When a craving hits for something crispy and full of flavor, these Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos come to the rescue! I’ll never forget the first time I prepared this dish after a long day; the kitchen filled with the irresistible scent of teriyaki chicken, sealing my fate as a taco-loving enthusiast. With crunchy wonton wrappers cradling tender chicken and a refreshing zesty slaw, each bite offers a delightful fusion of textures and tastes that will have you dreaming of your next gathering.
Best of all, this recipe takes less than 30 minutes from countertop to table, making it the perfect quick meal for busy weeknights or a standout appetizer at your next get-together. Variations to suit your preferences abound, whether you choose shrimp, pork, or even tofu. Let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into this easy culinary adventure that promises satisfaction and impresses every time!
Why love Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos?
Quick and Easy: This recipe is a game-changer, taking less than 30 minutes to prepare, making it a go-to solution for busy weeknight dinners.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of succulent teriyaki chicken and zesty slaw will wake up your taste buds.
Versatile Options: You can customize these tacos with shrimp, pork, or even a tofu filling, catering to your cravings.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for gatherings, they are sure to impress guests and keep everyone coming back for more!
Crunchy Texture: Those crispy wonton wrappers provide the perfect base, balancing out the tender chicken and refreshing slaw.
Get ready to savor each bite of this delectable snack that’s guaranteed to become a household favorite!
Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos Ingredients
For the Chicken Filling
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – A tender protein base; substitute with shrimp or ground pork for variety.
- Teriyaki Sauce – A flavor enhancer and marinade; feel free to use homemade or store-bought.
- Sesame Oil – Adds richness and a nutty flavor; regular vegetable oil works in a pinch.
- Low-Sodium Soy Sauce – Contributes umami and saltiness; tamari can be used for a gluten-free option.
- Garlic (minced) – Provides aromatic flavor; fresh minced garlic offers the best brightness.
- Fresh Ginger (grated) – Adds warmth and spice; powdered ginger is a quick alternative.
For the Slaw
- Coleslaw Mix (cabbage and carrots) – Delivers crunch and freshness; feel free to add veggies like bell peppers.
- Green Onions (thinly sliced) – Brings a touch of freshness; substitute with regular onions if needed.
- Rice Vinegar – Brightens slaw flavors; white vinegar can be used if you’re in a bind.
- Honey – Sweetens the slaw beautifully; maple syrup is a great vegan-friendly substitute.
For the Tacos
- Wonton Wrappers – The crispy base for these tacos; use gluten-free wrappers if required.
- Sweet Chili Sauce – Drizzle for added heat; adjust based on your spice preference.
- Sesame Seeds – Garnish to add texture and visual appeal; poppy seeds can work as a substitute.
- Chopped Cilantro – A fresh herb to finish; parsley is a good alternative if cilantro isn’t on hand.
These Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos ingredients will create a delicious blend of flavors that everyone in the family will love!
How to Make Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos
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Marinate the Chicken: Combine thinly sliced chicken with teriyaki sauce, ½ tablespoon sesame oil, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger in a bowl. Let it sit for 10 minutes to absorb all those delightful flavors.
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Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the marinated chicken. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the chicken is no longer pink and fully cooked through, stirring occasionally.
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Prepare the Slaw: In a separate bowl, mix together the coleslaw mix, green onions, rice vinegar, honey, and the remaining sesame oil. Let it sit for a few minutes to soften and meld the flavors.
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Fry the Wonton Wrappers: In a small pan, heat ½ inch of oil over medium-high heat. Fry each wonton wrapper for 20-30 seconds per side until crispy and golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
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Assemble the Tacos: Take each crispy wonton and fill it with the cooked chicken and refreshing slaw. Drizzle a little sweet chili sauce on top, and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped cilantro for that finishing touch.
Optional: Serve with extra sweet chili sauce on the side for dipping.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos?
Elevate your meal experience by creating a delightful spread that pairs beautifully with these crunchy tacos.
- Sweet and Spicy Asian Slaw: A refreshing and tangy counterpart, this slaw complements the tacos with its vibrant flavors, making each bite a taste adventure.
- Coconut Rice: Creamy coconut rice brings a contrasting texture, harmonizing perfectly with the savory chicken while adding a touch of tropical sweetness.
- Hot and Sour Soup: This warming soup’s balance of heat and tang enhances the overall dining experience, providing depth to your meal.
- Mango Salsa: Bursting with freshness, the sweetness of mango paired with zesty lime and cilantro brightens each bite of the tacos. This vibrant addition is a must-try!
- Peanut Dipping Sauce: Rich and creamy, this sauce offers an irresistible flavor boost, creating a delicious alternative for drizzling or dipping.
- Crispy Spring Rolls: Add a delightful crunch with these savory rolls; their veggie-filled goodness echoes the fresh elements of the tacos.
- Chilled Green Tea: Refreshing and light, this drink balances the richer flavors of the dish, making it a soothing pairing.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing medley of seasonal fruits acts as a palate cleanser and rounds out your meal with natural sweetness.
Each of these options is designed to complement the delightful crunch and flavor of the Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos, creating a memorable dining experience for you and your guests!
Expert Tips for Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos
- Keep Wontons Fresh: Store wonton wrappers under a damp paper towel while prepping to prevent them from drying out before frying.
- Oil Temperature Check: Test the frying oil with a wooden chopstick; if bubbles form immediately, it’s ready for the crispy chicken wonton tacos!
