Have you ever wondered what happens when crispy wontons meet flavorful taco fillings? If you love tacos and Asian appetizers, you’re going to be obsessed with chicken wonton tacos! Imagine the crunch of a crispy wonton shell packed with savory, juicy chicken, topped with fresh vegetables, and finished off with a drizzle of spicy sauce. Sounds delicious, right?
In this blog post, we’ll dive into the world of chicken wonton tacos—where two popular foods come together to create a fusion masterpiece. We’ll talk about what makes these tacos so special, how to make them, and why they’re the perfect dish for any occasion. Let’s get started.
Table of Contents
Why Chicken Wonton Tacos Are So Special
A Flavor Explosion in Every Bite
What makes chicken wonton tacos so irresistible is the combination of textures and flavors. The crispy wonton shell provides a satisfying crunch that contrasts perfectly with the juicy, tender chicken filling. On top of that, the toppings, such as fresh cilantro, crunchy cabbage, and a tangy sauce, add a burst of flavor and freshness. This taco is the ultimate fusion dish, combining the best of Asian and Mexican cuisines in one bite.
These tacos are also super versatile. You can make them as spicy or mild as you like, and you can play around with different sauces and toppings. Whether you’re serving them at a casual weeknight dinner or impressing guests at a party, chicken wonton tacos are a crowd-pleaser.
Time and Difficulty Level
Making chicken wonton tacos doesn’t take too much time, but it does involve a few steps. On average, you’ll need about 30 to 40 minutes from start to finish, making this a great option for a quick but delicious meal. The difficulty level is moderate, but don’t worry! I’ll guide you through each step to ensure it’s easy to follow.
Essential Ingredients for Chicken Wonton Tacos
Now, let’s break down the key ingredients you’ll need to make chicken wonton tacos:
Main Ingredients:
- Wonton wrappers: These are the base for your taco shells. When fried, they become crispy and light, just like a taco shell but with a fun, Asian twist. You can find them at most grocery stores in the refrigerated section.
- Chicken breast or thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken is perfect for this recipe. Chicken breasts are lean and easy to shred, but thighs can add a bit more flavor and juiciness.
- Cabbage: Fresh cabbage adds crunch and texture. You can use napa cabbage or regular cabbage, or even a pre-made slaw mix.
- Carrots: Shredded carrots are a great addition for extra crunch and sweetness.
- Green onions: These add a mild onion flavor that pairs beautifully with the chicken and wonton wrappers.
- Sauces:
- Soy sauce: For savory depth and umami flavor.
- Sriracha or chili sauce: To add a little heat and spice.
- Sesame oil: For a rich, nutty flavor that ties everything together.
- Lime juice: To add brightness and acidity.
- Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a herbaceous kick and balances the richness of the fried wonton and chicken.
Ingredient Alternatives:
- Chicken alternative: You can use ground turkey or even tofu if you’re looking for a lighter or vegetarian option.
- Vegetables: If you don’t like cabbage, try lettuce or bell peppers for a similar crunch.
- Sauce alternatives: If you’re not a fan of spicy sauces, you can substitute with a sweet chili sauce or hoisin sauce.
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Chicken Wonton Tacos
Expanded Guide with Pro Tips
If you’re looking for a fun twist on taco night, these Chicken Wonton Tacos are a delicious fusion of Asian and Mexican flavors — featuring crispy fried wontons filled with savory chicken, tangy slaw, and zesty toppings.
Let’s dive into the full step-by-step process, from prepping ingredients to assembling the final dish like a pro!
Step 1: Prepare the Seasoned Chicken Filling
What You’ll Do: In a medium bowl, add:
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken works great!)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce (optional, but adds depth)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp grated fresh ginger
Instructions: Mix all ingredients together until the chicken is evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Pro Tip: For extra flavor, sauté the chicken briefly in a pan with the seasonings over medium heat for 2–3 minutes, just to infuse the flavors.
Keep warm until ready to use, or refrigerate if prepping ahead.
Step 2: Make the Quick Cabbage Slaw
What You’ll Do: In a separate bowl, combine:
- 1 cup finely shredded cabbage (green or purple for color!)
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar or lime juice
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- A pinch of salt and pepper
Instructions: Toss everything together until well combined. Cover and chill in the refrigerator while you prepare the rest of the dish.
Pro Tip: Add a splash of honey or agave syrup (½ tsp) for a touch of sweetness, or a few drops of toasted sesame oil for more aroma.
Step 3: Fry the Wonton Wrappers into Crispy Shells
Equipment Needed:
- Medium-sized skillet or deep fryer
- Slotted spoon or tongs
- Paper towels or wire rack (for draining)
- Spoon or taco shell mold (optional, for shaping)
Instructions:
- Pour about 1 inch of oil (vegetable, canola, or peanut oil) into a skillet or pot.
- Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C) . If you don’t have a thermometer, test by dropping a small piece of bread into the oil — it should sizzle immediately.
- Working in batches, gently place 2–3 wonton wrappers into the hot oil.
- Fry for about 30 seconds per side , or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove using a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels or a wire rack.
Pro Tip for Shape: While the fried wontons are still warm and pliable, drape them over the back of a wooden spoon or place in a taco shell mold to create a curved shape. Let them cool completely to harden into a crisp shell.
Optional: For a healthier version, bake the wonton shells at 375°F (190°C) for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Step 4: Optional – Prepare Special Toppings (Sriracha Mayo, etc.)
Sriracha Mayo Recipe (Easy):
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 1–2 tsp sriracha (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp lime juice
- ½ tsp soy sauce
Mix all ingredients in a small bowl and set aside.
