Introduction
Welcome to a delightful twist on taco night that will surely impress your family and friends! These Applebee’s-inspired Chicken Wonton Tacos are a burst of flavor, combining crunchy wonton shells with a rich, seasoned chicken filling. Each bite is a harmonious blend of textures and tastes, from the crispy edges of the wonton wrappers to the fresh crunch of lettuce and the zing of ranch dressing. Perfect for a casual gathering or a cozy family dinner, these tacos are not just a meal; they’re a fun culinary experience!
Ingredients
- 1 pound cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
- 1 package of wonton wrappers
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- Vegetable oil for frying
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 12 tacos
Directions and Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, taco seasoning, and ranch dressing. Stir well until the chicken is evenly coated with the creamy dressing and spices.
- In a large pan, heat vegetable oil over medium heat until shimmering. This will ensure your wonton wrappers fry to a perfect golden brown.
- While the oil is heating, take each wonton wrapper and gently mold them into taco shapes using a muffin tin. This creates the perfect shell for your filling!
- Once the oil is hot, carefully fry the wonton shells in batches, cooking them for about 1-2 minutes or until they are crispy and golden. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and let drain on paper towels.
- After the wonton shells have cooled slightly, fill each shell generously with the flavorful chicken mixture you prepared earlier.
- Top each taco with a handful of shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, a sprinkling of cheddar cheese, and a garnish of sliced green onions for that fresh crunch.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor, and watch them disappear!
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to customize your toppings — avocado slices, jalapeños, or even a drizzle of hot sauce can enhance these tacos even more!
- If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken makes a great substitute for cooking your own chicken.
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to prevent the wontons from becoming greasy and soggy.
Cooking Techniques
Frying in oil creates a beautiful texture for your wonton shells, offering that perfect crunch that pairs beautifully with the soft, flavorful filling. Should you prefer a healthier alternative, you can bake the wonton shells in the oven. Simply brush them lightly with oil and bake at 375°F for about 10-12 minutes, watching closely until they’re golden brown and crispy.
FAQ
Can I prepare the chicken mixture in advance?
Absolutely! You can mix the chicken, taco seasoning, and ranch dressing a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just assemble the tacos right before serving for the best freshness.
How do I store leftover wonton tacos?
For any leftover tacos, it’s best to store the components separately. Keep the cooked wonton shells in an airtight container at room temperature, while the chicken filling and toppings can be refrigerated.
Conclusion
These Chicken Wonton Tacos are not just a meal; they are a delightful way to elevate your taco night! With their crispy shells and tantalizing filling, they make a fun and satisfying dinner that everyone will love. Whether for a family meal or a gathering with friends, these tacos are sure to be the star of the table. Enjoy every crunchy, flavorful bite!