Delightful Chicken Wonton Tacos Inspired by Applebee’s

Crispy, golden wonton shells filled with savory shredded chicken, crunchy vegetables, and a touch of creaminess—these chicken wonton tacos deliver a delicious fusion of textures and flavors. They make an impressive appetizer, party snack, or even a fun weeknight meal that’s quick to assemble and easy to customize.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These wonton tacos offer the perfect balance of crispiness and tenderness with every bite. The seasoned chicken filling pairs wonderfully with the fresh vegetables, while the light drizzle of creamy toppings ties everything together. Whether you’re looking for a restaurant-inspired dish or a versatile recipe you can tailor to your liking, this one checks all the boxes for both flavor and convenience.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

12 wonton wrappers
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
1/2 cup green onions, sliced
1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
1/4 cup soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
Vegetable oil, for frying
Sour cream or ranch dressing, for topping (optional)
Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, diced red bell pepper, sliced green onions, shredded cheese, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat, aiming for about 350°F (175°C) for optimal crispiness.
3. Place a tablespoon of chicken filling in the center of each wonton wrapper. Fold into a triangle and press firmly to seal the edges.
4. Gently lower the filled wontons into the hot oil. Fry in small batches for 2–3 minutes per side or until golden brown, flipping halfway.
5. Remove the wontons from the oil and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
6. Serve warm with optional toppings like sour cream, ranch dressing, or fresh cilantro.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 12 crispy wonton tacos.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Serves: 4 as an appetizer or 2 as a light meal

Variations

• Replace chicken with shredded turkey or sautéed tofu for a lighter or vegetarian-friendly option.
• Add finely shredded cabbage or carrots to the filling for extra crunch.
• Use spicy mayo, chili sauce, or a sweet teriyaki drizzle for a different flavor profile.
• Bake the wonton wrappers in a muffin tin to create taco cups instead of frying.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover fried wontons in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soft and chewy. Store toppings separately and assemble just before serving.

FAQs

How do I prevent the wontons from bursting while frying?

Ensure the edges are fully sealed by pressing firmly or adding a dab of water. Avoid overfilling, as excess filling can cause breakage.

Can I bake the wontons instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake them at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes or until crispy, brushing lightly with oil beforehand.

What type of chicken works best for this recipe?

Shredded rotisserie chicken is convenient, but any cooked and shredded chicken breast or thigh will work well.

How can I make the filling creamier?

Add a small spoonful of ranch dressing or a bit more cheese directly to the filling.

Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the filling up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator.

How do I keep the wontons crispy after frying?

Cool them on a wire rack instead of paper towels to preserve crispness.

What dipping sauces pair well with these tacos?

Spicy mayo, sweet chili sauce, or a light sesame dressing all work wonderfully.

Can I air-fry the wontons?

Yes, spray them lightly with oil and air-fry at 370°F (188°C) for 6–8 minutes, flipping once.

How do I avoid soggy wontons?

Ensure the oil is hot enough and avoid overcrowding the pan, which lowers the temperature.

Can I freeze the filled wontons before cooking?

Yes, freeze them in a single layer until solid, then store in freezer bags. Fry directly from frozen, adding an extra minute.

Conclusion

These delightful chicken wonton tacos inspired by Applebee’s bring restaurant-quality flavor straight to your kitchen. Crispy, customizable, and full of vibrant textures, they’re perfect for entertaining or elevating a regular weeknight dinner. Feel free to experiment with fillings and toppings to make the recipe uniquely yours—every bite is sure to impress.

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