinch without compromising on flavor or quality!

Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos Variations

Feel free to get creative with this delightful taco recipe! Each variation offers a chance to customize and elevate your dish.

Ground Chicken: Substitute diced chicken with ground chicken for quicker cooking and a delightful texture. It’s an easy swap that keeps the flavor intact!
Hoisin to Teriyaki: Replace hoisin sauce with teriyaki for a milder, sweeter flavor profile. This shift can create a unique twist that’s just as delicious.
Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and fill the wonton shells with sautéed veggies like bell peppers and zucchini for a colorful vegetarian delight. You’ll experience a burst of fresh flavors!
Heat Level Boost: Add sriracha to the chicken mixture or drizzle over the finished tacos for an extra kick. This little addition can transform your dish into a spicy sensation.
Gluten-Free Friendly: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and swap regular wonton wrappers for gluten-free ones to cater to gluten-sensitive palates. Enjoy without a hitch!
Sweet and Savory Twist: Mix in diced pineapple with the chicken for a refreshing sweet burst that perfectly balances the savory elements. Your guests will love this unexpected surprise!
Crunchy Texture: Toss in some chopped peanuts or cashews into the slaw for a delightful crunch. This simple addition enhances both texture and flavor, making every bite exciting!
Herbaceous Flavor: Sprinkle in fresh herbs like basil or mint into the slaw for a fragrant twist. These herbs bring a wonderful freshness that elevates your tacos.

If you’re looking for more delicious ideas, don’t miss out on trying my Mongolian Chicken Wow or Crack Chicken Tenders for more fun flavor explorations!

Expert Tips for Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos

Keep It Crisp: Fill the wonton shells just before serving to ensure they maintain their crunch throughout the meal.
Spice It Up: If you like heat, mix in a bit of sriracha with the chicken filling or drizzle it on top for a spicy kick!
Cooling Time: Allow the cooked chicken to cool slightly before filling the tacos to prevent sogginess from condensation.
Perfect Swap: For a quicker option, use ground chicken instead of diced chicken for the filling; it cooks faster and is equally delicious.
Gluten-Free Options: Remember to substitute soy sauce with tamari and use gluten-free wonton wrappers to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh coleslaw mix and herbs; they enhance flavor and texture, making your Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos truly irresistible!

Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe FAQs

What kind of chicken should I use?
I recommend using finely diced chicken breasts for the filling, as they cook quickly and remain tender. If you prefer, you can substitute with ground chicken, which cooks even faster and provides a slightly different texture!

How should I store my leftover tacos?
Store the cooked chicken and slaw separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. This way, you’ll keep the wonton shells crisp and avoid any sogginess when you’re ready to enjoy them again.

Can I freeze the wonton shells?
Absolutely! You can freeze the baked wonton shells without filling them. Just place them in a freezer-safe bag and they’ll last for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat them in the oven until they’re crispy again before adding your filling.

How can I prevent my wonton shells from getting soggy?
To keep your shells nice and crisp, fill them just before serving. Additionally, let the cooked chicken mixture cool slightly before assembling to avoid steam creating moisture in the shells.

Are there any dietary considerations with this recipe?
Yes, for gluten-free options, simply replace soy sauce with tamari and use gluten-free wonton wrappers. Always check the labels of your sauces and wrappers to ensure they meet your dietary needs. Enjoying these tasty Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos can be inclusive for everyone at your table!