Name: Irresistible Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe – Quick & Tasty!
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Yield: 24 servings
Ingredients: 2 (12-ounce) packages Wonton Wrappers; 4-6 cups Neutral Oil for Frying; 1.5 lbs Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast or Thighs; ½ cup Low-Sodium Soy Sauce; ¼ cup Rice Vinegar; 2 tablespoons Honey or Maple Syrup; 1 tablespoon Toasted Sesame Oil; 2 tablespoons Fresh Ginger, minced; 4 cloves Garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Sriracha (optional); 1 tablespoon Cornstarch; 2 tablespoons Cold Water; 1 tablespoon Olive Oil or Neutral Oil; 1 (14-ounce) bag Coleslaw Mix; ½ cup Mayonnaise; 3 tablespoons Rice Vinegar; 1 tablespoon Granulated Sugar or Honey; 1 teaspoon Toasted Sesame Oil; 1 tablespoon Fresh Lime Juice; ¼ teaspoon Salt; ¼ teaspoon Black Pepper; ¼ cup Green Onions, thinly sliced; 1 tablespoon Toasted Sesame Seeds; Extra Sriracha Mayo (optional)

The Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe is, in my opinion, more than just a meal; it’s an adventure in flavor and texture, perfectly blending two distinct culinary worlds. I believe you’re about to transform your regular taco night into an extraordinary experience that will surprise and delight every palate. Are you ready for a dish that offers the best of both worlds in every single bite?

While tacos are a beloved staple of Mexican cuisine and wontons are iconic to Chinese culinary traditions, the brilliant concept of the “wonton taco” represents a modern fusion, a delicious testament to global gastronomic creativity. This ingenious dish combines the satisfying crunch of a crisped wonton shell with the tender, seasoned chicken filling typically found in a taco, creating a symphony of taste that is both familiar and excitingly new. People adore this dish for its unique blend of sweet, savory, and sometimes spicy notes, alongside the irresistible textural contrast it provides. It’s the ideal choice for those seeking to impress guests, or simply to elevate a weeknight dinner with something truly special.

This Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe promises not just a meal, but a memorable culinary journey that’s surprisingly straightforward to prepare. Get ready to fall in love with this inventive twist on two classics!

Ingredients:

For the Crispy Wonton Shells:
- 2 (12-ounce) packages Wonton Wrappers: Look for the square-shaped wrappers, typically found in the refrigerated section of your grocery store near the produce or tofu. This quantity usually gives you plenty for a large batch, perfect for feeding a family or having leftovers.
- 4-6 cups Neutral Oil for Frying: Such as vegetable, canola, or grapeseed oil. You’ll need enough to allow the wonton wrappers to be partially submerged for even cooking.
For the Savory Chicken Filling:
- 1.5 lbs Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast or Thighs: Chicken breasts will yield a leaner filling, while thighs will offer a richer, more tender texture. You can choose based on your preference.
- ½ cup Low-Sodium Soy Sauce: Using low-sodium allows you to control the saltiness of the dish more effectively.
- ¼ cup Rice Vinegar: Adds a delightful tang and balances the richness of the soy sauce.
- 2 tablespoons Honey or Maple Syrup: For a touch of sweetness that perfectly complements the savory and tangy notes.
- 1 tablespoon Toasted Sesame Oil: Essential for that unmistakable nutty, aromatic Asian flavor. A little goes a long way!
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Ginger, minced: Please use fresh ginger for the best flavor; the pre-minced jarred kind often lacks the same vibrancy.
- 4 cloves Garlic, minced: Again, fresh garlic is paramount here for robust flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Sriracha (optional, or to taste): If you enjoy a little kick, Sriracha adds a pleasant heat without overpowering the other flavors.
- 1 tablespoon Cornstarch: To create a slurry that will thicken our sauce to a perfect consistency, ensuring it coats the chicken beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons Cold Water: For mixing with the cornstarch to form the slurry.
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil or Neutral Oil: For sautéing our aromatics and chicken.
For the Crunchy Asian Slaw:
- 1 (14-ounce) bag Coleslaw Mix: This often includes shredded green cabbage, red cabbage, and carrots, making prep super easy. If you prefer, you can shred ½ head green cabbage, ¼ head red cabbage, and 1 large carrot yourself.
- ½ cup Mayonnaise: I often opt for a light mayonnaise to keep the slaw a bit lighter, but full-fat works wonderfully for a creamier dressing.
- 3 tablespoons Rice Vinegar: Provides the necessary acidity and brightness for the slaw dressing.
- 1 tablespoon Granulated Sugar or Honey: To balance the tanginess of the vinegar and mayonnaise.
- 1 teaspoon Toasted Sesame Oil: Echoes the flavors in the chicken, tying the whole dish together.
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Lime Juice: A squeeze of fresh lime juice adds a zesty, vibrant lift to the dressing.
- ¼ teaspoon Salt: And more to taste as needed.
- ¼ teaspoon Black Pepper: Freshly ground is always best.
For Garnish and Extra Flavor (Optional but Highly Recommended):
- ¼ cup Green Onions, thinly sliced: For a fresh, mild oniony bite and a pop of color.
- 1 tablespoon Toasted Sesame Seeds: Adds a lovely textural contrast and an extra layer of nutty flavor.
- Extra Sriracha Mayo: If you’re a fan of spicy, creamy sauces, a drizzle of store-bought or homemade Sriracha mayo (mayo mixed with Sriracha to taste) is a fantastic addition.

