Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos

If you dream of making restaurant-worthy appetizers at home these Applebees Chicken Wonton Tacos are a flavor-packed favorite the whole family asks for on busy weeknights. They have that irresistible mix of sticky chicken crunchy shells and tangy slaw you crave with way less effort than you would think.

I still remember the first time I served these up for friends on game night no leftovers in sight It quickly became my go-to appetizer whenever I want to impress with minimal stress

Ingredients

• Chicken breasts diced: lean protein that cooks quickly make sure to choose boneless for ease
• Hoisin sauce: delivers signature sweetness and depth look for brands with natural ingredients
• Sesame oil: rich nutty flavor to boost the whole dish toasted type gives a major upgrade
• Soy sauce: for savory umami go for low sodium if desired
• Garlic and fresh ginger: add bright aromatic kick fresh always beats jarred for the best flavor
• Pre-shredded coleslaw mix: instant crunch and color find blends with red cabbage and carrots for extra appeal
• Green onions sliced: a peppery zip and pretty hit of green buy firm unruly stalks
• Rice vinegar: a tangy light acid that ties the slaw together go for unseasoned types to control salt
• Honey: balances out acidity and brings a floral touch raw or pure honey tastes best
• Wonton wrappers: the edible taco shells find these refrigerated by tofu and spring rolls check for flexibility and no cracks
• Sweet chili sauce for drizzling: a gentle heat and sticky finish find Thai brands with clean labels
• Chopped cilantro: fresh herbal lift rinse well and use leaves and tender stems
• Sesame seeds: toasty crunch sprinkle on before serving and use white or black as you wish

Instructions

Make the Wonton Taco Shells:

Arrange wonton wrappers on a clean work surface and lightly coat them with oil or spray so they bake up crisp and golden. Carefully drape each wonton over the side of a baking dish so half hangs on either side. Bake in a preheated oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for about seven to eight minutes until they begin to set and lightly brown but do not let them burn. Take them out while still pliable and gently pull the shells apart just enough to allow more space for filling. Return them to the oven for another seven to eight minutes until fully crisp and set aside to cool. Watch these closely as they go from golden to burnt in a flash

Prepare the Chicken Filling:

Combine your diced chicken breasts with hoisin sauce sesame oil soy sauce minced garlic and ginger in a large bowl. Mix well to evenly coat the chicken pieces with marinade for maximum flavor in every bite. Heat a large skillet over high heat. Add the chicken mixture and sauté stirring often so the aromatics do not burn. Cook for about seven to eight minutes until the meat is fully cooked through and browned in spots. Set aside and keep warm so the filling stays juicy

Mix the Asian Slaw:

While the chicken cooks add coleslaw mix and sliced green onions to a clean bowl. Drizzle with sesame oil rice vinegar soy sauce and honey. Toss thoroughly to combine and let the slaw rest for a few minutes so the flavors meld and the veggies soften just a bit. The slaw should taste tangy and just slightly sweet

Assemble the Tacos:

Once your shells and fillings are ready use a spoon to fill each crispy wonton shell with a generous scoop of cooked chicken. Top with a handful of Asian slaw. Drizzle over sweet chili sauce and finish with chopped cilantro and a few sesame seeds for flavor and crunch. Serve right away for the best texture

These tacos were the first thing I cooked for my sister-in-laws birthday and even my picky nephews raved about them

Storage Tips

Keep assembled tacos crisp by waiting to fill them until just before serving Store any leftover chicken or slaw in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days For shells store them at room temperature in a sealed bag and refresh in a hot oven for a few minutes if needed

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap chicken thighs for breasts for a juicier filling If you are out of hoisin try a mix of barbecue sauce and soy as a quick stand-in Gluten-free soy sauce and wonton wrappers make this accessible to more guests You can even use rotisserie chicken in a pinch

Serving Suggestions

These are perfect party bites on their own but can also be part of a fusion meal Serve with bowls of extra sweet chili sauce and finish with a fresh lime wedge for some zing For larger gatherings they make a vibrant shared platter with edamame and cucumber salad

Cultural Context

Applebees Chicken Wonton Tacos blend classic American party food energy with East Asian flavor profiles For many home cooks they are a fun path into working with hoisin and wonton wrappers two ingredients that unlock so many other fast global recipes

Seasonal Adaptations

Use a holiday-themed coleslaw mix or add shredded Brussels sprouts and apple for fall Fresh mint or Thai basil makes a lovely summer swap for cilantro Grilled chicken adds smoky flavor in outdoor cooking months

Success Stories

I have heard from several friends who tried these for family picnic baskets and weekday lunches with great success The crispy shells always get compliments People love how the filling stays juicy and bright even after a short trip

Freezer Meal Conversion

Shape and bake the wonton shells ahead then cool completely and freeze between layers of parchment in a sealed container Reheat directly from frozen in a hot oven Fill straight from the fridge for a grab-and-go treat

For the perfect appetizer experience serve these tacos freshly assembled while crisp and enjoy the blend of bold flavors and textures. They disappear fast so consider doubling the recipe for a crowd.

Recipe Q&A

→ How can I keep wonton shells crispy?

Bake the wonton wrappers until golden and let them cool before filling. Serve immediately for best crunch.

→ Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, simply toss shredded or diced cooked chicken with the hoisin, soy, and garlic mix. Warm while stirring before assembling.

→ What coleslaw mix works best?

Use a traditional cabbage-based coleslaw or mix in shredded carrots for extra crunch and color.

→ Are there alternatives to sweet chili sauce?

Try spicy sriracha mayo or a light drizzle of teriyaki for a tasty twist on the classic finish.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Store chicken and coleslaw separately in airtight containers. Assemble fresh to retain shell crispiness.