As I watched friends dive into a platter of crispy, golden-brown tacos, I couldn’t help but smile. These are not just any tacos; they’re my rendition of Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos, featuring tender honey-garlic chicken cradled in delightfully crunchy wonton shells. Perfect as a quick appetizer or a show-stopping party snack, they are sure to steal the spotlight at your next gathering. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to customize, whether you prefer a zesty slaw or a drizzle of sweet chili sauce. So why settle for fast food when you can whip up something deliciously homemade? Ready to impress your taste buds? Let’s get cooking!

Why are these tacos so irresistible?

Crispy, Golden Perfection: The wonton shells are baked to golden-brown perfection, creating a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender chicken inside.

Flavor Explosion: Featuring honey-garlic chicken, each bite offers a sweet yet savory experience that your taste buds will crave.

Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy schedules, these tacos come together in a flash, making them an ideal choice for spontaneous gatherings.

Customizable Delight: Whether you opt for a fresh slaw or a spicy drizzle, you can tailor these tacos to fit your preferences, much like our Cream Cheese Chicken for a creamy twist!

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: They are not just tacos; they are guaranteed to be the star of your next get-together, ensuring guests keep coming back for more!

Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos Ingredients

For the Chicken Filling
• Diced Chicken Breasts – The main protein; ensure they’re finely diced for even cooking.
• Hoisin Sauce – Adds a lovely sweetness; teriyaki is a great substitute if you’re feeling adventurous.
• Sesame Oil – Provides a nutty aroma; peanut oil can work in a pinch.
• Soy Sauce – Boosts umami flavor; low-sodium options help reduce salt intake.
• Garlic (minced) – Enhances aroma; fresh is best, but powder can be handy if needed.
• Fresh Ginger (minced) – Adds spice and brightness; ground ginger is a viable alternative.

For the Slaw
• Coleslaw Mix – Adds crunch and freshness; pre-packaged saves time. You can switch it up with shredded cabbage too!
• Green Onions – Optional, but they elevate both flavor and presentation.
• Rice Vinegar – Balances the flavors with acidity; apple cider vinegar works just as well.
• Honey – Provides natural sweetness; agave syrup can be used instead.

For the Taco Shells and Toppings
• Wonton Wrappers – Forms the taco shell; for a low-carb version, lettuce leaves can replace them.
• Sweet Chili Sauce – Drizzle this on top for a sweet and spicy kick!
• Chopped Cilantro and Sesame Seeds – These garnishes add flavor and visual appeal, making your tacos even more inviting.

Get ready to create these mouthwatering Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos and impress your family and friends!

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

Step 1: Preheat Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This warm-up is crucial for achieving perfectly crispy wonton shells that will cradle your delicious chicken filling. While the oven heats, gather your wonton wrappers and a 9×13 baking dish, ensuring everything is ready for assembly.

Step 2: Prepare Wonton Wrappers
Lightly spray both sides of your wonton wrappers with cooking spray to ensure they crisp beautifully. Drape each wrapper over the sections of the 9×13 baking dish, making sure to create a taco shape. This technique will give you those lovely, cradle-like shells perfect for holding the goodness of your Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos.

Step 3: Bake Wonton Shells
Place the prepared wonton wrappers in the preheated oven and bake for 7-8 minutes until they start to soften. Be sure to watch for a light golden color; they’ll be pliable at this stage. After the initial bake, gently separate the shells while they’re still warm and return them to the oven for an additional 7-8 minutes, until they reach a delightful crunch.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken
In a large bowl, combine your diced chicken breasts with hoisin sauce, sesame oil, soy sauce, minced garlic, and fresh ginger. Mix thoroughly to coat the chicken evenly in the flavorful sauce. Next, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sauté the chicken mixture for about 7-8 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and golden.

Step 5: Prepare the Slaw
While the chicken cooks, prepare the refreshing slaw. In a separate bowl, mix together the coleslaw mix, finely chopped green onions, rice vinegar, and honey to create a zesty topping. This crunchy slaw will contrast beautifully with the tender honey-garlic chicken in your Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos.

Step 6: Assemble the Tacos
Once your wonton shells are crisp and the chicken is fully cooked, it’s time to assemble your tacos! Start by filling each crispy wonton shell with a generous scoop of the honey-garlic chicken. Next, top the chicken generously with your prepared slaw, adding a pop of color and crunch to each bite.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve
For the final touch, drizzle sweet chili sauce over the assembled tacos to enhance the flavor with a sweet, spicy kick. If desired, sprinkle chopped cilantro and sesame seeds on top for an added burst of flavor and visual appeal. Your irresistible Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos are ready to shine at your next gathering!

What to Serve with Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos

Transform your gathering into a culinary celebration by pairing these delicious tacos with a variety of complementary dishes that will tantalize your guests’ taste buds.

