It was one of those busy weeknights when I just didn’t feel like cooking a big, elaborate meal. But then I remembered this recipe for Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos, and I knew it was exactly what I needed. In just 35 minutes, I had a delicious, satisfying dinner on the table that my whole family devoured. The combination of the crispy wonton shells, the juicy chicken, and the fresh, crunchy slaw was absolutely irresistible.
What I love most about this Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos recipe is how easy and versatile it is. You can whip it up in no time, but it still has that wow factor that makes it feel special. And the best part? It’s endlessly customizable, so you can really make it your own. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a quick weeknight meal, these Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos are sure to become a new household favorite.
Why This Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos
The secret to these Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos lies in the combination of flavors and textures. The key is to start with juicy, tender chicken that’s been seasoned to perfection, then pair it with the satisfying crunch of the wonton shells and the refreshing crispness of the slaw. The soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil create a delightful Asian-inspired flavor profile that’s both familiar and exciting.
But what really sets this recipe apart is the way the wonton wrappers are fried to achieve that perfect crispness. By carefully frying the wonton shells, you end up with a taco-like vessel that’s crunchy on the outside but still light and delicate. It’s the ultimate vehicle for the flavorful chicken and vibrant slaw.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed: This is the star of the show. The cubed chicken cooks quickly and absorbs all the delicious flavors of the marinade.
- 1 package wonton wrappers: These crispy shells are what make these tacos so unique and special. They provide the perfect crunchy base for the filling.
- 2 cups shredded cabbage: The fresh, crunchy cabbage adds a wonderful texture and lightness to the dish, balancing out the richness of the chicken.
- 1 cup shredded carrots: The carrots not only add color and crunch, but they also provide a natural sweetness that complements the other flavors.
- 1/2 cup diced red onion: The onion adds a subtle sharpness and depth of flavor to the slaw.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: This umami-rich ingredient helps to season the chicken and ties all the flavors together.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: The vinegar adds a bright, tangy note that cuts through the richness of the dish.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil: This fragrant oil lends a distinct Asian flair to the slaw.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger: The ginger provides a warm, earthy note that pairs beautifully with the other Asian-inspired flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a little heat, the red pepper flakes add a delightful kick.
- Salt and pepper to taste: These simple seasonings help to bring out the natural flavors of the ingredients.
- Vegetable oil for frying: This is essential for achieving the perfect crispy wonton shells.
Step-by-Step Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos Instructions
Preparing Your Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos
With a prep time of just 20 minutes and a cook time of 15 minutes, these Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos come together in a flash. All you’ll need is a large skillet or wok, a cutting board, a knife, and a few basic kitchen tools. Let’s get started!
1- Begin by prepping your chicken. Cube the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, about 1-inch cubes. This will help them cook quickly and evenly.
2- In a large skillet or wok, heat a generous amount of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the wonton wrappers in batches and fry for 1-2 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Transfer the fried wonton shells to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
3- In a medium bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, carrots, and diced red onion. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ground ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Pour the dressing over the slaw and toss to coat.
4- In the same skillet or wok you used for the wonton shells, heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the cubed chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken, stirring occasionally, until it’s cooked through and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
5- To assemble the Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos, place a fried wonton shell on a plate and top it with a generous spoonful of the seasoned chicken. Finish it off with a scoop of the fresh cabbage slaw.
6- Serve the Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos immediately, garnished with any extra toppings you like, such as sliced green onions, sesame seeds, or a drizzle of sriracha. Enjoy your delicious and crunchy creation!
Pro Tips for Success
- Make sure to fry the wonton wrappers in small batches to ensure even cooking and maximum crispness. Overcrowding the pan can lead to soggy shells.
- Taste the slaw dressing and adjust the seasonings to your liking. You may want to add a little more soy sauce, vinegar, or ginger, depending on your personal preferences.
- For extra flavor, try marinating the chicken in the soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil mixture for 30 minutes to an hour before cooking.
- To keep the wonton shells crispy, assemble the tacos just before serving. The slaw can be made ahead of time and stored separately.
Serving and Storing Your Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos
Perfect Pairings for Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos
These Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos are the ultimate crowd-pleasing dish, serving 12 people. They make a fantastic appetizer or main course, and they pair beautifully with a variety of sides and drinks.
