After a week of relentless takeout and pre-packaged meals, I found myself yearning for something fresh and vibrant that could reignite my love for home cooking. That’s when I remembered those delightful Chicken Wonton Tacos I savored at Applebee’s—a dish packed with flavor and crunch that leaves you wanting more. With just a few simple ingredients, I was inspired to recreate this treasure right in my own kitchen!
The combination of tender chicken, zesty coleslaw, and crunchy wonton wrappers makes for an irresistible dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in or sharing with friends. Each bite bursts with savory goodness, paired perfectly with a sweet chili sauce for a little kick! And the best part? You don’t need to be a professional chef to whip up this tantalizing recipe. Ready to dive into a homemade version of Applebee’s favorite? Let’s bring that restaurant allure straight to your dining table!
Why love Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos?
Irresistible Crunch: Each wonton is perfectly crisp, offering a satisfying bite that beautifully contrasts the tender chicken filling.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of hoisin, garlic, and ginger provides an aromatic flavor that’s mouthwateringly delicious.
Fresh and Vibrant: The zesty coleslaw adds a bright crunch, elevating the dish to new heights while keeping it light and refreshing.
Family-Friendly Appeal: This recipe is a hit with kids and adults alike, making it a fantastic option for gatherings or family dinners.
Quick to Make: With simple steps and minimal prep, you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time—perfect for busy weeknights!
Serve with Style: Pair with sweet chili sauce, and you’ve created a dish that feels gourmet, yet it’s easy enough to whip up at home! Ideal for anyone craving a better alternative to takeout.
Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos Ingredients
For the Chicken Filling
- Chicken breasts – finely diced for a juicy filling that absorbs all the flavors.
- Hoisin sauce – adds a sweet and savory depth to the filling.
- Sesame oil – brings a nutty richness that enhances the overall taste.
- Soy sauce – used for seasoning, providing that umami punch.
- Garlic – minced for a fragrant kick that elevates the filling.
- Fresh ginger – minced to add a zesty, warm note.
For the Coleslaw
- Coleslaw mix – saves time, adding crispness and color to the dish.
- Green onions – thinly sliced for a fresh and mild onion flavor.
- Sesame oil (for slaw) – reinforces the nutty flavor while dressing the slaw.
- Rice vinegar – adds brightness and a hint of acidity to balance the flavors.
- Soy sauce (for slaw) – complements the dressing and ties the dish together.
- Honey – provides a touch of sweetness to the coleslaw dressing.
For the Wontons
- Wonton wrappers – the star that holds all the goodness together; ensure they’re fresh for the best results.
- Sweet chili sauce – the perfect dipping companion that adds a spicy-sweet element.
- Chopped cilantro – a fresh garnish that adds color and brightness.
- Sesame seeds – for a decorative touch and an extra crunch.
Now you’re ready to assemble your delicious Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos! Let’s turn your kitchen into a hub of flavors and enjoyment!
How to Make Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos
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Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, blend the finely diced chicken, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, soy sauce, minced garlic, and ginger until evenly coated. This mixture will be the heart of your wontons, bursting with flavor!
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Fill Wontons: On a clean surface, place a wonton wrapper and scoop a small spoonful of the chicken mixture onto its center. Be sure not to overfill, as you want to seal them easily!
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Seal Wontons: Wet the edges of the wrapper with a little water. Fold it over the filling to create a triangle, pressing firmly to seal. This ensures no filling escapes while cooking—it’s all about keeping that delightful taste inside!
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Prepare Coleslaw: In another bowl, combine the coleslaw mix, sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and honey. Toss well until everything is nicely combined. This bright, crunchy slaw will complement your rich wontons perfectly!
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Cook Wontons: Preheat a pan over medium heat and add a drizzle of oil. Fry the wontons until they turn golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes on each side. Keep an eye on them for that perfectly golden color—crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside!
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Garnish and Serve: Plate the fried wontons and drizzle with sweet chili sauce. Sprinkle chopped cilantro and sesame seeds for that gourmet touch. Serve the vibrant coleslaw on the side for extra crunch!
Optional: Add a squeeze of lime juice over the slaw for an extra zesty kick.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos
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Wonton Wrapping: Make sure to seal the edges tightly to prevent any filling from leaking during frying; a little water goes a long way!
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Don’t Overfill: Use just a small spoonful of chicken mixture for each wonton. Overstuffing leads to tearing and uneven cooking.
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Perfect Frying Temperature: Preheat your pan properly before adding the wontons. This helps achieve that golden crust without undercooking the filling.
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Crunchy Coleslaw: Mix the coleslaw ingredients right before serving to maintain that fresh crunch. It complements the warm, crispy wontons perfectly.
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Dipping Sauce Variation: Experiment with different dipping sauces like sriracha or a tangy lime vinaigrette for an exciting twist on your Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos!
Variations & Substitutions for Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos
Feel free to play around with these ideas and make the dish uniquely yours, as every twist brings new flavor excitement.
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Ground Turkey: Substitute chicken with ground turkey for a leaner option that still provides great flavor. The texture will be slightly different, but still delicious.
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Vegetarian: Use firm tofu or a soy-based protein in place of chicken for a plant-based delight. Be sure to season it well to achieve that savory profile!
