Name: Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos: Quick Crunchy Flavor Explosion
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (Substitute with shrimp or ground pork if desired.); 1/2 cup Teriyaki Sauce (Opt for low-sodium versions if preferred.); 1 tbsp Sesame Oil (Divided into two uses; avoid for nut allergies.); 2 tbsp Low-Sodium Soy Sauce (Tamari can be used for gluten-free options.); 2 cloves Garlic (minced) (Fresh garlic is preferred, but garlic powder can substitute.); 1 tbsp Fresh Ginger (grated) (Ground ginger works in a pinch.); 1 bag Coleslaw Mix (cabbage and carrots) (Pre-shredded mix can save time.); 4 stalks Green Onions (thinly sliced) (Shallots are a subtle substitute.); 2 tbsp Rice Vinegar (Apple cider vinegar can be used instead.); 1 tbsp Honey (Maple syrup serves as an alternative.); 1 pkg Wonton Wrappers (Can be baked if avoiding frying.); 1/4 cup Sweet Chili Sauce (Adjust amount based on spice preference.); 1 tbsp Sesame Seeds (Omit if avoiding nuts.); 1/4 cup Chopped Cilantro (Parsley can be a mild alternative.)

The sound of sizzling oil can instantly transport me back to my favorite bustling street market in Asia, where mouthwatering aromas fill the air. That’s why I’m thrilled to share my take on Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos, a delightful Asian fusion dish that brings that vibrant energy right into your kitchen. In just under 30 minutes, you can whip up these tacos, making them perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests at your next gathering. With the gratifying crunch of the wonton wrappers, paired with tender teriyaki-marinated chicken and a refreshing slaw, these tacos are not only quick to prepare but also a total crowd-pleaser. Are you ready to dive into this delicious culinary adventure?

Why are these tacos a must-try?

Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or last-minute gatherings.

Flavor Explosion: Each bite bursts with the savory sweetness of teriyaki chicken, the crunch of wonton wrappers, and a refreshing slaw that keeps you coming back for more.

Versatile Options: Feel free to swap out the chicken for shrimp, ground pork, or tofu, and add veggies to the slaw for extra color and nutrition.

Crispy Delight: The fried wonton shells deliver a satisfying crunch that elevates the entire taco experience.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether serving for family or friends, these tacos are sure to impress everyone at the table. For more delicious options, check out my Chicken Caesar Sandwich or Mediterranean Chicken Gyros!

Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos Ingredients

For the Chicken:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – Provides the main protein; substitute with shrimp or ground pork if desired.
Teriyaki Sauce – Adds sweetness and depth of flavor to the chicken; opt for low-sodium versions if preferred.
Sesame Oil – Imparts a nutty flavor; divided into two uses—avoid for nut allergies.
Low-Sodium Soy Sauce – Enhances saltiness without overpowering; tamari can be used for gluten-free options.
Garlic (minced) – Adds aromatic flavor; fresh garlic is preferred, but garlic powder can substitute.
Fresh Ginger (grated) – Provides a zesty kick; ground ginger works in a pinch.

For the Slaw:

Coleslaw Mix (cabbage and carrots) – Gives crunch and freshness; pre-shredded mix can save time.
Green Onions (thinly sliced) – Adds mild onion flavor for freshness; shallots are a subtle substitute.
Rice Vinegar – Brightens the slaw with acidity; apple cider vinegar can be used instead.
Honey – Balances the vinegar and adds sweetness; maple syrup serves as an alternative.

For Assembly:

Wonton Wrappers – Encases the filling and provides crunch; can be baked if avoiding frying.
Sweet Chili Sauce – Offers a sweet and spicy element as a drizzle; adjust amount based on spice preference.
Sesame Seeds – Garnish for added texture and nutty flavor; omit if avoiding nuts.
Chopped Cilantro – Enhances flavor and garnishing; parsley can be a mild alternative.

Get ready to enjoy these Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos as they are sure to deliver flavor and fun to your meal!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by slicing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. In a medium bowl, mix together the teriyaki sauce, ½ tablespoon sesame oil, low-sodium soy sauce, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Add the chicken to the marinade and let it sit for about 10 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer, stirring occasionally. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is golden and no longer pink in the center. This will ensure your chicken is cooked thoroughly and infused with delicious teriyaki flavor.

Step 3: Prepare the Slaw
In a large bowl, combine the coleslaw mix, thinly sliced green onions, rice vinegar, honey, and the remaining sesame oil. Toss everything until well coated, taking care to integrate the crunchy cabbage and carrots with the tangy dressing. This refreshing slaw will add a perfect contrast to the crispy chicken in your wonton tacos.

Step 4: Fry the Wonton Wrappers
In a small pan, heat about ½ inch of oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add wonton wrappers, frying them for about 20-30 seconds on each side until they’re golden brown and crisp. Remove them with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil, ensuring a satisfying crunch for your tacos.

Step 5: Assemble the Tacos
To build your crispy chicken wonton tacos, take a fried wonton wrapper and fill it with a generous scoop of the cooked chicken and a handful of the vibrant slaw. Drizzle with sweet chili sauce, and for an extra touch, sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped cilantro on top. These vibrant flavors and textures will make each bite a delicious celebration!

What to Serve with Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos

Indulge in an enjoyable meal experience by pairing these tantalizing tacos with delightful sides and sips that elevate your dinner.

