Best Copycat Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe

If you’re craving a delicious and crunchy appetizer that bursts with flavor, you’re going to love this Copycat Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe. Combining crispy wonton shells packed with tender, savory chicken and topped with vibrant slaws and zesty sauces, this dish nails that perfect balance of texture and taste. It’s an easy yet impressive recipe that will satisfy your munchies and make you feel like you’re dining out right at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy perfection: The wonton shells fry up golden and crispy, providing a satisfying crunch in every bite.
• Rich chicken flavor: The seasoned chicken is juicy and packed with bold, savory notes that keep each taco exciting.
• Easy to customize: Whether you want mild or spicy, this recipe adapts wonderfully to your preferred taste.
• Quick and simple: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s great for busy weeknights or last-minute entertaining.
• Restaurant-quality at home: Impress friends and family with a dish that tastes just like Applebee’s without leaving your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing the perfect Copycat Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe. Each item works in harmony to bring out crispy textures, vibrant flavors, and the fresh crunch that makes this dish a standout.

• Chicken breasts: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for juicy, tender filling.
• Wonton wrappers: The base of your taco shell, they fry beautifully to create a perfect crunch.
• Soy sauce: Adds a deep, savory umami punch to the chicken marinade.
• Honey: Sweetens and balances the savory elements in the seasoning.
• Garlic powder: Essential for layering aromatic flavor into the chicken.
• Cabbage slaw mix: Offers a fresh, colorful crunch topping.
• Green onions: Brightens the dish with mild onion flavor and vibrant color.
• Sriracha mayo: A creamy and slightly spicy sauce that ties all the flavors together.
• Vegetable oil: For frying the wonton shells perfectly crispy.
• Lime juice: Adds tangy freshness that cuts through the richness.

Variations for Copycat Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe

Feel free to mix and match ingredients or try new toppings to make this Copycat Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe truly your own. It adapts beautifully to dietary preferences and creative twists.

• Spicy kick: Add extra chili powder or swap sriracha mayo for a hotter sauce.
• Vegetarian option: Replace chicken with marinated tofu or crispy mushrooms for a meatless version.
• Different slaw: Use kale or shredded carrots for unique texture and flavor.
• Air fryer method: Try air frying the wonton shells for a lighter, less oily crisp.
• Avocado topping: Add slices of fresh avocado for creaminess and richness.

How to Make Copycat Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the chicken

Start by slicing the chicken breasts into small, bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, honey, garlic powder, and a little lime juice. Toss the chicken in this marinade and set aside for at least 10 minutes to soak in all those bold flavors.

Step 2: Fry the wonton shells

Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan to about 350°F (175°C). Gently fold each wonton wrapper into a taco shape and carefully place them in the hot oil. Fry for about 1-2 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

Step 3: Cook the chicken

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the marinated chicken until thoroughly done and slightly caramelized on the edges, about 6-8 minutes. This step locks in the savory-sweet flavors and keeps the chicken juicy.

Step 4: Assemble the tacos

Layer the crispy wonton shells with a spoonful of cooked chicken, then top with a generous helping of cabbage slaw and sliced green onions. Drizzle sriracha mayo on top to finish your taco masterpiece.

Step 5: Serve and enjoy

Serve these delightful tacos immediately while the shells are still crisp and the filling is warm. Garnish with a wedge of lime for that extra zing.

Pro Tips for Making Copycat Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe

• Use fresh wonton wrappers: Fresher wrappers fry more evenly and get crunchier compared to frozen ones.
• Don’t overcrowd the frying pan: Fry in small batches to keep oil temperature steady and shells crispy.
• Marinate the chicken longer: Letting it sit for 30 minutes enhances flavor depth dramatically.
• Pat dry chicken pieces: Before cooking, wipe excess marinade off to prevent sogginess.
• Serve immediately: Crispy wontons soften quickly, so enjoy the tacos fresh for best texture.

How to Serve Copycat Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe

Garnishes

Add fresh cilantro, extra green onions, or a sprinkle of sesame seeds to brighten flavors and make your tacos pop visually.

Side Dishes

Compliment the tacos with simple sides like a crisp garden salad, steamed edamame, or even sweet potato fries for a full meal experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve these tacos on a stylish wooden board with small bowls of dipping sauces and lime wedges for a restaurant-style presentation at home.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, keep the chicken separate from the wonton shells in airtight containers. The shells can lose their crunch if stored together with moist ingredients.

Freezing

Cooked chicken can be frozen in portions, but try not to freeze the fried wonton shells as they become soggy. Prepare fresh shells when ready to serve for optimum crunch.

Reheating

Warm the chicken in a skillet or microwave, but re-fry or bake the wonton shells briefly in the oven at 350°F to regain their crisp texture before assembling.

FAQs

Can I bake the wonton shells instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake wonton shells at 350°F for about 6-8 minutes until crisp, though frying gives a deeper golden crunch closer to the original recipe.

What can I substitute for chicken?

Try using shrimp, tofu, or even pulled pork as alternative protein options that work wonderfully with the wonton taco format.

Is this recipe gluten-free friendly?

Standard wonton wrappers contain wheat, but you can look for gluten-free wrappers or substitute with lettuce cups for a gluten-free meal.

How spicy is the sriracha mayo?

The heat level is mild to moderate and can be adjusted easily by adding more or less sriracha to your taste.

How long does the whole recipe take to make?

This Copycat Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe typically takes about 25 to 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for quick meals.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly satisfying about this Copycat Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe that hits the right notes of crunchy, savory, and fresh all at once. It’s perfect for sharing with friends or simply indulging on a cozy night in. Give it a try—you might find your new favorite go-to appetizer or meal that never fails to impress!

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