Have you ever wondered what happens when crispy wontons meet flavorful taco fillings? If you love tacos and Asian appetizers, you’re going to be obsessed with chicken wonton tacos! Imagine the crunch of a crispy wonton shell packed with savory, juicy chicken, topped with fresh vegetables, and finished off with a drizzle of spicy sauce. Sounds delicious, right?
In this blog post, we’ll dive into the world of chicken wonton tacos—where two popular foods come together to create a fusion masterpiece. We’ll talk about what makes these tacos so special, how to make them, and why they’re the perfect dish for any occasion. Let’s get started.
Table of Contents
Why Chicken Wonton Tacos Are So Special
A Flavor Explosion in Every Bite
What makes chicken wonton tacos so irresistible is the combination of textures and flavors. The crispy wonton shell provides a satisfying crunch that contrasts perfectly with the juicy, tender chicken filling. On top of that, the toppings, such as fresh cilantro, crunchy cabbage, and a tangy sauce, add a burst of flavor and freshness. This taco is the ultimate fusion dish, combining the best of Asian and Mexican cuisines in one bite.
These tacos are also super versatile. You can make them as spicy or mild as you like, and you can play around with different sauces and toppings. Whether you’re serving them at a casual weeknight dinner or impressing guests at a party, chicken wonton tacos are a crowd-pleaser.
Time and Difficulty Level
Making chicken wonton tacos doesn’t take too much time, but it does involve a few steps. On average, you’ll need about 30 to 40 minutes from start to finish, making this a great option for a quick but delicious meal. The difficulty level is moderate, but don’t worry! I’ll guide you through each step to ensure it’s easy to follow.
Essential Ingredients for Chicken Wonton Tacos
Now, let’s break down the key ingredients you’ll need to make chicken wonton tacos:
Main Ingredients:
- Wonton wrappers: These are the base for your taco shells. When fried, they become crispy and light, just like a taco shell but with a fun, Asian twist. You can find them at most grocery stores in the refrigerated section.
- Chicken breast or thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken is perfect for this recipe. Chicken breasts are lean and easy to shred, but thighs can add a bit more flavor and juiciness.
- Cabbage: Fresh cabbage adds crunch and texture. You can use napa cabbage or regular cabbage, or even a pre-made slaw mix.
- Carrots: Shredded carrots are a great addition for extra crunch and sweetness.
- Green onions: These add a mild onion flavor that pairs beautifully with the chicken and wonton wrappers.
- Sauces:
- Soy sauce: For savory depth and umami flavor.
- Sriracha or chili sauce: To add a little heat and spice.
- Sesame oil: For a rich, nutty flavor that ties everything together.
- Lime juice: To add brightness and acidity.
- Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a herbaceous kick and balances the richness of the fried wonton and chicken.
Ingredient Alternatives:
- Chicken alternative: You can use ground turkey or even tofu if you’re looking for a lighter or vegetarian option.
- Vegetables: If you don’t like cabbage, try lettuce or bell peppers for a similar crunch.
- Sauce alternatives: If you’re not a fan of spicy sauces, you can substitute with a sweet chili sauce or hoisin sauce.
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Chicken Wonton Tacos?
Ready to make your very own chicken wonton tacos? Here’s a simple, easy-to-follow recipe!
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast (or thighs), cooked and shredded
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 3 green onions, chopped
- 10-12 wonton wrappers
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sriracha sauce (adjust based on spice preference)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 lime, juiced
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
- Prepare the chicken:
- If you haven’t already cooked the chicken, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a little garlic powder. Cook them on the stove or in the oven until fully cooked (about 10-15 minutes). Let it cool for a few minutes, then shred the chicken using two forks or your hands.
- Make the chicken filling:
- In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken with soy sauce, sriracha, sesame oil, and lime juice. Toss everything together until the chicken is well coated in the sauce mixture.
- Prepare the taco shell:
- Heat about 2-3 cups of vegetable oil in a deep pan or wok over medium heat. While the oil heats up, take your wonton wrappers and gently fold them into taco shell shapes. You can do this by pressing the center of the wrapper into a small mold or spoon to create a taco shape. Make sure the edges are folded up, but not too tightly.
