Irresistible Copycat Applebees Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe

Crispy, golden wonton chicken tacos have become my ultimate obsession since discovering this copycat applebees chicken wonton tacos recipe.

Nobody can resist these crunchy little flavor bombs packed with Asian-inspired goodness.

My kitchen experiments led me to perfecting each delectable bite.

Layers of tender chicken, zesty slaw, and perfectly crisp wontons create an irresistible combination.

Friends always beg me to make these when we gather for casual dinners.

Restaurant-quality flavors emerge right from your own kitchen with minimal effort.

Dive into this simple yet spectacular recipe that promises to become your new weekend favorite.

Chicken Tacos Just Like Applebee’s

• Quick and Easy Fusion Delight: Dive into these irresistible copycat tacos that transform ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary meal.
• Minimal Effort, Maximum Flavor: Whip up this restaurant-inspired dish in under 45 minutes with simple marinades and straightforward cooking techniques that guarantee delicious results.
• Restaurant-Quality Experience at Home: Recreate the popular Applebee's appetizer without expensive takeout, using pantry staples and accessible ingredients that deliver restaurant-style excitement right in your kitchen.
• Crowd-Pleasing Versatility: Perfect for game nights, casual dinners, or party appetizers, these wonton tacos appeal to both kids and adults with their crispy shells, zesty chicken, and refreshing coleslaw combination.

Chicken Wonton Tacos Copycat Ingredients

• Chicken Pieces: Tender meat for the main filling of the tacos.
• Soy Sauce: Adds depth and umami flavor to the chicken marinade.

• Stir Fry Sauce: Provides a rich, savory base for chicken flavor.
• Sesame Ginger Dressing: Brings tangy and aromatic notes to the marinade.
• Brown Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps caramelize the chicken.

• Wonton Wrappers: Crispy base that forms the unique taco shell.
• Vegetable Oil: Essential for frying wonton shells to golden perfection.

• Cabbage: Crunchy base for the fresh slaw.
• Carrots: Adds color and extra crunch to the coleslaw.

• Cilantro Leaves: Fresh herb for bright, aromatic topping.
• Lime Wedges: Adds zesty citrus punch to enhance overall flavor.

Wonton Taco Assembly Like Applebee’s

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a mixing bowl, blend chicken pieces with stir fry sauce, sesame ginger dressing, soy sauce, and brown sugar.

Allow the chicken to soak up the delicious flavors for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.

Step 2: Create Crispy Wonton Shells

Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to medium-high temperature.

Carefully fold each wonton wrapper into a triangle shape.

Fry the wontons until they transform into golden, crunchy shells.

Place the fried wontons on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 3: Whip Up Fresh Coleslaw

• Thinly sliced cabbage
• Shredded carrots
• Sesame ginger dressing

Mix the ingredients thoroughly and chill in the refrigerator until serving time.

Step 4: Sizzle the Seasoned Chicken

Warm vegetable oil in a non-stick pan over medium-high heat.

Toss in the marinated chicken and cook until it develops a mouthwatering caramelized glaze and is completely cooked through.

Step 5: Assemble the Flavor-Packed Tacos

Carefully fill each crispy wonton shell with cooked chicken.

Top generously with the prepared coleslaw.

Sprinkle fresh cilantro leaves over the tacos and serve with zesty lime wedges on the side.

Wonton Taco Tips for That Applebee’s Copycat Finish

• Let chicken sit in the marinade for at least 30 minutes to ensure deep, rich flavor penetration and tenderize the meat thoroughly.
• Maintain oil temperature at 350°F and fry wontons quickly to achieve a golden, crispy shell without absorbing excess oil.
• Make coleslaw and marinate chicken in advance to reduce day-of cooking stress and enhance flavor development.
• Cook chicken on medium-high heat to caramelize the marinade, creating a glossy, flavor-packed exterior that seals in moisture.
• Add fresh cilantro and lime wedges just before serving to brighten the dish with zesty, fresh notes and elevate the overall taste profile.

Reheat Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos

• Store leftover chicken and coleslaw separately in airtight containers within 2 hours of cooking. Keep refrigerated for up to 3 days.
• Store crispy shells in a sealed container at room temperature for 1-2 days. Avoid refrigerating to maintain crunchiness.
• Warm chicken in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent drying. Add a splash of water or extra marinade to retain moisture.
• Crisp up wonton shells in a preheated oven at 350°F for 3-4 minutes. Rebuild tacos with warmed chicken and fresh coleslaw for best texture and flavor.

