Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos

These Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos are a delightful blend of crispy wonton shells filled with savory chicken and topped with a refreshing Asian slaw. Perfect for game days, family gatherings, or casual weeknight dinners, this dish stands out with its unique flavors and textures. Whether served as an appetizer or a main course, these tacos will impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these tacos in no time.
• Flavorful Fusion: The combination of hoisin sauce, sesame oil, and fresh veggies creates a flavor explosion in every bite.
• Versatile Serving Options: These tacos work great as appetizers or can be enjoyed as a filling meal.
• Crispy Delight: Baking the wonton wrappers offers a healthier alternative to frying while still delivering that satisfying crunch.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or substitute the chicken with turkey or beef.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making these tasty tacos, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Muffin tin
• Large skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Cooking spray or oil

Importance of Each Tool

• Muffin tin: This is essential for shaping the wonton wrappers into cups for filling.
• Large skillet: A skillet allows for even cooking of the chicken and ensures all flavors meld together beautifully.
• Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining the slaw ingredients, ensuring even distribution of flavors.

Ingredients

These Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos are a delicious fusion of crispy wonton shells filled with savory chicken and topped with a crunchy Asian slaw, offering a perfect appetizer or a casual meal.

For the Chicken Filling

• 2 chicken breasts, finely diced
• 2 tbsp hoisin sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp minced fresh ginger

For the Slaw

• 1 bag coleslaw mix (397g)
• 4 green onions, thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp honey

For Assembly

• 16 wonton wrappers
• Cooking spray or olive/canola oil for baking
• Sweet chili sauce, to serve
• Chopped cilantro, to serve
• Sesame seeds, to serve

How to Make Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a muffin tin with cooking spray.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken Mixture

In a large skillet:
1. Heat sesame oil over medium heat.
2. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned.
3. Stir in hoisin sauce, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger; cook until fully cooked through (about 5-7 minutes).

Step 3: Prepare the Slaw

In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine coleslaw mix, green onions, sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and honey.
2. Toss well to make sure everything is coated evenly.

Step 4: Shape the Wonton Cups

Lay wonton wrappers into the muffin tin:
1. Press down to shape them into cups.
2. Spray with cooking oil for added crispiness.

Step 5: Bake the Wontons

Bake wonton wrappers for about 8-10 minutes or until they are golden brown and crisp.

Step 6: Assemble Tacos

Once baked:
1. Fill each wonton cup with the cooked chicken mixture.
2. Top generously with the Asian slaw.

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy!

Serve warm:
– Drizzle sweet chili sauce over each taco.
– Garnish with chopped cilantro and sesame seeds before serving.

With these clear steps and vibrant flavors, you’ll create delightful Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos that everyone will love!

How to Serve Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos

These tasty Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just enjoying a casual meal, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

Casual Gatherings

• Serve on a platter: Arrange the tacos on a large serving platter for guests to help themselves.
• Add dipping sauces: Provide sweet chili sauce and soy sauce on the side for extra flavor.

Family Meals

• Pair with rice: Serve alongside jasmine or brown rice for a hearty meal.
• Include fresh veggies: Add carrot sticks or cucumber slices for a refreshing crunch.

Parties and Celebrations

• Mini taco bar: Set up a taco bar with additional toppings like avocado, lime wedges, and extra slaw.
• Themed decor: Create an Asian-inspired theme with chopsticks and colorful plates.

How to Perfect Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos

To make these Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos even more delicious, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance flavors and add crunch to your tacos.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste the chicken mixture before filling the wonton cups, adding more soy sauce or hoisin if needed.
• Bake until crispy: Ensure wonton wrappers are golden brown for the best texture.
• Experiment with fillings: Try adding other proteins like turkey or beef for variety.
• Serve immediately: For the best texture, serve tacos right after assembling them.

Best Side Dishes for Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos

Complement your Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos with these delightful side dishes. Each option adds flavor and variety to your meal.

1. Asian Cucumber Salad: A light salad made with sliced cucumbers, rice vinegar, and sesame oil for a refreshing side.
2. Steamed Edamame: Lightly salted edamame pods provide a protein-packed snack that pairs well with the tacos.
3. Fried Rice: Savory fried rice with vegetables complements the flavors of the tacos and makes for a filling addition.
4. Vegetable Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls filled with veggies add an extra crunch when served alongside tacos.
5. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup creates a comforting contrast to the crispy wonton tacos.
6. Sweet Potato Fries: Baked sweet potato fries offer a sweet and savory side that enhances your meal experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos, avoiding common mistakes can elevate your dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

• Boldly Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken too long can make it dry. Ensure you only cook until it’s just done, about 5-7 minutes.

• Boldly Skipping the Slaw: The slaw adds crunch and flavor balance. Don’t skip it! Take a few minutes to prepare it for that perfect texture.

• Boldly Ignoring Wonton Wrapper Preparation: Not greasing the muffin tin properly can lead to sticking. Use cooking spray generously before adding the wrappers.

• Boldly Baking at Incorrect Temperature: Baking at too high or low of a temperature will affect crispiness. Stick to 375°F (190°C) for optimal results.

• Boldly Not Serving Right Away: These tacos are best enjoyed fresh and warm. Prepare everything in advance but assemble right before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover tacos in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos

• You can freeze the cooked filling separately from the wonton wrappers.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some questions people often have about making Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos:

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes! Feel free to substitute with beef, turkey, or lamb for a different flavor profile.

How do I make these tacos gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce and check that your wonton wrappers are labeled gluten-free.

What can I serve with Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos?

Pair these tacos with dipping sauces like sweet chili or additional Asian-inspired sides like edamame or rice.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace chicken with tofu or tempeh and ensure all sauces are plant-based.

Final Thoughts

Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos are not only delicious but also versatile. This dish is perfect as an appetizer or a casual meal. Experiment with different fillings or toppings to suit your taste preferences—you might discover new favorites!