Introduction: The Irresistible Crunch of Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos

There’s something truly special about Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos. The satisfying crunch of the crispy wonton shell, the juicy, flavorful chicken, and the refreshing bite of coleslaw all come together in a perfect fusion of textures and flavors. But what if you could recreate that same magic at home? Imagine making a batch of these delicious tacos, customized to your taste, using fresh ingredients, and at a fraction of the cost.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to prepare a copycat Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos recipe that might just be better than the restaurant version. From a flavorful chicken marinade to a spicy ranch sauce, this recipe covers every detail to help you achieve crispy, juicy, and utterly irresistible wonton tacos. Ready to get started? Let’s dive in!

How to Make Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos at Home

Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos are a fan favorite for a reason. Each bite delivers the perfect combination of crispy, juicy, tangy, and creamy—a flavor explosion that keeps you coming back for more. But what if you could skip the restaurant and enjoy these irresistible tacos anytime you want? The good news is, you can! With just a few fresh ingredients and some simple cooking techniques, you’ll be able to recreate this dish right in your own kitchen.

Why Are Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos So Irresistible?

This dish stands out because of its perfect balance of textures and flavors. Every component is carefully crafted to create a taco that is as fun to eat as it is delicious.

1. The Crispy Wonton Shells

Unlike traditional taco shells, these are made from light and airy wonton wrappers that are fried or baked until they reach a satisfying crunch. They serve as the perfect vessel for the flavorful filling, offering a delicate crispiness that makes every bite exciting.

2. The Sweet and Savory Chicken

The chicken is marinated in a blend of teriyaki sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger, creating a rich, slightly sweet taste with a deep umami punch. Once cooked, the caramelization enhances the flavors, making the meat succulent and packed with depth.

3. The Refreshing Slaw

A taco needs contrast, and that’s where the slaw comes in. This crunchy mix of shredded cabbage, carrots, lime juice, and cilantro brightens up the dish, adding a fresh, zesty element that keeps the flavors light and balanced.

4. The Creamy, Spicy Sauce

No great taco is complete without a killer sauce! A smooth, slightly fiery blend of ranch, mayo, and sriracha ties everything together, adding just the right amount of heat and creaminess to complement the crisp slaw and savory chicken.

Why Make These at Home Instead of Ordering Out?

While heading to Applebee’s is easy, making these tacos at home has some undeniable advantages:

🔹 Fresher Ingredients: You control what goes in, ensuring high-quality, fresh flavors without preservatives or artificial additives.

🔹 Healthier Customization: Prefer less sugar, more protein, or a lighter version? Making them yourself means you can tweak the recipe to fit your dietary needs.

🔹 Budget-Friendly: Why spend more at a restaurant when you can make a big batch at home for a fraction of the price? These are perfect for a family meal or a fun gathering with friends.

🔹 Endless Creativity: Want to add extra spice, swap the chicken for shrimp, or experiment with different sauces? At home, you’re the chef!

Ingredients for the Best Copycat Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos

Chicken Marinade & Filling

• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (grilled or rotisserie)
• 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional, for extra flavor)

Crispy Wonton Shells

• 12 wonton wrappers
• Vegetable oil for frying

Crunchy Slaw Topping

• 1 cup coleslaw mix (shredded cabbage and carrots)
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro

Spicy Ranch Sauce

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon sriracha
• 2 tablespoons ranch dressing

Recipe Ingredients Table:

Ingredient	Quantity
Chicken breast (shredded)	2 cups
Wonton wrappers	12
Teriyaki sauce	1/4 cup
Garlic (minced)	1 tsp
Ginger (grated)	1/2 tsp
Honey	1 tbsp
Coleslaw mix	1 cup
Lime juice	1 tbsp
Cilantro (chopped)	2 tbsp
Mayo	1/4 cup
Sriracha	1 tbsp
Ranch dressing	2 tbsp
Vegetable oil (for frying)	As needed

If you’ve ever had Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos, you know they’re the perfect mix of crispy, tangy, and slightly spicy flavors. Now, imagine recreating them in your own kitchen with fresh ingredients and a personal touch. This step-by-step guide will show you exactly how to make these irresistible tacos from scratch—complete with a flavorful chicken filling, crunchy wonton shells, and a zesty slaw that ties everything together.

Step 1: Prepare the Savory Chicken Filling

The heart of these tacos is the juicy, flavorful chicken. Here’s how to make it taste just like the restaurant version (or even better!):

Ingredients:

• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie works great!)
• ¼ cup teriyaki sauce
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with teriyaki sauce, garlic, ginger, honey, and sesame oil.
2. Let the mixture marinate for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse into the chicken. If you have extra time, marinate for up to an hour for even more depth of flavor.
3. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the chicken. Sauté until heated through and slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Set aside while you prepare the wonton shells.

Step 2: Create the Crispy Wonton Shells

The crispiness of the wonton shells is what makes these tacos so fun and delicious. You can fry them traditionally or bake them for a lighter alternative.

