Irresistible Applebee’s-Style Chicken Wonton Tacos – Crispy, Savory & Full of Flavor
If you’re craving a restaurant-quality appetizer at home, these Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos are a must-try. Crispy wonton shells are filled with tender, flavorful chicken, fresh slaw, and drizzled with creamy sauces, creating a perfect combination of crunch, savory chicken, and bright toppings.
Table of Contents
These tacos are not only delicious but also fun to make and serve, making them ideal for appetizers, parties, or a unique weeknight dinner. You don’t need a trip to Applebee’s to enjoy this crispy, cheesy, and flavorful taco experience.
Why You’ll Love Applebee’s-Style Chicken Wonton Tacos
- Crispy wonton shells that hold the filling perfectly
- Savory chicken with bold flavor
- Quick and easy to prepare at home
- Perfect appetizer or main course
- Customizable with sauces and toppings
These tacos deliver a perfect balance of texture and flavor that will satisfy everyone at the table.
Ingredients for Chicken Wonton Tacos
Chicken Filling
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Boneless chicken breast or thighs | 1 lb, diced |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Onion powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Soy sauce | 2 tablespoons |
| Honey | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Black pepper | ½ teaspoon |
Toppings
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Shredded cabbage or coleslaw mix | 1 cup |
| Shredded carrots | ½ cup |
| Sliced green onions | 2 tablespoons |
| Cilantro (optional) | 1 tablespoon |
Wonton Shells & Sauces
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Wonton wrappers | 12 |
| Vegetable oil | For frying |
| Ranch dressing or creamy sauce | ¼ cup |
| Sweet chili sauce | 2 tablespoons |
Kitchen Tools Needed
- Frying pan or deep fryer
- Mixing bowl
- Knife and cutting board
- Tongs
- Skillet
- Paper towels for draining
How to Make Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos
Step 1: Fry the Wonton Shells
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Fold wonton wrappers into taco shapes using a taco mold or by draping over a muffin tin.
- Fry for 1–2 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
- Remove and drain on paper towels.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add diced chicken and season with:
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Salt and pepper
- Stir-fry for 5–7 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
- Add soy sauce and honey, cooking for an additional 1–2 minutes until glazed.
Step 3: Prepare Toppings
While chicken cooks, prepare your toppings:
- Shred cabbage and carrots
- Slice green onions
- Chop cilantro if desired
Step 4: Assemble the Tacos
- Place fried wonton shells on a serving plate.
- Fill each shell with a portion of cooked chicken.
- Top with shredded cabbage, carrots, green onions, and cilantro.
- Drizzle ranch or creamy sauce and sweet chili sauce on top.
Tips for the Best Chicken Wonton Tacos
- Use fresh wonton wrappers for crispier shells.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet when frying; it keeps shells crisp.
- Serve immediately for best texture.
- Customize sauces to taste: spicy mayo, sriracha, or hoisin sauce work well.
Delicious Variations
Spicy Chicken Wonton Tacos
Add sriracha or chili garlic sauce to the chicken for a kick.
Cheese-Stuffed Wonton Tacos
Add shredded cheese in the wonton shell before frying for extra gooey goodness.
Vegetarian Wonton Tacos
Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms, tofu, or jackfruit.
Oven-Baked Wonton Tacos
Bake wonton shells at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes instead of frying for a lighter version.
Best Occasions to Serve Chicken Wonton Tacos
These tacos are perfect for:
- Appetizer at parties
- Game day snacks
- Family dinner
- Potlucks and gatherings
- Casual weekend meals
Their crunchy shells and flavorful filling make them a hit every time.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Wonton Tacos
Can I make Chicken Wonton Tacos ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare the chicken filling in advance and assemble just before serving to keep the shells crisp.
Can I use leftover chicken?
Absolutely. Leftover roasted or grilled chicken works perfectly.
Can I bake the wonton shells instead of frying?
Yes. Brush the wontons with oil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes until crispy.
What sauces work best for Chicken Wonton Tacos?
Ranch, sweet chili sauce, sriracha mayo, or hoisin sauce complement the flavors well.
Can I freeze these tacos?
It’s best to freeze only the chicken filling, not the fried shells. Reheat the chicken and assemble fresh tacos.
Conclusion
These Applebee’s-Style Chicken Wonton Tacos bring restaurant-quality flavor to your home kitchen. With crispy wonton shells, savory chicken, fresh toppings, and creamy sauces, every bite is packed with flavor and texture.
Perfect for weeknight dinners, parties, or appetizers, this recipe is easy to make and will impress family and friends alike. Once you try these Chicken Wonton Tacos, they’ll become a favorite go-to recipe for any occasion.
