Name: APPLEBEE’S CHICKEN WONTON TACOS
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 12
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, finely diced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar as an alternative); 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon grated ginger; 12 square wonton wrappers; 1 cup shredded coleslaw mix (cabbage and carrots); 2 tablespoons mayonnaise; 1 teaspoon lime juice; 1 tablespoon chopped green onions; 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional for garnish); Salt and pepper to taste

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Description

Whenever I crave a combination of crispy texture and zesty flavor, I find myself turning to my version of Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos. The first time I tasted them, I was instantly hooked by the delicate crunch of the wonton shell and the tender, flavorful chicken filling. It’s a recipe that perfectly balances sweet, tangy, and savory notes, creating a restaurant-quality bite right at home. Over time, I’ve fine-tuned the ingredients and method to make this dish simple, affordable, and accessible without losing any of that bold, signature flavor.

What makes this recipe truly special to me is its versatility. I can serve these tacos as a light lunch, an appetizer for gatherings, or even as a fun family dinner option. They’re beautiful to present and incredibly fun to eat, making every bite an experience. The chicken is coated in a flavorful Asian-inspired sauce that combines the perfect blend of sweetness, tang, and spice, then topped with fresh slaw and drizzled with a creamy dressing. The contrast between the crispy wonton shell and the juicy filling always leaves my guests asking for more.

You will love this recipe for many reasons. First, it’s quick to prepare, requiring minimal cooking time while offering maximum flavor. The ingredients are easy to find, and you can even customize the toppings to match your preferences. Whether you prefer a spicier version with extra chili flakes or a sweeter touch with added honey, this dish adapts beautifully. It’s also budget-friendly, as it relies on everyday pantry staples like chicken, soy sauce, and coleslaw mix, turning them into something restaurant-worthy.

Another reason I love making these tacos is how effortlessly they fit into different occasions. I can whip them up for a weeknight meal, a casual gathering, or even serve them as part of a party platter. Their bite-sized shape makes them convenient for serving guests, and their vibrant presentation adds a pop of color to the table. The wonton shells can be baked or fried depending on your preference, making this recipe suitable for both lighter and indulgent versions.

Ingredients for the Recipe

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, finely diced
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar as an alternative)
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 clove garlic, minced
1 teaspoon grated ginger
12 square wonton wrappers
1 cup shredded coleslaw mix (cabbage and carrots)
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
1 teaspoon lime juice
1 tablespoon chopped green onions
1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional for garnish)
Salt and pepper to taste

This combination of simple, affordable ingredients delivers a crisp, tangy, and fresh result every time. Each component adds texture and flavor, ensuring that these tacos are as satisfying as they are beautiful.

How to Prepare This Recipe

Making Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos at home is much easier than it looks. With a few simple steps, you can create the same crispy, flavorful, and colorful dish that’s loved in restaurants. I always start by preparing the ingredients ahead of time, which helps everything come together quickly and smoothly.

The preparation involves three main parts: cooking the chicken, preparing the slaw, and shaping the wonton taco shells. Once everything is ready, you can assemble the tacos in just minutes. This recipe is quick, easy, and adaptable, which makes it one of my go-to dishes for busy evenings or casual get-togethers.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Marinade
In a small bowl, I combine the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger. This creates a flavorful, slightly sweet, and tangy marinade. I then add the finely diced chicken breast and stir until every piece is evenly coated. The chicken absorbs the marinade quickly, so even ten minutes of resting time makes a noticeable difference in flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken
I heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, I add the marinated chicken and cook it for about 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally. The chicken should be tender, golden, and cooked through. As it cooks, the sauce thickens and coats the pieces beautifully. I always taste and adjust the seasoning at this point, adding a touch of salt or a sprinkle of pepper if needed.

Step 3: Shape and Cook the Wonton Shells
The wonton wrappers are what give these tacos their signature crispiness. To shape them, I lightly brush both sides of each wrapper with oil and drape them over the bars of an oven rack to create a taco shape. I bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 5 to 7 minutes, or until they are golden and crisp. If I prefer a more indulgent version, I fry them in hot oil for about 30 seconds on each side, then place them on paper towels to remove excess oil. Either method results in shells that are crisp and light.

Step 4: Prepare the Slaw Topping
While the chicken and wonton shells cool slightly, I make the slaw. In a medium bowl, I mix the shredded coleslaw with mayonnaise and lime juice, then season lightly with salt and pepper. This simple slaw provides a creamy and refreshing contrast to the warm, savory chicken. I also like to add chopped green onions for a little extra crunch and flavor.

Step 5: Assemble the Tacos
Once all the components are ready, I fill each crispy wonton shell with a spoonful of the cooked chicken. I then top it with a generous layer of the creamy slaw. Finally, I sprinkle sesame seeds and green onions over the top for added flavor and color. The result is a perfectly balanced taco—crispy, creamy, tangy, and slightly sweet all at once.

Quick and Easy

This recipe is wonderfully simple to prepare, even for beginners. Most of the steps can be done simultaneously, and the total cooking time is less than 30 minutes. The ingredients are common and inexpensive, yet they deliver restaurant-style results. The wonton shells bake quickly, and the chicken cooks in minutes, making this dish ideal for weeknights or impromptu meals.

Customizable

One of the reasons I love making these tacos is how customizable they are. I sometimes add extra chili flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to give them a spicier edge. For a lighter option, I use baked wonton shells and low-fat mayonnaise in the slaw. You can also swap the chicken for turkey or beef to suit your dietary preferences. The recipe can easily be adjusted to suit different palates without losing its delicious charm.

Popular with Many People

These tacos never fail to impress. They are always a hit at family gatherings, parties, and casual dinners. Their bright colors, crisp texture, and mouthwatering aroma draw everyone in. Guests love that each taco is small enough to enjoy in a few bites yet full of bold flavor. Every element—from the golden shells to the creamy slaw—works together in perfect harmony, making them irresistible to everyone who tries them.

This version of Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos is not only quick and easy but also full of texture and flavor that rivals any restaurant dish. With simple ingredients, clear steps, and endless customization options, this recipe proves that great food doesn’t have to be complicated. Every bite is a delightful mix of crunch, creaminess, and zest that brings people back for seconds every single time.

FAQs

1. Can I prepare the wonton shells ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the wonton shells in advance. Once they are baked or fried, allow them to cool completely and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To restore their crispiness before serving, reheat them in the oven for a few minutes at low heat. This helps them stay crunchy and fresh when filled.

2. What can I use instead of chicken?
If you prefer not to use chicken, you can substitute it with turkey, beef, or shrimp. Each option blends beautifully with the Asian-inspired sauce and keeps the tacos flavorful. For a vegetarian twist, try using tofu or sautéed mushrooms, which absorb the marinade just as well.

3. How do I keep the wonton shells from getting soggy?
To prevent sogginess, let the cooked chicken cool slightly before filling the shells. Avoid adding too much sauce or slaw, as excess moisture softens the wrappers. Serve the tacos immediately after assembling for the crispiest texture.

4. Can I make the sauce spicier?
Absolutely. Add chili flakes, a touch of sriracha, or finely chopped jalapeños to the sauce to create a spicier version. Adjust the heat level according to your taste.

5. Are these tacos freezer-friendly?
While the components can be stored separately, the fully assembled tacos are best enjoyed fresh. You can freeze the cooked chicken for up to three months, but prepare the wonton shells fresh for the best results.