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Spicy Kick: Add finely chopped serrano or jalapeño peppers to the chicken mixture for a spicy boost that ignites your taste buds. This zesty addition creates a warming sensation with every bite!
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Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh cilantro or basil into the chicken or slaw mix for a fragrant twist. These herbs add a vibrant freshness that elevates the dish to new heights.
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Cabbage Mix: Swap out coleslaw mix for a fresh napa cabbage or kale for a crunchy, healthful alternative. The thicker texture gives a satisfying bite that pairs wonderfully with the wontons.
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Sesame-Free: Substitute sesame oil with olive or avocado oil if you’re avoiding sesame. The flavors will differ but will still leave you with a beautifully cooked wonton.
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Crispy Baked Wontons: For a healthier take, brush the wontons with oil and bake instead of frying. Bake at 375°F for about 15 minutes or until golden and crispy!
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Dipping Sauce Variety: Instead of sweet chili sauce, try a tangy soy-vinegar dipping sauce or a creamy peanut sauce for an exciting flavor shift. Each sauce brings its own delightful profile to your meal!
What to Serve with Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos?
Creating a delightful dining experience begins with the perfect pairings that elevate those irresistible wonton tacos.
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Crispy Garlic Green Beans: These beans are tender yet crunchy, adding a burst of freshness that complements the savory tacos wonderfully.
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Uplifting Mango Salad: A fruit-forward salad brings a vibrant sweetness, balancing the rich flavors with a zesty citrus dressing.
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Creamy Avocado Dip: Silky and smooth, this dip enhances the crunchiness of the wontons while providing a luscious contrast to the sweet chili sauce.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: Fluffy and fragrant, it serves as a wonderful base to soak up any extra sauce, perfectly complementing the chicken filling.
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Chilled Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and light, this salad offers a crisp crunch that acts as a perfect counterweight to the fried wontons.
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Sweet Chili Sauce: While it’s a natural companion, serving additional sweet chili sauce on the side allows guests to indulge their taste for heat and sweetness.
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Coconut-Infused Rice: Adding a touch of creaminess, this tropical side dish mingles beautifully with the Asian flavors present in the wontons.
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Fizzy Ginger Ale: To drink, the spicy-sweet notes of ginger ale can enhance the bold flavors of the tacos, making every bite even more enjoyable.
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Decadent Chocolate Spring Rolls: For dessert, these treat-filled rolls provide a delicious end note, combining rich chocolate with a crispy shell that echoes your main dish.
How to Store and Freeze Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos
Room Temperature: Enjoy the cooked wontons immediately for the best texture; they lose their crunch if left out for more than 2 hours.
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan for a few minutes to regain some crispiness.
Freezer: Freeze uncooked wontons by placing them on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Cook directly from frozen for about 6-7 minutes.
Reheating: To reheat, use an oven preheated to 375°F for about 10 minutes to re-crisp the outsides, perfect for enjoying your Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos again!
Make Ahead Options
These delicious Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos are a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can prepare the chicken mixture and coleslaw up to 24 hours in advance. Simply combine the diced chicken, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger in a bowl, then cover and refrigerate. Also, mix the coleslaw ingredients in a separate bowl and store them in the fridge. When ready to serve, fill the wonton wrappers with the chilled chicken mixture, seal, and fry until golden brown. For the freshest taste, cook the wontons just before serving to ensure they remain crispy and the filling stays juicy. Enjoy a delightful homemade meal in no time!
Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken breasts, look for ones that are firm, with a pinkish hue and minimal dark spots. Fresh chicken should have no unpleasant odor, and if you’re buying frozen, ensure there are no visible signs of freezer burn.
How long can I store leftovers?
Very! After cooking, store your Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in a pan over medium heat for a few minutes to help regain that irresistible crunch!
Can I freeze the wontons before cooking?
Absolutely! To freeze uncooked wontons, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, you can fry them straight from frozen for about 6-7 minutes.
What if my wonton wrappers tear when sealing?
Don’t worry, it happens! If this occurs, simply use a small piece of another wrapper or a strip of dough to patch the tear. Additionally, remember to wet the edges thoroughly before sealing to help create a strong bond.
Are these suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Of course! If you’re cooking for someone with gluten sensitivities, try using gluten-free wonton wrappers, which are available at most grocery stores. Just check the ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary needs.
Can I use other proteins in the filling?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other proteins like ground turkey, pork, or even tofu for a delicious vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time based on the protein you choose to ensure everything is cooked through properly.
Delicious Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos You Can Make at Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, blend the finely diced chicken, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, soy sauce, minced garlic, and ginger until evenly coated.
- On a clean surface, place a wonton wrapper and scoop a small spoonful of the chicken mixture onto its center.
- Wet the edges of the wrapper with a little water. Fold it over the filling to create a triangle, pressing firmly to seal.
- In another bowl, combine the coleslaw mix, sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and honey. Toss well until nicely combined.
- Preheat a pan over medium heat and add a drizzle of oil. Fry the wontons until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes on each side.
- Plate the fried wontons and drizzle with sweet chili sauce. Sprinkle chopped cilantro and sesame seeds for garnish. Serve coleslaw on the side.