If you’re looking for a fun, crowd-pleasing appetizer or dinner idea, these Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos are sure to impress. They combine crispy wonton shells, tender chicken, and a creamy, tangy slaw—all drizzled with a flavorful sauce that ties it all together. They’re bite-sized, perfectly crunchy, and absolutely addictive—everything you want in a taco, but with an Asian-inspired twist.
The first time I made these, they disappeared faster than I expected. Once, I tossed the chicken in a spicy garlic mayo, and it took the flavor up a notch. Whether served for game night, a party, or an easy family dinner, these tacos deliver an irresistible combination of textures and flavors in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos are the perfect fusion of crunchy, creamy, and savory. The wonton shells provide the perfect crispy crunch, while the juicy chicken and creamy slaw bring balance and freshness. They’re customizable, quick to make, and taste like restaurant-quality street food right from your kitchen.
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Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos: Crunchy, Creamy, and Bursting with Flavor
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 12 tacos
- Diet: Halal
Description
A fun and flavorful twist on tacos — crispy wonton shells filled with tender chicken, crunchy slaw, and a tangy Asian-inspired dressing. These Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos are light, crunchy, and perfect for appetizers or dinner!
Ingredients
- 12 square wonton wrappers
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon grated ginger
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- For the Slaw:
- 2 cups shredded cabbage or coleslaw mix
- ½ cup shredded carrots
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- ½ teaspoon sesame oil
- For Garnish:
- Chopped cilantro
- Toasted sesame seeds
- Sweet chili sauce or spicy mayo (optional)
Instructions
- Make the Crispy Wonton Shells: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray both sides of wonton wrappers with oil. Drape each wrapper over the side of a 9×13-inch baking dish or a wire rack to form a taco shape. Bake for 6–8 minutes until golden and crisp. Let cool.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes, or until browned and cooked through.
- Stir in soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 1–2 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens. Remove from heat.
- Prepare the Slaw: In a bowl, combine cabbage, carrots, and green onions. Whisk together mayonnaise, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and sesame oil, then toss with the slaw until evenly coated.
- Assemble the Tacos: Spoon chicken into crispy wonton shells, top with slaw, and drizzle with sweet chili sauce or spicy mayo if desired.
- Garnish with cilantro and sesame seeds. Serve immediately while crisp.
Notes
- Wonton shells can also be air-fried at 375°F for 3–4 minutes until crispy.
- Use shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker version.
- Customize toppings — try pickled onions, avocado, or crunchy peanuts.
- Best enjoyed fresh to keep the wontons crisp.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Category: Appetizer / Main Course
- Method: Baked / Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Wonton wrappers – Thin and crispy, they form the perfect taco shells.
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Diced and seasoned for juicy, flavorful bites.
Soy sauce – Adds savory umami flavor to the chicken.
Garlic powder and ginger powder – Infuse the chicken with warmth and depth.
Olive oil – For cooking the chicken and crisping the wontons.
Coleslaw mix (cabbage and carrots) – Provides crunch and freshness.
Mayonnaise – The base for the creamy slaw dressing.
Rice vinegar – Adds tang and brightness to the slaw.
Honey – Balances the flavors with a touch of sweetness.
Sesame oil – Adds nutty aroma and Asian-inspired depth.
Green onions (sliced) – For garnish and added freshness.
Cilantro (optional) – For a bright, herby finish.
Sweet chili sauce or spicy mayo – For drizzling over the tacos.
Directions
- Make the wonton taco shells:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray both sides of the wonton wrappers with oil. Drape each wrapper over the middle oven rack bar or taco shell rack to form a “U” shape. Bake for 7–8 minutes, until golden and crisp. Let cool completely. - Cook the chicken:
In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add diced chicken, soy sauce, garlic powder, and ginger powder. Cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fully cooked and slightly caramelized. - Prepare the slaw:
In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, rice vinegar, honey, and sesame oil. Add the coleslaw mix and toss until evenly coated. Set aside to chill. - Assemble the tacos:
Spoon the cooked chicken into each crispy wonton shell. Top with a scoop of creamy slaw. - Garnish and serve:
Drizzle with sweet chili sauce or spicy mayo, then garnish with green onions and cilantro. Serve immediately while crispy.
Equipment needed
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 12 mini tacos and serves 4 people. It takes about 30 minutes total—10 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking. Perfect for quick dinners, parties, or appetizers.
Storage/reheating
For best texture, enjoy these tacos fresh. However, you can store cooked chicken and slaw separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken before assembling. The wonton shells can be made ahead and kept in an airtight container for up to 2 days at room temperature. Avoid refrigerating the assembled tacos, as the shells will soften.
Variations and Customizations
Spicy Bang Bang Chicken Tacos
Toss chicken in a bang bang sauce (mayo, sriracha, and sweet chili sauce) for a sweet-spicy flavor.
Asian BBQ Chicken Tacos
Use teriyaki or hoisin glaze on the chicken for a smoky, sweet flavor.
Shrimp Wonton Tacos
Replace chicken with sautéed shrimp for a seafood twist.
Buffalo Chicken Tacos
Toss the chicken in buffalo sauce and top with blue cheese slaw.
Vegetarian Option
Use crispy tofu or sautéed mushrooms instead of chicken.
Avocado Lime Slaw
Add diced avocado and lime juice to the slaw for creamy freshness.
FAQs
1. Can I air fry the wonton shells?
Yes, air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 4–5 minutes, flipping halfway through.
2. Can I use ground chicken instead of diced?
Absolutely—just cook it with the same seasonings for a quicker option.
3. How do I keep the wonton shells crispy?
Store them in a dry, airtight container and assemble right before serving.
4. Can I make these ahead of time?
You can prep all the components in advance but assemble only when ready to eat.
5. Can I use egg roll wrappers instead?
Yes, cut them into smaller squares and bake the same way.
6. What sauce pairs best with these tacos?
Sweet chili sauce, spicy mayo, or creamy garlic sauce work beautifully.
7. Can I make these gluten-free?
Use gluten-free wonton wrappers and tamari instead of soy sauce.
8. What kind of chicken works best?
Boneless chicken breasts or thighs both work well—thighs are juicier.
9. Can I add cheese?
While not traditional, a sprinkle of shredded cheese adds extra creaminess.
10. What should I serve with them?
Pair with fried rice, Asian cucumber salad, or sesame noodles for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos are the perfect combination of crunch, creaminess, and bold flavor. With tender, seasoned chicken, refreshing slaw, and a golden wonton shell, they deliver restaurant-worthy taste in every bite. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, these tacos are guaranteed to be a hit for dinner, parties, or anytime you crave something deliciously different.
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