Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos are a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that brings something special to your table. These tacos combine crunchy wonton wrappers with a savory chicken filling, topped off with a fresh slaw. Whether you’re looking for a fun appetizer for a party or a unique twist on dinner, these tacos promise to impress anyone who takes a bite. Let’s dive into the world of this delicious dish and explore how you can make it right at home!
Why We Love This Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe
This recipe brings together the best of Asian-inspired flavors and classic taco elements, making it a crowd-pleaser. The combination of marinated chicken, crunchy slaw, and crispy wonton shells creates a delightful experience that transports you to your favorite casual dining spot. Not only is the flavor profile delicious, but the preparation process is also straightforward, making it enjoyable for chefs of all skill levels. Plus, the versatility of these tacos allows you to customize them to your taste!
Ingredients about Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos
To recreate the deliciousness of Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos, you will need the following ingredients:
- 12 wonton wrappers
- 1 pound chicken breasts, marinated
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 cup cabbage, shredded
- 1 cup carrots, shredded
- ¼ cup cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Oil for frying, as needed
How to Make Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos Directions
Creating these amazing Chicken Wonton Tacos is a simple and enjoyable process. Here’s how to whip them up in easy steps:
- Marinate the Chicken: Begin by marinating the chicken breasts. In a mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, minced garlic, minced ginger, chopped green onions, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Coat the chicken breasts with this flavorful mixture. Let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step ensures that the chicken is infused with rich flavors.
- Cook the Chicken: After marination, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a bit of oil. Place the marinated chicken breasts in the skillet and cook them for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked through. To check for doneness, ensure that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, let the chicken cool slightly before shredding it into bite-sized pieces.
- Prepare the Slaw: While the chicken cools, prepare a refreshing slaw. Take a mixing bowl and combine shredded cabbage, shredded carrots, chopped cilantro, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and season with salt and pepper. Toss everything together until the vegetables are well coated in the dressing. This slaw will add crunch and zest to your tacos.
- Fry the Wonton Wrappers: Next, it’s time to make the wonton shells crispy! In a frying pan, heat enough oil over medium heat to submerge the wonton wrappers. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the wonton wrappers a few at a time. Fry them until they turn golden brown and crispy, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Once done, remove them from the oil and let them drain on paper towels.
- Assemble the Tacos: Now comes the fun part – assembling your tacos! Take one of the crispy wonton shells and fill it with a generous portion of shredded chicken. Top the chicken with a spoonful of the prepared slaw, allowing the fresh flavors to shine.
- Serve Immediately: These tacos are best enjoyed right away while the wonton shells are still crispy. Serve them on a platter for everyone to enjoy, or make individual servings for a personalized touch.
How to Serve Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos
When it comes to serving your Chicken Wonton Tacos, keep it simple yet elegant. You can arrange them on a large platter and garnish them with extra cilantro or slices of lime for a pop of color and flavor. Consider offering a small bowl of your favorite dipping sauce—like hoisin or sweet chili sauce—on the side for added taste. These tacos can be served as appetizers at a gathering or as a fun main dish for family dinners. Pair them with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
Expert Tips: Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos
To maximize the flavor and presentation of your Chicken Wonton Tacos, here are some expert tips to keep in mind:
- Marination Time: Don’t rush the marination step. For even better flavor, let the chicken marinate for a few hours or even overnight. This allows the ingredients to deeply penetrate the meat.
- Oil Temperature: When frying the wonton wrappers, make sure your oil is hot enough to fry. If the temperature is too low, they will absorb too much oil and become greasy. A good test is to drop a small piece of wonton skin into the oil; it should sizzle immediately.
- Taco Assembly: To keep the tacos crispy, assemble them just before serving. This prevents the wonton shells from becoming soggy.
- Garnishing Options: Think outside the box for garnishes; try adding sliced jalapeños for some heat or a drizzle of Sriracha or a tangy yogurt sauce for some extra creaminess.
- Batch Cooking: If you’re preparing a large number of these tacos, consider cooking the chicken in batches to maintain a consistent cooking temperature.
How to Store Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos
If you have any leftovers, storing them properly will keep them fresh. Here’s how to do it:
- Chicken Storage: Place any leftover shredded chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it.
- Wonton Wrappers: It’s best to store the crispy wonton shells separately. Keep them in a sealed container at room temperature. If they lose their crispness, you can re-crisp them in the oven for a few minutes before serving.
- Slaw Storage: Store any leftover slaw in a separate container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 2-3 days, but keep in mind that the cabbage may soften over time.
Variation of Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos
While the traditional Chicken Wonton Tacos are fantastic on their own, you might want to experiment with some variations to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Here are a few ideas:
- Protein Alternatives: Swap out the chicken for tofu or shrimp to cater to different dietary needs. Marinate and cook these proteins in the same way to maintain the flavors.
- Vegetarian Option: For a delightful vegetarian twist, omit the chicken and sauté a mix of mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini instead. Season with the same marinade and follow the same assembly process.
- Flavor Enhancements: Add different spices or sauces to the marinade, such as chili paste for a spicy kick or a dash of honey for sweetness.
- Garnishes: Top your tacos with sliced avocado or a dollop of guacamole for a creamy touch, or use pickled vegetables for added tang.
- Healthier Wrappers: To make these tacos a little lighter, consider using baked wonton wrappers or lettuce leaves instead of fried wonton shells. This makes for a great low-carb option.
FAQ about Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos
What makes Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos so special?
The combination of crunchy wonton wrappers, tender marinated chicken, and fresh slaw creates a delightful texture and flavor experience that is both fun and satisfying.
Can I prepare Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos ahead of time?
You can marinate the chicken and prepare the slaw in advance. However, it’s best to fry the wonton shells and assemble the tacos just before serving to retain crispiness.
What dipping sauce goes well with Chicken Wonton Tacos?
Consider serving hoisin sauce, sweet chili sauce, or even a spicy mayo on the side for a delicious dipping experience.
How do I make Chicken Wonton Tacos gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce and purchase gluten-free wonton wrappers or substitute with rice paper.
Can I freeze Chicken Wonton Tacos?
While it’s best to enjoy them fresh, you can freeze the shredded chicken. Store it in an airtight container, and when you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw and reheat before assembling the tacos.
Now that you have all the necessary information, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and treat yourself and your loved ones to the delightful Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos. Enjoy every flavorful bite!