Name: Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos for a Flavor-Packed Taco Night
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (Use tender chicken for best results.); ¼ cup teriyaki sauce (Feel free to use low-sodium.); ½ tablespoon sesame oil (Substitute with vegetable oil if necessary.); 1 tablespoon soy sauce (Opt for low-sodium for a healthier choice.); 2 cloves garlic (Can be substituted with garlic powder.); 1 tablespoon fresh ginger (Freshly grated yields the best flavor.); 4 cups coleslaw mix (Pre-shredded mixes save time.); 2 scallions green onions (Adds freshness.); 2 tablespoons rice vinegar (Can replace with apple cider vinegar.); 1 tablespoon honey (Can substitute with agave or maple syrup.); 12 pieces wonton wrappers (Fry quickly for a crispy shell.); ¼ cup sweet chili sauce (Adjust amount based on taste preference.); 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (For garnishing appeal.); ¼ cup cilantro (Fresh herb for garnish.)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

As I sifted through my pantry one evening, an idea struck—why not infuse my taco night with a delightful Asian twist? Enter the Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos! This fun and easy appetizer blends the satisfying crunch of golden-fried wontons with tender teriyaki chicken and a fresh, zesty slaw. Perfect for impressing guests or satisfying late-night cravings, these tacos can be whipped up in under 30 minutes. They bring excitement to your table while being friendly to lactose-intolerant foodies! Ready to discover how to craft these fantastic fusion bites? Let’s dive into the mouthwatering details together!

Why Choose Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos?

Flavor Explosion: Each bite bursts with an incredible combination of juicy teriyaki chicken and a crunchy wonton shell. Quick and Easy: You can whip up these tantalizing tacos in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights. Versatile Ingredients: Substitute proteins or slaw elements effortlessly for a personalized twist on this dish. Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether for game day or a cozy dinner, these tacos are sure to impress both family and friends. Check out my Garlic Parmesan Chicken for another delicious stuffed idea!

Crispy Chicken Wonton Taco Ingredients

• For the Chicken

Chicken Breasts – Use boneless, skinless chicken for tender results.
Teriyaki Sauce – Adds sweetness and umami flavor to the chicken; feel free to use a low-sodium version.
Sesame Oil – Enhances flavor and aroma; substitute with vegetable oil if necessary.
Soy Sauce – Provides additional saltiness and depth; opt for low-sodium soy sauce for a healthier choice.
Garlic – Adds strong flavor; can be substituted with garlic powder in a pinch.
Fresh Ginger – Hits the palate with a spicy kick; freshly grated yields the best flavor.

• For the Slaw

Coleslaw Mix – Provides crunch and freshness; pre-shredded mixes can save you time.
Green Onions – For added freshness and mild onion flavor.
Rice Vinegar – Brightens the slaw; can be replaced with apple cider vinegar.
Honey – Balances flavors with sweetness; substitute with agave or maple syrup for a vegan option.

• For the Assembly

Wonton Wrappers – The main vessel for delicious fillings; fry quickly for a crispy shell.
Sweet Chili Sauce – Use for drizzling and extra sweetness; adjust the amount based on your taste preference.
Sesame Seeds – Adds crunch and garnishing appeal on top.
Cilantro – Fresh herb garnish that brings flavor and a color contrast to the dish.

Whether you’re hosting a party or treating yourself to a delightful appetizer, these crispy chicken wonton tacos will surely elevate your meal experience!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos

Step 1: Marinate Chicken
In a medium bowl, combine boneless, skinless chicken breasts with teriyaki sauce, ½ tablespoon sesame oil, soy sauce, minced garlic, and freshly grated ginger. Mix until the chicken is well-coated and let it marinate for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 2: Cook Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the marinated chicken to the pan. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is no longer pink in the center and has a slight caramelization. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before chopping into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Prepare Slaw
While the chicken is cooking, prepare your zesty slaw. In a large mixing bowl, combine the coleslaw mix, chopped green onions, rice vinegar, honey, and the remaining sesame oil. Toss everything together until the vegetables are evenly coated and vibrant, creating a refreshing crunch for your crispy chicken wonton tacos.

Step 4: Fry Wontons
Heat about one inch of vegetable oil in a deep, heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Carefully add wonton wrappers, frying for 20–30 seconds per side until they turn golden and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and drain on paper towels to maintain that crunch.

Step 5: Assemble Tacos
Take each crispy wonton shell and fill it generously with the cooked teriyaki chicken and a spoonful of the prepared slaw. Drizzle with sweet chili sauce for an extra touch of sweetness, then sprinkle sesame seeds on top and garnish with fresh cilantro for a lovely finish. Your delightful crispy chicken wonton tacos are ready to serve!

Expert Tips for Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos

Frying Technique: Use high smoke-point oils like peanut or vegetable oil to prevent burning, ensuring perfectly crispy wontons.
Flavor Boost: Marinate chicken longer for added flavor; consider doubling teriyaki sauce and reserving some to drizzle after cooking for an extra umami kick.
Wonton Wrapper Care: Keep wonton wrappers covered with a damp cloth while preparing to prevent them from drying out and becoming brittle.
Crisp Preservation: Store fried wontons separately from the filling to maintain their crunch. Reheat chicken gently with a little water in the microwave for moisture.
Customize Slaw: Feel free to add unique ingredients like bell peppers or shredded cucumbers for a colorful and crunchy twist to your crispy chicken wonton tacos.

