Copycat Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe
This Copycat Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe features crispy fried wonton shells filled with tender, savory marinated chicken and topped with vibrant cabbage slaw, green onions, and zesty sriracha mayo. Ready in under 30 minutes, this appetizer balances crunchy texture with bold flavors, perfect for a quick, restaurant-quality snack or meal at home.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 10-12 tacos 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Contains Wheat (Not Gluten Free by default); gluten-free version possible with substitute wrappers
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Marinade
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp lime juice
Wonton Shells and Frying
- 20–24 wonton wrappers
- Vegetable oil, for frying (about 2 cups)
Toppings
- 1 cup cabbage slaw mix
- 3 green onions, sliced
- 1/4 cup sriracha mayo (adjust to taste)
- Wedges of lime, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken: Slice the chicken breasts into small, bite-sized pieces. In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, honey, garlic powder, and lime juice. Toss the chicken in the marinade, ensuring all pieces are coated. Set aside and let marinate for at least 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Fry the wonton shells: Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Gently fold each wonton wrapper into a taco shape, carefully placing them into the hot oil. Fry each side for 1-2 minutes or until the shells turn golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Cook the chicken: In a medium skillet over medium heat, cook the marinated chicken pieces for 6-8 minutes until thoroughly cooked and slightly caramelized on the edges. This enhances the savory-sweet flavor while keeping the chicken juicy.
- Assemble the tacos: Place the crispy wonton shells on a serving plate. Add a spoonful of cooked chicken into each shell, then top generously with cabbage slaw mix and sliced green onions. Drizzle sriracha mayo over the top to finish your tacos.
- Serve and enjoy: Serve the wonton tacos immediately while the shells remain crisp and the filling warm. Garnish with lime wedges for an added burst of fresh flavor.
Notes
- Use fresh wonton wrappers for crispier shells compared to frozen ones.
- Fry in small batches to maintain oil temperature and prevent soggy shells.
- Marinate chicken for 30 minutes for deeper flavor if time allows.
- Pat dry chicken pieces before cooking to avoid sogginess.
- Serve immediately as wonton shells soften quickly.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tacos
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: Chicken wonton tacos, Copycat Applebee's, crispy wonton shells, appetizer, easy recipe, quick snacks