The crisp sound of a perfectly baked taco shell sends a little thrill through me every time. Today, I’m excited to share my take on Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos, bringing that delightful crunch straight to your kitchen! These little wonders are packed with tender, glazed chicken and topped with a zesty slaw, all nestled in a baked wonton wrapper. Whether you’re hosting a lively Taco Tuesday or just craving something fun to whip up for dinner, this budget-friendly recipe offers quick prep and immense flavor. Plus, there’s a gluten-free option that ensures everyone can join in on the taco fun! Ready to dive into making your own irresistible tacos? Let’s get started!

Why Choose Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos?

Deliciously Unique: These Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos combine classic taco elements with a playful twist, offering something unexpected and delightful.
Quick to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have homemade tacos ready in no time—perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings!
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The savory chicken, crunchy slaw, and sweet chili drizzle create a flavor explosion that’s sure to impress family and friends alike.
Versatile Option: Customize your tacos with various proteins or toppings, like swapping in ground chicken or adding extra spicy sriracha for an added kick. Serve these alongside refreshing drinks and maybe even some homemade Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti for a well-rounded meal.

Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos Ingredients

Get ready to whip up a delicious batch!

For the Chicken Filling
• Chicken Breasts – Main protein, finely diced for quick cooking.
• Hoisin Sauce – Adds sweetness and depth; substitute with teriyaki for a milder flavor.
• Sesame Oil – Enhances flavor in both chicken and slaw.
• Soy Sauce – Provides umami; use tamari for a gluten-free option.
• Garlic – Minced for aromatic flavor in the chicken.
• Fresh Ginger – Minced for a warm and spicy kick.

For the Slaw
• Coleslaw Mix – Adds that much-needed crunch and freshness.
• Green Onions – Thinly sliced for a hint of onion flavor and freshness.
• Rice Vinegar – Balances the flavors in the slaw with acidity.
• Honey – Adds sweetness to the slaw; can be substituted with agave for a vegan option.

For the Taco Shells
• Wonton Wrappers – Forms crispy taco shells when baked.

For the Topping and Garnish
• Sweet Chili Sauce – Drizzle on top for added sweetness and heat.
• Chopped Cilantro & Sesame Seeds – Adds flavor and visual appeal.

Enjoy the delightful taste of Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos and customize them to your heart’s desire!

Step-by-Step Instructions for Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Muffin Tin
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats up, lightly spray an inverted muffin tin with cooking spray to prevent sticking. This is crucial for ensuring that your wonton wrappers turn out crispy and golden—just like you’d find in Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos!

Step 2: Shape the Wonton Shells
Once your oven is preheated, drape the wonton wrappers over the cups of the muffin tin, forming a taco shape. Make sure they hang down and fit snugly to create the perfect shells. Bake for 5-7 minutes until they are crispy and a beautiful golden brown, which will give them the delightful crunch you crave.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add the finely diced chicken breasts, cooking for 3-4 minutes until they are no longer pink and nicely browned. Stir frequently to ensure even cooking, as this flavorful chicken forms the heart of your Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos.

Step 4: Add the Flavorful Glaze
Next, stir in the hoisin sauce, soy sauce, minced garlic, and fresh ginger. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the chicken to become fully coated in this savory glaze. Be sure to keep an eye on it as the aromas waft through your kitchen, igniting your anticipation for these tasty tacos!

Step 5: Prepare the Crunchy Slaw
In a bowl, combine coleslaw mix, thinly sliced green onions, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and honey. Mix thoroughly until all the ingredients are well incorporated. This vibrant slaw adds freshness and crunch to your Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos, balancing the richness of the glazed chicken.

Step 6: Assemble the Tacos
Once the wonton shells are baked and crisp, fill each shell with a generous scoop of the glazed chicken. Top this with a hearty amount of the crunchy slaw, which will enhance the textures and flavors of your tacos. Drizzle with sweet chili sauce for an added burst of sweetness and a little heat!

Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Finish off each taco with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro and sesame seeds for a pop of color and flavor. Serve these delightful Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos immediately for the best crunch. Grab a plate, and enjoy every bite of your homemade creation!

Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos Variations

Feel free to get creative with these delicious taco options that cater to every taste and dietary need!

Gluten-Free: Swap soy sauce for tamari and ensure wonton wrappers are gluten-free to enjoy without worries.
Spicy Kick: Add sriracha to the chicken filling or drizzle on top for an vibrant spicy burst! It’s a delightful way to elevate those flavors.
Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini for a hearty, plant-based twist that still delivers on flavor.
Tex-Mex Flavor: Incorporate taco seasoning into the chicken mix for a fiesta vibe, bringing a zesty twist reminiscent of classic tacos.
Creamy Avocado: Top with diced avocados instead of or alongside slaw for a creamy texture that elevates the tacos.
Extra Crunch: Add crushed tortilla chips to the slaw for an irresistible crunch and added texture—perfect for those who crave those satisfying bites!
Sweet & Sour: Drizzle a tangy sweet-and-sour sauce over the top for a different flavor profile that’s sure to surprise your taste buds.
Asian-Inspired: Add sliced water chestnuts to the chicken for an extra crunch or swap the coleslaw for an Asian slaw made with soy sauce and sesame dressing.

