The first bite of these homemade Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos is like a flavor explosion—crispy, savory, and oh-so-satisfying! While fast food may be an easy choice, nothing beats the warmth of a meal created right in your kitchen. This quick and easy recipe effortlessly combines succulent glazed chicken with a vibrant crunch from the slaw, all nestled in perfectly baked wonton shells. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at your next gathering or simply want a hearty weeknight dinner on a budget, these crowd-pleasers will leave everyone asking for seconds. Plus, they can be made gluten-free with a quick swap! Ready to kick your taco night up a notch? Let’s dive into the deliciousness together!

Why are these tacos a game changer?

Simplicity at Its Best: This recipe offers a quick, easy process that even beginner cooks can master.

Crispy, Flavorful Shells: Crispy wonton shells hold a savory filling that’s both satisfying and indulgent!

Budget-Friendly Delight: Using simple, affordable ingredients ensures you don’t break the bank while eating well.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, these tacos are sure to impress guests or family alike.

Versatile and Customizable: Feel free to swap proteins or toss in veggies, making them your own! For more tasty ideas, check out my Sticky Garlic Chicken or Coconut Chicken Rice.

Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos Ingredients

• Explore these scrumptious ingredients to bring your homemade Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos to life.

For the Filling

Chicken Breasts – Main protein source; can be substituted with ground chicken for quicker cooking.
Hoisin Sauce – Provides a rich sweetness; swap with teriyaki sauce for a milder flavor.
Sesame Oil – Enhances overall flavor in both the chicken and slaw for a delicious touch.
Soy Sauce – Adds depth and umami; use tamari for a gluten-free option.
Garlic (minced) – Gives a lovely aromatic flavor to the filling.
Fresh Ginger (minced) – Injects warmth and zest into your chicken mixture.

For the Slaw

Coleslaw Mix – Provides a satisfying crunch and freshness; homemade shredded cabbage and carrots can be used too.
Green Onions – Adds a fresh bite to balance the flavors of the slaw.
Rice Vinegar – Introduces a zesty acidity to the mix.
Honey – Sweetens and marries the flavors in the slaw dressing effortlessly.

For the Taco Shells

Wonton Wrappers – Forms the taco shells; look for gluten-free versions if preferred.

For Serving

Sweet Chili Sauce – A delightful sweet and spicy condiment for an extra kick.
Cilantro (chopped) – Optional garnish for a fresh finish.
Sesame Seeds – Optional sprinkle for added texture and flair.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grab a muffin tin. Spray the back of the muffin cups with cooking spray to prevent sticking. This will create the perfect molds for your wonton taco shells, setting the stage for your delightful Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos.

Step 2: Bake Wonton Shells
Lay the wonton wrappers carefully over the inverted muffin cups to form taco-shaped shells. Place them in the preheated oven and bake for 5–7 minutes, or until they become golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to achieve that perfect crunchy texture essential for your tacos.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken
While the wonton shells are baking, heat a tablespoon of sesame oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken breasts and cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is no longer pink and looks lightly browned. This will give your filling a wonderful flavor as you prepare the rest of the dish.

Step 4: Glaze the Chicken
Stir in the hoisin sauce, soy sauce, minced garlic, and fresh ginger into the cooked chicken. Continue cooking for an additional 2–3 minutes, allowing the mixture to thicken slightly and coat the chicken evenly. The savory aroma will fill your kitchen, making this Applebee’s-inspired dish truly irresistible.

Step 5: Prepare the Slaw
In a separate bowl, combine the coleslaw mix, chopped green onions, remaining sesame oil, rice vinegar, and honey. Toss everything together until the vegetables are thoroughly coated in the dressing. This colorful slaw provides a fresh crunch that perfectly complements the glazed chicken in your tacos.

Step 6: Assemble the Tacos
Once the wonton shells have cooled slightly, fill each shell generously with the glazed chicken mixture. Top with the vibrant slaw, then drizzle with sweet chili sauce for an added kick. Garnish with chopped cilantro and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for that extra touch. Your homemade Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos are ready to enjoy!

Storage Tips for Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos

Fridge: Store the glazed chicken and slaw separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and prevent sogginess.

Freezer: The chicken filling can be frozen for up to 2 months in a sealed container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: Reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, and add slaw just before serving for maximum crunch.

Wonton Shells: Store baked shells at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days to maintain their crispiness; avoid stacking them to prevent breakage.

Make Ahead Options

These Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos are perfect for busy weeknights, allowing you to prep in advance for a quick meal! You can prepare the glazed chicken and slaw up to 3 days ahead, storing them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and crunch. The wonton shells can be baked and kept at room temperature in a sealed container for 24 hours. When you’re ready to enjoy your tacos, simply fill the crispy wonton shells with the chicken and slaw just before serving, ensuring that every bite is as delicious and crunchy as it should be. This simple make-ahead strategy saves time and lets you savor a flavorful homemade meal with minimal effort!

Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos Variations

Customize these delightful tacos to suit your taste and dietary preferences, and let your creativity shine in the kitchen!

Ground Chicken: Swap diced chicken breasts for ground chicken or ground turkey to speed up cooking. A quick change that still packs a flavor punch!
Teriyaki Sauce: For a lighter sweetness, replace hoisin sauce with teriyaki sauce. It will give a slightly different but equally delicious flavor to your filling!
Vegan Option: Use tofu or chickpeas in place of chicken, marinated in soy sauce and sesame oil for a plant-based twist. This option still provides satisfying texture and flavor.
Spicy Slaw: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce into your slaw for an extra zing. The heat will blend beautifully with the crunchy freshness!
Crunchy Veggies: Add in shredded carrots, diced bell peppers, or even thinly sliced radishes for additional crunch in your slaw. Your tacos will be bursting with colors and textures!
Coconut Rice Filling: Stuff your tacos with a mix of coconut rice for a tropical flair. The creaminess pairs oh-so-well with the savory glazed chicken.
Gluten-Free Twist: Use gluten-free wonton wrappers to make these tacos suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. You won’t miss a beat in flavor or crunch!
Asian-Inspired Garnish: Sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds or chopped scallions inside for a kick of flavor. It adds that final touch of authenticity and depth!

Each variation allows you to put a personal spin on these tacos, just as simple as enjoying a night in with your favorite takeout, but made right at home. For more delicious ideas, don’t forget to check out these recipes for Fried Chicken Street tacos and Chopped Chicken Caesar wrap!

What to Serve with Homemade Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos

Warm up your dining experience by pairing these crunchy delights with delicious accompaniments that elevate every bite!

Crispy Fried Rice: This savory side dish brings a delightful texture to complement your tacos. It’s flavorful and filling, making it a perfect match!
Sweet and Sour Cucumber Salad: Bright and refreshing, this salad provides a cool contrast to the warm tacos, adding pops of flavor with each crunchy bite.
Spicy Edamame: A protein-packed snack, lightly salted and dusted with chili flakes, perfect for a bold, finger-licking side that adds kick to your meal.
Mango Salsa: With its fruity sweetness and zesty lime, this vibrant salsa beautifully complements the savory chicken, taking your taco night up a notch!
Pineapple Ginger Smoothie: This tropical drink not only refreshes but also accentuates the sweet and savory flavors of the tacos, making for a harmonious pairing.
Chocolate Molten Lava Cake: Satisfy your sweet tooth with this gooey dessert that’s rich and indulgent, creating a delightful ending to your flavor-packed meal.

Ready to embark on a flavor adventure? Each pairing offers unique textures and tastes that will keep your guests guessing and wanting more!

Expert Tips for Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos

Fry for Extra Crispiness: For an even crunchier shell, consider frying the wonton wrappers in oil instead of baking them. Just be cautious of the splatter!
Rest the Chicken: Let the glazed chicken rest for a minute before filling the wonton shells. This helps the juices redistribute, making it even juicier for your tacos.
Avoid Soggy Shells: Fill the wonton shells just before serving to keep them crisp. If preparing ahead, store chicken and slaw separately until ready to enjoy!
Customize Your Slaw: Feel free to add shredded carrots, radishes, or even diced bell peppers for a colorful twist to your slaw, enhancing the overall crunch!
Batch Cooking: Make extra filling and shells for quick meals during the week. The filling can be reheated easily, offering you delicious Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos anytime.

Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Fresh chicken breasts work great, but for speedy preparation, you can substitute with ground chicken. When picking chicken, look for boneless, skinless pieces without any dark spots or blemishes. Aim for cuts that are pink and firm for the best results.

How should I store leftover chicken and slaw?
For optimal freshness, I recommend storing the glazed chicken and the slaw separately in airtight containers. They’ll last for up to 3 days in the fridge—this way, they don’t get soggy. Just make sure to assemble your tacos right before serving for that delightful crunch!

Can I freeze the chicken filling?
Yes, you can! To freeze the chicken filling, let it cool completely, then transfer it to a sealed container or freezer bag. It can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to use it, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

What should I do if my wonton wrappers are tough?
If your wonton wrappers end up a bit tough after baking, it could be due to overbaking. Make sure to keep an eye on them and remove them from the oven as soon as they’re golden brown—usually around 5-7 minutes should do the trick! If they’re moist from the filling, they might soften slightly, but keeping them dry during baking helps.

Are these chicken wonton tacos gluten-free?
Definitely! To make Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos gluten-free, simply use tamari instead of soy sauce and look for gluten-free wonton wrappers at your local supermarket. It’s a simple swap that maintains all the flavors you love while accommodating gluten-free diets.

How long can I keep the baked wonton shells?
I find that you can store baked wonton shells at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Just avoid stacking them to prevent breakage. If you want to make them in advance, it’s best to fill them right before serving for that perfect crunchiness!