Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos

If you’re looking for a fun and delicious way to spice up your weeknight dinners, look no further! These Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos have become a beloved staple in our home. They’re crispy, flavorful, and packed with that sweet honey-garlic chicken that makes every bite a joy. Not only are they perfect for family gatherings or casual get-togethers, but they also make a quick and satisfying meal on busy nights when you need something easy yet impressive.

I love how these tacos bring a taste of restaurant favorites right to your kitchen. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize them to suit your taste. Let’s dive into why you’ll absolutely love this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 20 minutes of cook time, you can whip these up in no time!
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the crunchy wontons and tasty filling.
• Perfect for meal prep: Make a big batch ahead of time for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
• Deliciously versatile: Feel free to add your favorite toppings or swap in different proteins to keep things exciting.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you can easily find at your local grocery store. Gather these tasty items to create your delicious Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos!

For the Chicken Filling

• 2 chicken breasts, finely diced
• 2 tbsp hoisin sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp minced fresh ginger

For the Slaw

• 1 (397g) bag coleslaw
• 4 green onions, thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp honey

For Assembly

• 16 Wonton wrappers
• Sweet chili sauce, to serve
• Chopped cilantro, to serve
• Sesame seeds, to serve

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Swap the protein: Instead of chicken, try shrimp or tofu for a different twist.
• Add some heat: Toss in some sliced jalapeños or sriracha for an extra kick!
• Go veggie: Use sautéed mushrooms and bell peppers instead of chicken for a delightful vegetarian option.
• Mix up the slaw: Add some diced apples or mango for a fruity crunch that complements the savory filling perfectly.

How to Make Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos

Step 1: Prepare the Wonton Shells

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Spray the wonton wrappers with cooking spray or brush them lightly with olive or canola oil. Drape them over the side of a 9×13 baking dish so they form little cups. Bake for about 7-8 minutes, keeping an eye on them so they don’t burn. Once they’re slightly golden and pliable, gently pull them apart and bake again for another 7-8 minutes until crispy.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken Filling

In a large bowl, mix the diced chicken with hoisin sauce, sesame oil, soy sauce, minced garlic, and ginger. Heat a large skillet over high heat and sauté the chicken mixture for about 7-8 minutes. Stir frequently until it’s cooked through; this step ensures all those delicious flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 3: Prepare the Slaw

While your chicken cooks, combine all slaw ingredients in another large bowl. Mixing them well brings out their freshness and creates a vibrant topping that balances the savory chicken perfectly.

Step 4: Assemble Your Tacos

Once everything is ready, it’s time to assemble! Take those crispy wonton shells and fill them generously with the honey-garlic chicken mixture. Top each one with zesty slaw, drizzle with sweet chili sauce, and sprinkle with chopped cilantro and sesame seeds. Serve warm and enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos

Making these delicious Chicken Wonton Tacos is a breeze with a few handy tips to ensure perfect results every time!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh chicken and crisp vegetables enhance the flavor and texture of your tacos, making each bite more enjoyable.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet: Cooking the chicken in batches if necessary allows it to brown nicely and cook evenly, which helps develop that savory flavor.
• Customize your slaw: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots to your coleslaw for added crunch and color. This not only makes the dish more vibrant but also packs in extra nutrients.
• Watch the wonton shells closely: They can go from perfectly crispy to burnt quickly. Keep an eye on them while baking to achieve that golden-brown color without losing any crispiness.
• Experiment with sauces: While sweet chili sauce is a classic choice, try adding a dash of sriracha for heat or a drizzle of hoisin for extra depth. Personalizing your sauces can elevate the overall flavor profile of your tacos!

How to Serve Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos

Presenting your Chicken Wonton Tacos beautifully can turn an ordinary meal into an extraordinary one. Here are some ideas on how to serve this delightful dish:

Garnishes

• Chopped cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a burst of freshness and color, making your tacos visually appealing and flavorful.
• Sliced jalapeños: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, thinly sliced jalapeños offer a spicy kick that complements the sweetness of the chicken.

Side Dishes

• Asian-inspired salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and sesame dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the tacos.
• Steamed edamame: These protein-packed pods are easy to prepare and make for a nutritious side that pairs well with Asian flavors.
• Roasted sweet potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes adds an earthy balance to the dish while offering a comforting side option.
• Rice noodles: Lightly tossed in sesame oil and garnished with green onions, rice noodles serve as an elegant base that complements the wonton tacos without overpowering them.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll be well on your way to creating a memorable dining experience with your homemade Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe for Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the chicken and coleslaw in advance, allowing you to whip up a delicious meal quickly during busy weeknights.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow any leftover tacos to cool completely.
• Store the chicken and coleslaw separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
• Consume leftovers within 3 days for the best flavor and freshness.

Freezing

• Cooked chicken can be frozen for later use.
• Place cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Wonton wrappers do not freeze well once cooked, so it’s best to prepare them fresh.

Reheating

• For reheating chicken, place it in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through (about 5-7 minutes).
• If you have leftover coleslaw, enjoy it cold; it will maintain its texture best this way.
• Prepare new wonton shells while reheating the chicken for the freshest taste.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos.

Can I use rotisserie chicken for Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos?

Absolutely! Shredded rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just mix it with the hoisin sauce and other seasonings to keep the flavors intact before filling your wonton shells.

What can I substitute for hoisin sauce in Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos?

If you don’t have hoisin sauce on hand, a mixture of soy sauce, peanut butter, and honey can work as a tasty alternative. Adjust the amounts to suit your taste!

How spicy are Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos?

These tacos have a mild flavor profile. However, you can add more spice by incorporating chili flakes or hot sauce into your coleslaw or drizzling extra sweet chili sauce on top.

Can I make these tacos vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the chicken with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, and zucchini mixed with hoisin sauce. This will give you a delicious vegetarian option that still satisfies!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos just like I do! They’re an exciting blend of flavors wrapped in crispy goodness that’s sure to delight your family and friends. Whether it’s for a casual dinner or a fun appetizer at gatherings, they’re sure to impress. Have fun cooking, and remember—food is all about sharing love and creating memories!