Have you ever craved a dish that’s both fun to make and delightful to eat? Enter these Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos. With juicy honey-garlic chicken tucked inside crispy wonton shells and topped with zesty slaw, this recipe brings the flavors of your favorite restaurant straight to your kitchen. Not only is it an easy meal prep option perfect for busy weeknights, but it also includes customizable toppings that make it a hit for kids and adults alike. Think of them as a culinary canvas—add your favorite extras or swap ingredients based on what you have on hand. What will you create with this tasty foundation?

Why do you need these tacos tonight?

Fun to Prepare: Making these Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos will become a cherished cooking ritual, inviting you to get creative in the kitchen.
Kid-Friendly Appeal: Packed with delicious flavors and customizable toppings, these tacos are sure to win over picky eaters at home.
Quick Cooking: With a straightforward process, you can whip these up in no time—perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something special.
Versatility at Its Best: Feel free to mix and match toppings or swap protein options, like shrimp or tofu, making them suitable for any dietary preferences.
Crowd-Pleasing: Serve them as a dazzling appetizer or a fun main course, and watch your family and friends dig in with enthusiasm. Don’t forget to pair with a side of One Pan Chicken for the ultimate feast!

Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos Ingredients

For the Chicken Filling

Chicken Breasts – Primary protein providing delicious texture; substitute with pre-cooked chicken for quicker prep.
Hoisin Sauce – Adds a sweet depth of flavor; teriyaki sauce works well as a substitute too.
Sesame Oil – Imbues a nutty aroma; remember, a little goes a long way!
Soy Sauce – Enhances the umami; swap with tamari for a gluten-free choice.
Garlic – Essential for a savory kick; fresh minced garlic gives the best results.
Fresh Ginger – Offers a warm spice note; ground ginger serves as a good alternative if fresh isn’t available.

For the Crunchy Slaw

Coleslaw Mix – Adds that satisfying crunch; chopped lettuce is a great low-carb option.
Green Onions – Provides a mild onion flavor; use both whites and greens for extra zest.
Rice Vinegar – Balances flavors with its acidity; apple cider vinegar will do the trick, too.
Honey – This sweetener ties everything together; for a vegan option, consider maple syrup.

For the Crispy Shell

Wonton Wrappers – Create the crunchy taco base; utilize lettuce wraps for a low-carb variation.

For Finishing Touches

Sweet Chili Sauce – Drizzle this on top for a sweet heat; adjust based on your preferred spice level.
Fresh Cilantro & Sesame Seeds – Perfect for an appealing garnish; feel free to adjust based on personal preferences.

Now you’re all set to recreate these delightful Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos that will take your dinner experience to the next level!

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 temperature ensures that your wonton shells will become perfectly crispy. While the oven is heating, prepare a 9×13 baking dish by lightly spraying or brushing it with oil to prevent sticking, creating a non-stick surface for your crispy taco shells.

Step 2: Prepare Wonton Wrappers
Once the oven is preheated, lay the wonton wrappers over the edges of the greased baking dish, creating a taco shape. This method allows the wrappers to hold their form while baking. Bake the wonton wrappers for 7 to 8 minutes in the oven, watching closely for a golden color—remove them as soon as they appear crispy and lightly browned.

Step 3: Final Crisping of Wontons
After the initial baking, take the wonton shells out of the oven. While they are still pliable, gently pull them apart to create individual taco shells and return them to the oven. Bake for an additional 7 to 8 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Monitor carefully to ensure they do not burn—this is crucial for the perfect Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine diced chicken with hoisin sauce, sesame oil, soy sauce, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Mix well to ensure every piece of chicken is coated in the flavorful marinade. Heat a skillet over high heat and sauté the chicken mixture for 7 to 8 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked, tender, and fragrant, filling your kitchen with delicious aromas.

Step 5: Make the Crunchy Slaw
While the chicken cooks, prepare the crunchy slaw by mixing the coleslaw mix, chopped green onions, rice vinegar, and honey in a separate bowl. Toss everything together to create a vibrant mixture with freshness and a slight zing. This slaw will add a delightful crunch and contrast to the savory chicken filling in your Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos.

Step 6: Assemble the Tacos
Now it’s time to bring your Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos to life! Begin by filling each crispy wonton shell with the sautéed chicken mixture. Then generously top the chicken with the prepared crunchy slaw, ensuring each taco is packed with flavor and texture.

Step 7: Add the Finishing Touches
To elevate the flavors of your tacos, drizzle sweet chili sauce over the loaded wonton shells. For an appealing presentation, sprinkle fresh cilantro and sesame seeds on top of each taco. This final touch not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds bursts of flavor to your delightful dish.

Step 8: Serve Immediately
Now that your crispy Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos are beautifully assembled, serve them immediately while still warm. These tacos are best enjoyed fresh, allowing everyone to indulge in the crunchiness of the wonton shells and the savory mixture within. Enjoy the delightful flavors you’ve created from your kitchen!

How to Store and Freeze Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos

Fridge: Store any leftover chicken and coleslaw in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Keep the wonton shells separately to maintain their crunch.

Freezer: If you’ve made extra chicken filling, it can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: Reheat the chicken mixture in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. For the wonton shells, bake them at 375°F (190°C) for a few minutes to crisp them up again.