Preparing the Chicken Filling: The Heart of Your Chicken Wonton Tacos

The chicken filling is where all the wonderful savory, sweet, and tangy flavors come together to create the irresistible core of your chicken wonton tacos. We’re aiming for a perfectly coated, juicy shredded chicken that’s bursting with Asian-inspired goodness.

Prepare the Chicken: First, we need to cook our chicken. You have a few options here to achieve beautifully shredded chicken.
- Boiling Method: Place the chicken breasts or thighs in a pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This method is great for tender, easy-to-shred chicken.
- Baking Method: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Season the chicken lightly with salt and pepper, then bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through. This method can add a bit more flavor to the chicken itself.
- Pan-Frying Method: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, reducing heat if needed, until cooked through. This offers a slightly more browned, flavorful exterior.
Once your chicken is cooked by your chosen method, let it rest for 5-10 minutes. Then, using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. You can also use a stand mixer with the paddle attachment on low speed for a few seconds – it works wonders for shredding chicken quickly! Set the shredded chicken aside.
Whisk the Flavorful Sauce: In a medium bowl, combine the low-sodium soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey or maple syrup, toasted sesame oil, minced Sriracha (if using), and ½ teaspoon of the minced ginger. Whisk these ingredients together until well combined. This is the liquid gold that will transform your chicken.
Sauté the Aromatics: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or neutral oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the remaining minced garlic and ginger. Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until they are fragrant. Be careful not to burn them, as burned garlic can turn bitter very quickly. We’re just looking to release their wonderful aromas.
Combine Chicken and Sauce: Add the shredded chicken to the skillet with the aromatics. Pour the whisked sauce over the chicken. Stir everything together well, ensuring every piece of chicken is coated in that delicious sauce. Let it simmer gently for 2-3 minutes, allowing the chicken to really absorb those fantastic flavors. This step is crucial for developing depth of flavor in your Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe.
Thicken the Sauce with a Cornstarch Slurry: In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water until no lumps remain. This is your cornstarch slurry. Pour the slurry into the simmering chicken mixture, stirring constantly. Continue to stir for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken to a glossy, beautiful consistency that clings perfectly to the chicken. It should look saucy but not watery.
Simmer and Set Aside: Reduce the heat to low and let the chicken filling simmer for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, just to ensure all the flavors meld together perfectly and the sauce is fully thickened. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed – perhaps a little more soy sauce for saltiness, or a tiny dash more Sriracha for heat. Remove from heat and set aside while you prepare the other components of your chicken wonton tacos. It’s okay if it cools down a bit, as it will be gently warmed again by the crispy wonton shells.

Crafting the Refreshing Asian Slaw: A Burst of Freshness

The Asian slaw provides a crucial counterpoint to the rich chicken filling and crispy wonton shell. It’s light, crunchy, tangy, and subtly sweet, adding a refreshing burst of flavor and texture that truly completes the chicken wonton taco experience.

Prepare the Cabbage and Carrots: If you’re using a pre-packaged coleslaw mix, simply open the bag and place the contents into a large mixing bowl. If you’re shredding your own, carefully shred the green and red cabbage very thinly, and grate the carrot using a box grater or food processor. The goal is fine, uniform shreds for the best texture.
Whisk the Vibrant Slaw Dressing: In a separate medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise, rice vinegar, granulated sugar or honey, toasted sesame oil, fresh lime juice, ¼ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. Whisk all these ingredients together vigorously until the dressing is smooth and well emulsified. Make sure the sugar is fully dissolved. Taste the dressing – it should be tangy, slightly sweet, and savory. Adjust seasonings to your preference; you might want a pinch more salt or a little more sweetness.
Toss the Slaw: Pour the dressing over the shredded cabbage and carrots in the large mixing bowl. Using tongs or your hands (wearing gloves, if you prefer), gently toss the slaw until all the vegetables are evenly coated with the dressing. You want every shred to be glistening with flavor!
Chill for Optimal Flavor and Texture: Cover the bowl of Asian slaw and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time is important for a couple of reasons: it allows the flavors to meld and deepen, and it helps the cabbage to slightly soften while still retaining its delightful crunch. A well-chilled slaw is always more refreshing, especially when paired with warm chicken. You can even prepare this slaw a few hours in advance, or the day before, for maximum flavor development.

