Chicken Wonton Tacos are a fun twist on taco night! They’re crispy, tasty tacos made with crunchy wonton wrappers filled with seasoned chicken and fresh toppings.
Who knew tacos could be so crispy? My family loves these crunchy bites, and they disappear faster than I can make them! Pair them with your favorite sauce for a zesty kick!
Making these tacos is super easy. I just bake the wonton wrappers and fill them with the chicken mixture—it’s a great way to shake up the usual taco routine!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Wonton Wrappers: The star of this dish! Look for pre-made wonton wrappers in your grocery’s refrigerated section. If you’re in a pinch, you can use spring roll wrappers or even small tortillas for a soft taco version.
Chicken: I recommend using thighs for juiciness, but breast works too. Don’t have chicken? Try shredded pork or tofu if you’re looking for a vegetarian option.
Sauces: Soy and hoisin sauces bring great flavor. If you’re gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce. For a tangy twist, try adding a bit of lime juice.
Veggies: Cabbage gives a nice crunch! You can mix it up with shredded carrots or sliced radishes for extra color and texture.
How Can I Make Perfectly Crispy Wonton Taco Shells?
Making your wonton taco shells crispy is crucial for the right texture. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Preheat your oven first. A hot oven helps crisp them up quickly.
- Grease the muffin tin lightly to prevent sticking.
- Be gentle when shaping wontons over the muffin tin; make sure they fit snugly to hold their shape.
- Keep an eye on them while they bake, as they can go from golden to burnt quickly! Aim for 8-10 minutes until they’re just crispy.
With a little attention, you’ll have crispy and delicious taco shells ready to be filled!
Chicken Wonton Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 wonton wrappers
- 1 lb chicken breast or thighs, cooked and shredded
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tbsp sriracha or chili sauce (optional, for heat)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp ginger powder
- 1 cup shredded green cabbage
- 1/2 cup shredded purple cabbage
- 1/2 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (scallions)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lime wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes for preparation and about 10 minutes for cooking. You’ll have delicious, crispy tacos ready in around 25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is an important step to ensure your wonton wrappers become nice and crispy.
2. Shape the Wonton Wrappers:
Lightly grease a muffin tin or small taco holders. Now, gently place each wonton wrapper over the cups or holders, creating taco shell shapes. Make sure they fit snugly, so they hold their shape while baking.
3. Bake the Shells:
Put the wonton wrappers in the oven and bake for about 8-10 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and crispy. Once done, carefully remove them from the oven and let them cool.
4. Cook the Chicken:
In a skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the shredded chicken to the skillet. This is where the flavor starts to build!
5. Add Flavor:
Stir in the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, sriracha (if you like it spicy), garlic powder, and ginger powder. Stir everything together and let it cook for about 3-5 minutes. You want the chicken to be well-coated and heated through. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste!
6. Assemble the Tacos:
Now it’s time to fill those crispy wonton taco shells! Spoon the cooked chicken mixture into each shell, filling them nicely.
7. Add Fresh Toppings:
Top your tacos with the shredded green and purple cabbage, chopped red bell pepper, and green onions. It’s all about that crunch and color!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Chicken Wonton Tacos with lime wedges on the side. Squeeze some fresh lime juice over the tacos right before you eat them for a zesty finish! Enjoy your crispy, flavorful creation!
Can I Use Frozen Wonton Wrappers?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely before using. You can leave them in the refrigerator overnight or let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will help them become pliable for shaping.
Can I Make the Chicken Filling Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Cook and season the chicken mixture up to 2 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Just reheat it in the skillet before filling the wonton shells.
How Do I Store Leftover Wonton Tacos?
If you have any leftover assembled tacos, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. The shells may lose some crispiness, so it’s best to store the filling and shells separately if possible. Reheat the filling before serving!
What Toppings Can I Use Besides Cabbage and Peppers?
You can get creative with your toppings! Try adding diced avocado, salsa, corn, or even a drizzle of ranch or spicy mayo for extra flavor. Fresh cilantro or jalapeños can also add a nice kick!
