How can I ensure the wonton shells stay crispy?

Bake the wonton wrappers until golden and shape them over a rack so air circulates, preventing sogginess. Serve immediately for best texture.

Can I use a different protein besides chicken?

Yes, diced shrimp, pork, or even tofu can be substituted for chicken. Adjust cooking time as needed for chosen protein.

What’s the purpose of honey in both chicken and slaw?

Honey provides a subtle sweetness that balances the savory soy and tangy vinegar, enhancing the flavors of both components.

Is it possible to prepare components in advance?

The chicken and slaw can be made ahead and stored separately. Assemble just before serving to keep shells crisp.

Are there tips for shaping wonton wrappers?

Gently drape wrappers over an oven rack or mold to create taco shapes. Watch closely during baking for even crispness.

Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos with Crunchy Slaw

A plate of food with a sauce on it. | cookrisp.com

Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos have transformed my weeknight dinner game with their irresistible crunch and sweet savory flavor. This easy copycat recipe comes together in under one hour, making it perfect for busy evenings or effortless party appetizers when you want that bold restaurant taste at home. Just 15 minutes of prep and about 30 to 45 minutes cooking means you can skip the takeout line and serve up crispy, saucy tacos with Asian-inspired flair any night of the week.

I first made these Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos when a late night craving for their craveable sweet and savory filling hit me on a Friday. The first bite offered that perfect balance of smoky, juicy chicken and crispy shell, making them my go to quick dinner that delivers all the bold, fresh flavor I wanted without the greasy feeling of takeout.

Gather Your Ingredients for Chicken Wonton Tacos

One pound boneless, skinless chicken breast diced: Delivers juicy, lean protein throughout every taco; use fresh, well trimmed pieces for best texture. You can substitute with boneless thighs for richer flavor or use plant based alternatives as needed.
Olive oil: Adds richness and helps brown the chicken evenly; use extra virgin for added depth or substitute avocado oil if desired.
Low sodium soy sauce: Provides deep umami without excess salt; choose naturally brewed brands, or swap for gluten free tamari if required.
Honey: Infuses the sauce with sweet balance and aids in caramelization for glossy texture; pure maple syrup can work if needed.
Toasted sesame oil: Lends authentic nutty aroma and is crucial for signature Asian flavor. Only a little is needed, so look for good quality brands.
Rice vinegar: Offers brightness and tang without overpowering sugar or salt; always use unseasoned vinegar for best control.
Brown sugar: Deepens the sweetness and creates that signature glossy sauce; light or dark brown both work here.
Fresh garlic, minced: Brings sharp, aromatic intensity; always use fresh instead of powder for best results.
Fresh ginger, minced: Adds warmth and zing, balancing sweetness in the sauce; scrape skin with a spoon for easy prep.
Wonton wrappers: Form the signature crispy taco shell; use fresh, pliable square or round wrappers and opt for gluten free versions if needed.
Coleslaw mix: Combines crisp shredded cabbage and carrot for speedy prep and vibrant color. Pre-bagged or freshly shredded both work.
Mayonnaise: Provides creaminess in the slaw; choose avocado based for dairy free, or light versions for lower fat.
Green onions, chopped: Offer freshness and a mild bite for garnish; use both green and white parts.
Sesame seeds (optional): Add visual contrast and an extra layer of flavor; white or black seeds both shine as a finish.