Assembly Reminder: To keep your Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos crispy, assemble them just before serving!

Make Ahead Options

These Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delectable dish without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the honey-garlic chicken filling and coleslaw up to 24 hours in advance; just store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. To maintain the crispiness of the wonton shells, bake them fresh right before serving. When you’re ready to enjoy your delicious tacos, simply reheat the chicken mixture in a skillet for a few minutes until warmed through. Assemble the tacos with the cold slaw and drizzle with sweet chili sauce for that restaurant-quality finish any busy weeknight!

What to Serve with Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos

Complement your dining experience with delightful sides that enhance the flavors of your tacos and create a well-rounded meal.

Creamy Avocado Dip: This smooth, buttery dip pairs beautifully with the crunch of the tacos, adding a rich and creamy texture that balances the dish perfectly.
Cilantro Lime Rice: A zesty side that adds freshness and a tangy flavor, tying together the Asian-Mexican fusion with every bite.
Spicy Black Bean Salad: The beans provide a hearty contrast while the spice adds excitement, making every taco bite even more thrilling.
Sesame Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans tossed in sesame oil bring an extra texture and a subtle nuttiness that blends seamlessly with the wonton tacos.
Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: These sweet, crunchy fries not only add contrast in flavor and texture but also make for a satisfying accompaniment to the savory tacos.
Mango Salsa: Fresh, fruity mango salsa will brighten up your plate and lend a tropical sweetness that beautifully complements the honey-garlic chicken.
Margaritas or Sparkling Water: A refreshing drink like a classic margarita or sparkling water with lime rounds out the meal, enhancing the flavors of every dish in a delightful way.
Chocolate Lava Cake: For dessert, a rich chocolate lava cake offers a warm, gooey contrast to the savory tacos, making it a perfect sweet ending to your meal.

Elevate your dinner with these scrumptious side options that are sure to impress family and friends!

Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos Variations

Feel free to mix it up and make these tacos your own with these delightful ideas!

Dairy-Free: Skip any cheese and add extra avocado or dairy-free sour cream for creaminess without the dairy.
Higher Protein: Swap the chicken for ground turkey or lean beef, sautéing the meat with your favorite seasonings for a twist.
Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of sriracha for an extra layer of heat that will tantalize your taste buds.
Asian Flair: Incorporate finely shredded carrots and edamame into the slaw for added texture and a burst of vibrant flavors.
Veggie Delight: Replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms and bell peppers, creating a delicious vegetarian option that’s loaded with flavor.
Fruitiness: Toss in diced mango or pineapple with the slaw for a refreshing sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the savory chicken.
Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb option, use crisp lettuce leaves instead of wonton wrappers, creating fresh and crunchy taco alternatives.
Flavor Boost: Experiment with different sauces like sweet and sour or peanut sauce, giving your tacos new dimensions of taste that will surprise and thrill.

No matter how you choose to customize your tacos, these options will help you create an unforgettable meal. Plus, for more scrumptious ideas, don’t miss out on our Street Corn Chicken or incorporate it with our Garlic Chicken Roasted for a complete dinner experience!

Expert Tips for Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos

Watch the Wontons: Keep a close eye on the wonton wrappers while baking to prevent burning. They can go from golden to charred quickly!
Assemble Just Before Serving: To keep the shells crispy, fill them with the chicken and slaw right before serving. This prevents sogginess.
Use Rotisserie Chicken: For an even quicker meal prep, opt for rotisserie chicken. Toss it in the hoisin sauce mix for a flavor boost.
Customize Your Toppings: Don’t hesitate to add your favorites, like avocado or diced mango, to personalize your Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos and delight everyone.
Store Smartly: If you have leftovers, store the chicken and shells separately. This ensures the wontons remain crispy for your next tasty meal.

Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe FAQs

What kind of chicken should I use for the filling?
When making Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos, I recommend using fresh chicken breasts for the best flavor and texture. However, if you’re short on time, pre-cooked chicken works wonderfully as a substitute. Just toss it in the hoisin sauce mix to give it that signature flavor!

How do I store leftovers to keep them fresh?
Absolutely! For the best results, store any leftover chicken and coleslaw in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s crucial to keep the wonton shells separately to maintain their delightful crunch. This way, you can enjoy your tacos later without any sogginess!

Can I freeze the chicken filling for later use?
Yes, you can! If you made extra chicken filling, freeze it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To enjoy it again, simply thaw the chicken overnight in the fridge before reheating. Always reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

How can I prevent the wonton shells from burning during baking?
Great question! Keep a watchful eye on your wonton shells while they bake. After the first 7 to 8 minutes, check for a golden color; remove them as soon as they look crispy. If they’re still pliable, gently pull them apart and give them an additional bake to achieve that perfect crunch without turning them burnt.

What dietary considerations should I keep in mind?
It’s important to cater to your guests’ dietary preferences! These Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos can easily be made gluten-free by substituting soy sauce with tamari. For a vegan option, swap out the chicken for tofu and use maple syrup instead of honey, making it suitable for plant-based eaters as well!

What toppings can I use for customization?
Very! One of the best parts about these tacos is their versatility. Besides the crunchy slaw, consider adding diced avocado, shredded cheese, or even spicy kimchi for an exciting twist. Feel free to mix and match with whatever you have on hand to create your perfect topping combo!