Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos Copycat Recipe – Quick Delicious Meals

Have you ever craved those crispy chicken wonton tacos at Applebee's? I know I have. But let's face it: sometimes, you just want to enjoy that crunchy goodness without heading out. That’s where this copycat recipe shines. 

Not only will it save you a trip, but it also allows you to tweak the flavors to your liking.

When I first set out to make these tacos, I wanted to capture that unmistakable crunch and flavor. 

The best part? Making them at home means you can control the ingredients. 

As a registered dietitian and food lover, I love experimenting with fresh, wholesome ingredients. This recipe is easy to prepare, kid-friendly, and perfect for gatherings or just a cozy night in.

My Ingredient Adventure

The journey begins at the grocery store. Picture me wandering down the aisles, my cart brimming with a colorful assortment of veggies and pantry staples. 

The shredded cabbage mix catches my eye—perfect for that delightfully crunchy filling. I toss a bag in my cart, alongside bright green onions and fresh herbs.

Next, it’s time to hunt down the chicken. I opt for lean, boneless chicken breasts. They're versatile and healthy, ensuring that I won’t feel guilty savoring these savory tacos. 

Then come the Asian flavors: hoisin sauce, sesame oil, and soy sauce all beckon me from the shelves. I can almost taste that sweet, slightly smoky richness.

I also grab some crispy wonton wrappers—they're the secret to that satisfying crunch. And of course, I can’t forget the garnishes! Fresh cilantro and toasted sesame seeds add a pop of flavor and presentation that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients List

Here’s what you need to recreate this dish in your own kitchen:

Asian Slaw

• 1 (397g) bag shredded cabbage mix
• 4 green onions, chopped into thin rings
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp seasoned rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp natural honey
• 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds (optional)
• 1 tsp freshly squeezed lime juice

Chicken Filling

• 2 chicken breasts, diced finely
• 2 tbsp sweet hoisin sauce
• 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
• 1 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
• 1 tsp freshly grated ginger

For Tacos & Garnishes

• 16 crispy wonton wrappers
• Sweet chili dipping sauce, for serving
• Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
• Toasted sesame seeds, for garnish
• 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional)

How to Make Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos Copycat

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the preparation.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Filling

Start by cooking the chicken. In a large skillet, you’ll want to heat a tablespoon of toasted sesame oil over medium heat. 

Add the diced chicken and let it brown for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Once it’s cooked through, toss in the minced garlic and grated ginger.

Now it's time to season! Pour in the hoisin sauce and low-sodium soy sauce. Stir well and let it cook for another 2–3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Your kitchen will soon be filled with that delightful aroma!

Step 2: Create the Asian Slaw

While the chicken is cooking, combine the slaw ingredients in a mixing bowl. Add the shredded cabbage, green onions, sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, and sesame seeds. Toss the ingredients together. 

Taste to check the balance; you might want to adjust the sweetness with more honey or the tang with extra lime juice.

Step 3: Fry the Wonton Wrappers

Let’s make those crispy wonton wrappers! Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Drop in the wonton wrappers carefully, frying a few at a time until they become golden brown and crisp, typically 1–2 minutes on each side.

Once they're done, remove them and place them on a paper towel to drain any excess oil.

Step 4: Assemble the Tacos

It’s assembly time! Grab a wonton wrapper and fill it with a spoonful of the chicken mixture. Top it off with a generous scoop of the Asian slaw. Want to make it even more delightful? Add a sprinkle of chili flakes and some chopped cilantro.

Step 5: Serve with Dipping Sauce

Arrange your tacos on a platter and serve them with sweet chili dipping sauce. You’ll want to see the expressions on your guests’ faces when they take their first bite!

Recipe Notes

• Shredded Cabbage Mix: This is a convenient way to add crunch and nutrients. It often includes carrots for a touch of sweetness.
• Green Onions: They provide a mild onion flavor and a pop of color to your dish.
• Sesame Oil: This is not just for flavor; it adds a nutty richness that complements the Asian theme perfectly.
• Hoisin Sauce: Sweet and thick, this sauce adds depth to the chicken.
• Wonton Wrappers: These are the stars of the show. When fried, they turn incredibly crispy, giving you that satisfying bite.
• Sweet Chili Sauce: It's the ultimate dipping companion, offering sweetness and a punch of spice.

Recipe Variations

Feeling adventurous? Here are some fun spins you can try:

• Vegetarian Version: Substitute the chicken with diced tofu or tempeh. You could also add more veggies, like bell peppers or mushrooms, to keep it hearty.
• Spicy Kick: Add some sriracha to the chicken filling if you like heat. A dash of chili oil in the slaw can also elevate the spice level.
• Fusion Flavors: Swap out the Asian slaw for a Southwest-style relish with corn, black beans, and avocados. The crispy tacos would pair perfectly!
• Baked Wontons: If you prefer a healthier approach, try baking the wonton wrappers instead of frying. Just brush them lightly with oil and bake until golden.

Conclusion

Making Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos at home is not just a delicious endeavor; it's an experience that brings joy into your kitchen. You control the flavors, the ingredients, and the fun! So gather your friends or family, roll up your sleeves, and let the taco assembly begin! 

You’ll impress them, boost your culinary confidence, and have a meal that rivals Applebee's—all from the comfort of your own home. Don’t be surprised if everyone asks for seconds—and that recipe card for themselves!

Now, go ahead and give it a try! Your taste buds will thank you. As for me, I’ll be over here enjoying the leftovers—if my family doesn’t get to them first! Happy cooking!

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