If you’re ready to dive into a flavor-packed snack that brings together the delightful crunch of wontons with a creamy chicken filling, look no further! Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos are a delicious blend of satisfying textures and savory flavors. Each bite reveals the perfect contrast between the crispy shell and the tender, creamy filling, making them a go-to appetizer or snack. Why not whip up a batch at home? This recipe is easier than you think, and I promise, you’ll have everyone coming back for more!
Why You’ll Love This Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos
These Chicken Wonton Tacos are not just a crowd-pleaser; they’re a culinary adventure waiting to happen. Here are a few reasons why you’ll adore making and sharing them:
- Quick and Easy: Whip these up in about 30 minutes, making them perfect for last-minute gatherings or a quick snack.
- Perfect for Beginners: Simple instructions make this a great recipe for anyone new to cooking or deep-frying.
- Ideal for the Whole Family: Everyone loves tacos, and this unique take allows for fun family meals filled with flavor and crunch.
- Economical: Using simple ingredients, this recipe fits perfectly into your budget without sacrificing taste.
- Customizable: You can tweak the fillings or toppings to match your family’s preferences or to try out different flavor combinations.
The Necessary Ingredients
To create these irresistible Chicken Wonton Tacos, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Wonton wrappers
- Cooked chicken, shredded
- Cream cheese
- Green onions, chopped
- Soy sauce
- Garlic powder
- Cabbage, shredded
- Cilantro, chopped
- Vegetable oil for frying
Notes and Substitutions on Ingredients:
- Wonton Wrappers: These are essential for that crispy texture. If you can’t find wontons, egg roll wrappers can work as a substitute, but you’ll need to cut them down to size.
- Cream Cheese: This adds richness and creaminess to the filling. A vegan cream cheese or ricotta can be substituted if you want a lighter version or a dairy-free option.
- Cooked Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver—just shred it and you’re good to go! You can also replace it with tofu for a vegetarian option.
How to Prepare the Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos step by step
Follow these detailed steps to prepare your Chicken Wonton Tacos, and get ready to enjoy some crunch!
- Mix the Filling: In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream cheese, chopped green onions, soy sauce, and garlic powder. Mix until everything is well-blended.
- Pro Tip: Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing, resulting in a smoother filling.
- Prepare the Wontons: Take a wonton wrapper and place about a tablespoon of the chicken mixture in the center.
- Pro Tip: Don’t overfill the wrapper, or it may burst during frying!
- Seal the Wontons: Fold the wrapper in half to form a triangle, sealing the edges with a little water to create a secure pouch.
- Pro Tip: Use your fingers to press out any air pockets, which helps to prevent breakage.
- Heat the Oil: In a pan, pour in vegetable oil to about 1 inch depth. Heat it over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- Pro Tip: To check if the oil is hot enough, drop a small piece of wonton wrapper in; if it bubbles immediately, you’re ready!
- Fry the Filled Wontons: Carefully place the sealed wontons in the hot oil, cooking until they are golden brown, about 2-3 minutes on each side.
- Pro Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan; fry in batches to maintain the oil temperature.
- Drain and Serve: Once crispy, remove the wontons from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve with shredded cabbage, chopped cilantro, and your favorite dipping sauces.
- Pro Tip: Consider a sweet chili sauce or soy sauce for dipping to enhance the flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve made your delicious Chicken Wonton Tacos, here are some creative ways to serve them:
Perfect Pairings:
- Dipping Sauces: Try serving with sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, or even a spicy sriracha mayo for an extra kick.
- Drinks: Pair with a cold beer or a refreshing iced tea to complement the crispy texture and savory flavor.
Occasions:
- Weeknight Dinner: Make a batch for a quick family meal that’s sure to please.
- Game Day Snacks: Perfect for entertaining friends while watching the big game.
- Party Appetizer: Serve these at your next gathering or potluck for a dish that stands out.
