Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos

Crispy chicken wonton tacos are a delightful fusion of texture and flavor. They feature crunchy wonton wrappers filled with juicy teriyaki chicken and refreshing coleslaw, making them perfect for parties, family dinners, or a quick weeknight meal. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer or a main dish, these tacos are sure to impress with their vibrant colors and bold taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 25 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy this delicious meal in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of tender chicken marinated in teriyaki sauce and fresh coleslaw brings a burst of flavors in every bite.
• Versatile Serving Options: These tacos can be enjoyed on their own or paired with your favorite dipping sauces for added excitement.
• Crispy Delight: The fried wonton wrappers create a satisfying crunch that makes every taco memorable.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or toppings to make these tacos your own.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will streamline your preparation and ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wok or large skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Tongs
• Frying pan
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Wok or large skillet: Ideal for even cooking of the chicken, allowing it to become perfectly tender without drying out.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for marinating the chicken and mixing the coleslaw ingredients efficiently.
• Frying pan: Necessary for achieving that crispy texture of the wonton wrappers; it allows for better heat distribution.

Ingredients

To prepare crispy chicken wonton tacos, gather the following ingredients:

For the Chicken Filling

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil, divided
• 1 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated

For the Coleslaw Mix

• 2 cups coleslaw mix, (cabbage and carrots)
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp honey

For the Wontons

• 12 wonton wrappers
• 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce
• 1 tsp sesame seeds
• 2 tbsp chopped cilantro

How to Make Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by marinating the sliced chicken.
1. In a mixing bowl, combine teriyaki sauce, 1/2 tablespoon sesame oil, soy sauce, minced garlic, and grated ginger.
2. Add the sliced chicken to the marinade, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
3. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to absorb all those wonderful flavors.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Next, cook the marinated chicken until it’s fully cooked through.
1. Heat a wok or large skillet over medium heat with a dash of sesame oil.
2. Add the marinated chicken pieces.
3. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown and no longer pink in the center.

Step 3: Prepare the Coleslaw Mix

While the chicken cooks, prepare your refreshing coleslaw.
1. In another mixing bowl, combine coleslaw mix, thinly sliced green onions, rice vinegar, honey, and remaining sesame oil.
2. Toss everything together until well mixed.

Step 4: Fry the Wonton Wrappers

Now it’s time to make those crunchy taco shells!
1. In a frying pan over medium-high heat, add enough oil to cover about half of each wonton wrapper.
2. Lightly fry each wrapper for about 20-30 seconds on each side until they turn golden brown and crispy.
3. Remove them from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 5: Assemble Your Tacos

It’s time to put everything together!
1. Take each crispy wonton wrapper and fill it with cooked chicken.
2. Top with prepared coleslaw mix.
3. Drizzle with sweet chili sauce for an extra kick!

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Finish off your tacos with some beautiful garnishes.
1. Sprinkle sesame seeds over each taco.
2. Add chopped cilantro on top for freshness.

Enjoy your delicious crispy chicken wonton tacos!

How to Serve Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos

Crispy chicken wonton tacos are a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a casual dinner, serving these tacos can be both fun and versatile.

Casual Dinner Party

• Serve the tacos on a large platter for guests to assemble their own. This interactive style encourages everyone to customize their toppings.

Game Day Snack

• Present the tacos as finger food during game day. Pair them with dipping sauces like extra sweet chili sauce or soy sauce for an extra kick.

Lunch Box Treats

• Pack crispy chicken wonton tacos in lunch boxes for a delicious midday meal. They hold up well and can be enjoyed cold or heated.

Taco Bar Setup

• Create a taco bar with various toppings such as sliced avocados, jalapeños, and additional coleslaw. Let everyone build their perfect taco!

How to Perfect Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos

To ensure your crispy chicken wonton tacos are always a hit, follow these simple tips.

• Marinate for Flavor: Allow the chicken to marinate longer than 10 minutes if possible. This enhances the flavor of the teriyaki sauce.

• Heat the Oil Properly: Make sure your oil is hot enough before frying the wonton wrappers. This ensures they become crispy rather than greasy.

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry wonton wrappers in small batches. Overcrowding can lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy wrappers.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh coleslaw mix and crisp vegetables make all the difference in taste and texture. Opt for high-quality ingredients.

Best Side Dishes for Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos

Pairing side dishes with crispy chicken wonton tacos can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Guacamole: A creamy avocado dip that perfectly complements the crunch of the tacos. Serve with tortilla chips for added texture.

2. Spicy Black Bean Salad: A refreshing salad with black beans, corn, tomatoes, and cilantro that adds flavor and nutrition to your meal.

3. Cucumber Salad: A light salad made with sliced cucumbers, rice vinegar, and sesame oil for a cool contrast to warm tacos.

4. Fruit Salsa: A zesty combination of diced fruits like mango and pineapple mixed with lime juice adds sweetness that balances savory flavors.

5. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries provide a hearty side that pairs well with the flavors of teriyaki chicken.

6. Asian Noodle Salad: A colorful salad made from rice noodles, shredded carrots, and sesame dressing brings an Asian twist to your meal.

7. Edamame Beans: Lightly salted edamame provides a protein-packed snack that’s easy to prepare and complements your main dish nicely.

8. Pickled Vegetables: Assorted pickled veggies add tanginess and crunch, enhancing each bite of your crispy chicken wonton tacos!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos can be delightful, but there are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Bold marinating: Not marinating the chicken long enough can lead to bland flavors. Ensure you marinate for at least 10 minutes to enhance the taste.
• Bold overcooking: Overcooking the chicken can make it dry. Cook just until it is no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes, for juicy results.
• Bold soggy wrappers: Frying wonton wrappers for too long makes them soggy instead of crispy. Keep frying time between 20-30 seconds per side.
• Bold skipping the sauce: Forgetting the sweet chili sauce can leave your tacos lacking in flavor. Always drizzle it on before serving to elevate taste.
• Bold uneven filling: Overfilling wontons can cause them to tear. Use a moderate amount of filling for easy handling and better presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep chicken and coleslaw separate from wonton wrappers to maintain crispiness.

Freezing Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos

• Freeze assembled tacos in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
• Wrap each taco tightly to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place tacos on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm and crispy.
• Microwave: Heat on high for 30 seconds at a time, checking frequently. This method may soften the wrappers.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes per side until warmed through and crispy again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken and coleslaw ahead of time. Assemble the tacos just before serving for maximum crunch.

What sauces pair well with Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos?

In addition to sweet chili sauce, consider adding sriracha or a tangy lime dressing for extra flavor.

How do I customize my Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos?

Feel free to add additional toppings like avocado, jalapeños, or different veggies based on your preferences.

Are there vegetarian options for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh marinated in teriyaki sauce for a delicious vegetarian version.

Final Thoughts

Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos are an exciting blend of textures and flavors that appeal to both kids and adults alike. Their versatility allows you to customize with various fillings and toppings, making them perfect for any occasion. Try this easy recipe and enjoy the delightful crunch paired with tender chicken!