The satisfying crunch of a perfectly baked wonton shell fills my kitchen as I prepare for a delightful twist on a classic favorite: Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos. These crispy delights come stuffed with tender honey-garlic chicken and a zesty, refreshing slaw that elevates any weeknight dinner into a memorable feast. Not only are they high-protein, making them a smart meal prep option, but they also let you take control of your ingredients, ensuring everyone at the table enjoys their meal. Whether you choose to bake or fry the wonton shells, each bite promises a burst of texture and flavor that rivals the original. Ready to dive into a homemade version that’s bound to impress? Let’s get cooking!

Why are these tacos a must-try?

Crispy Texture: The baked wonton shells provide a perfect crunch, promising to satisfy your cravings with every bite.

Flavor Explosion: Tender honey-garlic chicken combined with zesty slaw offers a harmonious blend of sweet and savory that will excite your taste buds.

Versatile Options: Whether you prefer baking or frying, or even swapping wonton shells for lettuce wraps, this recipe is adaptable to your taste and dietary needs.

Kid-Friendly Appeal: These tacos are perfect for family dinners, sure to please both kids and adults alike! Looking for more simple meal options? Check out my Rotisserie Chicken Tacos that are just as quick and delicious.

Meal Prep Dream: High in protein and easy to prepare, they can save you time during busy weekdays while still delivering on flavor.

Eye-Catching Presentation: Garnished with cilantro and sesame seeds, they look as good as they taste, making them a perfect appetizer for gatherings!

Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos Ingredients

For the Chicken Filling
• Chicken Breasts – A lean, high-protein base; finely diced for quicker cooking. Use pre-cooked chicken to save time!
• Hoisin Sauce – This sweet and savory ingredient adds the essential Asian flavor. Soy sauce can be a tasty alternative.
• Sesame Oil – Rich in flavor, it brings a traditional taste; essential for an authentic experience. Olive oil is an option, keeping in mind it alters flavor slightly.
• Soy Sauce – Provides depth and saltiness; a must for the marinade. Tamari works great for a gluten-free version.
• Garlic – Freshly minced for aromatic flavor; it enhances the entire dish. Garlic powder is a handy substitute.
• Fresh Ginger – Offers warmth and zest while aiding digestion; you can use ground ginger if fresh isn’t available.

For the Slaw
• Coleslaw Mix – Adds crunch and freshness, featuring green cabbage and carrots. Feel free to make your own with red cabbage for a twist!
• Green Onions – Provides a mild onion flavor and nice crunch; finely sliced for best texture. Chives can substitute for a milder taste.
• Rice Vinegar – Brightens the slaw with acidity; a key ingredient for balance. Apple cider vinegar or lemon juice can also do the trick.
• Honey – Sweetens both the chicken and slaw, balancing flavors beautifully. Maple syrup is a great vegan choice!

For the Tacos
• Wonton Wrappers – These create crispy taco shells; perfect when baked or fried. For a low-carb version, swap with lettuce wraps!
• Sweet Chili Sauce – A delightful sweet and spicy dip that completes the dish. Make your own if you’re feeling adventurous!

These ingredients are the foundation of your Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos, promising a deliciously satisfying experience!

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). Meanwhile, prepare the wonton wrappers by spraying them with cooking spray or lightly brushing them with oil. Press the wrappers into a 9×13 baking dish, molding them into taco shapes. This step helps create the perfect cradle for your delicious filling.

Step 2: Bake Wonton Shells
Place the prepared wonton wrappers in the preheated oven and bake for 7-8 minutes until they start to firm up but are still pliable. Keep a close eye on them to avoid burning; you want them golden without being too crispy just yet. Once done, remove from the oven and gently separate any that may be sticking together.

Step 3: Crisp the Shells
Return the taco-shaped wonton wrappers to the oven for an additional 7-8 minutes. Watch as they turn beautifully golden and crispy, achieving the perfect crunch to hold in your flavorful filling. This extra baking time ensures your shells have that satisfying crunch, making your Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos irresistible.

