As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of sizzling chicken and fresh ginger wrapped around me like a warm hug. I was about to create a dish that would quickly become a family favorite: Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos. This recipe, with its quick prep time of just 25 minutes, offers an irresistible twist on taco night that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings. Not only do these tacos deliver a satisfying crunch from golden-fried wonton wrappers, but the tender teriyaki chicken combined with zesty coleslaw adds a burst of flavor to every bite. Plus, it’s adaptable enough to customize with your choice of protein, be it shrimp, ground pork, or even tofu, making it a versatile crowd-pleaser. Curious about how to bring this delightful dish to your table? Let’s dive in!
Why Are These Tacos So Irresistible?
Quick preparation: In just 25 minutes, you can serve up a delicious meal that rivals your favorite takeout.
Crunchy goodness: The crispy wonton wrappers create an exciting texture that elevates taco night to new heights.
Flavor explosion: With teriyaki chicken and zesty coleslaw, every bite is a delightful balance of savory and fresh.
Versatile options: Switch up the protein with shrimp, ground pork, or tofu to cater to all taste preferences.
Satisfying snack: These tacos are perfect for gatherings, making them a great choice for parties or a cozy night in.
Customize easily: Add your favorite sauces or toppings for a personalized twist, just like my Honey Lime Chicken or try prepping some delicious Cheesy Buffalo Chicken on the side!
Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos Ingredients
Ready to whip up some tasty Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos? Let’s gather these essential ingredients!
For the Chicken
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts – The star of the show; feel free to swap with shrimp or tofu for a variation!
- Teriyaki Sauce – Adds a sweet and savory depth; try low-sodium versions for a healthier option.
- Sesame Oil – Enhances flavor, but you can use vegetable oil as a substitute if needed.
- Low-Sodium Soy Sauce – Imparts a savory taste; substitute with tamari for a gluten-free choice.
- Garlic (minced) – Fresh garlic brings aromatic flavor; always a must for that extra zing!
- Fresh Ginger (grated) – Infuses warmth and zest; ground ginger works in a pinch if fresh isn’t available.
For the Slaw
- Coleslaw Mix – Offers a delightful crunch; a pre-shredded mix makes prep a breeze!
- Green Onions (thinly sliced) – Adds a fresh bite; optional if you prefer a milder flavor.
- Rice Vinegar – Brightens the slaw; lemon juice can serve as a great alternative.
- Honey – Balances the acidity in the slaw; agave syrup makes for an excellent substitute.
For Assembly
- Wonton Wrappers – Essential for that crispy texture; baked cups are a healthier alternative if you’re counting calories.
- Sweet Chili Sauce – Provides sweetness and a touch of heat; adjust to your liking!
- Sesame Seeds – Perfect for a garnish and added crunch; feel free to skip them if you prefer.
- Cilantro (chopped) – A fresh herb that brightens the flavors; parsley can be used if cilantro isn’t your thing.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Begin by marinating your boneless skinless chicken breasts with teriyaki sauce, ½ tablespoon of sesame oil, low-sodium soy sauce, minced garlic, and grated ginger in a bowl. Cover and let this mixture soak for about 10 minutes. During this time, the chicken will absorb all those rich flavors, ensuring your Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos are packed with taste.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat a medium skillet over medium heat and add the marinated chicken. Cook for 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is no longer pink in the center and has a nice golden color. Once cooked, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing into bite-sized pieces to fill your tacos.
Step 3: Prepare the Slaw
In a separate bowl, combine the coleslaw mix, thinly sliced green onions, rice vinegar, honey, and the remaining sesame oil. Toss everything together until the vegetables are coated well. Allow this slaw to sit for at least 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld together and the slaw soften slightly, providing that delightful crunch in your tacos.
Step 4: Fry the Wonton Wrappers
In a deep skillet, heat about ½ inch of oil over medium-high heat. Carefully place the wonton wrappers into the hot oil, frying for 20–30 seconds on each side until they are golden brown and crispy. As you fry, keep an eye on them as they can quickly become overcooked. Once done, drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Step 5: Assemble the Tacos
Take each crispy wonton wrapper and begin filling them with the sliced teriyaki chicken and generous amounts of your prepared coleslaw. Drizzle sweet chili sauce on top to add a hint of sweetness and spice. For an extra touch, sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped cilantro before serving to enhance the flavors of your Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos.
What to Serve with Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos
Imagine turning taco night into a delightful feast with these perfectly paired sides that’ll leave everyone wanting more.
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Creamy Avocado Dip: This rich and buttery dip complements the crispy texture of the tacos while adding a refreshing creaminess to each bite.
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Fresh Cucumber Salad: A crunchy and zesty salad brings a light element, balancing out the savory flavors of the tacos beautifully.
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Steamed Edamame: These tender soybeans offer a satisfying pop, adding a protein-packed side that echoes the Asian fusion theme perfectly.
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Sweet Chili Sauce: Serve extra on the side for dipping. This sweet and spicy sauce enhances the flavors and invites a fun, interactive dining experience.
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Mango Salsa: Bright and fruity, this salsa adds a fresh burst of flavor that pairs perfectly with the teriyaki chicken, making every bite sing.
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Coconut Rice: The slight sweetness of coconut rice beautifully complements the savory elements of the tacos while offering a comforting texture that ties the meal together.
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Chilled Sake: This delicious Japanese rice wine provides a smooth, mellow drink that enhances the overall dining experience and pairs splendidly with the vibrant flavors of the tacos.
Expert Tips for Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos
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Keep Wrappers Moist: Always place wonton wrappers under a damp towel while prepping to prevent them from drying out and becoming brittle.
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Double the Sauce: Marinate the chicken with teriyaki sauce and save half to drizzle over cooked chicken for an extra burst of flavor in your Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos.
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Watch Your Oil: Maintain the frying oil temperature; it should bubble around a wooden chopstick. If the oil isn’t hot enough, your tacos won’t fry crispy.
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Avoid Sogginess: Assemble tacos right before serving. Keeping the chicken and slaw separate ensures the crispy texture of wontons is preserved.
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Gluten-Free Options: Carefully check all sauces and wrappers to ensure they are gluten-free if necessary; many brands offer suitable choices.
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Cook Variations Properly: Adjust cooking times based on protein choices; for shrimp or ground pork, ensure they’re thoroughly cooked to the right temperature.
Storage Tips for Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos
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Refrigerator: Store any leftover chicken and coleslaw in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days to maintain freshness.
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Freezer: You can freeze cooked chicken (without the slaw) for up to 1 month. Just make sure it’s well-wrapped to avoid freezer burn, while the wonton wrappers are best enjoyed fresh.
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Reheating: To reheat the chicken, place it in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. For any assembled tacos, it’s best to cook fresh wonton wrappers just before serving to keep them crispy.
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Make-Ahead: You can prepare the filling in advance and store it in the fridge. Just assemble the Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos right before serving for that delightful crunch!
Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos Variations
Feel free to mix and match ingredients to suit your cravings and dietary preferences with these delightful twists!
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Seafood Swap: Substitute chicken for shrimp, cooking for just 3-4 minutes until pink and opaque. Fresh shrimp adds a delightful seafood flavor that elevates the dish!
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Porky Twist: Use ground pork instead of chicken and cook until browned through. This variation offers a savory richness that pairs perfectly with the slaw.
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Vegetarian Delight: Choose extra-firm tofu as a meat substitute, sautéing until crispy and golden. This adds a hearty texture while keeping it plant-based!
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Crunchy Slaw Upgrade: Mix in shredded cucumber and bell peppers for extra crunch and color in your coleslaw. These add freshness that complements the savory chicken!
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Zesty Kick: Add sriracha or your favorite hot sauce to the sweet chili sauce for a spicy twist on the classic flavor. This will give your tacos an exciting heat!
