“Have you ever found yourself craving those crispy, flavorful bites you can only get at your favorite restaurant?” That was me, scrolling through menus late at night, when I realized I could bring the excitement of dining out right into my kitchen. Introducing my rendition of Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos— a delightful combination of honey-garlic chicken nestled in golden wonton shells, crowned with zesty coleslaw. This quick and easy recipe not only delivers on taste but also packs a high-protein punch, making it perfect for family dinners or game day gatherings. Whether you’re surprising your kids or simply treating yourself, these tacos promise satisfaction with every bite. So, are you ready to take your taste buds on a fun adventure?

Why Make Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos?

Irresistible Flavor: The sweet and savory honey-garlic chicken combines flawlessly with creamy coleslaw, creating a mouthwatering burst of taste in every bite.

Crispy Perfection: The homemade wonton shells provide a satisfying crunch that elevates your taco experience beyond any takeout.

Kid-Friendly Fun: These tacos are not only delicious but also a hit with kids, making meal times enjoyable for the whole family.

Quick and Easy: With simple instructions and minimal prep time, you can whip up these tasty treats in no time, perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.

Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to substitute proteins or spice levels to customize your tacos. Whether you prefer chicken, shrimp, or tofu, there’s a variation for everyone.

Treat yourself to these delightful tacos, reminiscent of Chopped Chicken Bacon or Honey Dijon Chicken, and enjoy refreshing flavors that impress!

Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos Ingredients

• Get ready to indulge in these delightful tacos!

For the Filling

Chicken breasts – Provides protein and the main filling for the tacos. Substitution: Ground chicken or turkey can be used to decrease cooking time.
Hoisin sauce – Adds sweetness and depth of flavor. Note: Can be replaced with a mix of soy sauce and honey for a DIY option.
Sesame oil – Contributes nutty aroma and richness. Note: Toasted sesame oil enhances flavor significantly.
Soy sauce – Provides umami and saltiness. Substitution: Tamari for a gluten-free option.
Garlic – Offers aromatic flavor. Substitution: Garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
Fresh ginger – Gives warmth and zing to the dish. Note: Ground ginger can substitute, but fresh is preferred for a better taste.

For the Slaw

Coleslaw mix – Adds crunch and freshness. Substitution: Homemade slaw can include cabbage and carrots with a light dressing.
Green onions – For garnish and mild onion flavor.
Rice vinegar – Provides acidity to balance flavors. Substitution: Apple cider vinegar for a similar taste profile.
Honey – Offers sweetness to the slaw. Substitution: Maple syrup can work as a vegan alternative.

For the Tacos

Wonton wrappers – Forms the crispy taco shell. Substitution: Lettuce wraps for a low-carb version.
Sweet chili sauce – For drizzling and added sweetness. Substitution: Sriracha for a spicy kick.
Chopped cilantro & sesame seeds – For garnish and finishing touch.

Dive into this Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos recipe and elevate your home cooking game!

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

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial as it ensures your wonton shells become crisp and golden. While the oven warms up, gather your materials to keep the cooking process smooth and efficient.

Step 2: Shape Wonton Wrappers
Take your wonton wrappers and lightly spray or brush each one with oil to promote browning. Drape them over the edges of a 9×13 baking dish, making sure they don’t touch each other. Bake in the preheated oven for about 7-8 minutes until the edges start to turn golden, then carefully pull the wrappers apart while pliable and bake for an additional 7-8 minutes until crisp.

Step 3: Prepare Chicken Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine diced chicken breasts with hoisin sauce, sesame oil, soy sauce, minced garlic, and freshly grated ginger. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, then add the chicken mixture. Cook for about 7-8 minutes, stirring frequently, until the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink inside, and the ingredients meld together beautifully.

Step 4: Mix Coleslaw
In another bowl, combine the coleslaw mix with chopped green onions, sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and a drizzle of honey. Toss everything together until the ingredients are well coated, creating a fresh and crunchy slaw that will add vibrant flavor to your Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos.

Step 5: Assemble Tacos
Once the wonton shells are ready and crispy, it’s time to bring everything together. Start by filling each wonton shell generously with the savory chicken filling. Top off with the zesty coleslaw mixture, ensuring every taco is well filled. For an extra touch of flavor, drizzle sweet chili sauce over the top and garnish with chopped cilantro and sesame seeds.

Step 6: Serve Immediately
These delicious Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos are best enjoyed right away while still warm and crispy. Arrange them on a platter and serve with extra sweet chili sauce on the side for dipping. Gather your family or friends and enjoy this delightful meal that combines cheerful flavors and textures!

Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos Variations

Feel free to explore these delicious variations to make these tacos truly your own.