You can also prep additional garnishes like:
- Chopped cilantro or green onions
- Sesame seeds
- Thinly sliced jalapeños
- Lime wedges
Step 5: Assemble Your Chicken Wonton Tacos
How to Build Each Taco: Place one fried wonton shell on a serving plate and layer in this order:
- A generous scoop of seasoned chicken filling
- A spoonful of the tangy cabbage slaw
- Optional: drizzle with sriracha mayo or sprinkle with chopped herbs
- Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, or jalapeños
Pro Tip: Serve the tacos right away to keep the wonton shells nice and crispy. If making ahead, keep the components separate and assemble just before serving.
Assembly: How to Build the Perfect Chicken Wonton Tacos
Building the taco is the fun part! Here’s how to layer your ingredients for the perfect bite:
- Start with the crispy wonton shell as your base. Make sure it’s fully crisped up and holds its shape before you add the filling.
- Add the seasoned chicken. Don’t be afraid to pile it high—the chicken should be juicy and flavorful.
- Top with the crunchy cabbage-carrot mix. This is where the texture comes into play—adding a satisfying crunch to each bite.
- Garnish with cilantro. Fresh cilantro adds a pop of color and flavor that brings everything together.
- Drizzle with extra sauce. If you love heat, add a bit more sriracha or soy sauce for an extra kick.
Presentation Tips:
- Serve these tacos on a platter with lime wedges on the side for an added burst of citrus.
- Arrange the tacos in a fun, staggered way for an eye-catching presentation.
Storage and Makeup Tips
Made too many chicken wonton tacos? No worries! Here’s how to store and reheat them:
Storing:
- Taco shells: You can store the fried wonton shells in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day. They might lose some crispiness, but you can quickly re-crisp them in the oven.
- Chicken filling: Store the chicken filling separately in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating:
- Taco shells: To re-crisp the wonton shells, place them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.
- Chicken: Reheat the chicken in a pan or microwave until heated through.
Recipe Variations for Chicken Wonton Tacos
There’s no limit to how you can customize your chicken wonton tacos. Here are a few fun variations:
- Spicy Mango Chicken Wonton Tacos: Add a few chunks of fresh mango and some diced jalapeño for a sweet and spicy combo.
- Buffalo Chicken Wonton Tacos: Swap out the soy sauce for buffalo sauce for a fiery twist.
- Veggie-Only Wonton Tacos: Skip the chicken and use sautéed mushrooms, tofu, or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
- BBQ Chicken Wonton Tacos: Swap the soy sauce for BBQ sauce and top with a dollop of coleslaw for a southern-inspired flavor.
Conclusion: Give Chicken Wonton Tacos a Try
Chicken wonton tacos are a fun, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that’s sure to impress everyone at your dinner table. With a crispy wonton shell, savory chicken filling, and crunchy vegetable toppings, it’s the perfect fusion food that satisfies all your cravings. The best part? They’re completely customizable to suit your tastes!
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your wonton wrappers, get your ingredients ready, and give these delicious tacos a try. You’ll be hooked after the first bite!
FAQs About Chicken Wonton Tacos
1. Can I make chicken wonton tacos ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken filling and fry the wonton shells ahead of time. Just store the components separately and assemble them right before serving.
2. Can I use store-bought taco shells instead of wonton wrappers?
While store-bought taco shells will work in a pinch, the wonton wrappers add a unique crispiness and texture that makes this dish special. We recommend sticking with them if you can.
3. How do I make the tacos spicier?
Add more sriracha to the chicken filling or drizzle a spicy sauce over the assembled tacos. You can also sprinkle some chili flakes for an extra kick!
4. Are chicken wonton tacos healthy?
While they are a bit indulgent with the fried wonton shells, the chicken filling is lean and you can load up the tacos with fresh veggies. It’s a balanced meal when enjoyed in moderation.
5. Can I make these tacos vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can easily make vegetarian chicken wonton tacos by replacing the chicken with tofu, mushrooms, or another plant-based protein.
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chicken wonton tacos
Ingredients
- For the Chicken:
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken rotisserie or grilled
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce optional
- 1 clove garlic minced
- ½ tsp grated ginger
- For the Cabbage Slaw:
- 1 cup shredded cabbage green or red
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar or lime juice
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- Pinch of salt and pepper
- For the Tacos:
- 12 wonton wrappers
- Oil vegetable, canola, or peanut, for frying
- Optional toppings: chopped green onions cilantro, sriracha mayo, sesame seeds, lime wedges
Notes
Step 1: Season the Chicken
In a medium bowl, combine shredded chicken with soy sauce, sesame oil, hoisin sauce (if using), garlic, and ginger. Mix well to coat evenly. Set aside or warm gently in a pan or microwave.Step 2: Make the Cabbage Slaw
In a small bowl, toss shredded cabbage with rice vinegar, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Chill until ready to use.Step 3: Fry the Wonton Wrappers
Heat about 1 inch of oil in a skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C) .Working in batches, fry 2–3 wonton wrappers at a time for about 30 seconds per side , until golden and crisp. Remove and drain on paper towels.
Step 4: Prepare Optional Sriracha Mayo
Mix ¼ cup mayonnaise with 1–2 tsp sriracha, ½ tsp lime juice, and a dash of soy sauce. Adjust spice level to taste.Step 5: Assemble the Tacos
Fill each fried wonton shell with:- A scoop of seasoned chicken
- A spoonful of cabbage slaw
- Optional: drizzle with sriracha mayo
- Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, or jalapeños