Creamy Avocado Dip: Smooth and rich, this dip enhances the crunchy tacos with a refreshing texture and subtle creaminess.
Spicy Sriracha Slaw: Kick up the flavor with an extra spicy slaw, adding a zest that balances the sweetness of the tacos beautifully.
Fried Rice: This easy, savory side brings a satisfying heartiness that rounds out the meal, perfect for scooping with the tacos.
Chilled Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and crisp, this salad provides a cool contrast to the warm, crispy tacos, making each bite more delightful.
Mango Salsa: Sweet, tangy, and bursting with tropical flavors, this salsa adds a fruity punch that layers flavor alongside the honey-garlic chicken.
Crispy Prawn Chips: Light and crunchy, these chips are a fun finger food that pairs perfectly with the crunchy texture of the wonton tacos.
Citrus Iced Tea: Light and refreshing, this drink adds a zesty sweetness to cleanse the palate and enhance the overall experience.
Mini Key Lime Pies: For dessert, these bite-sized treats offer a burst of tart sweetness to round off the meal perfectly, leaving your guests craving more.

Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos Variations

Feel free to let your creativity flow and customize these delicious tacos to suit your flavor cravings!

Protein Swap: Use ground turkey or tofu as a lean alternative, making the dish lighter while still packed with flavor.
Sauce Experiment: Spice things up with barbecue sauce or sriracha to bring a fiery kick to your honey-garlic chicken, creating a delightful twist.
Tropical Touch: Replace coleslaw with fresh mango salsa for a vibrant, fruity addition that complements the savory chicken beautifully.
Low-Carb Option: Use lettuce leaves instead of wonton wrappers for a fresh, low-carb alternative that still delivers satisfaction.
Dressing Variation: Drizzle spicy mayo on top for a creamy, zingy flavor that elevates your taco game beyond expectations. Each bite will sing with rich goodness!
Crunch Factor: Add crispy fried onions for an unexpected crunch and depth of flavor that will surprise your guests. They’re sure to ask for your secret!
Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh basil or mint for herby freshness that brightens up the overall taste of the tacos, making them irresistibly fragrant.
DIY Slaw Changes: Try mixing in apple slices or cabbage with your coleslaw for a sweet and crispy element that adds texture and balance.

With so many fun variations and substitutions, your homemade Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos can be a new experience every time you whip them up. Pair them with some delicious sides for a complete meal, just as you would with our flavorful Garlic Parmesan Chicken! Enjoy every crunch and savor the love you put into this delightful recipe!

Make Ahead Options

These Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos are perfect for meal prep lovers! You can prepare the honey-garlic chicken filling and the slaw up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cook the chicken according to the recipe instructions, then let it cool before refrigerating in an airtight container. For the slaw, mix the coleslaw ingredients and store separately to keep the vegetables crisp. Bake the wonton shells fresh right before serving to ensure they maintain their delightful crunch. When it’s time to enjoy, simply reheat the chicken filling in a skillet and assemble the tacos for restaurant-quality results with minimal effort!

Storage Tips for Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain freshness.

Freezer: The chicken filling can be frozen for up to 3 months. For best results, freeze it separately from the wonton shells to keep them crispy.

Wonton Shells: If possible, bake the wonton shells fresh each time, as they tend to lose their crunch when stored.

Reheating: To reheat the chicken, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. For the shells, crisp them up in the oven for a few minutes before serving.

Expert Tips for Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos

• Prep Ahead: Consider making the chicken and slaw a day in advance. Bake the wonton shells just before serving for maximum freshness.

• Watch the Bake: Keep a close eye on wonton shells while they bake to avoid burning. They’ll be crisp and golden if monitored closely.

• Use Precooked Chicken: To save time, you can start with precooked chicken. Just sauté it for a few minutes with the sauces to warm through.

• Crispy Alternative: If you prefer an even crunchier texture, feel free to deep-fry the wontons instead of baking, though baking yields a lighter result.

• Customize Each Bite: Don’t hesitate to add your favorite toppings! Avocado slices or a spicy mayo drizzle can elevate your Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos to the next level.

Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe ingredients for my tacos?
Absolutely! When picking your ingredients, choose fresh chicken breasts without any signs of discoloration or a foul smell. For the coleslaw, select cabbage that is crisp and vibrant—avoid any that has dark spots or wilting leaves. Your green onions should be firm and green to contribute the best flavor.

How should I store leftover chicken wonton tacos?
Very important! Store any leftover tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Make sure the chicken and slaw are separately stored to keep everything fresh. If you want to enjoy them later, I recommend freezing the chicken filling separately for up to 3 months; just remember that baking the wonton shells fresh each time will ensure they stay crispy.

Can I freeze the chicken filling for future use?
Definitely! To freeze the chicken filling, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag. Label with the date and use it within 3 months for the best flavor. When you’re ready to use it, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a skillet until warmed through.

What if my wonton shells aren’t crispy?
Common troubleshooting, indeed! If your wonton shells are not crispy, ensure they were baked for long enough—about 15-16 minutes total after the initial softening stage. If they’re becoming too golden too quickly, lower the oven temperature slightly. Always monitor them closely while baking to avoid burning.

Are these tacos safe for people with allergies?
A great question! If you’re cooking for someone with allergies, it’s essential to be aware of the ingredients. This recipe contains chicken, soy (from soy sauce), and sesame (from sesame oil). For a gluten-free option, substitute soy sauce with tamari and use gluten-free wonton wrappers. Always double-check with guests before serving, just to be safe!

Can I make these tacos healthier?
Absolutely! To lighten these tacos, consider using ground turkey or tofu as a leaner protein alternative. You can also replace the hoisin sauce with a homemade version using less sugar, and use low-sodium soy sauce to reduce the salt content. For fewer calories, enjoy them with fresh lettuce wraps instead of wonton shells!