Frying Method (Classic & Crispy):

1. Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a frying pan until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
2. Carefully place each wonton wrapper in the oil and fry for about 30 seconds per side until golden brown and crispy.
3. Use tongs to remove them and immediately drape them over a wooden spoon handle or a rolling pin to create a taco shape. Let them cool and harden.

Baking Method (Healthier Option):

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Spray wonton wrappers lightly with cooking spray and press them into the cups of a muffin tin to form a taco shape.
3. Bake for 6-8 minutes or until golden and crisp.

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Step 3: Prepare the Refreshing Slaw & Spicy Ranch Sauce

The slaw adds a fresh crunch, while the spicy ranch dressing brings a creamy kick to every bite.

For the Slaw:

• 1 cup coleslaw mix (or shredded cabbage and carrots)
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine coleslaw mix, lime juice, honey, and cilantro.
2. Toss well and set aside, allowing the flavors to meld while you finish the tacos.

For the Spicy Ranch Sauce:

• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
• 2 tablespoons ranch dressing

Instructions:

1. Whisk all ingredients together in a small bowl until smooth and creamy.
2. Taste and adjust the spice level by adding more sriracha if desired.

Step 4: Assemble Your Chicken Wonton Tacos

Now that all the components are ready, it’s time to bring everything together!

1. Take your crispy wonton shells and fill them with the caramelized teriyaki chicken.
2. Top each taco with a generous scoop of slaw for crunch and brightness.
3. Drizzle the spicy ranch sauce over the top for that signature creamy heat.
4. Garnish with extra cilantro, sesame seeds, or a squeeze of lime if you like.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

These tacos are best served immediately, while the wonton shells are still crisp. Pair them with a refreshing drink like:

• Iced green tea with honey and lemon
• A citrusy mocktail (lime, orange, and club soda)
• Classic margaritas or cold beer for an adult twist

Want to get creative? Try adding extras like pickled onions, jalapeños, or a sprinkle of crushed peanuts for added texture and flavor.

The Ultimate Guide to Perfecting Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos

If you love Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos, you’re in for a treat! Whether you’re making them for a casual weeknight dinner or serving them at a party, these crispy, flavor-packed bites can be customized to suit your taste. Here are some expert tips and tricks to take your homemade version to the next level.

1. A Healthier Take: Skip the Deep Fryer

Craving that signature crunch but looking for a lighter option? Instead of frying the wonton wrappers, bake them in a muffin tin at 375°F (190°C) for 6-8 minutes until golden and crispy. This method cuts down on oil while still delivering that satisfying crispiness.

2. Dial Up the Heat: Spice Lovers, This One’s for You

Love a little extra fire in your tacos? Amp up the heat by adding more sriracha, chili flakes, or even a dash of cayenne pepper to your sauce. If you really want to turn up the spice, mix a bit of hot honey into the dressing for a sweet-heat combo that’s irresistible!

3. Save Time with Meal Prep Hacks

Want to make these in a hurry? You can prepare the chicken and slaw ahead of time and store them in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the chicken, assemble the tacos, and enjoy. This is a great way to whip up a delicious appetizer or meal without the last-minute stress.

4. Go Plant-Based Without Sacrificing Flavor

Vegetarian or simply looking for a meat-free alternative? Swap out the chicken for grilled tofu, jackfruit, or even sautéed mushrooms for a hearty, satisfying bite. Marinate your tofu or jackfruit in the same tangy sauce to maintain that bold, zesty flavor.

5. Elevate with Extra Toppings

Want to take your wonton tacos to the next level? Try adding:

• Crushed peanuts for extra crunch
• A drizzle of honey for a touch of sweetness
• Fresh chopped cilantro for a burst of freshness
• Pickled onions or jalapeños for a tangy twist

Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos – Nutritional Info

Nutrient	Per Serving
Calories	~320 kcal
Protein	22g
Carbs	30g
Fat	12g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What kind of chicken does Applebee’s use for their Wonton Tacos?

Applebee’s uses marinated, shredded chicken, giving the dish its signature taste. This recipe mimics that by marinating chicken with teriyaki sauce, garlic, and ginger.

Can I make these wonton tacos in the air fryer?

Absolutely! Spray the wonton wrappers with oil and air fry at 375°F for 4-5 minutes until crispy.

How do I store leftover Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos?

Store the filling and shells separately. Reheat the chicken and assemble fresh to maintain the crunch.

Can I use egg roll wrappers instead of wonton wrappers?

Yes! Just cut them into smaller squares to achieve the right size and crispiness.

Conclusion: Enjoy Homemade Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos Anytime!

Now you know how to make these mouthwatering Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos right in your own kitchen! With the perfect balance of crispy, savory, and spicy, they’re bound to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a quick dinner, or just craving a restaurant-quality meal at home, this recipe has you covered.

More Cake Recipes to Try:

• the Best Cinnamon Pull Apart Bread at Home
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• Cold Dip Recipes for Any Occasion

Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your experience in the comments! Did you add your own twist to the recipe? Let us know—we’d love to hear from you!

Enjoy your homemade Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos!