If you are on the hunt for a vibrant and crunchy dish that bursts with flavor and texture, then you must try the Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe. This delightful fusion takes the delicate crispness of baked wonton wrappers and fills them with a zesty, saucy shredded chicken blend, topped with fresh, crunchy slaw and creamy accents. It’s a match made in foodie heaven that’s as fun to eat as it is to prepare — perfect for gatherings, snacks, or when you simply want to add a burst of excitement to your meal routine.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting ready to whip up these amazing Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos is a breeze because the ingredients are straightforward but carefully chosen to balance each other perfectly. Each component plays its role whether it’s the wonton wrappers providing that satisfying crunch, the tangy chicken that brings a taste of Asian-inspired sauces, or the fresh veggies that add a crisp and colorful finish.
- 12 square wonton wrappers: These form the crispy taco shells and bake up golden and crunchy.
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast (shredded): Tender protein that pulls perfectly and soaks up the delicious sauce.
- ½ cup shredded cabbage or slaw mix: Gives a refreshing crunch and vibrant color contrast.
- ¼ cup shredded carrots: Adds sweetness and an extra layer of crisp texture.
- 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro: Fresh herbs brighten up every bite with a hint of citrusy earthiness.
- ¼ cup sweet chili sauce: The perfect balance of sweet heat to elevate the chicken.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Adds umami depth and a salty kick.
- 1 tablespoon lime juice: Brings brightness and a slight tang that cuts through the richness.
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder: Small but mighty flavor enhancer for the chicken filling.
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger: Adds a warm, spicy note to keep things interesting.
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for brushing): Ensures the wonton shells crisp beautifully in the oven.
- ¼ cup sour cream or spicy mayo: Creamy topping that balances the heat and adds smoothness.
- Chopped green onions for garnish: A fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of green.
How to Make Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Wonton Shells
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly brush both sides of each wonton wrapper with vegetable oil. This step is crucial because it ensures the wontons bake up to a delightful golden color and crispness. Next, drape each wrapper over the edge of a baking dish or a taco mold to create the perfect taco shell shape. Bake them for 6 to 8 minutes or until they are beautifully crisp and golden. The visual of these tiny crispy shells bubbling up in the oven is a great sign you’re on the right track!
Step 2: Make the Chicken Filling
While the wontons bake, place the shredded chicken in a bowl. Add the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, lime juice, garlic powder, and ground ginger. Mix these together thoroughly to coat every shred with that vibrant flavor base. This mixture is the heart of the Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe, balancing sweetness, tang, warmth, and umami. Letting the chicken soak in these flavors while the shells crisp up is what gives the tacos their stunning depth.
Step 3: Toss the Slaw
In another bowl, combine the shredded cabbage or slaw mix with the carrots and chopped cilantro. This combination adds a fresh, crunchy contrast to the soft, sauced chicken. The herbs also lift the whole dish with brightness and color, making these tacos as lively as they are tasty.
Step 4: Assemble the Tacos
Once your wonton shells are cool enough to handle, fill each one generously with the chicken mixture. Top the chicken with the fresh slaw, then drizzle each taco with sour cream or spicy mayo. The creamy dollop not only adds richness but also balances any bold flavors with smoothness. Finish off with a sprinkle of chopped green onions for an extra hit of crunch and flavor. Now, your Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe tacos are ready to be devoured!
How to Serve Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe
Garnishes
A quick sprinkle of chopped green onions is the go-to garnish to add freshness and a mild bite, but don’t hesitate to experiment with finely chopped peanuts for crunch or a squeeze of fresh lime for that extra zing when serving. Each garnish contributes layers of flavor and texture that make every bite a delight.
