You know that feeling when you discover a dish that makes your taste buds dance? That’s exactly what happened when I first tried these Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos. Picture this: a light, golden wonton shell filled with juicy teriyaki chicken and topped with a refreshing, crunchy coleslaw—delicious! This recipe is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s also a quick, low-lactose delight that can be whipped up in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal appetizer for those busy weeknights or lively gatherings. Plus, they’re perfect for anyone looking to elevate their dinner game beyond fast food. Ready to dive into a world of flavor that merges Asian fusion with taco night? Let’s get cooking!
Why are These Tacos a Must-Try?
Unique Combination: These Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos blend the best of Asian flavors with a classic taco twist, making each bite a delightful surprise.
Quick Preparation: With a cooking time of under 30 minutes, you can easily serve up this impressive dish on busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.
Crowd Pleaser: Perfect for parties, these tacos are bound to impress family and friends, just like my Cowboy Butter Chicken Wings do!
Versatile Options: Feel free to get creative—swap in shrimp or tofu for a personalized touch.
Flavor Explosion: The crunchy wonton shell, savory teriyaki chicken, and zesty slaw deliver a satisfying texture and burst of flavors in every bite.
If you love quick meals that make an impression, these tacos should be your new go-to!
Crispy Chicken Wonton Taco Ingredients
For the Chicken Filling
• Chicken Breasts – Thinly sliced ensures quick cooking for these crispy chicken wonton tacos.
• Teriyaki Sauce – Adds sweetness and depth; substitute with soy sauce for a less sweet flavor.
• Sesame Oil – Enhances richness; olive oil works as a good alternative if avoiding sesame.
• Soy Sauce – Infuses umami richness; tamari is a great gluten-free option.
• Garlic – Provides aromatic flavor, elevating the overall taste profile.
• Ginger – Delivers a fresh and zesty note to the filling.
For the Coleslaw
• Coleslaw Mix – Offers crunch and freshness; pre-shredded mixes save time in preparation.
• Green Onions – Adds a fresh garnish and enhances flavor.
• Rice Vinegar – Balances sweetness and adds a tangy kick to the slaw.
• Honey – Sweetens the coleslaw mix; can be reduced or omitted for less sweetness.
For the Tacos
• Wonton Wrappers – These create the iconic taco shell; consider gluten-free wrappers if needed.
• Sweet Chili Sauce – Perfect for drizzling on top; adjust quantity for your preferred spice level.
• Sesame Seeds – Great for garnishing, providing additional flavor and crunch.
• Cilantro – Fresh herb topping; parsley can be used as a substitute if desired.
Embrace the joy of cooking with these ingredients and indulge in your very own Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a medium bowl, combine the thinly sliced chicken breasts with teriyaki sauce, ½ tablespoon of sesame oil, soy sauce, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Allow the chicken to marinate for about 10 minutes, letting the flavors meld while you prepare the remaining ingredients.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of sesame oil. Once hot, add the marinated chicken, cooking for 5-7 minutes until fully cooked and no longer pink. Stir occasionally to ensure an even cook, and enjoy the delightful aroma filling your kitchen.
Step 3: Prepare the Coleslaw
In a large bowl, combine the coleslaw mix, sliced green onions, rice vinegar, honey, and the remaining ½ tablespoon of sesame oil. Toss everything together until well coated, creating a refreshing slaw that will add crunch and flavor to your crispy chicken wonton tacos.
Step 4: Fry the Wontons
In a deep skillet, heat about ½ inch of oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, fry each wonton wrapper for 20-30 seconds on each side, or until golden brown and crisp. Remove them carefully with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
Step 5: Assemble the Tacos
Take each crispy wonton shell and fill it generously with the cooked teriyaki chicken. Top with a scoop of the vibrant coleslaw, then drizzle with sweet chili sauce for an added kick. Finish off each taco with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and a few cilantro leaves for a fresh touch, bringing your crispy chicken wonton tacos to life.
What to Serve with Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos
Elevate your meal experience and add delightful pairings to your crunchy creations.
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Crispy Fried Rice: This savory side is packed with veggies and a hint of sesame oil, perfectly balancing the flavors of the tacos.
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Asian Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and crisp, this salad adds a cool contrast, enhancing the vibrant flavors of your wonton tacos.
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Spicy Edamame: A fiber-rich, protein-packed snack that brings a touch of spice, complementing the sweet and savory notes of the tacos.
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Miso Soup: A warm, umami-rich soup that serves as a comforting appetizer, paving the way for the bold flavors that follow.
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Sweet Chili Dipping Sauce: Perfect for those who crave an extra layer of sweetness, this sauce ties together the delightful flavors of the tacos.
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Sesame Noodles: A satisfying noodle dish drizzled with sesame sauce, it adds a hearty touch that melds beautifully with the tacos.
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Green Tea or Jasmine Rice: Serve with a warm cup of green tea or a bowl of fragrant jasmine rice to cleanse the palate between bites, enhancing your dining experience.
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Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this sweet treat with its creamy coconut sauce rounds off your meal with a tropical finish that contrasts nicely with the savory tacos.
Each pairing brings its own texture and flavor, ensuring your dining experience remains exciting and satisfying!