Creamy Coconut Rice: This fragrant dish provides a soothing contrast to the crunchy tacos, enhancing the Asian flair of the meal. Its subtle sweetness complements the richness of the chicken beautifully.
Zesty Mango Salsa: Fresh and fruity, this salsa adds a burst of zing with its sweet and spicy notes, brightening each bite of the tacos. The juicy mango and zesty lime create a refreshing balance.
Garlicky Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans sautéed with garlic make for a vibrant and healthy side, adding both color and crunch to your plate. Their savory touch pairs elegantly with the sweetness of the tacos.
Sesame Noodle Salad: A chilled noodle salad with sesame dressing serves as the perfect refreshing counterpart to your warm, crunchy tacos. The soft noodles absorb the umami while bringing a lovely texture.
Crispy Vegetable Spring Rolls: If you crave an extra crunch, these delightful bites filled with fresh veggies make an excellent appetizer before diving into your main course. Their lightness complements the heartiness of your tacos.
Asian-Style Coleslaw: While you already have slaw in your tacos, a vibrant, tangy coleslaw offers a refreshing contrast to the crispy texture. Toss in some sesame seeds for added flavor and crunch.
Sweet Chili Dipping Sauce: A side of this sauce amplifies the flavor profile of your tacos, allowing guests to customize each bite with a spicy-sweet drizzle. Perfect for those who love a little extra kick!
Chilled Sparkling Water: To cleanse your palate and stay refreshed, a glass of sparkling water with a wedge of lime provides an effervescent touch. It’s a perfect hydration choice that complements the flavors.
Tropical Fruit Salad: End the meal on a bright note with a light tropical fruit salad. The natural sweetness of fruits like pineapple and kiwi rounds off the meal perfectly, leaving everyone satisfied.

Expert Tips for Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos

Keep Wrappers Moist: Store wonton wrappers under a damp towel until ready to fry to prevent them from drying out.
Check Oil Temperature: Use a wooden stick or chopstick; if bubbles form immediately when dipped in oil, it’s hot enough for frying.
Assemble Wisely: Build your tacos just before serving to keep wonton wrappers crispy; consider a DIY taco station for gatherings!
Flavorful Leftovers: Store chicken and slaw in separate airtight containers; slaw flavor intensifies after a day, making it even more delicious.
Customize Ingredients: Feel free to swap chicken for shrimp, ground pork, or tofu in your Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos for variety!

Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos Variations

Feel free to personalize these crispy tacos and make them your own with these delightful twists!

Shrimp Swap: Replace chicken with shrimp for a quick-cooking alternative; they’ll absorb the teriyaki flavors beautifully. Enjoy the tender bite of shrimp wrapped in crunch!
Tofu Option: Swap in firm tofu for a vegetarian delight; simply marinate and sauté until golden. It absorbs the marinade well, creating a scrumptious vegan option!
Ground Pork: For a savory twist, use ground pork instead of chicken; it cooks quickly and provides a rich flavor, complementing the crunchy slaw nicely.
Veggie Boost: Add shredded cucumber, bell peppers, or radishes to the slaw for a colorful crunch and extra freshness. These veggies enhance texture and flavor, making every bite pop!
Heat it Up: For spice lovers, mix sriracha into the sweet chili sauce or add crushed red pepper flakes to the chicken marinade. This will elevate the flavor to a new level of excitement!
Baked Wrappers: Try baking your wonton wrappers for a healthier alternative; brush with a bit of oil for that golden brown crunch without frying.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute low-sodium soy sauce with tamari to make these crispy wonton tacos gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy this tasty treat!
Herb Variation: Experiment with different herbs; replace cilantro with parsley or even mint for a refreshing twist that adds a different layer of flavor.

For more flavorful adventures, you might also love my Honey Garlic Chicken or explore the vibrant tastes of Mediterranean Chicken Gyros!

Make Ahead Options

These Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken (boneless, skinless chicken breasts) up to 24 hours in advance for maximum flavor absorption. Additionally, prepare the slaw by mixing the coleslaw mix, green onions, rice vinegar, honey, and sesame oil up to 3 days ahead. Just store everything in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to serve, simply fry the wonton wrappers fresh for that satisfying crunch and assemble the tacos with the prepped chicken and slaw. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for this time-saving strategy!

How to Store and Freeze Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos

Fridge: Store the assembled tacos in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Keep the slaw separate for freshness, and reheat the chicken in a skillet before serving.

Freezer: If you want to make these tacos ahead, freeze cooked chicken (without the slaw) in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before assembling.

Wonton Wrappers: Store any leftover wonton wrappers under a damp towel to prevent drying out, or keep them in an airtight container for a few days.

Reheating: To maintain crunch, reheat fried wontons in a toaster oven or air fryer rather than a microwave. Enjoy the fresh taste of your Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos!

Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe FAQs

What kind of chicken should I use for these tacos?
I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a lean and tender protein. However, feel free to substitute with shrimp for a seafood twist, ground pork for heartiness, or tofu for a vegetarian option!

How do I store leftover tacos?
Absolutely! Store the assembled crispy chicken wonton tacos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For best results, keep the slaw separate to maintain its freshness and crunch. Reheat the chicken in a skillet before assembling and enjoying!

Can I freeze the cooked chicken?
Yes, you can! To freeze, place the cooked chicken (without the slaw) in an airtight container and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat thoroughly before assembling your tacos.

What should I do if my wonton wrappers are drying out?
Keep wonton wrappers moist by storing them under a damp towel until you’re ready to fry. This little trick prevents them from drying out and ensures they remain pliable when you’re ready to transform them into crunchy taco shells.

Can I adjust the spiciness of the tacos?
You bet! If you’d like to add some heat, mix sriracha into the sweet chili sauce before drizzling it on top. Alternatively, you can include crushed red pepper in the chicken marinade for a gentle kick!

Are these tacos suitable for everyone?
While this recipe is low lactose, be mindful of sesame oil and soy sauce if there are nut allergies or gluten concerns. Substitute with alternatives like sunflower oil and tamari sauce for a delicious gluten-free option!