If you’re searching for a fun, crunchy, and flavor-packed appetizer, you have to try this Chicken Wonton Tacos (Applebee’s Copycat!) Recipe. Imagine tender chicken glazed in a savory-sweet marinade tucked into perfectly crispy wonton shells, topped with a refreshing sesame-ginger coleslaw. It’s the perfect blend of textures and bright flavors that make these tacos an irresistible bite every single time. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or just craving something new for dinner, this recipe is sure to become a beloved favorite in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl filled with small orange pieces of meat soaked in a dark brown sauce, creating one visible layer with a shiny and wet texture. The bowl is placed on a surface with a white marbled texture, surrounded by a bunch of green herbs on the upper left, a folded light cloth on the upper right, and a red and white checkered cloth on the lower left. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Chicken Wonton Tacos (Applebee’s Copycat!) Recipe calls for simple, everyday ingredients that pack a flavorful punch. Each component brings something special — from the succulent marinated chicken to the crispy wonton shells and the tangy coleslaw that adds a fresh crunch and vibrant color.

1 pound chicken breast, cut into small pieces: Choose fresh chicken breast for tender, juicy bites.
2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Essential for cooking the chicken and frying the wontons properly.
1/2 cup stir fry sauce: Adds a balance of savory and sweet flavor to the marinade.
1/4 cup sesame ginger dressing: Creates a zesty, aromatic touch in the marinade and coleslaw.
2 tablespoons soy sauce: Provides umami depth and saltiness to the chicken.
1 tablespoon brown sugar: Sweetens and helps caramelize the chicken during cooking.
1 cup thinly sliced cabbage: Adds crisp texture and freshness to the slaw.
1/4 cup shredded carrots: Brings color and a gentle sweetness to the coleslaw.
10 wonton wrappers: The star of the show – they crisp perfectly when fried to hold all the delicious fillings.
Vegetable oil, for frying: Needed in sufficient quantity to deep fry the wonton shells until golden.
Fresh cilantro (optional): Adds a bright herbaceous note as garnish.
Lime wedges (optional): The perfect zesty finishing touch for serving.

How to Make Chicken Wonton Tacos (Applebee’s Copycat!) Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by combining the chicken pieces with stir fry sauce, sesame ginger dressing, soy sauce, and brown sugar in a bowl. This marinade is the secret behind the juicy, flavorful chicken that forms the heart of your tacos. Letting the chicken soak up these ingredients for at least 30 minutes guarantees every bite bursts with savory-sweet goodness.

Step 2: Prepare the Wonton Taco Shells

While the chicken marinates, heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan until it reaches around 350°F (175°C). Carefully fold each wonton wrapper into a triangle without sealing the edges, then fry them until they’re golden and irresistibly crispy, flipping halfway through for even browning. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. These crispy wonton shells provide the perfect crunchy vessel for the filling.

Step 3: Make the Coleslaw

In a bowl, mix thinly sliced cabbage and shredded carrots with sesame ginger dressing. This simple but flavorful coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch and a hint of tang that complements the savory chicken beautifully. Cover and chill it in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble your tacos.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until it’s completely cooked through and the marinade caramelizes to form a shiny glaze. This step intensifies the flavor and texture, making the chicken succulent and full of rich, savory notes.

Step 5: Assemble the Chicken Wonton Tacos (Applebee’s Copycat!) Recipe

Spoon about 1 to 1 ½ tablespoons of the cooked chicken into each crispy wonton shell and top generously with the coleslaw. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve with lime wedges on the side. The bright lime juice squeezed over each taco adds a lively zing that perfectly balances the richness inside.

How to Serve Chicken Wonton Tacos (Applebee’s Copycat!) Recipe

This image shows a close-up of three crispy golden brown wonton chips filled with pulled chicken mixed with white cheese and topped with small green onion pieces. The wontons are placed inside a black bowl on a white marbled surface. To the right of the bowl is a bright green lime wedge. In the background, a white bowl filled with a light-colored dipping sauce and a toasted baguette slice are partially visible but blurred. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh cilantro is a fantastic garnish as it adds herbaceous brightness that pairs beautifully with the chicken and coleslaw, while lime wedges bring just the right citrus pop. If you want to get creative, throwing on some thinly sliced green onions or a drizzle of spicy mayo can elevate these tacos even further.

Side Dishes

These tacos work wonderfully alongside light, fresh sides like cucumber salad or edamame for a balanced meal. A simple steamed vegetable or even some crunchy snap peas can add contrast without overshadowing the vibrant taco flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress your guests? Arrange the Chicken Wonton Tacos (Applebee’s Copycat!) Recipe on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of extra sesame ginger dressing, soy sauce, and lime wedges. You could even offer a variety of toppings like sliced jalapenos, pickled radishes, or crunchy peanuts for a fun, interactive taco bar experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover cooked chicken, coleslaw, and wonton shells separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The chicken stays flavorful for up to 3 days, and the coleslaw keeps its crispness when chilled properly. Keep the wonton shells dry to prevent sogginess.

Freezing

While cooked chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months, it’s best to avoid freezing the wonton shells or coleslaw, as their textures don’t hold up well after thawing. Freeze only the cooked chicken in a sealed container or freezer bag, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat the chicken gently in a skillet over medium heat to maintain its caramelized glaze and moisture. If you want to refresh the wonton shells, a quick 2-3 minute blast in a hot oven or toaster oven will help restore their crispness. Keep coleslaw chilled and add fresh just before serving for the best texture.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs will give you a juicier and slightly richer flavor. Just cut them into small pieces and follow the marinade and cooking instructions as usual.

Is it possible to bake the wonton shells instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake the wonton wrappers shaped as tacos at 375°F for about 8-10 minutes until crispy. They won’t be quite as golden or crunchy as fried, but it’s a great option for a lighter version.

Can I make the coleslaw ahead of time?

Definitely. The coleslaw can be made a day in advance and kept in the refrigerator. This actually helps the flavors meld nicely, just give it a quick stir before topping your tacos.

What can I substitute for sesame ginger dressing?

If you don’t have sesame ginger dressing, a mix of soy sauce, a little rice vinegar, a pinch of sugar, and some grated fresh ginger can work well as a replacement.

Are these Chicken Wonton Tacos suitable for a party?

Yes! Their bite-sized form and exciting crunch make them perfect finger foods for gatherings. Prepare in advance and keep components ready to assemble just before serving for a stress-free party treat.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Wonton Tacos (Applebee’s Copycat!) Recipe is such a delightful way to combine crispy textures with bright, bold flavors that everyone will adore. It’s easy to prepare, full of fresh ingredients, and sure to impress whether you’re sharing with friends or enjoying a cozy night in. Give this recipe a try and watch these tasty tacos become a fast favorite in your recipe collection!