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, allowing it to absorb all those delicious teriyaki flavors. Additionally, the coleslaw can be prepared and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just keep the wonton wrappers covered with a damp cloth to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to serve, simply cook the marinated chicken (about 5-7 minutes) and fry the wonton wrappers right before assembly to maintain that irresistible crunch. This prep-ahead strategy not only saves you time but also ensures that your tacos are just as delicious when it’s time to eat!
Variations & Substitutions for Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos
Feel free to explore these tasty twists and substitutions that elevate your crispy chicken wonton tacos to new heights!
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Shrimp Option: Replace chicken with shrimp for a seafood twist that cooks up just as quickly and adds a delicate flavor.
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Vegetarian Delight: Swap out meat for crispy tofu or a medley of colorful veggies for a satisfying plant-based version. This option can be tossed in the same teriyaki marinade for that irresistible flavor.
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Spicy Kick: Boost the heat level by incorporating sriracha into the sweet chili sauce or opting for a spicy teriyaki sauce. Your taste buds will love the extra zing!
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Asian Slaw Upgrade: Add shredded carrots, bell peppers, or snap peas to your coleslaw mix for added crunch and flavor, making each taco even more colorful and nutritious.
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Flavorful Wrappers: Try using flavored wonton wrappers, like spinach or beet, for a vibrant presentation that will impress guests! This little twist brings a fun visual element to your dish.
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Baking Method: If you’re looking for a lighter approach, bake the wonton wrappers in mini muffin tins at 375°F until golden brown for a healthier version without sacrificing crunch.
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Fusion Topping: Give a nod to Tex-Mex by adding a hint of avocado or a light dollop of salsa in your tacos. This blend of flavors creates a delicious fusion experience.
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Full Meal Option: Serve these tacos with a side of Mexican Street Corn Quinoa Salad for a hearty, satisfying meal that’s sure to impress.
Dive into these variations to make your crispy chicken wonton tacos truly your own!
How to Store and Freeze Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos
Fridge: Store cooked chicken and coleslaw separately in airtight containers for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken (without slaw) in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Gently reheat the chicken in the microwave with a splash of water to keep it moist, and crisp up wonton shells in the oven or air fryer for the best texture.
Wonton Wrappers: If you want to prepare in advance, fry wontons can be stored in a sealed bag at room temperature for 1 day to maintain their crispiness.
Expert Tips for Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos
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Keep Wrappers Moist: Cover wonton wrappers with a damp cloth while working to prevent them from drying out and becoming brittle.
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Cook in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the skillet when cooking chicken; this ensures even cooking and prevents steaming, leading to juicier chicken in your crispy chicken wonton tacos.
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Perfect Frying Technique: Fry wonton shells until golden brown; this texture is essential for a satisfying crunch. Test the oil temperature before frying for the best results.
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Customize the Filling: Don’t hesitate to adapt the chicken filling. Adding spices or substituting with shrimp or tofu can elevate the flavors for personalized crispy chicken wonton tacos.
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Serving Suggestions: For a crowd-pleasing experience, serve with extra sweet chili sauce for dipping, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
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Make Ahead: Prepare the marinated chicken and coleslaw a day in advance to streamline your cooking process on the day of serving.
Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right chicken for my tacos?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken breasts, look for ones that are firm and have a pinkish color. Avoid those with dark spots or a slimy texture. For the best flavor, opt for organic or free-range chicken when possible, as it tends to be fresher and tastier.
How should I store my leftover chicken and slaw?
Very easy! Store the cooked chicken and prepared coleslaw separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. They should last for up to 2 days. This helps maintain the integrity of the slaw’s crunch and the chicken’s moisture.
Can I freeze the chicken filling for later use?
Certainly! To freeze your cooked chicken, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of water to keep it juicy.
What if my wonton wrappers become dry while preparing?
Don’t worry! It happens to the best of us. If your wonton wrappers dry out, simply cover them with a damp cloth as you work to keep them moist. If they’re already dry, you can try spritzing them lightly with water and letting them sit for a few minutes before using.
Are these tacos suitable for someone with gluten allergies?
Yes, absolutely! You can easily make these crispy chicken wonton tacos gluten-free by using gluten-free wonton wrappers and swapping regular soy sauce for tamari. Just double-check all ingredients, especially sauces, to ensure they are labeled gluten-free to cater to dietary needs.
Can I make these tacos vegetarian?
Very much so! For a scrumptious vegetarian variation, simply replace the chicken with crispy tofu or mushrooms sautéed in teriyaki sauce for a delightful flavor. You could also load up the slaw with a variety of colorful veggies for a fresh, crunchy addition!
Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos: Quick & Irresistibly Tasty
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, combine the thinly sliced chicken breasts with teriyaki sauce, sesame oil, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. Allow to marinate for about 10 minutes.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of sesame oil. Add the marinated chicken, cooking for 5-7 minutes until fully cooked.
- In a large bowl, combine the coleslaw mix, green onions, rice vinegar, honey, and remaining sesame oil. Toss until well coated.
- In a deep skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Fry each wonton wrapper for 20-30 seconds on each side until golden brown.
- Fill each crispy wonton shell with cooked chicken, top with coleslaw, drizzle with sweet chili sauce, and garnish with sesame seeds and cilantro.
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