There’s something truly special about the delightful crunch of a crispy wonton shell. Picture this: hot, golden wrappers filled to the brim with savory teriyaki chicken and a vibrant, zesty coleslaw. That’s exactly what these Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos bring to your table—a contemporary twist on taco night that’s bursting with flavor and fun.
As the summer evenings roll in and invite gatherings with family and friends, these tacos become the perfect centerpiece for mini taco stations. They’re quick to whip up, taking less than 30 minutes from prep to plate, making them ideal for busy weeknights or spontaneous get-togethers.
Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply satisfy your own cravings for something tasty and homemade, these wonton tacos won’t disappoint. And, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can easily swap the chicken for shrimp, ground pork, or even crispy tofu, giving this dish endless versatility. Let’s dive into this crunchy delight and transform your next meal!
Why opt for Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos?
Speedy Prep: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
Flavor Explosion: Tender teriyaki chicken and zesty slaw create a delightful taste sensation.
Versatile Choices: Easily swap protein for shrimp, pork, or tofu for a new twist.
Fun Meal Option: Perfect for DIY taco stations at gatherings, fostering laughter and interaction.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Everyone loves the crunchy texture and freshness; your guests will be begging for seconds!
These tacos offer a modern take on a classic favorite, making them a must-try for any home cook looking to impress.
Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos Ingredients
• Get ready to gather all the essentials for a delightful meal.
For the Chicken Filling
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – The star ingredient; swap for shrimp, ground pork, or extra-firm tofu for variety.
- Teriyaki Sauce – Adds a sweet and tangy flavor; choose a low-sodium version to keep it healthier.
- Sesame Oil – Infuses richness and a nutty taste; any neutral oil can be used if avoiding sesame.
- Low-Sodium Soy Sauce – Brings umami essence; opt for tamari for a gluten-free variant.
- Garlic (minced) – Boosts flavor profile; fresh garlic delivers the best results.
- Fresh Ginger (grated) – Adds warmth and depth; use just enough for a fragrant kick.
For the Slaw
- Coleslaw Mix (cabbage and carrots) – Provides crunch and freshness; convenient pre-shredded mix works well!
- Green Onions (thinly sliced) – Offers a mild onion flavor; helps brighten the slaw.
- Rice Vinegar – Balances flavors; apple cider vinegar is a suitable substitute.
- Honey – Adds a touch of sweetness; maple syrup works great as a vegan option.
For the Wontons
- Wonton Wrappers – The crispy base that makes these Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos so delightful; choose thin wrappers for the best crunch.
- Oil for Frying – Hot oil ensures a golden brown crisp; keep it at the right temperature for optimum frying.
For Garnish
- Sweet Chili Sauce – Drizzle adds sweetness and mild heat; adjust to your taste preference.
- Sesame Seeds & Chopped Cilantro – Elevates the dish with visual appeal and fresh flavor.
Gather these ingredients and get ready to savor a dish that brings joy to both your palate and your kitchen!
How to Make Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos
- Marinate Chicken: In a bowl, combine boneless, skinless chicken breasts with teriyaki sauce, ½ tablespoon of sesame oil, low-sodium soy sauce, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Marinate for 10 minutes to infuse flavor.
- Cook Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the marinated chicken. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink inside.
- Prepare Slaw: In a separate bowl, combine the coleslaw mix, thinly sliced green onions, rice vinegar, honey, and the remaining sesame oil. Toss until all ingredients are evenly coated and vibrant.
- Fry Wontons: In a pan, heat oil over medium-high heat. Carefully fry the wonton wrappers for 20-30 seconds on each side until they are crispy and golden brown. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning!
- Assemble Tacos: Fill each crispy wonton with the cooked chicken and a generous scoop of the zesty coleslaw. Drizzle with sweet chili sauce, then garnish with sesame seeds and chopped cilantro for a fresh touch.
Optional: Serve with lime wedges for a zesty kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos Variations
Feel free to explore these tasty twists on your crispy taco creation!
- Shrimp Swap: Replace chicken with shrimp for a quick-cooking alternative that’s equally delicious.
- Ground Pork: Use ground pork, cooked with a splash of soy sauce and ginger for a delightful flavor boost.
- Tofu Option: For a vegetarian choice, swap in crispy extra-firm tofu, sautéed with garlic and soy sauce for added depth.
- Vegetable Medley: Add shredded cucumber and bell peppers to the slaw for a fresh, crunchy texture that brightens each bite.
- Spice It Up: Infuse some heat by adding sliced jalapeños or a dash of Sriracha to the coleslaw mixture.
- Herb-Infused: Experiment with fresh herbs like mint or basil in the slaw, lending a fresh, aromatic flair to each taco.
- Baked Wontons: For a healthier twist, consider baking the wonton wrappers pressed in muffin tins until crispy instead of frying.
- Sweet Adjustment: Swap honey for agave syrup in the slaw for a vegan-friendly sweetness that pairs perfectly with the savory elements.
How to Store and Freeze Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos
- Fridge: Store any leftover chicken and slaw in airtight containers for up to 2 days to maintain freshness. Keep the components separate to prevent sogginess.
