Ever get hit with a craving for those crispy, sweet-and-savory Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos—but don’t feel like putting on real pants or paying restaurant prices? Same here. That’s why this homemade version has become one of my go-to favorites.
These tacos are ridiculously crave-worthy: crunchy wonton shells, sticky sesame-ginger chicken, fresh slaw, and a drizzle of sweet chili sauce. It’s the perfect combo of flavor and texture, and the best part? You can whip them up in under 30 minutes.
So let’s skip the takeout and bring the Applebee’s vibes straight to your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy: Ready in about half an hour—great for weeknights.
- Texture goals: Crispy wontons, tender chicken, crunchy slaw = perfection.
- Flavor-packed: Sweet, savory, tangy, and a little spicy in every bite.
- Make it your way: Easy to adapt for spice levels or dietary needs.
This recipe is always a hit at parties, girls’ nights, or even as a fun dinner-for-one moment. Trust me, you won’t miss the restaurant.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to recreate this iconic appetizer:
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, finely diced
- 2 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp freshly grated ginger
For the Slaw:
- 1 bag coleslaw mix
- 4 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp honey
Other Ingredients:
- 16 wonton wrappers
- Sweet chili sauce (for topping)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- Cooking spray (for the muffin tin)
How to Make Chicken Wonton Tacos
1. Crisp the Wonton Shells
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Flip a muffin tin upside down and spray the back with cooking spray.
- Drape wonton wrappers over each inverted muffin cup to form taco-shaped shells.
- Bake for 5–7 minutes, or until golden and crisp. Keep an eye on them—they brown quickly!
2. Cook the Chicken
- Heat 1 tbsp sesame oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add diced chicken and cook until just cooked through (about 3–4 minutes).
- Stir in hoisin sauce, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger.
- Let it cook for another 2–3 minutes until the chicken is coated and sticky.
3. Toss the Slaw
- In a bowl, combine coleslaw mix, green onions, sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and honey.
- Mix well until everything is evenly coated and fresh.
4. Assemble the Tacos
- Carefully fill each baked wonton shell with a spoonful of the chicken mixture.
- Top with a generous heap of slaw.
- Drizzle with sweet chili sauce.
- Finish with chopped cilantro and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
Tips for Success
- Serve immediately – Wonton shells can lose their crisp if they sit too long after filling.
- Double up – These go fast. Make extra if you’re serving a group.
- Spice it up – Add a splash of sriracha or red pepper flakes to the chicken for a spicy twist.
- No hoisin? – Swap it for teriyaki sauce or a little BBQ sauce for a different flavor profile.
- Want it lighter? – Try using ground turkey or tofu for a leaner option.
From My Kitchen to Yours
This recipe became a regular at my house after my best friend challenged me to recreate the Applebee’s version for one of our girls’ nights in. Long story short, they were such a hit that now I’m not allowed to host without making them. Honestly? I don’t mind. They’re that good.
FAQs
Can I use ground chicken instead of diced?
Absolutely! Ground chicken is a great alternative and even quicker to cook.
How do I store leftovers?
Store the chicken and slaw in separate containers in the fridge. Reheat the chicken in a pan and crisp the shells in the oven before assembling.
Can I make them gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free wonton wrappers and swap soy sauce for tamari. Always check labels to be sure.
Let’s Taco ‘Bout How Good These Are
There’s just something magical about the combo of crispy shells, sticky chicken, and fresh slaw. Whether you’re throwing a party, upgrading Taco Tuesday, or just treating yourself after a long day—these copycat Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos deliver every single time.
So go ahead, pour a drink, throw on your favorite playlist, and enjoy every delicious bite. No reservation required.
