Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe
Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos are a fun, crispy appetizer perfect for any occasion. Combining savory chicken with cheese and fresh veggies, they're sure to impress. With this recipe, you can recreate this fan favorite right in your own kitchen!
Why This Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe Works
This recipe combines the crunch of wonton wrappers with the savory taste of seasoned chicken, creating a satisfying bite. The use of fresh ingredients like green onions and bell peppers elevates the flavor profile. Frying the tacos ensures they are crispy and golden brown, enhancing the overall texture.
The sweet chili sauce adds a delightful kick, balancing the flavors perfectly. Each taco is bursting with cheesy goodness, making them irresistible. This dish brings the fun of dining out right into your home, perfect for parties or casual dinners.
💡 Professional Tip
For an extra crispy texture, consider double frying the tacos. Fry them once until golden, then let them cool slightly before frying again for a perfect crunch!
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can prepare the filling and assemble the tacos ahead of time. Just fry them right before serving to maintain their crispiness.
You can substitute the chicken with shredded beef, tofu, or even beans for a vegetarian option. Adjust the cooking time accordingly for different proteins.
The tacos are done when they are golden brown and crispy. You can also cut one open to check if the filling is heated through.
Yes, you can freeze the assembled, uncooked tacos for up to a month. Just fry them directly from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
You will need a frying pan or deep fryer for cooking, and a mixing bowl for combining the filling. Tongs or a slotted spoon will help with flipping and removing the tacos.
These tacos pair well with a fresh salad, guacamole, or a side of rice. They are also fantastic with additional dipping sauces like salsa or ranch.
You can add chopped jalapeños to the filling for heat or adjust the amount of sweet chili sauce based on your preference. For milder flavors, use less sauce.
Store leftover tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for best results to regain their crispiness.
Recipe Troubleshooting Guide
Too Dry
Problem: Overcooking the chicken can make it dry.
Solution: Ensure the chicken is cooked just until it's no longer pink. Adding a bit more sauce to the filling will also help retain moisture.
Uneven Cooking
Problem: If the tacos are unevenly cooked, they may not be fried at the right temperature.
Solution: Maintain the oil temperature around 350°F for even cooking. Fry in small batches to ensure each taco cooks evenly.
Lacking Flavor
Problem: If the filling tastes bland, it may need more seasoning.
Prevention: Always season the chicken well before mixing in other ingredients. Adding more herbs or spices can enhance the flavor profile.
Wrong Texture
Problem: If the tacos are chewy, they might not have been fried long enough.
Recovery: Ensure they fry until golden and crispy. If they are not crispy, consider a second fry.
Overcooked
Problem: Overcooking can lead to burnt wrappers.
Prevention: Keep a close eye while frying, as they can brown quickly. Adjust heat as necessary to control cooking speed.
Flavor Balance
Too Sweet: If too sweet, reduce the amount of sweet chili sauce.
Too Salty: If too salty, serve with a side of sour cream to balance flavors.
Bland: To enhance flavor, add more seasoning or serve with dips.
Choosing the Best Ingredients
Select skinless chicken breast for a lean protein option. Ensure the wonton wrappers are fresh, as this directly impacts the final texture. Fresh vegetables like bell peppers and green onions add color and flavor to the filling.
Opt for high-quality cheese that melts well, enhancing the creaminess of the tacos. The sweet chili sauce should be flavorful but not overpowering, balancing the dish perfectly. Using fresh ingredients will elevate the overall dish.
Essential Ingredient Notes
- Chicken Breast: Use fresh, boneless chicken breast for the best flavor. Avoid frozen options as they can affect texture.
- Wonton Wrappers: Choose fresh wonton wrappers for a light, crispy texture. Check the expiration date for best quality.
- Sweet Chili Sauce: Select a good quality sweet chili sauce for optimal sweetness. Adjust the amount based on your taste preference.
Cooking Technique Tips
Frying the tacos at the correct temperature is crucial for achieving a crispy texture. Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the tacos; a test piece should sizzle immediately. Fry in small batches to prevent overcrowding.
After frying, let the tacos drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. This step enhances the crunch factor. Consider the timing of frying to ensure they are served fresh and hot.
Chef's Secret Technique
For the perfect crunch, double fry the tacos. Fry them once until golden brown, remove, let them cool for a few minutes, and fry them again for an unbeatable texture.
Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe
📋 Ingredients
For the Filling:
- 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce💡 Adds sweetness and heat.
- 1/4 cup sour cream💡 Creamy texture to balance flavors.
For the Wrapping:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast💡 Lean protein for the filling.
- 1 cup shredded cheese (Mexican blend)💡 Adds creaminess and flavor.
Instructions
Step 1: Cook Chicken
Cook the chicken breast in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked. Shred the chicken once it cools down.
Step 2: Mix Filling
In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken with cheese, green onions, red bell pepper, and sweet chili sauce.
Step 3: Assemble Tacos
Lay out the wonton wrappers and place a tablespoon of the chicken mixture in the center of each.
Step 4: Seal Wrappers
Fold the wonton wrappers over to form a triangle and seal the edges with a bit of water.
Step 5: Fry Tacos
Heat oil in a deep pan over medium heat and fry the wonton tacos until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
Step 6: Drain Excess Oil
Remove the tacos and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 7: Serve
Serve hot with sour cream and additional sweet chili sauce on the side.
Recipe Notes & Tips
Storage
Leftover tacos can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them in the oven for the best texture.
Serving Suggestions
These tacos pair perfectly with a side of guacamole or salsa. A fresh salad can also complement them nicely.
Variations
Consider adding other vegetables like corn or jalapeños to the filling for extra flavor. You can also experiment with different sauces for dipping.