- Carefully place the wonton wrappers in the hot oil, one at a time. Fry them for 1-2 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy. Remove them from the oil and place them on a paper towel to drain any excess oil.
- Prepare the vegetables:
- In a separate bowl, mix together the shredded cabbage, carrots, and chopped green onions. You can add a little bit of lime juice and salt to taste for extra flavor.
- Assemble the tacos:
- Place the fried wonton wrappers on a serving plate. Then, fill each one with a generous amount of the shredded chicken filling. Top it off with the cabbage-carrot mixture, and finish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.
Assembly: How to Build the Perfect Chicken Wonton Tacos
Building the taco is the fun part! Here’s how to layer your ingredients for the perfect bite:
- Start with the crispy wonton shell as your base. Make sure it’s fully crisped up and holds its shape before you add the filling.
- Add the seasoned chicken. Don’t be afraid to pile it high—the chicken should be juicy and flavorful.
- Top with the crunchy cabbage-carrot mix. This is where the texture comes into play—adding a satisfying crunch to each bite.
- Garnish with cilantro. Fresh cilantro adds a pop of color and flavor that brings everything together.
- Drizzle with extra sauce. If you love heat, add a bit more sriracha or soy sauce for an extra kick.
Presentation Tips:
- Serve these tacos on a platter with lime wedges on the side for an added burst of citrus.
- Arrange the tacos in a fun, staggered way for an eye-catching presentation.
Storage and Makeup Tips
Made too many chicken wonton tacos? No worries! Here’s how to store and reheat them:
Storing:
- Taco shells: You can store the fried wonton shells in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day. They might lose some crispiness, but you can quickly re-crisp them in the oven.
- Chicken filling: Store the chicken filling separately in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating:
- Taco shells: To re-crisp the wonton shells, place them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.
- Chicken: Reheat the chicken in a pan or microwave until heated through.
Recipe Variations for Chicken Wonton Tacos
There’s no limit to how you can customize your chicken wonton tacos. Here are a few fun variations:
- Spicy Mango Chicken Wonton Tacos: Add a few chunks of fresh mango and some diced jalapeño for a sweet and spicy combo.
- Buffalo Chicken Wonton Tacos: Swap out the soy sauce for buffalo sauce for a fiery twist.
- Veggie-Only Wonton Tacos: Skip the chicken and use sautéed mushrooms, tofu, or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
- BBQ Chicken Wonton Tacos: Swap the soy sauce for BBQ sauce and top with a dollop of coleslaw for a southern-inspired flavor.
Conclusion: Give Chicken Wonton Tacos a Try
Chicken wonton tacos are a fun, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that’s sure to impress everyone at your dinner table. With a crispy wonton shell, savory chicken filling, and crunchy vegetable toppings, it’s the perfect fusion food that satisfies all your cravings. The best part? They’re completely customizable to suit your tastes!
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your wonton wrappers, get your ingredients ready, and give these delicious tacos a try. You’ll be hooked after the first bite!
FAQs About Chicken Wonton Tacos
1. Can I make chicken wonton tacos ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken filling and fry the wonton shells ahead of time. Just store the components separately and assemble them right before serving.
2. Can I use store-bought taco shells instead of wonton wrappers?
While store-bought taco shells will work in a pinch, the wonton wrappers add a unique crispiness and texture that makes this dish special. We recommend sticking with them if you can.
3. How do I make the tacos spicier?
Add more sriracha to the chicken filling or drizzle a spicy sauce over the assembled tacos. You can also sprinkle some chili flakes for an extra kick!
4. Are chicken wonton tacos healthy?
While they are a bit indulgent with the fried wonton shells, the chicken filling is lean and you can load up the tacos with fresh veggies. It’s a balanced meal when enjoyed in moderation.
5. Can I make these tacos vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can easily make vegetarian chicken wonton tacos by replacing the chicken with tofu, mushrooms, or another plant-based protein.