Side Dishes
These tacos shine as a standalone treat but pairing them with light sides amplifies the experience. A crisp cucumber salad or a tangy pickled vegetable platter work beautifully to offset the savory chicken. If you want heartier options, steamed edamame or a chilled noodle salad infuse even more Asian-inspired vibes to your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation brings out the fun factor in the Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe. Try serving them on a wooden board with small bowls of extra sauces for dipping. Or arrange them neatly on a large platter with colorful garnishes sprinkled around. For a party, placing mini cocktail forks beside each taco makes serving easy and adds flair, making your guests feel extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, it is best to store the chicken filling and slaw separately from the wonton shells to keep that brilliant crunch intact. The shells will become soft if stacked or kept humid for too long, so airtight containers are your best friend.
Freezing
While you can freeze the chicken mixture, the wonton shells are not freezer-friendly once baked because they lose their crispness. Freeze the chicken filling in a freezer-safe container or zip-lock bag for up to 3 months, then thaw and reassemble with freshly baked shells when ready to enjoy.
Reheating
To reheat your stored chicken filling, warm it gently in a pan over medium heat until heated through. Meanwhile, if you saved the shells separately, you can refresh them in the oven at 350°F for 2-3 minutes to regain some crunch before assembling your tacos again. This simple step will make the tacos taste like fresh and fabulous.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken for the filling?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that saves time and still delivers excellent flavor for your Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe.
What’s the best way to make the wonton shells crispy?
Brushing both sides of the wrappers with vegetable oil before baking or air frying them ensures a beautiful golden crunch that’s essential to this recipe.
Can I substitute the chicken with a vegetarian option?
Yes, tofu or even shrimp makes a wonderful alternative. Adjust the cooking and marinating times accordingly to suit your protein of choice.
Is it possible to make the tacos ahead of time?
You can prepare and store the filling and slaw separately ahead of time, but for the best experience, bake the wonton shells fresh just before serving.
What sauce can I use if I don’t like spicy mayo or sour cream?
Try a simple yogurt-based sauce or even a drizzle of hoisin sauce for a sweeter twist. The key is to add a creamy, tangy finish to balance the heat.
Final Thoughts
The Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe is truly one of those dishes that doesn’t just satisfy hunger but brings joy with its playful textures and lively flavors. Whether you’re hosting a party or just treating yourself to a fun meal, these tacos are sure to impress and delight. Give this recipe a try — I promise it will brighten up your dinner table and become one of your favorite go-to bites!
Print
Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 tacos
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
- Diet: Dairy-Free
Description
These Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos combine crunchy baked wonton shells with a flavorful, tangy chicken filling and fresh slaw for a delightful Asian-inspired appetizer that’s perfect for parties or quick snacks.
Ingredients
Wonton Shells
- 12 square wonton wrappers
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for brushing)
Chicken Filling
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded
- ¼ cup sweet chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
Slaw Mix
- ½ cup shredded cabbage or slaw mix
- ¼ cup shredded carrots
- 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
Toppings
- ¼ cup sour cream or spicy mayo
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Wonton Shells: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly brush both sides of each wonton wrapper with vegetable oil. Drape the wrappers over the edge of a baking dish or a taco mold to form a taco shape.
- Bake the Wonton Shells: Bake the wonton wrappers in the oven for 6–8 minutes, or until they become golden brown and crisp. Remove from the oven and allow them to cool slightly to set their shape.
- Prepare the Chicken Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, lime juice, garlic powder, and ground ginger. Mix well to evenly coat the chicken with the flavorful sauce.
- Make the Slaw: In another bowl, toss together the shredded cabbage or slaw mix, shredded carrots, and chopped cilantro until well combined.
- Assemble the Tacos: Once the wonton shells are crisp and cooled slightly, fill each shell with a portion of the chicken mixture. Top with the prepared slaw mix.
- Add Toppings and Serve: Drizzle each taco with sour cream or spicy mayo to taste. Garnish with chopped green onions. Serve immediately to enjoy maximum crunch from the wonton shells.
Notes
- For extra crispy wonton shells, you can air fry them instead of baking.
- Substitute the chicken with tofu or shrimp for a different protein option.
- If preparing ahead of time, store the wonton shells, chicken filling, and slaw separately to maintain freshness and crispness.
- Omit sour cream or spicy mayo to make this recipe dairy-free.