Feel free to explore every option and make these tacos your own! You might also enjoy pairing them with something like Cheesy Chicken Crescent for a wonderfully satisfying meal.

Make Ahead Options

These Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos are a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can prepare the glazed chicken and slaw up to 3 days in advance, storing them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. The wonton shells can be baked up to 24 hours ahead of time; simply re-crisp them in the oven for a few minutes before filling to ensure they stay crunchy. When you’re ready to enjoy your tacos, just assemble them by filling each shell with the chicken and slaw, then drizzle with sweet chili sauce for that finishing touch. This strategy not only saves time but also brings the restaurant-quality experience right to your table!

Expert Tips for Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos

Make it Crunchy: Fill the wonton shells just before serving to maintain their crispiness and avoid sogginess.
Spice It Up: For an extra kick, mix sriracha into the chicken, or drizzle it on top of the assembled tacos.
Store Smart: Keep chicken and slaw separate in the fridge and re-crisp the shells in the oven before assembling to enjoy fresh tacos later.
Substitutions: If you’re avoiding gluten, ensure your soy sauce is tamari and opt for gluten-free wonton wrappers to enjoy these Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos with ease.
Quick Prep: Use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken for an even quicker assembly without compromising flavor.
Garnish Options: Get creative with garnishes! Add crushed peanuts for extra crunch or a sprinkle of lime juice for a zesty finish.

What to Serve with Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos?

Perfectly complement your homemade tacos with a delightful side that elevates the entire meal.

Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: These offer a sweet contrast to the savory tacos and add a satisfying crunch.
Zesty Cilantro Lime Rice: This refreshing side brings vibrant flavors that enhance the taste of the chicken filling.
Chilled Avocado Salad: The creamy avocado provides a mellow counterbalance to the spice of the tacos, making every bite divine.
Creamy Hummus Dip: Serve with pita chips for an unexpected and creamy contrast that pairs beautifully with the crunch of the tacos.
Spicy Mango Salsa: The sweetness of the mango balances the savory chicken while adding an exciting zing!
Classic Margaritas: Sip on this refreshing drink to wash down your tacos; the zesty flavor pairs perfectly with the dish.

Pairing these delicious options with your Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos will create a meal full of flavor, texture, and satisfaction. Enjoy every bite!

How to Store and Freeze Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos

Fridge: Store leftover chicken and slaw separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days. This helps maintain freshness and flavor without sogginess.

Freezer: Freeze the unfilled baked wonton shells in an airtight container for up to 2 months. They can be crisped in the oven before serving.

Reheating: When ready to eat, re-crisp the wonton shells in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes until warm and crispy, then add the prepared chicken filling and slaw.

Preparation Ahead: You can prepare the chicken and slaw in advance, then assemble the Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos whenever you’re ready to serve!

Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe FAQs

How do I select the right ingredients for Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos?
Absolutely! When choosing chicken breasts, look for ones that are plump and without any dark spots on the skin. For the hoisin sauce, opt for a brand with a rich and thick consistency for the best flavor. Fresh ginger should feel firm, not soft, to ensure it’s at peak freshness.

How should I store the leftover Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos?
After a taco feast, store the leftover chicken and slaw separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keeping them separate preserves the crunch of the wonton shells and the freshness of the slaw.

Can I freeze components of Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos?
Yes, you can! Freeze the unfilled baked wonton shells in an airtight container for up to 2 months. On the day you’re ready to indulge, just re-crisp them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 5-7 minutes. Prepare the chicken filling beforehand, and assemble once the shells are warm and crispy.

What can I do if my wonton shells become soggy?
To avoid soggy wonton shells, make sure to fill them just before serving. If they do become soggy after storing, re-bake them in the oven for a few minutes to restore their crispiness. Alternatively, you could refresh them in an air fryer for that delightful crunch once again!

Is there a gluten-free alternative for Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos?
Absolutely! To make these delicious tacos gluten-free, simply swap regular soy sauce for tamari. Additionally, ensure that the wonton wrappers you choose are gluten-free as well. This way, everyone can enjoy the fantastic flavors of these Chicken Wonton Tacos without worry.

How spicy can I make the chicken filling?
The more the merrier! You can pump up the spice in your chicken filling by mixing sriracha sauce into the glaze as it cooks. For a milder option, simply drizzle sriracha on top before serving to allow everyone to control their heat level. Enjoy!