For a complete meal, serve the tacos with a fresh green salad, steamed rice, or roasted vegetables. They also go great with a fruity, refreshing beverage like lemonade or iced tea. If you’re looking to add a little kick, a cold beer or a glass of crisp white wine would be the perfect accompaniment.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
One of the best things about this Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos recipe is that it’s incredibly versatile when it comes to storage and meal prepping. The components can be prepared in advance, making it a breeze to assemble and serve on a busy weeknight.
The fried wonton shells can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. The chicken can be cooked and refrigerated for up to 4 days, or frozen for up to 3 months. The slaw can be made a day in advance and kept in the fridge.
When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the chicken in a skillet or the microwave, assemble the tacos, and you’ll have a delicious, homemade meal in no time. For best results, assemble the tacos just before serving to ensure the wonton shells stay crispy.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos
Creative Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos Variations
The beauty of this Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos recipe is that it’s endlessly customizable. Here are a few tasty variations to try:
- Swap out the chicken for shredded pork or grilled steak for a different protein.
- Use a blend of shredded cabbage, kale, and Brussels sprouts for the slaw.
- Add diced mango or pineapple to the slaw for a tropical twist.
- Top the tacos with sliced avocado, chopped cilantro, or a drizzle of sriracha for extra flavor.
- Make mini versions of the tacos for a fun, bite-sized appetizer.
Making Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos Diet-Friendly
For those with dietary restrictions, this Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos recipe can easily be adapted to fit your needs:
- Gluten-free: Use gluten-free wonton wrappers or substitute with lettuce leaves or corn tortillas.
- Vegan/vegetarian: Replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms, tofu, or a plant-based protein of your choice.
- Low-carb: Omit the wonton wrappers and serve the chicken and slaw in lettuce cups or on a bed of greens.
- Nut-free: Avoid the optional red pepper flakes, which may contain traces of nuts.
No matter which variation you choose, these Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos are sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of protein besides chicken?
A: Absolutely! The Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos recipe is very versatile. You can substitute the chicken with shredded pork, grilled steak, or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
Q: How long do I need to fry the wonton wrappers?
A: The wonton wrappers should be fried for 1-2 minutes per side, or until they’re golden brown and crispy. Be sure to fry them in small batches to ensure even cooking.
Q: Can I make the slaw ahead of time?
A: Yes, the slaw can be made up to a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the tacos.
Q: How many Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos does this recipe make?
A: This recipe makes 12 servings of Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos. The recipe can be easily scaled up or down to accommodate your needs.
Q: What should I do if the wonton shells become soggy?
A: To keep the wonton shells crispy, be sure to assemble the tacos just before serving. You can also try reheating the shells in a 350°F oven for 2-3 minutes to crisp them up again.
Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos
- Total Time: 35
- Yield: 12 servings
Description
Crispy chicken wonton tacos are a delightful fusion of Asian and Mexican flavors. Tender chicken is nestled in crispy wonton shells, topped with fresh vegetables and a tangy sauce, creating a mouthwatering and satisfying appetizer or main dish.
Ingredients
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
– 1 package wonton wrappers
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 1/2 cup diced red onion
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, combine the cubed chicken, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Toss to coat the chicken evenly.
2. Heat a large skillet or wok with 1-2 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
3. Working in batches, carefully place the wonton wrappers into the hot oil and fry for 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Transfer the fried wonton shells to a paper towel-lined plate.
4. Add the marinated chicken to the hot oil and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
5. In a large bowl, combine the fried wonton shells, cooked chicken, shredded cabbage, carrots, and diced onion. Toss gently to mix.
6. Serve the crispy chicken wonton tacos immediately, garnished with additional toppings if desired.
Notes
These crispy chicken wonton tacos can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. The wonton shells can be fried in advance and stored in an airtight container until ready to assemble. Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your desired level of spiciness.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 15
- Category: Bites & Finger Foods
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired, Mexican-Fusion
Conclusion
These Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos are truly a game-changer when it comes to weeknight meals. With their unique flavor profile, satisfying textures, and impressive presentation, they’re sure to become a new household favorite. The best part? They come together in just 35 minutes, making them the perfect solution for busy cooks who still want to serve up a delicious, homemade meal.
So what are you waiting for? Give this Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos recipe a try and see for yourself why it’s such a crowd-pleaser. Don’t forget to let me know how it turns out – I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!