Frying the Crispy Wonton Shells: The Perfect Taco Vessel

This is where the “taco” in “Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe” really comes to life! Creating those perfectly crispy, golden wonton shells is a surprisingly fun and quick process. They provide an incredible crunch that makes every bite satisfying.

Set Up Your Frying Station and Heat the Oil: Pour the neutral oil into a deep, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven. You’ll want about 2-3 inches of oil, enough to partially submerge the wonton wrappers. Attach a deep-fry thermometer to the side of the pot. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350-375°F (175-190°C). While the oil is heating, prepare a wire rack set over a baking sheet lined with paper towels. This will be for draining your fried wonton shells. Also, have a pair of tongs ready.
Shape and Fry the Wonton Wrappers: Once the oil is at the correct temperature, carefully drop one wonton wrapper into the hot oil. Immediately, using a pair of tongs, gently fold the wonton wrapper in half or against the side of the pot to create a taco-like “V” shape. Hold it in place for a few seconds until it starts to crisp up and hold its shape. You’ll see it turn a light golden color fairly quickly.
- Important Tip: Do not overcrowd the pot. Fry only 2-3 wontons at a time, depending on the size of your pot, to maintain the oil temperature and ensure even cooking. If the oil temperature drops too much, the wontons will become greasy rather than crispy.
Continue to fry for about 30-60 seconds on each side, or until the wonton shell is beautifully golden brown and crispy. The cooking time is very quick, so stay focused!
Drain and Season: Using your tongs, carefully remove the fried wonton shell from the hot oil and place it on the prepared wire rack to drain any excess oil. While it’s still warm, you can sprinkle a tiny pinch of salt over it if you like, but it’s optional as the filling will provide plenty of seasoning. Repeat this process with the remaining wonton wrappers, ensuring the oil returns to temperature between batches. This step-by-step approach ensures each wonton shell for your Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe is perfect.
Alternative Method: Baking Wonton Shells (for a Lighter Option)

If you prefer a lighter, less oily alternative, you can bake your wonton shells! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray both sides of each wonton wrapper with cooking spray. Gently drape each wrapper over two rungs of an oven rack, creating a “V” shape. You can also use a muffin tin, pressing the wrappers into the cups to form small bowls. Bake for 5-8 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on them, as they can burn quickly. Remove from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. While they won’t have the exact same deep-fried crunch, they’ll still be delightfully crispy and a fantastic vessel for your Chicken Wonton Tacos.

Assembling Your Delicious Chicken Wonton Tacos: The Grand Finale

With all your components ready, the final step is to bring everything together and create these delightful Chicken Wonton Tacos. This is where your culinary masterpiece takes its final form!

Gather All Components: Ensure your savory chicken filling is warm (you can briefly reheat it on the stovetop if it’s too cool), your Asian slaw is chilled, and your crispy wonton shells are ready to go. Have your garnishes – sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds – within easy reach. If you’re using Sriracha mayo, have that ready too.
Fill Each Wonton Shell with Chicken: Carefully pick up one of your crispy wonton shells. Using a spoon, generously fill the bottom of the shell with a good portion of the warm, saucy chicken filling. Don’t be shy; you want a hearty amount in each taco!
Top Generously with Slaw: Next, take a spoonful of the chilled Asian slaw and pile it high over the chicken filling. The contrast between the warm chicken and the cool, crisp slaw is absolutely divine. This layer adds vital crunch and freshness to balance the richness of the filling.
Garnish for Eye-Appeal and Extra Flavor: Sprinkle a generous amount of thinly sliced green onions over the slaw. Their mild oniony flavor and vibrant green color are perfect. Then, add a scattering of toasted sesame seeds for an extra nutty aroma and a touch more texture. If you love a bit of extra creaminess and heat, drizzle some Sriracha mayo over the top of the slaw. This adds a fantastic final touch that elevates the entire experience of your Chicken Wonton Tacos.
Serve Immediately and Enjoy: These Chicken Wonton Tacos are best enjoyed fresh, while the wonton shells are at their crispiest. Arrange them on a platter and serve them right away to your eager guests or family. The combination of the crispy shell, warm savory chicken, and cool crunchy slaw is truly irresistible! They are perfect for appetizers at a party, a fun weeknight dinner, or even a unique lunch. Get ready for compliments!

