Let me tell you about one of my all-time favorite appetizers: Applebee’s chicken wonton tacos! These little bites of heaven are just so crispy and delicious, and they bring a smile to my face every time I make them. The combination of seasoned chicken, creamy cheese, and fresh veggies all tucked inside a crunchy wonton shell is simply irresistible. Plus, they’re super easy to whip up, making them perfect for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll want them on your table for every occasion! They’re not just tasty; they’re also a fun way to get everyone involved in the kitchen. Whether you’re frying them up for a quick snack or serving them as a party appetizer, these tacos are sure to impress. So, let’s get cooking and bring some joy into our kitchens with these delightful bites!
Ingredients List
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to making these scrumptious Applebee’s chicken wonton tacos! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded (you can use rotisserie chicken for convenience!)
- 1/2 cup cream cheese (softened for easy mixing)
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped (these add a lovely freshness!)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend works beautifully)
- 12 wonton wrappers (you can find these in the refrigerated section of most grocery stores)
- 1/4 cup sweet and sour sauce (for that delicious dip at the end!)
- Oil for frying (vegetable oil or canola oil works well)
Make sure to have everything measured out and ready to go. This not only speeds up the cooking process but also makes it so much more enjoyable. Happy cooking!
How to Prepare Instructions
Preparing the Filling
Let’s start by making the filling, which is the heart of our wonton tacos! In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of shredded cooked chicken, 1/2 cup of softened cream cheese, 1/4 cup of chopped green onions, and 1/2 cup of shredded cheese. I like to use a fork to mash the cream cheese a bit first, making it easier to mix everything together smoothly. Stir until all the ingredients are well blended and you have a nice, creamy mixture. It should be thick enough to hold its shape when you fill the wontons.
Shaping the Wontons
Now comes the fun part—shaping our wontons! Take a wonton wrapper and lay it flat in your hand or on a clean surface. Spoon about a tablespoon of the filling into the center of the wrapper. Be careful not to overfill, or you might have a messy situation when frying! Next, fold the wrapper in half to create a triangle shape. Press the edges together to seal, making sure to remove any air pockets. You can use a little water on your fingers to help the edges stick together better. If you want to get creative, you can gently bend the two ends of the triangle together to form a taco shape! Just ensure they’re sealed well so the filling doesn’t escape during frying.
Frying the Tacos
It’s time to fry these delicious little tacos! In a large pan, heat about an inch of oil over medium heat. You want the oil nice and hot—around 350°F (175°C) is ideal. To test if the oil is ready, drop a small piece of wonton wrapper in; if it sizzles right away, you’re good to go! Carefully add a few wonton tacos into the hot oil, making sure not to crowd the pan. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to turn them gently. Be cautious of the hot oil, and never leave it unattended! Once cooked, transfer the tacos onto a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Serving Suggestions
Now that your wonton tacos are all fried and beautiful, it’s time to serve them! Arrange them on a platter and serve them warm with a side of sweet and sour sauce for dipping. You can even add some fresh veggies or a sprinkle of sesame seeds on top for an extra touch! These tacos are perfect for sharing, so gather your friends and family around to enjoy this tasty treat. Trust me, they won’t last long!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation that takes just 15 minutes of prep and 10 minutes to cook—perfect for busy weeknights!
- Crispy, crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling—talk about a delightful bite!
- Versatile recipe—feel free to customize with your favorite ingredients or try different proteins like ground turkey or tofu!
- Perfect for sharing—these tacos are a fun appetizer for gatherings or a cozy night in with family.
- Easy to make ahead of time—just fry them up when you’re ready to enjoy!
- Kid-friendly and sure to be a hit with everyone—who doesn’t love a tasty taco?
Tips for Success
Here are some practical tips to ensure your Applebee’s chicken wonton tacos turn out perfectly every time! First, don’t rush the sealing process; make sure the edges are tightly pressed together to prevent any filling from leaking during frying. If you have leftover filling, it can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just keep it in an airtight container!
When it comes to frying, make sure your oil is hot enough before adding the tacos; this helps them become crispy and golden. If you want a healthier option, try baking them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
For storage, keep any leftover tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven for a few minutes to regain that delightful crunch. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Nutritional Information Section
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional information for these tasty Applebee’s chicken wonton tacos! Please keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you choose. Here’s a breakdown per taco:
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 7g
These delightful tacos offer a satisfying balance of flavors and nutrients, making them an excellent choice for a fun meal. Enjoy knowing that you’re treating yourself to something both delicious and fulfilling!
FAQ Section
Can I make these Applebee’s chicken wonton tacos ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just fill and fry the wontons when you’re ready to serve. They’ll taste just as delicious!
What can I use instead of chicken?
If you’re looking for a different flavor, ground turkey or even tofu work wonderfully in this recipe! Just make sure to season them well to keep the taste vibrant.
How do I keep the wonton tacos from getting soggy?
To keep your tacos crispy, avoid letting them sit in any sauce for too long. Serve the sweet and sour sauce on the side for dipping instead of drenching the tacos. This way, they’ll stay crunchy and delightful.
Can I bake the wonton tacos instead of frying them?
Yes, you can! For a healthier option, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake them for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. They won’t be as crispy as fried, but they’re still quite tasty!
What dipping sauces pair well with these tacos?
While sweet and sour sauce is a classic choice, you can also try a spicy mayo or even a tangy soy sauce for a different twist. Get creative with your dips—there’s no wrong way to enjoy these tacos!
Ingredient Notes/Substitutions
When it comes to making these delightful Applebee’s chicken wonton tacos, feel free to get a little creative with your ingredients! If you’re looking for alternatives, here are some great options that cater to various dietary needs:
- Chicken swaps: Instead of using shredded chicken, you can try ground turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just ensure you season them well to keep the flavor vibrant!
- Dairy-free option: If you need a dairy-free version, substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative or a thick cashew cream. It’ll still give you that creamy texture!
- Cheese alternatives: For those who are lactose intolerant or prefer non-dairy, use a plant-based shredded cheese that melts well. There are plenty of delicious options available now!
- Wonton wrappers: If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, many stores offer gluten-free wonton wrappers. Just check the packaging to ensure they fit your dietary needs.
- Veggie additions: Don’t hesitate to add some diced bell peppers, corn, or even shredded carrots to your filling for extra flavor and crunch. They’ll make your tacos even more colorful and nutritious!
These substitutions can help you tailor the recipe to your taste and dietary preferences while still keeping it delicious and enjoyable. Happy cooking!
Print
Delicious Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos for Cozy Nights
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 tacos 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Applebee’s chicken wonton tacos are a delightful appetizer. They feature a crispy wonton shell filled with seasoned chicken, fresh vegetables, and a zesty sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese
- 12 wonton wrappers
- 1/4 cup sweet and sour sauce
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix cooked chicken, cream cheese, green onions, and shredded cheese.
- Place a spoonful of the mixture in the center of each wonton wrapper.
- Fold the wonton wrappers into a taco shape and seal the edges.
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Fry the wonton tacos until golden brown on both sides.
- Drain on paper towels and serve with sweet and sour sauce.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken with ground turkey or tofu for a different flavor.
- For a healthier version, bake the wontons instead of frying.
- Feel free to add diced bell peppers or corn for extra crunch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 taco
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: applebee's chicken wonton tacos, appetizer recipe, easy tacos