Shrimp Swap: Replace chicken with shrimp for a seafood twist. Sauté shrimp just until pink and tender for a delectable change of pace.
Tofu Delight: For a vegetarian option, use firm tofu cubes seasoned and sautéed in the same savory sauces. It’s just as satisfying and perfect for plant-based diners.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños to either the filling or slaw for an extra layer of heat. The freshness of jalapeños complements the sweet chicken beautifully.
Nutty Flavor: Stir in some chopped peanuts or cashews into the coleslaw for a delightful crunch and nutty undertone. It turns this dish into an exciting flavor adventure.
Lower-Carb Option: Swap wonton wrappers for crispy lettuce wraps. This way, you get to enjoy all the delicious fillings without the carbs, making it a light and refreshing meal.
Sweet & Savory: Drizzle a balsamic reduction over your assembled tacos for a sweet-tart contrast that elevates each bite. It’s a simple addition that packs a flavorful punch!
Herb Infusion: Mix some freshly chopped basil or mint into the coleslaw for a refreshing herbaceous note. The herbs brighten up the dish and enhance its overall flavor.
Asian Inspired: Serve your tacos alongside a side of homemade Lemon Garlic Chicken for a delightful Asian-inspired meal that everyone will love!

These variations allow you to get creative and cater to your taste preferences while still enjoying the simplicity of Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos. So get cooking, and enjoy your culinary adventure!

Make Ahead Options

These Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos are ideal for meal prep, allowing you to save time during busy weeknights. You can prepare the chicken filling and coleslaw up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to prevent the slaw from becoming soggy. When you’re ready to serve, bake the wonton shells fresh for that desired crispy texture. Simply reheat the chicken filling in a skillet before assembling the tacos. This way, you’ll enjoy delightful, warm, and crunchy Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos that taste just as delicious as when freshly made!

Expert Tips for Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos

Crispy Shells: Ensure wonton wrappers aren’t crowded when baking, allowing for better airflow and perfect crispiness.
Watch the Time: Bake until golden brown, but keep a close eye to avoid burning. The key to delicious Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos is a perfectly crispy shell.
Seasoning Balance: Adjust hoisin and soy sauce levels according to your taste. Adding too much can overwhelm the dish, while the right balance enhances flavors.
Meal Prep Magic: Prepare the chicken and slaw a day ahead for quick assembly. Crisp the wonton shells right before serving for optimal crunch.
Customize Your Filling: Experiment with proteins like shrimp or tofu. This flexibility allows you to tailor the recipe to your family’s preferences!

What to Serve with Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos?

These flavorful tacos deserve delightful companions to create a memorable meal experience.

Crispy French Fries: The perfect salty side that contrasts with the sweetness of the tacos. Their golden crunch is a joyful addition.
Fresh Green Salad: Light and refreshing, a salad dressed with a citrus vinaigrette adds a bright touch that balances the richness of the chicken.
Creamy Avocado Dip: This cool, buttery dip pairs beautifully, enhancing the savory flavors of the tacos while adding an extra layer of richness.
Sweet Chili Sauce: Serve it as a dipping sauce to amplify the flavors of your tacos. Its touch of sweetness complements the dish perfectly.
Mango Salsa: With its fruity zing and refreshing flavors, this salsa heightens the taco experience, offering a delightful contrast to the savory filling.
Sparkling Water with Lime: A fizzy, refreshing drink that clears the palate and complements the bold flavors of the tacos, keeping the meal light and enjoyable.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: For a sweet finish, these classic desserts provide a comforting end to the meal, blending nostalgia with delicious taste.
Fried Rice: A hearty Asian-inspired side like fried rice can make your meal more filling and introduce a medley of flavors that work harmoniously together.

How to Store and Freeze Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos

Fridge: Store leftover assembled tacos in an airtight container for up to 2 days. To maintain crunch, store the filling and wonton shells separately if possible.

Freezer: Freeze the chicken filling in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Wonton wrappers can also be frozen separately; stack them with parchment paper in between.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat the chicken filling in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes. Reassemble with freshly baked wonton shells for the best texture.

Assembling Leftovers: For optimal taste, avoid pre-assembling the tacos; instead, fill and bake wonton shells just before serving to recreate that crispy perfection.

Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken should I use for the filling?
For the best results, I recommend using diced chicken breasts as they provide lean protein and cook evenly. If you’re looking to save time, you can substitute ground chicken or turkey, which will cut down on cooking time while still delivering those delicious flavors.

How do I store leftover Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos?
Store assembled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, for maintaining that delightful crunch, it’s best to keep the filling and wonton shells separate if possible. Simply store the filling in one container and the crispy wontons in another.

Can I freeze Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos?
Absolutely! The chicken filling can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To freeze wonton wrappers, stack them with parchment paper in between to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw and reheat the chicken filling while baking fresh wonton shells for that perfect crispness.

What are some common issues I might encounter while making this recipe?
If your wonton shells end up too soft, it could be a sign they weren’t baked long enough. Aim for a golden brown exterior, and ensure they have room to crisp up in the oven. If you’re unsure, check them after the initial 7-8 minutes and then again for the second bake of another 7-8 minutes. This will help achieve that savory crunch.

Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Very! These Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos are kid-friendly, thanks to their fun shape and delicious filling. Plus, they can help with the assembly, making mealtime a fun activity. Adjust the seasoning to your child’s taste, and feel free to skip the spicier options if they prefer milder flavors.

Can I modify the coleslaw mix to suit dietary preferences?
Yes! You can definitely customize the coleslaw to fit dietary needs. If you want a lighter version, opt for a homemade slaw with cabbage and carrots and dress it lightly with rice vinegar. For a vegan alternative, substitute honey with maple syrup in the dressing. The versatility in ingredients ensures everyone can enjoy these fantastic tacos!