- Leftover Storage: Keep leftover chicken and slaw separate to maintain crunch; reheat chicken gently with a splash of water to avoid dryness.
- Bake for Health: For a lighter version, consider baking wonton wrappers at 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes instead of frying.
- Flavor Boost: Mix a bit of sriracha into the sweet chili sauce for a spicy kick that enhances the overall flavor of your crispy chicken wonton tacos!
Variations & Substitutions for Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos
Feel free to customize your tacos and make them your own; delicious possibilities await!
- Shrimp Swap: Replace chicken with shrimp for a seafood twist. Simply cook until pink and opaque.
- Pork Perfection: Ground pork can be substituted for chicken; crumble and sauté until fully cooked for a rich flavor.
- Tofu Delight: For a vegetarian option, use firm tofu, diced, and marinated the same as chicken. Sauté until golden brown on all sides.
- Veggie-Filled Slaw: Add shredded cucumbers, bell peppers, or bean sprouts to the slaw for freshness and added crunch.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs by adding mint or basil to the slaw for an aromatic twist that brightens the dish.
- Spicy Kick: Mix sriracha into the sweet chili sauce to heighten the heat level and create a bold flavor contrast.
- Baked Rather than Fried: Bake the wonton wrappers at 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes instead of frying for a healthier option that maintains crunch.
- Crispy Chickpeas: For a plant-based filling, swap in crispy roasted chickpeas for a delightful and hearty alternative.
Dive in and enjoy the endless adaptations for your Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos!
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos are a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken (step 1) up to 24 hours in advance, storing it covered in the refrigerator to absorb all that delicious teriyaki flavor. Additionally, prepare the slaw (step 3) a day ahead, but keep it in a separate container to maintain its crunch. When you’re ready to serve, simply cook the chicken (step 2) and fry the wonton wrappers (step 4) right before assembling. This approach not only saves time but also ensures that your tacos are just as delightful and crisp, making busy weeknights a breeze!
Storage Tips for Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos
- Fridge: Keep any leftover components like chicken and slaw separate in airtight containers for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and crunch.
- Freezer: If you have extra wonton wrappers or cooked chicken, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. They can last up to 3 months.
- Reheating: To reheat the chicken, gently warm it in a skillet with a splash of water to retain moisture. For wonton wrappers, re-crisp them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 5-10 minutes, ensuring they regain their crunch.
- Assembling: For best results, assemble crispy chicken wonton tacos just before serving to maintain that delightful crunch in the wrappers!
Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken, go for boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the best texture. Fresh chicken is preferred; look for breasts that are pale in color and have a slight sheen. Avoid any pieces with dark spots or excessive liquid. If you prefer, swapping in shrimp or ground pork can also provide a delightful twist to the filling.
How should I store leftover crispy chicken wonton tacos?
To maintain freshness, it is best to store leftover components separately. Store the cooked chicken and slaw in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This way, the slaw won’t lose its crunch. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, gently reheat the chicken in a skillet with a splash of water to keep it tender.
Can I freeze cooked chicken and wonton wrappers?
Definitely! To freeze leftover chicken, let it cool and spread it out in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring it to a freezer bag. This method prevents clumping and makes it ideal for quick meals later. And don’t forget, wonton wrappers can also be frozen! They’ll last up to 3 months; just ensure they are stored in an airtight bag.
What should I do if my wonton wrappers aren’t crisping up?
Very! If your wonton wrappers aren’t crisping properly, make sure that the oil is hot enough before frying. A quick test: dip a wooden chopstick into the oil; if it bubbles around the chopstick, you’re ready to fry. If they still don’t crisp up, consider frying them a little longer and ensure you don’t overcrowd the pan, as this can lower the oil temperature.
Are there any dietary considerations for the ingredients in crispy chicken wonton tacos?
Absolutely! This recipe can cater to various dietary needs. For gluten-free options, use tamari instead of soy sauce, and look for gluten-free wonton wrappers. Additionally, for a lower lactose alternative, this dish is naturally low in lactose as it doesn’t require cream or dairy. Always check for any allergies with your guests, especially with sesame oil or honey.
How can I reheat the chicken and wonton wrappers?
Very! When reheating the chicken, I recommend using a skillet on low heat with a splash of water. This prevents the chicken from drying out and keeps it juicy. For the wonton wrappers, place them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 5-10 minutes to restore their crunchiness. Enjoy & savor that delightful freshness!
Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos for a Flavorful Dinner Escape
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Marinate the Chicken: Combine thinly sliced chicken with teriyaki sauce, ½ tablespoon sesame oil, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger in a bowl. Let it sit for 10 minutes to absorb all those delightful flavors.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the marinated chicken. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the chicken is no longer pink and fully cooked through, stirring occasionally.
- Prepare the Slaw: In a separate bowl, mix together the coleslaw mix, green onions, rice vinegar, honey, and the remaining sesame oil. Let it sit for a few minutes to soften and meld the flavors.
- Fry the Wonton Wrappers: In a small pan, heat ½ inch of oil over medium-high heat. Fry each wonton wrapper for 20-30 seconds per side until crispy and golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil.
- Assemble the Tacos: Take each crispy wonton and fill it with the cooked chicken and refreshing slaw. Drizzle a little sweet chili sauce on top, and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped cilantro for that finishing touch.