Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos

If you’re looking for a show-stopping appetizer or a fun dinner idea, these crispy chicken wonton tacos are the perfect choice! Combining tender, flavorful chicken with crunchy wonton shells and refreshing Asian slaw, this recipe is an irresistible fusion of textures and flavors. Perfect for entertaining or a creative family meal, these tacos are as fun to make as they are to eat.

ingredients

For the chicken:

• 2 skinless boneless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons teriyaki sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 teaspoons fresh garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced

For the slaw:

• 1 bag coleslaw mix
• 1/4 cup green onions, diced
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey

For assembly:

• 16 wonton wrappers
• Sweet chili sauce, for topping
• Sesame seeds, for garnish
• Chopped cilantro, for garnish

instructions

Step 1: Marinate the chicken
In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken slices with teriyaki sauce, sesame oil, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 2: Prepare the wonton taco shells
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Drape wonton wrappers over an inverted muffin tin to create a taco shape. Bake for 7-9 minutes or until crispy and golden. Remove from the oven and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the chicken
In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the marinated chicken until cooked through and slightly caramelized, about 6-8 minutes.

Step 4: Make the Asian slaw
In a large bowl, mix coleslaw, green onions, sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and honey. Toss until the slaw is evenly coated and flavorful.

Step 5: Assemble the tacos
Fill each crispy wonton shell with the cooked chicken. Top with a generous amount of Asian slaw, drizzle with sweet chili sauce, and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped cilantro.

why you’ll love these tacos

• Unique flavor combo: A perfect balance of savory, sweet, and tangy.
• Texture heaven: The crispy wonton shell contrasts beautifully with the tender chicken and crunchy slaw.
• Perfect for parties: An eye-catching dish that’s easy to eat and full of flavor.

tips for success

• Customize the protein: Substitute chicken with shrimp, tofu, or beef for variety.
• Crispier shells: Brush the wonton wrappers lightly with oil before baking for an extra-crispy texture.
• Make ahead: Prep the slaw and marinate the chicken ahead of time to streamline cooking.

serving and storage tips

Serving Tips

• Serve immediately: These tacos taste best when the wonton shells are fresh and crispy, so assemble them just before serving.
• Pair with sides: Complement these tacos with steamed dumplings, spring rolls, or an Asian-inspired cucumber salad for a complete meal.
• Presentation: Arrange the tacos upright in a taco holder or on a tray to showcase their vibrant colors and keep them stable.

Storage Tips

• Store components separately: To maintain freshness, store the cooked chicken, Asian slaw, and crispy wonton shells in separate airtight containers.
• Refrigeration: Keep the chicken and slaw refrigerated for up to 3 days. The wonton shells can be stored at room temperature in a sealed container to stay crispy.
• Reheating: Warm the chicken in a skillet or microwave before assembling the tacos. Avoid reheating the slaw or wonton shells to preserve their texture.
• Avoid assembling in advance: Assembling the tacos too early can cause the wonton shells to become soggy.

These tips will help ensure your crispy chicken wonton tacos remain fresh, delicious, and ready to enjoy whenever you crave them!

variations

• Spicy Chicken Wonton Tacos: Add a kick by marinating the chicken with sriracha or chili garlic sauce. You can also mix a little spicy mayo or sriracha into the slaw for extra heat.
• Vegetarian Wonton Tacos: Replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms, tofu, or tempeh. Use hoisin sauce for a flavorful marinade.
• Seafood Twist: Substitute chicken with shrimp or white fish like cod or tilapia. Marinate the seafood in a similar mixture and cook it quickly to retain its juicy texture.
• BBQ Chicken Wonton Tacos: Swap the teriyaki marinade for BBQ sauce, and use a coleslaw mix tossed in a creamy ranch dressing for a southern-inspired twist.
• Korean-Style Tacos: Marinate the chicken in gochujang (Korean chili paste), soy sauce, and sesame oil. Pair it with a kimchi slaw for bold, tangy flavors.
• Tropical Flavor: Add diced pineapple or mango to the slaw for a sweet, tropical vibe. A drizzle of coconut milk-based sauce complements this variation beautifully.
• Peanut Sauce Tacos: Replace the sweet chili sauce with a creamy peanut sauce drizzle for a nutty and rich flavor. Garnish with crushed peanuts.
• Buffalo Chicken Wonton Tacos: Use shredded buffalo chicken and top with blue cheese crumbles or ranch dressing along with a basic coleslaw.
• Asian BBQ Pork Tacos: Swap chicken for shredded pork marinated in hoisin and five-spice powder, and finish with pickled vegetables for a banh mi-inspired twist.
• Gluten-Free Tacos: Use gluten-free wonton wrappers and tamari instead of soy sauce to accommodate dietary restrictions.

These variations allow you to customize crispy chicken wonton tacos to suit your taste preferences or try something entirely new!

FAQs

1. Can I make the wonton shells ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the wonton shells a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them crispy.

2. Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken instead of cooking my own?
Absolutely! Shred the rotisserie chicken and toss it in a quick teriyaki glaze before adding it to the wonton shells.

3. Can I fry the wonton shells instead of baking them?
Yes, frying is an option. Heat oil in a pan and fry the wonton wrappers until golden brown. Shape them into taco shells immediately after frying while they’re still pliable.

4. How do I prevent the wonton shells from breaking when filling them?
Let the shells cool completely after baking and handle them gently. Avoid overfilling to prevent cracking.

5. Can I use a different type of slaw?
Yes, feel free to experiment with broccoli slaw, cabbage slaw, or even a simple lettuce mix. Adjust the dressing to suit the base.

6. Are there gluten-free wonton wrappers available?
Yes, many stores offer gluten-free wonton wrappers. Alternatively, you can use lettuce leaves as a low-carb option.

7. Can I make these tacos vegetarian?
Yes, replace the chicken with tofu, mushrooms, or even jackfruit for a plant-based alternative.

8. How do I store leftovers?
Store the components separately. Keep the crispy wonton shells in an airtight container at room temperature, and refrigerate the chicken and slaw in sealed containers.

9. Can I use other meats for this recipe?
Definitely! Try ground beef, pork, or shrimp as alternatives. Adjust the marinade and cooking time accordingly.

10. What’s a good side dish to serve with these tacos?
Asian-inspired dishes like fried rice, vegetable stir-fry, or egg rolls pair well. A light soup like miso soup is also a great choice.

These crispy chicken wonton tacos are the ultimate crowd-pleaser. With their bold flavors, satisfying crunch, and colorful presentation, they’re sure to become a favorite at your dinner table or next party. Whether you’re looking for a creative appetizer or a fun twist on taco night, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. Give it a try and watch these tacos disappear in no time!

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