Applebees Chicken Wonton Tacos Serving Ideas

• Sip Sesame Spark: Pair these zesty wonton tacos with a crisp and light white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc to complement the ginger and sesame notes in the dish.
• Crunch and Cool Companion: Serve alongside a refreshing Asian-inspired cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar and a touch of honey to balance the rich, caramelized chicken flavor.
• Asian-Inspired Beverage Boost: Enhance the meal with a cold Japanese beer like Sapporo or Asahi, which cuts through the richness and provides a clean, crisp finish that matches the taco's vibrant profile.
• Zesty Dipping Delight: Create a quick dipping sauce by mixing sriracha, mayo, and a splash of lime juice to add an extra layer of tangy heat that elevates the wonton taco experience.

Chicken Wonton Tacos Copycat Style Variants

• Gluten-Free Wonton Tacos: Replace traditional wonton wrappers with gluten-free rice paper or corn tortillas, ensuring the same crispy texture while accommodating gluten-sensitive diners.
• Vegetarian Asian Tacos: Swap chicken with crispy tofu or tempeh, marinated in the same sesame ginger and soy sauce blend for a plant-based protein alternative that maintains the original flavor profile.
• Spicy Sriracha Chicken Tacos: Enhance the marinade by adding sriracha sauce for a fiery kick, creating a bolder version that appeals to heat-loving taste buds.
• Low-Carb Lettuce Wrap Option: Replace wonton shells with fresh lettuce leaves, turning the recipe into a lighter, carb-conscious meal while preserving the authentic Asian-inspired taste.

FAQs

• How do I get the wonton shells crispy without burning them?

The key is maintaining oil temperature around 350°F and frying quickly. Flip the wontons halfway through cooking and drain excess oil on paper towels to ensure a crisp texture without greasiness.

• Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Shredded pork, ground turkey, or even tofu work great in this recipe. Just ensure the protein is well-seasoned and cooked thoroughly before filling the wonton shells.

• Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?

You can bake the wonton shells instead of deep-frying, use Greek yogurt in the coleslaw, and choose lean chicken breast. These substitutions reduce calories while maintaining flavor.

• What if I can't find sesame ginger dressing?

Create a quick substitute by mixing rice vinegar, soy sauce, minced ginger, a touch of honey, and sesame oil. This homemade version will work perfectly in both the marinade and coleslaw.

Copycat Applebees Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe

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4.8 from 17 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Crispy wonton shells cradle zesty Asian-inspired chicken in Copycat Applebees Chicken Wonton Tacos that blend bold flavors with restaurant-style flair. Crunch meets spice in these irresistible hand-held bites that bring restaurant magic straight to home kitchens.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 1 pound chicken breast, cut into small pieces

Marinade Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup stir fry sauce
• 1/4 cup sesame ginger dressing
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar

Taco Shell and Coleslaw Ingredients:

• 10 wonton wrappers
• 1 cup thinly sliced cabbage
• 1/4 cup shredded carrots
• 2 tablespoons sesame ginger dressing
• Vegetable oil, for frying

Garnish:

• Fresh cilantro
• Lime wedges

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Instructions

1. Infuse chicken pieces with a vibrant marinade of stir fry sauce, sesame ginger dressing, soy sauce, and brown sugar. Allow the protein to steep in these flavors for a minimum of 30 minutes, ensuring deep flavor penetration.
2. Prepare a bubbling oil bath in a deep frying pan, heating to 350°F. Delicately transform wonton wrappers into crisp triangular vessels by gently folding and submerging them in hot oil. Fry until they achieve a golden, crunchy exterior, rotating midway to ensure even browning. Drain excess oil on absorbent paper towels.
3. Craft a zesty coleslaw by combining finely sliced cabbage and shredded carrots. Drizzle with sesame ginger dressing, tossing until every strand is elegantly coated. Refrigerate to let flavors meld and crisp textures develop.
4. Sizzle marinated chicken in a hot non-stick skillet, allowing the protein to caramelize and develop a rich, glossy glaze. Cook until each morsel is thoroughly done and glistening with concentrated flavor.
5. Construct miniature flavor packages by nestling succulent chicken into crisp wonton shells. Crown with the chilled coleslaw, then garnish with fresh cilantro leaves. Serve alongside bright lime wedges for a citrusy accent.

Notes

• Marinate the chicken longer for deeper, more intense flavor profiles that will make your taste buds dance with excitement.
• Create crispy wonton shells by using tongs to carefully hold the wrapper while frying, ensuring even golden-brown coloration without burning.
• Adjust the marinade’s sweetness by reducing brown sugar for a low-carb option or using sugar alternatives like stevia for diabetic-friendly modifications.
• Prep coleslaw in advance to let flavors meld together, giving a more robust and harmonious taste to your copycat Applebees Chicken Wonton Tacos.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Fat: 14 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 35 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 22 g
• Cholesterol: 70 mg