Chicken Wonton Tacos are a fun twist on your regular tacos! Crispy wonton wrappers hold delicious, seasoned chicken along with fresh toppings. What’s not to love?
These tacos are perfect for a quick meal or a party snack. I often grab a couple before they disappear. Who can resist that crunch and flavor? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Wonton Wrappers: These are the stars for the crunchy taco shells! If you can’t find wonton wrappers, you can use egg roll wrappers cut down into smaller pieces. Alternatively, tortillas can work, but you’ll miss the crispy bite.
Chicken: Use cooked chicken, which can be shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience. If you’re vegetarian, swap it out for tofu or tempeh seasoned similarly.
Soy Sauce: This adds a salty, umami flavor. For a gluten-free option, use tamari. If soy is not your thing, try coconut aminos for a sweeter taste.
Hoisin Sauce: It gives a sweet and tangy flavor. If you don’t have it, a mix of soy sauce, peanut butter, and a bit of sugar can give you a similar effect.
Cabbage: Shredded cabbage gives great texture and crunch. If you prefer, you can use lettuce, or even coleslaw mix for a different flavor.
What’s the Best Way to Fry Wonton Shells?
Frying wonton wrappers can be tricky if you want them perfectly crispy. Here’s how to get it right:
- Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) for optimal frying. Use a thermometer for accuracy.
- Shape the wrappers smoothly over a metal spoon handle or mold to create the taco shape.
- Fry only a few wrappers at a time to avoid overcrowding; this helps them cook evenly.
- Watch for 1-2 minutes until they turn golden brown. Flip them if needed for even color.
- Drain them well on paper towels to remove excess oil before filling.
With these tips and ingredient insights, your Chicken Wonton Tacos will be a hit every time! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Chicken Wonton Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Taco Shells:
- 20 wonton wrappers
- Vegetable oil, for frying
For the Filling:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
- 1/2 cup shredded cabbage (mix of green and purple is nice)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped scallions (green onions)
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes or pico de gallo (optional)
- Fresh cilantro leaves, roughly chopped (optional)
For the Spicy Mayo:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp sriracha or other chili sauce (adjust to heat preference)
For Garnishing:
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Chopped chives or green onions, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend around 10 minutes on assembling the ingredients, frying the wonton shells, and getting everything ready, and then you’ll enjoy your delicious tacos!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Wonton Taco Shells:
Begin by heating vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or pot to about 350°F (175°C). Carefully shape each wonton wrapper over an inverted metal spoon handle or a taco shell mold. Once shaped, fry a few wrapped wontons at a time for about 1-2 minutes or until they turn golden brown and become crispy. Once fried, remove them and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil. Set aside your taco shells!
2. Prepare the Chicken Filling:
In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil. Once heated, add the minced garlic and grated ginger, sautéing them for about 30 seconds until they become fragrant. Then, add the cooked chicken, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and sesame oil. Stir everything together and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend nicely. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if desired.
3. Make the Spicy Mayo:
In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise and sriracha together until they’re well combined. This will be your delicious spicy dressing!
4. Assemble the Tacos:
Now it’s time to put everything together! Take each wonton shell and add a couple of spoonfuls of the chicken mixture inside. On top of the chicken, pile on some shredded cabbage, chopped scallions, and tomatoes or pico de gallo if you’re using them. Toss in a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for extra flavor!
5. Garnish and Serve:
Drizzle your spicy mayo over the assembled tacos, making them look extra tempting. Finish off by garnishing the tacos and plate with chopped chives or additional scallions for color and freshness. Your Chicken Wonton Tacos are ready to be enjoyed!
Serve immediately to savor that amazing crunch with the fresh, savory fillings. Enjoy these irresistible tacos—they’re perfect for dinners, parties, or anytime you crave something fun and delicious!
Can I Use Store-Bought Wonton Wrappers?
Absolutely! Store-bought wonton wrappers are convenient and will work perfectly for this recipe. Make sure to check the expiration date and keep them covered with a damp cloth while you work to prevent them from drying out.
How Can I Make These Tacos Healthier?
To make a lighter version of these tacos, use baked or air-fried wonton wrappers instead of frying them in oil. You can also use shredded chicken breast or swap out the mayo for Greek yogurt to reduce calories and add some protein!
What Can I Substitute for Chicken?
If you’re looking for alternatives, try using shredded turkey, tofu, or tempeh tossed in the same seasonings. For a plant-based option, you could also fill the tacos with seasoned veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or even lentils.
Can I Make the Chicken Filling Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken filling in advance! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat it on the stove before assembling your tacos.