- Freezer: You can freeze cooked chicken for up to 3 months in airtight bags or containers. Avoid freezing the wonton wrappers as they lose their crispness.
- Reheating: When ready to enjoy, gently reheat the chicken in a skillet over low heat until warmed through. Serve remaining slaw cold alongside.
- Assemble Fresh: For the best crunchy experience, assemble the crispy chicken wonton tacos just before serving to maintain that delightful crunch!
What to Serve with Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos?
To complete your vibrant meal, consider these delightful pairings that will enhance every bite.
- Creamy Guacamole: The rich, buttery texture of avocado balances the crispy wontons beautifully and adds depth to the dish.
- Refreshing Cucumber Salad: This light salad with a splash of rice vinegar offers a crisp contrast to the warm tacos and brightens up each bite.
- Garlic Edamame: Simple but savory, these pods bring protein and a satisfying crunch that complements the taco’s flavors wonderfully.
- Zesty Pineapple Salsa: Sweet and tangy, this tropical salsa adds a refreshing note that pairs perfectly with the teriyaki chicken.
- Spicy Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup with a hint of spice provides a cozy, comforting touch to your meal and encourages long conversation.
- Chilled Green Tea: A soothing drink that hydrates and refreshes without overpowering the delicious flavors of the tacos.
- Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this traditional treat adds sweetness and ties in the Asian flavors of your dinner.
- Almond Cookies: Light and crispy, these cookies make for a delightful end to the meal, echoing the crunch of the tacos.
- Coconut Water: Quench your thirst with this naturally sweet drink, which is perfect for cutting through richer elements of the dish.
These pairings create an inviting and flavorsome dining experience that embodies the spirit of togetherness.
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken in teriyaki sauce, sesame oil, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger up to 24 hours in advance to deepen the flavors. The coleslaw mix can also be prepared and tossed with the dressing ahead of time, allowing it to stay crisp in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just remember to assemble the tacos right before serving to maintain that delightful crunch of the wonton wrappers. Simply fry the wontons, fill them with the marinated chicken and coleslaw, drizzle with sweet chili sauce, and you’ll have an impressive dish that’s just as delicious as if you made it fresh!
Expert Tips for Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos
- Keep Them Fresh: Cover wonton wrappers with a damp paper towel as you work to prevent them from drying out and becoming brittle.
- Test Oil Temperature: Before frying, test the oil with a wooden chopstick. If it bubbles vigorously, it’s ready for frying crispy chicken wonton tacos.
- Baking Alternative: For a healthier option, bake wonton wrappers pressed in muffin tins at 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes until crispy.
- Separate Ingredients: Assemble tacos just before serving to maintain the crispy texture of the wonton wrappers. Store components separately if making in advance.
- Customize Flavors: Feel free to experiment with different proteins like shrimp or tofu for a delicious twist on the classic crispy chicken wonton tacos!
Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing boneless, skinless chicken breasts, look for pieces that are firm and have a pink hue with no dark spots. Opt for chicken that has been stored at a safe temperature and hasn’t been kept past its sell-by date to ensure freshness and flavor in your Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos.
How should I store leftover chicken and slaw?
Very simple! Store leftover cooked chicken and coleslaw in separate airtight containers and place them in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 2 days. Keeping them separate prevents the slaw from wilting and the chicken from becoming soggy—keeping your meal enjoyable later!
Can I freeze the cooked chicken?
Of course! To freeze cooked chicken, first, let it cool completely. Then, transfer it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. Be sure to label it with the date; it can be stored for up to 3 months. For the best taste, avoid freezing the wonton wrappers as they won’t retain their crispiness.
What if my wonton wrappers don’t get crispy?
No worries! If your wonton wrappers aren’t crispy despite frying, you might not be using enough oil or the oil might not be hot enough. Make sure the oil reaches a medium-high temperature before adding the wrappers. You can test the temperature with a wooden chopstick; if bubbles form around it, you’re good to go!
Are these tacos suitable for people with gluten allergies?
Yes! To make this recipe gluten-free, you can use gluten-free tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure your wonton wrappers are labeled gluten-free. It’s a delicious and inclusive meal option that everyone can enjoy, making it perfect for gatherings!
Can I make these tacos ahead of time?
Sure thing! While I recommend assembling them just before serving for maximum crunch, you can prepare the chicken and slaw ahead of time. Simply store them separately in the fridge, and when you’re ready to serve, quickly fry the wonton wrappers and fill them with the chicken and slaw for a fresh bite!
Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos: Your New Favorite 30-Minute Snack
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, combine boneless, skinless chicken breasts with teriyaki sauce, sesame oil, low-sodium soy sauce, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Marinate for 10 minutes.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the marinated chicken. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fully cooked.
- In a separate bowl, combine coleslaw mix, thinly sliced green onions, rice vinegar, honey, and the remaining sesame oil. Toss until coated.
- Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Fry wonton wrappers for 20-30 seconds on each side until crispy and golden brown.
- Fill each crispy wonton with cooked chicken and coleslaw. Drizzle with sweet chili sauce and garnish with sesame seeds and cilantro.
