If you’re a fan of Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos, you’re going to love this homemade version! These delightful tacos have it all—crispy wonton wrappers, tender chicken, and a fresh, zesty slaw that packs a punch! Not only are they a hit at parties, but they also make for a fun family dinner. Plus, making them at home means you can customize the flavors to your liking. Let’s dive in and recreate this restaurant favorite right in your kitchen!

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

Delicious Flavor: The combination of teriyaki sauce, sesame oil, and fresh ginger gives the chicken an irresistible flavor.
Crunchy Texture: The crispy wonton wrappers provide the perfect crunch to complement the tender filling.
Quick and Easy: This recipe is straightforward and can be prepared in under an hour!
Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite toppings or adjust the ingredients to suit your taste.

What You’ll Need

1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (thighs may be substituted), diced into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons teriyaki sauce (hoisin sauce may be substituted)
1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
1 tablespoon low sodium soy sauce
2 to 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger OR use 1/2 teaspoon dried ground ginger
One 12-ounce bag coleslaw mix, discard any dressing packets
2 tablespoons green onions, sliced into thin rounds
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon low sodium soy sauce
1 tablespoon granulated sugar (honey may be substituted)
1 to 2 teaspoons freshly squeezed lime juice
1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger OR use 1/4 teaspoon dried ground ginger
16 wonton wrappers
2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce, or as desired
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely minced; optional for garnishing
2 teaspoons sesame seeds, optional for garnishing

Equipment at a Glance

Large Skillet: For sautéing the chicken and making the filling.
Mixing Bowl: To combine the slaw ingredients.
Cookie Sheet: For baking the wonton wrappers.
Sharp Knife: For chopping and dicing.

Stepwise Method: Copycat Applebees Chicken Wonton Tacos

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of toasted sesame oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken to the skillet. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Step 2: Add Flavorings

Once the chicken is cooked, add the minced garlic, teriyaki sauce, low sodium soy sauce, and grated fresh ginger. Stir well to combine, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Slaw

In a mixing bowl, combine the coleslaw mix, sliced green onions, rice vinegar, low sodium soy sauce, granulated sugar, lime juice, and grated ginger. Toss everything together until the slaw is well coated.

Step 4: Prepare Wonton Wrappers

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray a muffin tin with cooking spray. Gently press a wonton wrapper into each cup of the muffin tin to form a taco shape. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the wrappers are golden and crispy.

Step 5: Assemble the Tacos

Once the wonton wrappers are baked, fill each taco shell with the chicken mixture followed by a generous scoop of the slaw. Drizzle sweet chili sauce over the top as desired.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

If you like, garnish your tacos with fresh cilantro and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade Copycat Applebees Chicken Wonton Tacos!

Dietary Swaps & Alternatives

For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free soy sauce and check the wonton wrapper ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary needs.
Swap out chicken for tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version.
Use rice noodles instead of wonton wrappers for a gluten-free noodle taco.
Try adding diced bell peppers or shredded carrots to the slaw for extra crunch and color.

Notes from the Test Kitchen

Make sure to watch the wonton wrappers closely in the oven; they can go from perfectly crispy to burnt very quickly.
You can prepare the chicken and slaw ahead of time, making assembly a breeze during busy weeknights.
Feel free to adjust the level of sweetness in the slaw by adding more or less sugar based on your preference.
If you prefer a spicier kick, add some Sriracha to the chicken mixture or the slaw.

Save for Later: Storage Tips

Leftover chicken filling and slaw can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, it’s best to assemble the tacos fresh, as the wonton wrappers will lose their crispness when stored. If you have leftover filling, consider using it as a topping for salads or in other wraps. Reheat the chicken mixture in a skillet before serving.

Common Questions

Can I freeze the Chicken Wonton Tacos?

While it’s not recommended to freeze the assembled tacos due to the wonton wrappers losing their crunch, you can freeze the chicken filling and slaw separately. Just make sure to thaw them in the refrigerator before reheating and serving.

What can I serve with these tacos?

These Copycat Applebees Chicken Wonton Tacos pair beautifully with a side of fried rice, steamed vegetables, or a light salad. You can also serve them with additional dipping sauces like sweet chili or soy sauce.

Can I make these tacos ahead of time?

You can prepare the chicken filling and slaw in advance, but it’s best to assemble the tacos just before serving to maintain the wonton wrappers’ crispiness.

What if I can’t find wonton wrappers?

If you can’t find wonton wrappers, you can use egg roll wrappers cut into quarters or even small tortillas as an alternative. Adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the wrappers you choose.

Hungry for More?

If you enjoyed this Copycat Applebees Chicken Wonton Tacos recipe, be sure to check out our other delicious recipes, including mouthwatering appetizers, hearty main dishes, and delightful desserts that are sure to impress your family and friends. Each dish is crafted with love and designed to bring joy to your dining table. Happy cooking!