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Baked Wontons: For a healthier approach, bake wonton wrappers at 375°F for 10–12 minutes until crisp. This method is lower in fat, yet equally satisfying!
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Tropical Flair: Incorporate diced pineapple into the slaw for a sweet and tangy bite that beautifully balances the savory chicken. It’s like a mini-vacation on your plate!
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Herb Infusion: Experiment by using fresh mint or basil instead of cilantro for a unique twist. These herbs provide a refreshing contrast that’s sure to surprise your taste buds!
Want more inspiration? Check out my Crack Chicken Tenders for a tasty finger-food option, or try making Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes if you’d like to prep a satisfying meal in advance!
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 up to 24 hours in advance, which allows the flavors to deepen beautifully. Additionally, the slaw can be prepared and refrigerated for up to 3 days, keeping it fresh and crunchy. Just store the marinated chicken in an airtight container, and keep the slaw separate to prevent it from becoming soggy. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply cook the chicken, fry the wonton wrappers on demand, and assemble your tacos right before serving for that delightful crunch. With these make-ahead options, you’ll have delicious, home-cooked tacos with minimal effort!
Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Select boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are firm and pink; avoid any that show dark spots or have a strong odor, indicating they may not be fresh. If you’re opting for shrimp or tofu, ensure shrimp are firm and without a fishy smell, and choose extra-firm tofu for the best texture.
How should I store leftover Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos?
For any leftover chicken and slaw, place them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. They’ll stay good for up to 2 days! This way, you can keep that crunchy texture of the wonton wrappers if you assemble them just before enjoying again.
Can I freeze the cooked chicken from the tacos?
Yes, indeed! You can freeze the cooked chicken (without the slaw) for up to 1 month. To do this, let the chicken cool completely, then place it in an airtight container or freezer bag, squeezing out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. When ready to eat, just thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat in a skillet.
What should I do if my wonton wrappers are soggy after frying?
To prevent sogginess, make sure to fry the wonton wrappers until golden and crispy, which typically takes just 20-30 seconds per side in hot oil. Additionally, keep them under a damp towel before cooking to prevent them from drying out, and avoid assembling the tacos too early.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Very! If you’re cooking for someone with gluten sensitivities, ensure that all sauces are labeled gluten-free and check that your wonton wrappers are appropriate. Furthermore, if there are allergies to sesame or soy, you can swap sesame oil with vegetable oil and soy sauce with coconut aminos for a unique but delicious flavor. Always double-check ingredient labels for safety!
What’s the best method to ensure the coleslaw stays crunchy?
To keep the coleslaw packin’ crunch, mix all the ingredients but let it sit for at least 5 minutes before filling the tacos. This short rest allows the flavors to meld without making it too soggy, ensuring that delightful crunch remains intact when you take a bite!
Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos for a Fun Taco Night at Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by marinating your boneless skinless chicken breasts with teriyaki sauce, ½ tablespoon of sesame oil, low-sodium soy sauce, minced garlic, and grated ginger in a bowl. Cover and let this mixture soak for about 10 minutes.
- Heat a medium skillet over medium heat and add the marinated chicken. Cook for 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is no longer pink in the center and has a nice golden color. Once cooked, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing into bite-sized pieces to fill your tacos.
- In a separate bowl, combine the coleslaw mix, thinly sliced green onions, rice vinegar, honey, and the remaining sesame oil. Toss everything together until the vegetables are coated well. Allow this slaw to sit for at least 5 minutes.
- In a deep skillet, heat about ½ inch of oil over medium-high heat. Carefully place the wonton wrappers into the hot oil, frying for 20–30 seconds on each side until they are golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Take each crispy wonton wrapper and begin filling them with the sliced teriyaki chicken and generous amounts of your prepared coleslaw. Drizzle sweet chili sauce on top and sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped cilantro before serving.
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