Serving Tips:
- Arrange on a platter and garnish with extra cilantro and lime wedges for an attractive presentation.
- Consider offering a variety of dipping sauces for guests to choose from.
Storage and Reheating Tips
To keep your Chicken Wonton Tacos fresh, follow these storage guidelines:
Refrigerated:
- Duration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Type of Container: Use glass containers or plastic food storage bags to maintain freshness.
Freezed:
- If Possible: You can freeze the uncooked wontons.
- Packaging: Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag.
- Defrosting: When ready to cook, let them thaw in the fridge overnight.
Reheating:
- Best Method: Reheat in a toaster oven or an air fryer to retain crispiness. Microwave reheating will result in a soggy texture, so avoid that if possible.
Guaranteed Success Tips
To ensure your Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos turn out perfectly every time, keep these golden rules in mind:
- Don’t Overmix the Filling: Combine until just blended to maintain the texture of the chicken.
- Watch the Oil Temperature: Keeping the right temperature while frying prevents sogginess and ensures a crispy exterior.
- Seal Well: Make sure the edges of the wontons are sealed tightly to avoid burst fillings during frying.
- Don’t Crowd the Pan: Fry in small batches to maintain the oil temperature for even cooking.
- Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or spices to the filling for a twist on flavor!
Recipe Variations
Here are some exciting spins on the classic Chicken Wonton Tacos:
- For a Spicy Version: Add 1 teaspoon of Sriracha to the filling for an extra kick.
- For a Veggie Delight: Replace the chicken with finely chopped veggies like bell peppers, carrots, and mushrooms for a colorful vegetarian option.
- For a Sweet Twist: Incorporate diced pineapple into the chicken mixture for a Hawaiian-inspired taco that balances sweet and savory flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I make the filling ahead of time?
A: Yes! Prepare the filling and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before assembling the wontons.
Q: What can I do if my wontons burst while frying?
A: This usually means they were overfilled or not sealed properly. Ensure each wonton is securely sealed and filled moderately.
Q: Can I bake the wontons instead of frying them?
A: Yes! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), brush the wontons lightly with oil, and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until golden and crispy.
Q: Can I use raw chicken in the filling?
A: It’s best to cook the chicken fully before using it in the filling, as wonton wrappers cook quickly and don’t allow enough time for raw chicken to cook through.
Q: What is the best way to chop the cabbage?
A: A sharp knife or mandoline works well. Aim for thin strips so they mix well with the other toppings.
Q: Can I freeze the cooked wontons?
A: While it’s possible, cooked wontons are best enjoyed freshly made. If you must freeze, store in an airtight container and reheat in the oven.
Q: What’s the best way to store leftover wontons?
A: Place them in an airtight container in the fridge. Ensure they are completely cooled before sealing to maintain crispness.
Now you’re equipped with everything you need to create delicious, crunchy Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos at home! Enjoy the cooking process, and watch as your friends and family enjoy every bite!
Chicken Wonton Tacos
Ingredients Â
Main Ingredients
- 12 pieces Wonton wrappers Essential for crispy texture; can substitute with egg roll wrappers if necessary.
- 2 cups Cooked chicken, shredded Rotisserie chicken works well or can be replaced with tofu for a vegetarian option.
- 8 oz Cream cheese Adds richness; substitute with vegan cream cheese for a dairy-free option.
- 4 tablespoons Green onions, chopped
- 2 tablespoons Soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
- 2 cups Cabbage, shredded
- 1/4 cup Cilantro, chopped
InstructionsÂ
Preparation
- Mix the filling by combining the shredded chicken, cream cheese, green onions, soy sauce, and garlic powder in a bowl.
- Take a wonton wrapper and place about a tablespoon of the chicken mixture in the center.
- Fold the wrapper in half to form a triangle, sealing the edges with water.
- Heat vegetable oil in a pan to about 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully fry the sealed wontons in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes on each side.
- Drain fried wontons on paper towels before serving.