Step 4: Prepare the Chicken Filling
While the wonton shells crisp, combine diced chicken breasts in a mixing bowl with hoisin sauce, sesame oil, soy sauce, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Stir until the chicken is evenly coated with the marinade, allowing it to soak up those delicious flavors. Set this mixture aside while the shells finish baking.

Step 5: Cook the Chicken
In a hot skillet over medium heat, add the marinated chicken mixture. Sauté the chicken for about 7-8 minutes or until it is cooked through and no longer pink in the center. Stir occasionally, ensuring the chicken is nicely browned and infused with the sweet and savory flavors from the marinade.

Step 6: Mix the Slaw
In another mixing bowl, combine the coleslaw mix, thinly sliced green onions, sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and honey. Toss the ingredients together until they are well mixed, creating a refreshing slaw that will complement the savory chicken filling in your Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos beautifully.

Step 7: Assemble the Tacos
Once the wonton shells are crispy and the chicken filling is cooked, it’s time to assemble your tacos! Fill each crispy wonton shell generously with the sautéed chicken, followed by a mound of the zesty slaw. This layering adds both flavor and texture, making each bite a delightful experience.

Step 8: Serve with Dipping Sauce
Drizzle your assembled tacos with sweet chili sauce for an extra touch of sweetness and spice. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an appealing presentation. Serve these delightful Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos immediately to enjoy their crispy texture and vibrant flavors!

What to Serve with Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos?

Elevate your dining experience with delightful side dishes that perfectly complement the flavors of your crispy homemade tacos.

Zesty Cilantro Lime Rice: This fluffy rice dish adds a fresh, tangy note that enhances the savory flavors of the tacos. Its bright citrus flavor beautifully balances the richness of the chicken filling.
Spicy Edamame: Serve warm edamame tossed in sea salt and a hint of chili for a crunchy and protein-packed appetizer. It’s a light yet satisfying side that pairs perfectly with the tacos!
Flavorful Mango Salsa: A refreshing mango salsa loaded with cilantro and lime offers a sweet contrasting flavor that brightens every bite. This fruity accompaniment adds a vibrant touch that your guests will love.
Creamy Guacamole: Smooth and creamy, guacamole complements crunchy textures of the wonton tacos while adding a delicious avocado richness. Serve it with tortilla chips for an extra layer of flavor.
Sweet Chili Dipping Sauce: For a sweet and spicy kick, a bowl of homemade or store-bought sweet chili sauce makes a fantastic accompaniment. It matches the flavors of the tacos perfectly while enhancing the overall dining experience.
Chilled Szechuan Noodles: These cold noodles dressed in a sesame-peanut sauce provide a delightful contrast in temperature and texture. Their slightly nutty flavor rounds out your meal nicely, making it feel more complete.

Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos Variations

Feel free to get creative and make these delightful tacos your own for an even more personalized experience!

Lettuce Wraps: Swap wonton shells for crisp lettuce leaves for a refreshing low-carb alternative. Enjoy the same delicious filling without the carbs!
Different Proteins: Try shredded beef, pork, or even tofu for a vegetarian-friendly version. Each option brings a unique twist to these beloved tacos!
Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or a splash of sriracha to the chicken mixture for heat. This fiery addition will spice up your tacos and satisfy any heat lover’s cravings.
Creamy Twist: Top with a drizzle of ranch or avocado dressing for a creamier touch. This balancing flavors can transform these tacos into a rich, satisfying meal.
Flavor Boost: Incorporate lime juice or zest into the slaw for an extra zing! The citrus will brighten the dish, adding a fresh burst of flavor to every bite.
Crunchy Toppings: Toss in sliced avocado or crispy fried shallots for added texture. These toppings will create delightful contrasts alongside the creamy slaw.
Make it Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free wonton wrappers or a mix of quinoa and veggies for a gluten-free taco shell. Everyone can enjoy this tasty treat!
Sweet and Spicy Sauce: Experiment with fruit-based hot sauces as a unique blend for dipping. Try a mango habanero sauce for a vibrant and flavorful alternative!

For more delicious taco inspiration, be sure to check out my Bbq Chicken Twice-Baked Sweet Potatoes or the delightful Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta that your family will love!

How to Store and Freeze Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos

Fridge: Store any leftover assembled tacos in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the wonton shells may soften during storage.

Freezer: If you want to freeze the filling, place it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Only freeze the chicken and slaw separately from the wonton shells to maintain texture.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat the chicken filling in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Crisp the wonton shells again in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes to restore that delightful crunch.

Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the chicken and slaw up to a day ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge. Assemble with freshly baked wonton shells just before serving to keep them crispy!

Make Ahead Options

These crispy Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos are a fantastic option for meal prep, simplifying your busy weeknights! You can prepare the chicken filling and slaw up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. For best results, bake the wonton shells right before serving to keep them crunchy; they can be made up to 3 days in advance if stored in an airtight container at room temperature. When ready to enjoy, just reheat the chicken briefly in a skillet and assemble the tacos with the prepped slaw and freshly baked wonton shells, ensuring every bite remains delicious and satisfying!

Expert Tips for Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos

Fry for Extra Crunch: If you’re craving an extra crispy experience, frying the wonton wrappers instead of baking will give you that delightful crunch.
Watch the Baking Time: Keep a close eye on the wonton shells while baking to prevent them from burning. Check them in the last few minutes to ensure perfection.
Use Pre-Cooked Chicken: For a quicker meal prep, consider using pre-cooked chicken. This shortcut can save you time without sacrificing flavor in your Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos.
Customize Your Filling: Feel free to experiment with different proteins like shredded beef or tofu. This adds variety to your tacos while keeping them nutritious!
Make Ahead for Convenience: Prepare your chicken filling and slaw a day in advance. Assemble them in fresh wonton shells just before serving for maximum crunch.
Taco Holders Help: If you’re finding assembly tricky, using taco holders can keep your wontons upright while you fill them, making the process much easier!

Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing chicken breasts, look for pieces that are firm and have a pink hue. Avoid any with dark spots or an off odor, as these can indicate spoilage. Fresh chicken should also feel moist but not slimy.

What is the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftover assembled Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the wonton shells may soften, so it’s best to eat them fresh for the perfect crunch. If you do store them, consider reheating the shells to restore some of the crispiness.

Can I freeze the chicken filling or the tacos?
Certainly! To freeze the chicken filling, place it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag, ensuring to remove as much air as possible, and it will last for up to 3 months. If you want to freeze tacos, I recommend waiting until they are assembled; only freeze the filling and slaw separately from the wonton shells to maintain texture. When ready to enjoy, reheat the filling in a skillet and crisp the wonton shells in the oven.

What can I do if my wonton wrappers are not crisping up?
Very! If your wonton wrappers are not crisping as expected, ensure you are preheating your oven adequately before baking. Additionally, make sure to spray or brush them lightly with oil before baking to promote browning. If they appear soft after baking, give them a little more time in the oven, but keep a close eye to prevent burning!

Are these tacos suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Yes! You can easily adapt these Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos for various dietary needs. For gluten-free options, substitute regular soy sauce with tamari and use lettuce wraps instead of wonton wrappers. For those who may have allergies, keep a close check on sauces and ingredients; feel free to substitute hoisin sauce and other condiments with allergen-friendly alternatives.

Can I prepare the chicken and slaw in advance?
Definitely! You can prepare the chicken filling and slaw a day ahead of time. Simply store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This makes it much easier for you to assemble your Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos with freshly baked wonton shells just before serving, ensuring a delightful crunch for your meal!