Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos

These Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos are a fun and delicious way to enjoy a favorite dish in the comfort of your home. Perfect for parties, game nights, or a cozy family dinner, these tacos feature tender chicken tossed in a sweet and savory sauce, topped with zesty slaw—all nestled in crispy wonton shells. The combination of textures and flavors will surely impress your guests!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.
• Packed with Flavor: The honey-garlic chicken and crunchy slaw create a delightful balance that satisfies any palate.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them as an appetizer, main course, or party snack—these tacos fit any occasion!
• Crispy Texture: Baking the wonton wrappers results in a satisfying crunch that elevates the overall dish.
• Healthier Alternative: By baking instead of frying the wontons, you can enjoy this tasty treat with fewer calories.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools on hand is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish
• Large skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Cooking spray or brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: A sturdy baking dish ensures even cooking of the wonton shells, giving you that perfect crispiness.
• Large skillet: Ideal for sautéing chicken quickly at high heat while keeping it juicy and tender.
• Mixing bowls: Necessary for combining ingredients efficiently, helping to keep your workspace organized.

Ingredients

These Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos are the perfect copycat, filled with honey-garlic chicken and zesty slaw in a crispy wonton shell.

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 Topping

• 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

How to Make Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375 F. Spray the wonton wrappers with cooking spray or brush them lightly with olive or canola oil. Drape the wrappers over the sides of a 9×13 baking dish. Bake for 7-8 minutes, keeping a close eye on them to prevent burning. Once done, gently pull apart the wonton shells while they are still pliable for easier filling. Return them to the oven and bake another 7-8 minutes until crispy.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a large bowl, mix the diced raw chicken with hoisin sauce, sesame oil, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. Heat a large skillet over high heat. Sauté the chicken mixture for about 7-8 minutes, tossing frequently until cooked through.

Step 3: Prepare the Slaw

While the chicken cooks, combine all coleslaw ingredients in another large bowl. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly coated.

Step 4: Assemble Your Tacos

Add the cooked chicken mixture into each baked wonton shell. Top generously with coleslaw. Drizzle sweet chili sauce over each taco and finish by sprinkling chopped cilantro and sesame seeds on top. Serve immediately and enjoy!

How to Serve Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos

These Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos are a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to elevate your dining experience. Whether hosting a party or enjoying a casual dinner, these serving suggestions will add flair to your meal.

With Dipping Sauces

• Sweet Chili Sauce: A perfect complement, adding a sweet and spicy kick.
• Creamy Avocado Dip: Light and fresh, it enhances the flavors of the tacos beautifully.

Accompanied by Fresh Sides

• Zesty Cilantro Rice: Offers a flavorful base that pairs well with the crispy tacos.
• Classic Guacamole: Creamy and rich, it adds a delicious contrast to the crunchy texture.

Garnished for Extra Flavor

• Chopped Cilantro: Adds freshness and enhances the overall presentation.
• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime brightens up the dish with zesty notes.

How to Perfect Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos

Achieving the ideal version of Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos requires attention to detail and some cooking tips. Follow these suggestions for a flawless outcome.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance flavor and texture.
• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on wonton wrappers while baking to prevent burning.
• Customize Filling: Feel free to add other vegetables or spices for unique flavor profiles.
• Serve Immediately: These tacos are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven for maximum crunch.

Best Side Dishes for Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos

Pairing side dishes with your Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

1. Crispy Potato Wedges: Seasoned and baked until golden brown, they make a hearty side.
2. Corn Salsa: A vibrant mix of corn, tomatoes, and onions adds color and flavor.
3. Black Bean Salad: Protein-packed and refreshing, it complements the tacos nicely.
4. Mexican Street Corn Salad: Creamy with a touch of spice, it’s irresistible alongside tacos.
5. Grilled Vegetables: Lightly charred veggies offer smoky flavors that pair well with chicken.
6. Simple Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances out the richness of the tacos.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos even better.

• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can make it dry. Always sauté until just cooked through.
• Skipping the Baking Step: Not baking the wonton wrappers can lead to soggy tacos. Make sure to bake them until they’re crispy.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Failing to season your chicken well can result in bland tacos. Use hoisin sauce and soy sauce generously for flavor.
• Not Preparing Slaw Ahead: Making coleslaw too late can leave it limp. Prepare it ahead of time to ensure crispness.
• Using Cold Wonton Wrappers: Starting with cold wonton wrappers can cause them to crack. Allow them to come to room temperature before baking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep the chicken and coleslaw separate from the wonton shells to maintain their texture.

Freezing Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos

• Freeze unbaked wonton shells for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe bag.
• Cooked tacos can be frozen, but it’s best to freeze the chicken mixture separately from the shells.

Reheating Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place tacos on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place tacos on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a little oil, and warm the tacos for about 2-3 minutes on each side.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How do I make Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos crispy?

To achieve crispy wonton tacos, ensure you bake them properly after shaping. Bake until golden brown and watch closely!

Can I use different meats in Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos?

Yes! Feel free to substitute chicken with ground beef or turkey for a different flavor profile.

What toppings work well on Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos?

You can add avocado slices, extra cilantro, or even some sliced jalapeños for added taste and texture.

How do I store leftover Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; keep components separated if possible.

Final Thoughts

Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with your favorite toppings or try different proteins. They make a great appetizer or main dish that everyone will enjoy!