Oh my goodness, let me tell you about *Applebee’s chicken wonton tacos*! These little bites of heaven are crispy, filled with tender, seasoned chicken, and topped with fresh ingredients that just dance on your taste buds. I remember the first time I had them, sitting at a cozy booth with friends, sharing laughs and stories, and those tacos stole the show! The best part? You can whip them up right in your kitchen! Trust me, it’s way easier than you think, and once you take that first crunchy bite, you’ll be hooked. Let’s dive into this delicious adventure together!
Ingredients List
- 1 pound cooked and shredded chicken breast
- 1 cup shredded cheese (I love using a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack for extra flavor!)
- 1/2 cup green onions, sliced (these add a nice crunch and freshness)
- 1/2 cup shredded lettuce (feel free to use iceberg or romaine for that perfect crispiness)
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing (this is my secret weapon for dipping!)
- 1 package of wonton wrappers (you can usually find these in the refrigerated section)
- Oil for frying (any neutral oil works great—canola or vegetable oil are my go-tos)
How to Prepare Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos
Alright, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of making these delectable *Applebee’s chicken wonton tacos*! It’s all about that crispy shell and flavorful filling, so let’s make it happen!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, cook your chicken breast. You can either boil it or bake it until it’s fully cooked—about 20-30 minutes should do the trick. Once it’s done, let it cool for a few minutes and then shred it using two forks. Trust me, the shredding part is super satisfying!
- Now, let’s get the oil heating up. In a deep pan, pour in enough oil to submerge the tacos—about 2 inches deep. Heat it over medium-high heat. You’ll know it’s hot enough when a tiny drop of water sizzles when it hits the oil. Just be careful, that oil can splatter!
- While the oil is heating, grab your wonton wrappers. Lay them out on a clean surface and start filling each one with a generous spoonful of your shredded chicken and a sprinkle of cheese. You can also mix in some green onions for added flavor—yum!
- Next, fold the wonton wrappers in half to form a triangle, pinching the edges tightly to seal them. Make sure there are no air pockets; otherwise, they might burst while frying. If you’re feeling fancy, you can crimp the edges with a fork for that extra flair!
- Once your oil is hot, carefully drop the filled wontons into the pan, a few at a time, making sure not to overcrowd them. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until they’re golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them because they can go from golden to burnt in a flash!
- After they’re beautifully golden, remove the tacos from the oil and let them drain on paper towels. This is so they don’t get soggy—nobody wants that!
- Finally, it’s time to assemble! Top your crispy tacos with shredded lettuce, sliced green onions, and a drizzle of ranch dressing. Now, take a moment to admire your handiwork before diving in!
And there you have it! Homemade *Applebee’s chicken wonton tacos* that are sure to impress. Enjoy every crunchy, flavorful bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- They’re a crowd-pleaser! Perfect for parties, game days, or just a fun family dinner.
- Quick and easy to make—ready in just 25 minutes from start to finish!
- Customizable to your taste! You can switch up the fillings or toppings to match your cravings.
- They have that delightful crispy texture that makes every bite a joy.
- Great for meal prep—make a batch and enjoy them throughout the week!
- Low-calorie option, so you can indulge a little without the guilt!
- Fun to assemble—get the kids involved for a family cooking night!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure you nail these *Applebee’s chicken wonton tacos*! Here are my top tips to avoid any hiccups along the way:
- Don’t Overfill: It’s tempting to stuff those wonton wrappers to the brim, but less is more! Fill them with just enough chicken and cheese to close them up without bursting.
- Seal Tight: Ensure you pinch the edges really well when sealing the wrappers. If they’re not sealed properly, they might open up while frying, and we don’t want that mess!
- Check the Oil Temperature: Use a food thermometer if you have one; the oil should be around 350°F (175°C). If it’s too hot, the tacos will burn before the insides are cooked.
- Fry in Batches: Fry just a few at a time to keep the oil temperature steady. Overcrowding can lead to soggy tacos, and nobody wants that!
- Serve Immediately: These tacos are best enjoyed fresh and crispy. If you’re making a big batch, consider keeping them warm in a low oven until it’s time to serve.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be on your way to taco perfection! Enjoy the process and the delicious results!
Variations
Feeling adventurous? There are so many fun ways to switch up these *Applebee’s chicken wonton tacos*! Here are some creative ideas that’ll keep things exciting:
- Spicy Kick: Add some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to your chicken for a fiery version. You can also swap ranch dressing for a spicy chipotle sauce!
- BBQ Chicken: Instead of plain shredded chicken, toss it in your favorite BBQ sauce before filling the wonton wrappers. Top with coleslaw for a tangy crunch!
- Veggie Delight: For a meat-free option, load up the tacos with sautéed bell peppers, onions, and black beans. Add some avocado slices for creaminess!
- Tex-Mex Twist: Mix in some taco seasoning with the chicken, and top with salsa, diced tomatoes, and a sprinkle of cilantro for a zesty flavor.
- Creamy Garlic: Blend some garlic powder and cream cheese into your chicken mixture for a rich and savory filling. Trust me, it’s a game-changer!
These variations are just the tip of the iceberg! Get creative and make these tacos your own. The possibilities are endless, and I can’t wait to hear what delicious combos you come up with!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you have any leftover *Applebee’s chicken wonton tacos* (which is rare, but it happens!), storing them properly is key to keeping that delightful crunch. First, let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb any moisture. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days.
When you’re ready to enjoy them again, skip the microwave—nobody wants soggy tacos! Instead, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the tacos on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 10-12 minutes until they’re crispy again. Trust me, this method works wonders!
Nutritional Information Section
Let’s talk about the nutritional goodness of these *Applebee’s chicken wonton tacos*! Each serving—about 2 tacos—packs a flavorful punch without overloading your plate. Here’s a quick breakdown of the estimated nutritional values based on typical ingredients:
- Calories: 300
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 20g
Remember, these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. But one thing’s for sure: you’ll be enjoying a tasty treat that won’t weigh you down. Perfect for a light appetizer or a fun snack!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen chicken for the filling?
Absolutely! Just make sure to fully cook it before shredding. If you’re in a pinch, using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut, and it adds fantastic flavor!
What oil is best for frying?
I recommend using a neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil. They have a high smoke point, making them perfect for frying without imparting any unwanted flavors.
How can I make these tacos ahead of time?
You can prep the filling and fill the wonton wrappers a few hours in advance. Just keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to fry them. This way, you’ll have a quick and easy appetizer ready to go!
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes! If you want a healthier option, you can brush the filled wontons with a little oil and bake them at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until they’re golden and crispy. Just keep an eye on them to avoid over-baking!
What dipping sauces pair well with these tacos?
While ranch dressing is a classic choice, you can also try salsa, guacamole, or even a creamy chipotle sauce for a fun twist. Mix and match to find your favorite combo!
Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos: 7 Crispy Delightful Bites
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A delicious appetizer featuring crispy wonton tacos filled with seasoned chicken and topped with fresh ingredients.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, cooked and shredded
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1/2 cup green onions, sliced
- 1/2 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
- 1 package wonton wrappers
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Cook and shred the chicken breast.
- Heat oil in a deep pan for frying.
- Fill wonton wrappers with shredded chicken and cheese.
- Fold and seal the wrappers.
- Fry the tacos until golden brown.
- Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Top with lettuce, green onions, and ranch dressing.
Notes
- For extra flavor, season chicken with taco seasoning.
- Serve immediately for the best crunch.
- Adjust toppings according to preference.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tacos
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: applebee’s chicken wonton tacos