How to Store and Freeze Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos

Fridge: Store leftover chicken and slaw separately in airtight containers for up to 2 days. This helps maintain the crunch of your crispy chicken wonton tacos.
Freezer: If you need to freeze, individually wrap the cooked chicken and slaw in plastic wrap, then store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat chicken gently in a microwave with a splash of water to keep it moist.
Wonton Wrapper Preservation: Consider storing any leftover fried wonton wrappers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day, to maintain their crispiness.

What to Serve with Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos

Elevate your delightful taco night with savory sides that perfectly balance flavors and textures!

Creamy Avocado Dip: A smooth, rich avocado dip adds a luscious creaminess that pairs beautifully with the crunchy tacos.
Spicy Peanut Noodles: These noodles bring a subtle heat and earthiness that complements the sweetness of the teriyaki chicken. Toss them with fresh veggies for added crunch.
Mango Salsa: This fruity, zesty salsa provides a refreshing contrast, with sweetness and acidity that brightens each bite of your crispy tacos.
Steamed Edamame: Lightly salted edamame offers a satisfying, protein-packed snack that’s easy to prepare while you fry your wontons.
Asian Slaw: A tangier, sesame-infused slaw can enhance your tacos, sharing similar ingredients but with a unique kick.
Chilled Sake or Sparkling Rice Drink: These beverages provide a smooth, delicate pairing that complements the rich flavors of your meal.
Sesame-crusted Hush Puppies: Fried and crunchy on the outside and fluffy inside, these bites can easily accompany your tacos, infusing a burst of flavor.
Coconut Milk Rice: The creaminess of coconut milk rice offers a subtle sweetness that harmonizes perfectly with the savory chicken.

Choose any of these pairings for a deliciously cohesive meal that’ll leave your guests mesmerized!

Variations & Substitutions for Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos

Feel free to get creative with your crispy chicken wonton tacos and make them your own—each variation adds a whole new flavor profile to this exciting dish!

Protein Swaps: Substitute chicken with shrimp for a seafood twist, or try ground pork browned with extra ginger for a different flavor. If you’d like a vegetarian option, cubed firm tofu works beautifully.
Slaw Enhancements: Jazz up your slaw with shredded cucumber or bell peppers for added crunch and color. They not only brighten the dish visually but also add delightful freshness in every bite!
Baking Option: For a healthier version, lightly brush wonton wrappers with oil and bake them at 375°F (190°C) until they’re golden and crispy—this keeps the flavors while cutting down on oil!
Spicy Kick: Want to turn up the heat? Add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of sriracha to your slaw for that extra zesty zing. You can customize the spice levels to suit your family’s taste!
Avocado Delight: Consider adding diced avocado to your tacos for a creamy element that complements the crunch and flavors of the chicken and slaw wonderfully.
Sweet Variation: Switch out the honey for a splash of orange juice in your slaw for a refreshing citrus twist! The bright, zesty notes will elevate this dish to new heights.
Sriracha Mayo: For a luxurious touch, whip up a sriracha mayo as a drizzle over your tacos. Simply combine mayo with sriracha to create a creamy, spicy sauce that contrasts beautifully with the crunchy wontons.
Dress it Up: If you’re feeling adventurous, top your tacos with crushed peanuts for an added layer of flavor and crunch. This little twist brings a delightful texture and nutty taste that truly enhances the experience.

Don’t forget, if you enjoy fusion flavors, you can also try these delicious options like Garlic Chicken Thighs with Mushrooms or explore the savory world of my Lollipop Chicken Legs.

Make Ahead Options

These Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos are ideal for meal prep, saving you precious time during busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken with teriyaki sauce and spices up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for deep flavor penetration. Additionally, the slaw can be prepared up to 3 days ahead; just mix all the ingredients and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain freshness, keep your wonton wrappers covered until you’re ready to fry them. When you’re ready to serve, simply cook the marinated chicken, fry the wontons, and assemble your tacos for a quick and satisfying dinner. Enjoy the convenience without sacrificing taste!

Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for tenderness and quick cooking. If you’re looking for a change, try ground chicken for a different texture or grilled shrimp for a fantastic seafood twist!

How should I store leftover crispy chicken wonton tacos?
Store any leftover chicken and slaw separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. This method ensures that the wontons stay crunchy and the slaw stays fresh. Reheat the chicken gently using the microwave, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.

Can I freeze crispy chicken wonton tacos?
Absolutely! For freezing, wrap the cooked chicken and slaw separately in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat the chicken gently in the microwave.

What do I do if my wontons are soggy after frying?
To avoid soggy wontons, always ensure they are fried at a temperature of 350°F (175°C). Fry them for just 20–30 seconds per side until they are golden brown. If they do become soggy, you can try reheating them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for a few minutes to restore some crunch.

Can I make these tacos dairy-free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally low lactose since it doesn’t include any dairy products. Always double-check the ingredients in your sauces and wrappers, as some processed items can contain lactose. For a vegan option, you can substitute chicken with firm tofu and use agave syrup instead of honey!

How can I enhance the slaw for extra crunch?
For an added crunch, consider incorporating shredded veggies like bell peppers, cucumbers, or even radishes into your slaw mix. This not only contributes to texture but also elevates the visual appeal of your crispy chicken wonton tacos!