Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos are an irresistible dish that captures the essence of bold flavors and crunchy textures. These tacos showcase crispy wonton shells filled with a savory mix of shredded chicken, coleslaw, and cheese, all brought together by creamy ranch dressing. Perfect for any casual gathering, game night, or as an easy weeknight dinner, there’s a lot to love about this recipe. Let’s dive in to understand more about why making these at home is a great choice.
Why cook this at home
Making Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos at home offers numerous benefits. Firstly, they are straightforward and relatively quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights. The ingredients are budget-friendly, allowing you to create a restaurant-quality dish without breaking the bank. This recipe also encourages creativity, as you can modify the filling to suit your preferences or whatever you have on hand. Plus, there’s a certain joy that comes with serving homemade tacos that adds a personal touch to any meal.
Preparing Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos
- Heat oil to fry the wonton wrappers until crispy.
- Cut wonton wrappers into triangles for the tacos.
- Combine shredded chicken with the coleslaw mix and dressing.
- Fill each crispy wonton shell with the chicken mixture.
- Enjoy immediately for the best texture.
Key ingredients
- 8 wonton wrappers
- 1 lb chicken breast, cooked and shredded
- 1 cup coleslaw mix
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil for frying
Wonton wrappers can be found in most grocery stores, typically in the refrigerated section. For the coleslaw mix, feel free to use a store-bought version or make your own by finely shredding cabbage and combining it with carrots. Use whatever cheese suits your taste; both cheddar and Monterey Jack melt beautifully.
How to prepare it
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).
- Cut square wonton wrappers into triangles.
- Fry the triangles in the hot oil until they are golden and crispy. Make sure to monitor closely to avoid burning.
- In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken, coleslaw mix, cheese, green onions, ranch dressing, salt, and pepper. Ensure the chicken is at least 165°F before mixing.
- Carefully spoon the chicken mixture into each cooked wonton shell.
What to serve it with
These chicken wonton tacos are versatile and pair well with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with fresh salsa or guacamole on the side. A simple garden salad can add a refreshing touch. For a heartier option, try offering some Mexican rice or refried beans. If you’re feeling adventurous, a light drizzle of sriracha or hot sauce can elevate the flavors further.
How to store and freeze
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can usually stay fresh for about 3 days. If you choose to freeze them, place the filled tacos on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When reheating, ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure food safety. Always follow the 2-hour rule for food safety when leaving cooked food at room temperature.
Pro chef tips
- Practice frying the wonton wrappers in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pot, which can lower the oil temperature.
- For extra crunch, consider baking the wonton wrappers after frying them, ensuring they stay crispy longer when served.
- Experiment with different proteins like shredded beef or turkey if you’re in the mood for a change.
- Adding a touch of lime juice to the filling can brighten up the flavors significantly.
Creative twists
- Swap out the ranch dressing for a chipotle-style or spicy ranch for an added kick.
- Use other proteins, like shredded beef or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
- Opt for different cheese blends, such as pepper jack or a Mexican blend, to change the flavor profile.
- Top the tacos with additional ingredients like avocado slices, jalapeños, or even a sprinkle of cilantro for freshness.
Your questions answered
Can I make the chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the shredded chicken in advance. Cook and shred it, then simply store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the tacos.
How can I make these tacos healthier?
You can make a healthier version by using grilled chicken instead of fried, or substitute the ranch dressing for a yogurt-based dressing.
What’s the best way to reheat the tacos?
To reheat the tacos, place them in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes. This will help maintain their crispiness better than microwaving.
Are wonton wrappers gluten-free?
Most wonton wrappers contain wheat, but you can find gluten-free alternatives in some grocery stores or health food stores.
How can I prevent the wonton wrappers from getting soggy?
Fill the wonton shells just before serving to keep them crispy. Serve immediately once assembled to enjoy that crunch.
Trying this recipe can be rewarding, allowing you to create a delicious meal right in your kitchen. Don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors and toppings to find your ideal combination. Share your outcome and any twists you introduce, and enjoy this delicious taco experience!
Chicken Wonton Tacos
Ingredients
Method
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C).
- Cut square wonton wrappers into triangles.
- Fry the triangles in the hot oil until they are golden and crispy, monitoring closely to avoid burning.
- In a bowl, combine shredded chicken, coleslaw mix, cheese, green onions, ranch dressing, salt, and pepper.
- Carefully spoon the chicken mixture into each cooked wonton shell.
- Enjoy immediately for the best texture.
