Copycat Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos

Copycat Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos are a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that can elevate any gathering. These tacos feature crispy wonton wrappers filled with tender teriyaki chicken and topped with a fresh sesame ginger coleslaw. Perfect for parties, casual dinners, or even as a fun appetizer, this homemade version offers a fresher and tastier take on the restaurant classic. Get ready to impress your friends and family with these tasty tacos!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation – The marination happens while you prep the slaw and bake the wonton wrappers, making it a time-saver.
• Flavorful Ingredients – A blend of teriyaki sauce, garlic, and fresh ginger gives these tacos an irresistible taste.
• Versatile Dish – Great as an appetizer, main course, or party snack; they fit any occasion effortlessly.
• Crispy Texture – Baking the wonton wrappers provides a satisfying crunch that complements the juicy chicken perfectly.
• Easy to Customize – Feel free to add more toppings like avocado or spicy salsa to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make Copycat Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos, you’ll need a few essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly in your kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowls
• Nonstick skillet
• Baking pan (9×13-inch)
• Cooking spray
• Plastic wrap

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowls – Ideal for marinating chicken and mixing slaw without spills.
• Nonstick skillet – Ensures even cooking of chicken without sticking, making cleanup easier.
• Baking pan – Perfect for crisping wonton wrappers in the oven without taking up too much space.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for your Copycat Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos:

For the Chicken

• 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

For the Slaw

• One 12-ounce bag coleslaw mix
• 2 tablespoons green onions (sliced into thin rounds)
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
• 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
• 1/2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger OR use 1/4 teaspoon dried ground ginger

For Assembly

• 16 wonton wrappers (See Tips below)
• 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce (or as desired)
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (finely minced; optional for garnishing as desired)
• 2 teaspoons sesame seeds (optional for garnishing as desired)

How to Make Copycat Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

To start, add all chicken ingredients into a large bowl. Stir well to combine. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Slaw

In another large bowl, combine all slaw ingredients. Stir until evenly coated. Let it sit at room temperature while the chicken marinates.

Step 3: Bake Wonton Taco Shells

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place wonton wrappers over raised edges of a baking pan. Lightly spray them with cooking spray.

Step 4: Bake Until Crispy

Bake in the preheated oven for about 7 minutes or until lightly golden and crispy. If needed, repeat this process until you have enough taco shells.

Step 5: Cook the Chicken

In a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, add the marinated chicken along with all marinade contents. Cook for about 5 to 6 minutes or until fully cooked through. Make sure to stir frequently for even cooking.

Step 6: Assemble Your Tacos

Spoon some cooked chicken into each baked wonton shell. Top generously with slaw, drizzle with sweet chili sauce, and sprinkle with cilantro and sesame seeds as desired before serving.

Enjoy your homemade Copycat Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos!

How to Serve Copycat Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos

These delicious Copycat Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos are perfect for sharing. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a fun gathering with friends, serving these tacos can elevate the experience.

Casual Gatherings

• Serve with Dipping Sauces: Offer a variety of sauces like sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, and sriracha for guests to customize their tacos.
• Taco Bar Setup: Arrange the tacos alongside bowls of slaw, chicken, and garnishes so everyone can build their own.

Game Day Treats

• Finger Food Friendly: These tacos make great finger foods that are easy to enjoy while watching the game.
• Pair with Beer: Serve alongside cold beers or light cocktails for a refreshing complement.

Family Dinner

• Family Style Serving: Present the taco shells and fillings on a large platter for a fun, interactive meal.
• Accompany with Rice or Noodles: Add a side of fried rice or lo mein for a more filling family meal.

Special Occasions

• Garnish Elegantly: Use fresh cilantro and sesame seeds as garnishes to add an upscale touch for parties.
• Create Themed Decor: Add Asian-themed decorations to match the flavors of the dish during special dinners.

How to Perfect Copycat Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos

To ensure your Copycat Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Marinate the Chicken Well: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes enhances its flavor.
• Watch Your Wrappers: Keep an eye on wonton wrappers while baking; they can burn quickly if left unattended.
• Customize Your Slaw: Feel free to add additional veggies like bell peppers or carrots to your coleslaw for extra crunch.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Modify the amount of sriracha or chili sauce based on your heat preference.
• Serve Freshly Made: Assemble tacos just before serving to keep the wontons crispy and fresh.
• Experiment with Proteins: Substitute chicken with shrimp, tofu, or beef for different variations of this recipe.

Best Side Dishes for Copycat Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos

Pairing side dishes with your Copycat Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Crispy Spring Rolls: These savory rolls filled with vegetables complement the flavors of wonton tacos nicely.
2. Fried Rice: A classic side that pairs well, adding heartiness and flavor balance to your meal.
3. Edamame Beans: Lightly salted edamame is a healthy and protein-packed addition that’s easy to prepare.
4. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup offers a comforting contrast and works well as an appetizer.
5. Asian Cucumber Salad: This refreshing salad adds crunch and brightness that pairs beautifully with tacos.
6. Garlic Noodles: Flavorful garlic noodles provide a satisfying base that’s perfect alongside your crispy tacos.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Copycat Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect your final dish. Here are some to avoid:

• Ignoring the Marinating Time – Not allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes can result in bland flavors. Make sure to set aside enough time for this step.
• Overcooking the Chicken – Cooking the chicken for too long can dry it out. Keep an eye on it and use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F without overcooking.
• Skipping the Slaw Prep – If you don’t give the slaw time to sit, it may not absorb flavors properly. Mix it well and let it rest while preparing other ingredients.
• Using Incorrect Wonton Wrappers – Choosing the wrong type of wrappers can ruin your tacos. Always ensure you buy wonton wrappers specifically, not spring roll or egg roll wrappers.
• Not Baking the Shells Properly – If you don’t bake the wonton shells until they are golden and crispy, they could turn out soggy. Keep an eye on them in the oven for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover tacos in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep the chicken and slaw separate from the taco shells to maintain their texture.

Freezing Copycat Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos

• Freeze unbaked wonton taco shells for up to 2 months.
• Cooked chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months; store in a freezer-safe container.

Reheating Copycat Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F, place tacos on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat tacos individually on a microwave-safe plate for about 30 seconds; be cautious as shells may become chewy.
• Stovetop – Heat in a nonstick skillet over medium heat for about 3-5 minutes, flipping occasionally until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Copycat Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos.

Can I use different meats?

You can substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different flavor profile while keeping the recipe intact.

How do I make these tacos spicier?

Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to your chicken marinade or slaw for extra heat.

Can I prepare these in advance?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken and prepare the slaw ahead of time. Just assemble right before serving!

What is the best way to serve these tacos?

Serve with additional sweet chili sauce and fresh lime wedges on the side for dipping and added freshness.

Final Thoughts

Copycat Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos offer a delightful blend of flavors and textures that make them perfect for any occasion. Their versatility allows you to customize them easily with different proteins or spice levels. Try making them at home; you’ll love how fresh and delicious they turn out!