Ready to shake up your taco Tuesday? These Applebee’s-inspired chicken wonton tacos are a game-changer, combining crispy wonton shells with savory chicken filling for a fusion dish that’s irresistibly delicious.
Why This Recipe Works
- The crispy wonton shells offer a delightful contrast to the tender, flavorful chicken filling.
- It’s a perfect fusion of Asian and Mexican cuisines, bringing the best of both worlds to your plate.
- Easy to customize with your favorite toppings, making it a hit for any gathering.
- Quick to prepare, ensuring you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup coleslaw mix
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp sriracha
- 12 wonton wrappers
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
Equipment Needed
- Muffin tin
- Mixing bowls
- Skillet
- Oven
Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a muffin tin with olive oil. Press each wonton wrapper into the muffin tin cups, forming a shell. Bake for 5 minutes until lightly golden. Tip: Keep an eye on them to prevent over-browning.
Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced chicken and cook until no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Tip: For extra flavor, add a dash of garlic powder.
Mix the Slaw
In a bowl, combine coleslaw mix, mayonnaise, and sriracha. Stir until well mixed. This will add a creamy and spicy kick to your tacos.
Assemble the Tacos
Fill each wonton shell with cooked chicken, top with the slaw mixture, and sprinkle with shredded cheese and green onions. Return to the oven for 3-5 minutes until the cheese is melted.
Serve and Enjoy
Let the tacos cool for a minute before serving. They’re best enjoyed warm, with extra sriracha on the side for those who like it hot.
Tips and Tricks
For an even crispier wonton shell, brush the wrappers with a little beaten egg before baking. If you’re short on time, use pre-cooked chicken or a rotisserie chicken. To make this dish vegetarian, substitute the chicken with tofu or mushrooms. Always let the tacos sit for a minute after baking to set, making them easier to eat.
Recipe Variations
- Swap the chicken for shrimp for a seafood twist.
- Use flour tortillas instead of wonton wrappers for a more traditional taco feel.
- Add avocado slices or guacamole for a creamy texture.
- Experiment with different cheeses, like pepper jack for extra spice.
- Try a different sauce, such as teriyaki, for a sweeter flavor profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these tacos ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time and assemble them just before baking. However, the wonton shells are best when freshly baked to maintain their crispiness.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover tacos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to keep the shells crispy.
Can I freeze these tacos?
It’s not recommended to freeze assembled tacos as the wonton shells will become soggy. You can freeze the cooked chicken and slaw mixture separately.
Summary
These Applebee’s-inspired chicken wonton tacos are a fun and flavorful twist on traditional tacos, combining crispy wonton shells with a savory chicken and slaw filling. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a party appetizer.