Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos

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The very first time I tasted Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos, I knew I had to recreate them at home. They’re the perfect mix of sweet, savory, tangy, and crispy—a combination I can never resist. These tacos are an explosion of flavor in a crunchy wonton shell, loaded with seasoned chicken, a refreshing slaw, and that addictive Asian-inspired drizzle.

I love that they look like something you’d only get at a restaurant, but they’re surprisingly simple to make at home. The key lies in building layers of flavor: juicy marinated chicken, crisp shells, and that vibrant slaw with hints of sesame and citrus. It’s one of those recipes that always gets people asking for seconds and the recipe itself!

These tacos have become a go-to in my kitchen when I want something fun yet easy. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together, they never fail to impress. If you love fusion-style dishes and crave a good crunch with every bite, this one’s for you. And if you’re into delicious weeknight meals, definitely check out my creamy beef and shells recipe, cheesesteak tortellini, or the satisfying stovetop creamy ground beef pasta.

Why You’ll Love This Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe

This recipe delivers on taste and texture, offering that iconic restaurant experience right at home. The crispy wonton shells contrast beautifully with the tender chicken and crunchy slaw. It’s a flavor-packed bite every single time.

You can also prep the components ahead of time, making it a fantastic option for quick assembly later. Plus, it’s totally customizable. Want it spicier? Add some chili sauce. Prefer a vegetarian version? Swap the chicken for tofu or jackfruit. The possibilities are endless, and the taste is always phenomenal.

Ingredients

Wonton Wrappers: These act as the shell and give that signature crispy texture when baked or fried into taco shapes. They’re thin and light, perfect for holding the filling without overwhelming it.

Chicken Breast or Thighs: I prefer thighs for their juiciness, but breasts work great too. You want small pieces that cook quickly and soak up all the flavor of the marinade.

Soy Sauce and Sesame Oil: This duo forms the foundation of the marinade, offering saltiness and that deep nutty aroma that makes the chicken taste like it’s straight out of a good Asian takeout box.

Garlic and Ginger: Fresh is best here. These two elevate the marinade, making it aromatic and zesty.

Coleslaw Mix: A ready-to-use slaw mix saves prep time and adds a crunchy, refreshing layer that balances out the savory chicken.

Rice Vinegar and Honey: These create a quick dressing for the slaw, delivering tangy and sweet notes that brighten the entire dish.

Green Onions and Cilantro: These herbs bring a pop of color and freshness that cuts through the richness.

Sweet Chili Sauce: This drizzle at the end ties everything together with its sticky-sweet heat.

How to Make Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos

Step 1: Prep the Wonton Shells

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Drape wonton wrappers over a baking dish or taco mold and bake until golden and crisp, about 7–10 minutes. Let them cool and hold their shape.

Step 2: Marinate and Cook the Chicken

In a bowl, combine diced chicken with soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Let it marinate for at least 20 minutes. Cook in a hot skillet until browned and cooked through.

Step 3: Make the Slaw

Toss the coleslaw mix with rice vinegar, honey, green onions, and cilantro. Let it sit while the chicken finishes cooking to absorb the flavors.

Step 4: Assemble the Tacos

Fill each wonton shell with a scoop of chicken, top with slaw, and drizzle with sweet chili sauce. Garnish with more green onion or sesame seeds if desired.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

If you’re feeling creative or need to work with what’s already in your fridge, there are plenty of ways to switch things up. Instead of chicken, try ground turkey, shredded rotisserie chicken, or even crispy tofu for a vegetarian twist. You could also play with the marinade—add a dash of hoisin sauce or a squeeze of lime for extra zing.

Wonton wrappers can be replaced with mini taco shells if you’re in a pinch, though you’ll lose a bit of that light, crisp texture. For the slaw, any crunchy vegetable combo like shredded carrots and cabbage will do just fine. And if you’re out of sweet chili sauce, sriracha mayo makes an excellent spicy alternative.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

I love serving Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos as a starter or part of a light dinner. They pair beautifully with a simple cucumber salad or some steamed edamame sprinkled with sea salt. If you’re going all out, consider offering a trio of sauces—extra sweet chili, sriracha mayo, and soy-lime dip.

A refreshing drink like a ginger-lemon mocktail or a cold beer balances the spices and complements the savory flavors. They also make fantastic party bites, so keep them in mind for your next gathering.

Storage and Reheating Tips

These tacos are best served fresh to enjoy their crispiness. However, you can prepare the components ahead of time. Store the cooked chicken and slaw separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.

To reheat the chicken, use a skillet over medium heat or microwave in short bursts. For the shells, a quick few minutes in the oven will bring back their crunch. Assemble just before serving to maintain the perfect texture balance.

FAQs

How do I make Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos crispy at home?

Use wonton wrappers and bake them over an oven-safe rack or mold to create taco shapes. Bake at 375°F until golden and crisp. They become wonderfully crunchy without deep frying.

Can I use store-bought coleslaw mix for Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos?

Absolutely. Store-bought coleslaw mix saves time and provides the perfect crunch. Just toss it with a homemade dressing of rice vinegar, honey, and fresh herbs for extra flavor.

Are Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos spicy?

They have a slight kick from the sweet chili sauce but aren’t overly spicy. You can adjust the heat by adding more or less sauce, or even using a spicy version if desired.

Can I make Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos ahead of time?

Yes, but keep the components separate until ready to serve. The chicken and slaw can be prepped in advance. Reheat the chicken and crisp the shells before assembling.

What’s a good substitute for sweet chili sauce in Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos?

Try a mix of honey and sriracha, or use spicy mayo for a creamy, tangy alternative. These options still offer the balance of sweetness and heat.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If these Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos hit the spot, you might also enjoy my crispy jalapeno popper egg rolls. They bring the same crunchy, savory satisfaction in a fun handheld form. Or dive into cheesy chicken fritters if you’re craving something rich, golden, and perfect for dipping.

Save and Share This Recipe for Later

If you’re anything like me, once you make these Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos, you’ll want to share them with everyone. Be sure to pin this recipe on your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find next time you’re planning a party or craving a flavorful dinner.

And don’t forget to spread the love—share this recipe link with friends and family who appreciate delicious food with a restaurant-style twist. Whether it’s on Facebook, in a foodie group, or in a text message, these tacos deserve to be tasted far and wide.

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