Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos

Imagine crispy wonton shells cradling tender chicken, a symphony of sweet and savory flavors dancing on your tongue with every single bite. That’s exactly what you get with these homemade Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos, a delightful explosion of textures and tastes.

Craving that familiar, fun appetizer but want to skip the restaurant? We’ve got you covered! This recipe perfectly recreates the beloved dish, bringing the party to your kitchen in just a few simple steps.

• Effortless to make, ideal for weeknight meals or casual gatherings.
• The perfect blend of crispy, savory, and sweet for an irresistible flavor.
• Beautifully plated, these tacos are a feast for the eyes and the palate.
• Easily customizable to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.

Ingredients for Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Chicken Breast Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for easy preparation. They provide a lean protein base for the tacos.

Wonton Wrappers These form the crispy taco shells. Look for them in the refrigerated section of most grocery stores.

Shredded Lettuce Adds a refreshing crunch and balances the richness of the other ingredients. Iceberg lettuce works well.

Shredded Carrots Provides a touch of sweetness and vibrant color. Pre-shredded carrots save time and effort.

Sesame Seeds A garnish that adds nutty flavor and visual appeal. Toasted sesame seeds enhance the flavor even more.

Green Onions Offer a mild onion flavor and a pop of freshness. Thinly slice them for even distribution.

Soy Sauce Forms the base of the savory sauce, providing umami and depth of flavor. Use low-sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness.

Rice Vinegar Adds a tangy counterpoint to the sweetness of the sauce. It also helps to tenderize the chicken.

Brown Sugar Provides sweetness and caramelization to the sauce. Light or dark brown sugar can be used.

Ginger Grated fresh ginger adds warmth and aromatic complexity to the sauce. Ground ginger can be used as a substitute.

Garlic Minced garlic contributes pungent flavor to the sauce. Freshly minced garlic is preferred for the best taste.

Chicken Broth Helps to thin the sauce and add richness. Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness.

Cornstarch Used as a thickening agent for the sauce. Mix it with water to create a slurry before adding it to the sauce.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Cut the chicken breasts into small, bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, combine the chicken with soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, grated ginger, and minced garlic. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to a few hours in the refrigerator.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until it’s fully cooked and browned, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add chicken broth and bring to a simmer. In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Add the slurry to the skillet and stir until the sauce thickens. Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet and toss to coat.

Step 4: Fry the Wonton Shells

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Carefully place wonton wrappers into the hot oil, one at a time. Fry for about 1-2 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove the fried wonton wrappers from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Assemble the Tacos

Place the fried wonton wrappers on a serving plate. Fill each wonton shell with the chicken mixture, shredded lettuce, and shredded carrots.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Garnish the tacos with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

The key to nailing these delectable chicken wonton tacos lies in the sequence. First, sear the chicken to golden perfection. Then, while the chicken rests, prepare the vibrant slaw. Assemble those crispy wonton shells last, right before serving, to prevent sogginess.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to get creative with your fillings! Swap out the shredded chicken for ground turkey or even seasoned tofu for a vegetarian option. Add a dash of sriracha for a spicy kick or some mango salsa for a tropical twist. This recipe is your canvas!

Storing & Reheating

Store the chicken and slaw separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken gently in a pan or microwave. Assemble the tacos just before serving to maintain the wontons’ crispy texture.

Here are some helpful tips to elevate your Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos game:

• To achieve the perfect sear, ensure your pan is screaming hot before adding the chicken and avoid overcrowding it.
• For an extra layer of flavor, marinate the chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic before cooking.
• Prevent soggy wontons by assembling the tacos immediately before serving; the moisture from the slaw can soften them quickly.

(Personal anecdote)

I remember the first time I made these for a game night. My friends devoured them so fast; they practically disappeared! Everyone raved about the crispy shells and the flavorful chicken.

Conclusion for Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos :

This homemade version of Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With crispy wonton shells, flavorful chicken, and refreshing slaw, it offers a delightful mix of textures and tastes. Feel free to customize the toppings and spice level to your liking. Whether you are looking for a fun appetizer or a light meal, these tacos are a delicious and easy-to-make option that brings the restaurant experience right to your kitchen. Enjoy the satisfying crunch and savor every bite!

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FAQs :

What makes this Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos recipe special?

Well, let me tell you, it’s not just throwing chicken on a wonton! This recipe captures the magic of that restaurant favorite with a homemade twist. We’re talking crispy wonton shells, juicy, flavorful chicken that’s been simmered in a tangy sauce, and a refreshing slaw that cuts through the richness. It’s the perfect combination of sweet, savory, and crunchy, all in one delicious bite. The best part? You can make it at home without battling the crowds or questionable restaurant lighting. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Can I use different toppings for these Chicken Wonton Tacos?

Absolutely! The beauty of this Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos recipe is its versatility. While the slaw we’ve provided is a classic pairing, feel free to get creative. Consider adding some diced avocado for creaminess, a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for nuttiness, or a drizzle of sriracha mayo for a spicy kick. You could even try a mango salsa for a tropical twist! Don’t be afraid to experiment and tailor the toppings to your own preferences. After all, cooking should be fun, and this recipe is your blank canvas.

What’s the best way to prevent the wonton shells from getting soggy?

Ah, the age-old question of wonton crispiness! To prevent your wonton shells from turning into a sad, soggy mess, ensure they are completely cooled before adding the chicken mixture. Also, don’t overload the shells. Too much moisture from the filling can cause them to lose their crunch. If you’re making these Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos ahead of time, store the wonton shells and chicken mixture separately. Assemble them just before serving for optimal crispiness. Think of it as a culinary race against sogginess, and you’re winning!

How can I make these Chicken Wonton Tacos spicier?

Spice lover, are we? If you’re craving a fiery kick, there are several ways to amp up the heat in this Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos recipe. You could add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the chicken mixture, incorporate some finely chopped jalapeños into the slaw, or drizzle a generous amount of your favorite hot sauce over the finished tacos. For a more subtle heat, try using a chili-garlic paste in the sauce. Just remember to taste as you go and adjust the spice level to your liking. Don’t set your mouth on fire!