Conclusion:

And there you have it, my friends! We’ve journeyed through the creation of a truly magnificent dish, and I sincerely hope you’re as excited to try it as I am to share it. This isn’t just another recipe; it’s an experience, a delightful fusion that brilliantly marries the comforting, savory flavors of Asian cuisine with the fun, handheld convenience of a taco. The combination of crispy wonton shells, succulent, seasoned chicken, and vibrant, fresh toppings creates a symphony of textures and tastes that is nothing short of addictive. If you’re looking for a dish that will impress your guests, spice up your weeknight meal rotation, or simply satisfy a craving for something uniquely delicious, then this Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s a testament to the fact that some of the best culinary adventures happen when you dare to blend different traditions, resulting in something greater than the sum of its parts. I promise, the moment you bite into one of these, you’ll understand exactly why I’m so passionate about it – that perfect crunch giving way to a burst of savory, slightly sweet, and tangy goodness is simply unparalleled.

What truly sets this dish apart, beyond its incredible flavor profile, is its inherent versatility and the sheer joy it brings to the table. It’s a conversation starter, a palate pleaser, and incredibly satisfying without being overly heavy. You’ll find yourself reaching for another, and another, because each bite offers that delightful balance of flavors that keeps you coming back for more. It’s light enough for a casual lunch but sophisticated enough to serve as an impressive appetizer at a dinner party. The vibrant colors from the fresh garnishes make it a feast for the eyes as much as it is for the taste buds, adding an extra layer of appeal that makes it irresistible. We’re talking about a dish that not only tastes incredible but also looks fantastic, making it perfect for any occasion where you want to add a touch of culinary flair and excitement without spending hours slaving away in the kitchen.

Serving Suggestions & Perfect Pairings:

When it comes to serving these delectable tacos, presentation is key, and there are so many ways to enhance the experience. I love to arrange them artfully on a large platter, garnished generously with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds, finely chopped green onions, and a scattering of fresh cilantro leaves. For those who enjoy a little extra kick, a drizzle of sriracha or a side of sweet chili sauce for dipping can elevate the flavors even further. Imagine them as the star appetizer at your next game day gathering – they’re handheld, packed with flavor, and sure to be a crowd-pleaser. They also make a fantastic light lunch or dinner when paired with a simple, refreshing side. Consider serving them alongside a crisp cucumber and sesame salad, a small bowl of jasmine rice, or even a light miso soup to complete the Asian-inspired meal. For a more substantial dinner, a side of steamed edamame or a stir-fried vegetable medley would be an excellent accompaniment, adding even more nutrients and complementary flavors to your plate. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your garnishes; finely shredded red cabbage or a squeeze of fresh lime juice can also add an extra layer of color and brightness that makes each taco pop.

Creative Variations to Explore:

One of the aspects I adore most about this recipe is its adaptability. While the classic chicken version is undeniably fantastic, don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own! For those who enjoy a different protein, shredded pork, ground turkey, or even pan-seared shrimp would make excellent substitutes for the chicken, each bringing its own unique texture and flavor profile to the taco. Imagine a spicy shrimp wonton taco, or a savory pork version – the possibilities are truly endless. Vegetable lovers could easily incorporate finely diced bell peppers, shredded carrots, or even water chestnuts into the filling for added crunch and nutritional value. For a vegetarian or vegan twist, a plant-based ground meat substitute or crumbled firm tofu, seasoned similarly, would work wonderfully. If you’re feeling adventurous with the sauce, consider adding a touch of ginger, a dash of rice vinegar for extra tang, or even a spoonful of peanut butter for a creamy, nutty profile reminiscent of a satay sauce. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to deep-frying the wonton wrappers, you can achieve a wonderfully crisp texture by baking them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and firm. Simply brush them lightly with a tiny bit of oil before baking. This method results in a lighter, equally delicious base for your tacos, allowing you to enjoy all the flavor with less guilt. You could even use small lettuce cups instead of wontons for an even lighter, low-carb option, turning them into a fresh and vibrant lettuce wrap. The core flavors are so robust that they can stand up to a myriad of exciting modifications, encouraging you to truly play in the kitchen and customize this dish to suit your personal preferences and dietary needs.

So, there you have it – my heartfelt encouragement to dive into this culinary adventure. I truly believe that cooking should be an enjoyable, exploratory process, and this recipe offers the perfect canvas for both novice and experienced cooks. It’s not just about following steps; it’s about creating something delicious that you can proudly share with others. I urge you, don’t just read about it; get into your kitchen, gather your ingredients, and give this incredible recipe a try. You’ll be amazed at how easily you can bring such sophisticated and satisfying flavors to life. And once you do, please, please share your experience! I’d absolutely love to hear how your Chicken Wonton Tacos turned out, what variations you explored, and who you shared them with. Tag me in your photos, drop a comment below, or send me a message – your feedback and culinary adventures inspire me, and I can’t wait to celebrate your delicious creations with you. Happy cooking, and bon appétit!