These Chicken Wonton Tacos are a fun twist on taco night! Crispy wonton wrappers are filled with seasoned chicken, making each bite a tasty crunch.
It’s like a party in your mouth! I love topping them with fresh veggies and a dollop of salsa. They’re easy to whip up and always a hit—perfect for sharing with friends and family!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Wonton Wrappers: These are essential for the crispy taco shells. If you can’t find wonton wrappers, you can use egg roll wrappers cut into smaller squares. Just adjust your frying time as they may be thicker.
Shredded Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is my go-to for convenience and flavor. If that’s not available, you can boil chicken breasts and shred them, or even use leftover chicken from another meal!
Sauces: The combination of soy sauce, hoisin, and honey adds great depth to the chicken. If you’re looking for a low-sodium option, try using low-sodium soy sauce. You can replace hoisin with a mix of soy sauce and a little sugar if needed.
Cheese: I love crumbled feta for its tangy flavor, but queso fresco is also a great choice. If you’re avoiding dairy, try using a dairy-free cheese or skip it entirely!
How Do I Make Sure My Wonton Shells Are Crispy?
To achieve perfectly crispy wonton shells, the frying technique is key. Here’s how to get it right:
- Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) for optimal frying. Too low, and they’ll absorb oil; too high, and you risk burning them.
- Shape each wonton wrapper quickly, but ensure it holds its form. Pinch tightly so they don’t open during frying.
- Fry in small batches. Overcrowding the pan lowers the oil temperature, preventing crispiness.
- Keep an eye on the color. Pull them out once they’re a lovely golden brown and drain on paper towels immediately.
Following these tips will help you create deliciously crunchy taco shells every time!
Chicken Wonton Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 20 wonton wrappers
- Vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Chicken Filling:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or boiled)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp grated ginger
For the Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (or queso fresco)
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp sweet chili sauce or sriracha (optional drizzle)
- 1 tbsp finely chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It includes time for frying the wonton shells and assembling the tacos. It’s a quick and delightful option for a busy weeknight or a fun gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Form the Taco Shells:
Start by heating vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot to around 350°F (175°C). While the oil heats, take each wonton wrapper and fold it into a taco shape by pinching two opposite corners together. You can use chopsticks or a metal skewer to hold it in place, or just pinch and fry one at a time while holding the fold.
2. Fry the Wontons:
Once the oil is hot, carefully place the shaped wonton wrappers into the oil. Fry for 1-2 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy. Be sure to turn them gently if needed. After frying, remove them and let them drain on paper towels. Repeat with the remaining wrappers until they are all crispy!
3. Prepare the Chicken Filling:
In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken with soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Stir well to ensure the chicken is coated evenly with the flavorful mix.
4. Assemble the Tacos:
Now it’s time to fill those crispy shells! Spoon the chicken mixture into each wonton shell. Don’t be shy—make it hearty! Top your tacos with shredded lettuce, crumbled feta cheese, and sliced green onions for that fresh crunch.
5. Add Finishing Touches:
For an extra burst of flavor, drizzle sweet chili sauce or sriracha over the top of the assembled tacos. If you like, sprinkle some chopped cilantro on as well for a lovely herbaceous touch!
6. Serve Immediately:
Arrange the Chicken Wonton Tacos neatly on a serving platter and serve right away while the wonton shells are still crisp. Enjoy your delicious creation!
These Chicken Wonton Tacos combine the crunch of fried wontons with flavorful chicken and fresh toppings, making a deliciously fun appetizer or meal!
Can I Use Store-Bought Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds delicious flavor. Just shred the meat and include it in the filling. Canned chicken can also work in a pinch, though fresh or leftover chicken is usually tastier!
How Do I Make My Wonton Shells Even Crispier?
To ensure your wonton shells are super crispy, make sure the oil is at the right temperature (around 350°F/175°C) before adding them. Fry them in small batches to avoid overcrowding, which can lower the oil temperature and result in sogginess.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prep the chicken filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. For the wonton shells, it’s best to fry them just before serving to keep them crispy. You can also assemble the tacos ahead, but they may lose some crunch.
What Other Toppings Can I Use?
Feel free to customize your tacos! Some great alternatives include diced tomatoes, avocado, diced jalapeños, or even a sprinkle of cheese. You could also switch out the lettuce for spinach or add a zesty crema for extra flavor!