How to Make Applebee&rsquo;s Chicken Wonton Tacos

Sauté Chicken for Succulent Juiciness:: Pour olive oil into a large nonstick skillet and heat over medium until shimmering. Add diced chicken in a single layer, letting it cook undisturbed for two to three minutes for a golden sear. Stir and keep cooking another four to six minutes, until all pieces are browned and cooked through with juices running clear and no pink in the center; firm texture signals doneness.
Simmer Sweet and Savory Sauce:: Whisk low sodium soy sauce, honey, toasted sesame oil, rice vinegar, brown sugar, minced garlic, and ginger in a bowl until smooth. Pour over the cooked chicken, tossing to fully coat, then let the mixture bubble gently for two to three minutes until the sauce thickens and clings to the chicken in a glossy sheen, filling your kitchen with fragrant aromas.
Toss Up the Tangy Slaw:: Combine coleslaw mix, mayonnaise, honey, and rice vinegar in a mixing bowl. Toss together until the vegetables are shiny, crisp, and evenly coated; chilling in the fridge for at least ten minutes intensifies crunch and flavor for later assembly.
Bake Ultra Crispy Wonton Shells:: Preheat oven to 375°F. Lightly coat both sides of each wonton wrapper with a mist of cooking spray, then drape them over the bars of a baking rack set on a sheet pan to form taco shapes. Bake five to seven minutes, watching after the five minute mark, until the wrappers are deep golden and crisp all over. Let cool for at least two minutes so the shells firm up; underbaking will make them chewy not crispy.
Layer Chicken and Slaw in Shells:: When shells have cooled slightly, spoon a generous amount of warm chicken into each prepared shell. Top with tangy slaw, letting some pieces show for color and texture, then sprinkle green onions and sesame seeds if using for garnish.
Serve Hot Before They Lose Their Crunch:: Arrange tacos on a platter and serve immediately while still crisp. Encourage everyone to eat promptly for the best contrast between the warm, saucy chicken and the cool, creamy slaw; these tacos lose their crunch as they sit, so timing is everything for restaurant style results.

The first time I made these, I swapped in fresh ginger and garlic instead of powder and was amazed by the boost in aroma and taste. My kids always request extra slaw and we make it a family event to assemble tacos together. Each serving gives lean protein and can easily become dairy free or gluten free depending on what our guests need.

Smart Swaps and Variations for Chicken Wonton Tacos

This recipe adapts beautifully to dietary preferences and pantry finds. For gluten free versions, use tamari and certified gluten free wraps. For spice lovers, a dash of sriracha or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes in the sauce brings heat. Substitute tofu or tempeh for chicken to make it plant based, or turn leftovers into a bigger meal by adding cooked brown rice as a base beneath the taco fillings.

How to Store and Reheat Applebee&rsquo;s Chicken Wonton Tacos

For easy leftovers and meal prep, keep filling and shells separate. Store cooled baked wonton shells in an airtight container at room temperature up to three days. Place cooked chicken and slaw in separate airtight containers in the fridge up to four days. To freeze, cool the chicken completely, add to a freezer safe bag, and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave just until warmed through before assembling tacos fresh.

What to Serve with Applebee&rsquo;s Chicken Wonton Tacos

Serve these tacos as a main or appetizer with crunchy Asian cucumber salad or quick pickled vegetables for a refreshing bite. Pair with steamed jasmine rice or coconut rice to round out the meal for heartier appetites. Enjoy with a light sparkling wine or chilled ginger iced tea to complement the sweet and savory flavors at a family dinner or casual gathering.

Nutritional Benefits

Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos are loaded with lean protein from chicken breast and vibrant veggies from the slaw, delivering excellent nutrition with every bite. The homemade sauce uses minimal added sugars and no heavy frying, keeping this lighter than classic restaurant versions, while healthy fats from olive and sesame oil support balanced diets. You can tailor the recipe to be gluten free, dairy free, or even lower in carbs depending on your needs.

Recipe Success Tips

If you overcrowd the skillet, the chicken may steam instead of brown, so always cook in batches for best flavor. Underbaked wrappers will turn chewy and soggy, so bake until they are deeply golden before filling. Marinate chicken in a bit of sauce for up to thirty minutes before cooking for deeper taste, and fill shells only at serving time to keep them super crisp.

These Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos are a quick way to enjoy restaurant style flavor at home and bring fun to family meals. Try making them once, and you’ll find yourself coming back to this crowd pleasing recipe again and again.

Common Questions About This Recipe

→ How can I ensure the wonton shells stay crispy?: Bake the wonton wrappers until golden and shape them over a rack so air circulates, preventing sogginess. Serve immediately for best texture.
→ Can I use a different protein besides chicken?: Yes, diced shrimp, pork, or even tofu can be substituted for chicken. Adjust cooking time as needed for chosen protein.
→ What’s the purpose of honey in both chicken and slaw?: Honey provides a subtle sweetness that balances the savory soy and tangy vinegar, enhancing the flavors of both components.
→ Is it possible to prepare components in advance?: The chicken and slaw can be made ahead and stored separately. Assemble just before serving to keep shells crisp.
→ Are there tips for shaping wonton wrappers?: Gently drape wrappers over an oven rack or mold to create taco shapes. Watch closely during baking for even crispness.

Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos