If you are craving a dish that boasts an irresistible crunch paired with a vibrant, flavorful filling, then Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe is your new best friend. This delightful fusion blends crispy wonton shells with a savory chicken stir-fry and refreshing coleslaw, delivering a melody of textures and tastes in every bite. Whether you’re entertaining guests or treating yourself, these tacos bring a playful twist to traditional taco night with an Asian-inspired flair that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows two parts: on the left, a wooden board holds eight thin triangular golden-brown pieces of crispy chips stacked in two rows with a few extra chips laid around the board edges; on the right, there is a clear glass bowl filled with small, uneven chunks of food coated in a shiny, thick brown sauce, all on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting started with Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe requires ingredients that are simple yet essential. Each one plays a unique role, from adding umami and sweetness to providing a satisfying crunch and fresh brightness that balance the dish perfectly.

Chicken breasts (2, finely diced): The protein base that soaks up savory sauces beautifully.
Hoisin sauce (2 tbsp): Adds a sweet and tangy depth that complements the chicken wonderfully.
Sesame oil (2 tbsp total): One tablespoon for cooking chicken and one for the coleslaw, offering a toasty, nutty aroma.
Soy sauce (2 tbsp total): Enhances the salty, umami flavor both in the chicken marinade and the slaw dressing.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Brings a pungent kick that wakes up the palate.
Fresh ginger (1 tsp, minced): Adds a warm, zesty brightness that brightens the chicken mixture.
Bag of coleslaw (397g): Provides crunch and freshness that contrasts nicely with the cooked chicken.
Green onions (4, thinly sliced): Bring sharpness and a pop of color to the slaw.
Rice vinegar (1 tbsp): Creates a light tanginess in the coleslaw dressing.
Honey (1 tbsp): Balances acidity with a touch of natural sweetness.
Wonton wrappers (16): The crunchy, crispy taco “shells” that make this recipe unique and fun.
Sweet chili sauce (to serve): Adds a luscious hint of sweet heat to finish the tacos.
Chopped cilantro (to serve): Fresh and herbaceous, this garnish brightens each bite.
Sesame seeds (to serve): Sprinkle on top for an added nutty crunch and visual appeal.

How to Make Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe

Step 1: Preparing the Wonton Shells

Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly spray or brush each wonton wrapper with cooking spray or a bit of olive or canola oil. Drape them gently over the edges of a 9×13 baking dish to form little taco shells. Bake for about 7 to 8 minutes—watch closely to prevent burning. After this initial bake, carefully pull the wonton shells apart while they are still warm and pliable, making them ready to hold the scrumptious fillings. Pop them back into the oven for another 7 to 8 minutes until they reach that perfect golden crispiness everyone loves.

Step 2: Cooking the Chicken Filling

While the wontons are getting crispy, whisk together the diced chicken with hoisin sauce, 1 tablespoon of sesame oil, soy sauce, minced garlic, and fresh ginger. Heat a large skillet over high heat, and sauté this flavorful chicken mixture for about 7 to 8 minutes, stirring often until the chicken is cooked through and beautifully glazed with sauce. This creates the rich, savory centerpiece of our tacos.

Step 3: Tossing the Coleslaw

For the bright and crunchy contrast, combine coleslaw mix with sliced green onions, the remaining tablespoon of sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and honey in a large bowl. Toss everything until the dressing evenly coats the vegetables. This slaw isn’t just a topping but a vital fresh crunch that balances the warm and savory chicken perfectly.

Step 4: Assembling the Tacos

Once your wonton shells and fillings are ready, it’s assembly time! Spoon the warm chicken mixture into each crispy shell, layer on a generous handful of slaw, then drizzle with sweet chili sauce. Finally, sprinkle each taco with chopped cilantro and sesame seeds for a pop of color and extra flavor. These tacos are now ready to wow your taste buds!

How to Serve Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe

The image shows two parts: on the left, a black frying pan filled with many small pieces of golden-brown cooked chicken, with a wooden spoon mixing them; on the right, there is a close-up of three small tacos placed in a row on a white marbled surface. Each taco has a crispy golden shell filled with brown cooked chicken, topped with light green creamy sauce, bright green chopped herbs, and small bits of purple cabbage. A lime wedge is placed near the tacos, and a small white bowl filled with a bright red sauce is beside them. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To truly elevate your tacos, fresh garnishes like chopped cilantro and toasted sesame seeds are a must. They add bursts of herbaceous freshness and a delightful crunch that make each bite exciting. A drizzle of sweet chili sauce adds that perfect touch of sweet and spicy tanginess to round out the flavors.

Side Dishes

Complement these tacos with light and refreshing sides. A simple cucumber salad or steamed edamame beans pair beautifully, providing a cool counterbalance to the warm, saucy tacos. For a heartier option, consider serving with jasmine rice or a bowl of miso soup for a full Asian-inspired meal experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Have some fun with presentation by arranging each taco on a wooden board or colorful platter lined with banana leaves for a tropical vibe. Add small bowls of extra sweet chili sauce and a lime wedge for guests to customize their tacos. You can also layer the slaw inside mini bamboo steamers for an unexpected, charming touch that’s sure to impress at a dinner party.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover chicken and slaw can be stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. Avoid storing the wonton shells with the filling inside, as they will become soggy and lose their crunch.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked chicken filling in a sealed freezer-safe container for up to one month. The slaw is best made fresh, so refrigerate it instead of freezing for the best texture. Wonton shells can be stored in a cool, dry place but are not recommended for freezing once baked.

Reheating

Reheat the chicken gently in a skillet over medium heat to keep it juicy and flavorful. To enjoy crispy wonton shells again, pop them back in the oven for a few minutes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Assemble tacos fresh before serving to maintain maximum texture contrast.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs have more fat and can add extra juiciness and flavor. Just dice them as you would the breasts and cook thoroughly.

Are there vegetarian alternatives for this recipe?

Yes, you can swap the chicken for tofu or tempeh, marinated similarly in the hoisin sauce mixture for a delicious plant-based version.

How spicy is the sweet chili sauce? Can I substitute it?

Sweet chili sauce is mildly spicy with a sweet undertone. If you prefer less heat, try a mild plum sauce or a simple honey glaze instead.

Can I make the wonton shells from scratch?

If you’re feeling adventurous, yes! Homemade wonton wrappers can add a fresh touch but require time and skill. Store-bought wrappers work great and offer convenience.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly joyful about making Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe at home. The crunch of the shells combined with juicy, savory chicken and refreshing slaw creates a fun, flavor-packed experience that’s perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try and watch it quickly become a new household favorite to share and enjoy again and again.

Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe