There’s nothing quite like the satisfying crunch of biting into a crispy taco, especially when it’s packed with tender, savory chicken and aromatic garlic. One evening, while pondering what to do with leftover chicken, I found inspiration deep in my pantry—a treasure trove of wonton wrappers waiting to be transformed into something extraordinary.
These Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos caught my attention instantly and have since become a family favorite. Perfectly seasoned and delightfully crispy, they are the antidote to predictable fast food nights. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up these irresistible tacos in under 30 minutes, making weeknight dinners feel special and exciting.
I love that these tacos are not just quick and easy but also incredibly versatile; you can customize them with your favorite toppings or sauces. Whether you’re entertaining friends or just treating yourself, these little bites of heaven will make your taste buds dance and leave everyone craving more. Ready to make some magic in the kitchen? Let’s dive into this flavorful adventure!
Why You'll Love This Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos
- These Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos are incredibly easy to make, allowing you to whip up a delicious meal in just 30 minutes.
- The combination of tender chicken and crispy wonton wrappers creates a mouthwatering flavor that will have your taste buds singing.
- Their versatility means you can personalize them with your favorite toppings and sauces, providing endless possibilities for customization.
- Plus, they are sure to impress guests at parties, making them a crowd-pleasing dish for any occasion.
Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos Ingredients
Get ready to create a deliciously crispy delight with these essential ingredients!
For the Chicken
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – use 3 for a juicy filling that shreds easily.
- Fresh garlic – 2 cloves minced for a punch of flavor that pairs beautifully with chicken.
- Low-sodium soy sauce – 2 tablespoon enhances the savory profile without the extra salt.
For the Wontons
- Wonton wrappers – 12 pieces to cradle your delicious chicken concoction perfectly.
For Garnish
- Green onions – 2 finely chopped to add a fresh crunch and color to your tacos.
For Frying
- Vegetable oil – approximately 1 cup for frying, ensuring a crispy texture and golden perfection.
Now that you have everything ready, it’s time to start cooking these Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos!
How to Make Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos
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Preheat oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will help prepare the chicken later, ensuring it's cooked uniformly.
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Cook chicken: In a skillet over medium heat, add about 1 cup of vegetable oil. Cook the seasoned chicken breasts for approximately 5-7 minutes on each side, until golden brown. Remove from heat and shred using two forks.
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Mix ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with 2 tablespoon of low-sodium soy sauce and the minced garlic. Mix well, letting those wonderful flavors meld together!
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Fill wontons: Take each wonton wrapper and place about one tablespoon of the savory chicken mixture in the center. Fold them over, sealing tightly to avoid any filling leakage during frying.
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Fry tacos: Heat the oil again and carefully fry each taco for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they’re beautifully golden brown. Once done, drain the tacos on paper towels for a crispy finish.
Optional: Top with chopped green onions for an extra burst of freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos?
Elevate your meal and tantalize your taste buds with these delightful pairing ideas that perfectly complement those crunchy tacos.
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Cilantro Lime Rice: This zesty rice enhances the savoriness of the chicken, adding a refreshing zest to each bite. It’s both filling and flavorful, creating a well-rounded plate.
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Spicy Mango Salsa: The sweetness of mango mixes beautifully with a hint of heat, offering a bright contrast that complements the crispy texture of the wontons. Serve it on the side for an extra punch!
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Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a light dressing adds a satisfying crunch and a touch of acidity, balancing the richness of the tacos perfectly. The fresh flavors will brighten your meal.
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Guacamole: Creamy and rich, guacamole brings a lovely smoothness that contrasts with the crunchiness of the wonton tacos. Its hearty texture and flavor elevate your dining experience, making every bite indulgent.
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Sesame Noodles: These noodles bring an Asian twist, coated in a savory sesame sauce that will echo the flavors of your tacos. Add some veggies for a pop of color and freshness; they make a fantastic bed for the tacos!
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Chilled Beer or Sparkling Water: A cold drink can enhance your dining experience greatly! Pair it with a light lager or a bubbly sparkling water with lime for a refreshing sip between bites.
With these delicious accompaniments, your Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos will shine even brighter, creating a meal that’s sure to be remembered!
Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos Variations
Feel free to explore delightful twists and substitutions to make these tacos uniquely yours!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute wonton wrappers with rice paper, soaking them briefly in warm water before filling for a gluten-free option.
- Spicy Touch: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of sriracha to the chicken mixture for an exciting kick that elevates the flavor profile.
- Vegetarian Delight: Swap chicken for sautéed mushrooms or tofu, and use soy sauce and garlic for a rich, savory filling perfect for plant-based eaters.
- Cheesy Goodness: Mix in shredded cheese like mozzarella or pepper jack with the chicken mixture for a melty, gooey taco experience everyone will enjoy.
- Herb Forward: Add fresh herbs like cilantro or basil to the chicken filling for a burst of fresh flavor that brightens every bite.
- Baked Alternative: Instead of frying, brush the assembled tacos with olive oil and bake in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for a healthier, crunchy alternative.
- Crunchy Slaw: Top your tacos with a simple crunchy slaw made from cabbage, lime juice, and cilantro for an extra layer of texture and freshness.
- Citrus Zing: Squeeze a bit of lime juice over the finished tacos for an added zing that complements the savory chicken beautifully.
How to Store and Freeze Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos
Room Temperature: Store any leftover Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos at room temperature for up to 2 hours before refrigerating to ensure food safety.
Fridge: Keep uneaten tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, maintaining their crispiness until you're ready to enjoy them again.
Freezer: Place wrapped, uncooked tacos in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze for up to 1 month. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag for long-term storage.
Reheating: To reheat cooked tacos, place them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes, ensuring they regain their delightful crunch.
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the chicken mixture up to 24 hours in advance by cooking and shredding the chicken, then mixing it with soy sauce and garlic. Store this filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its wonderful flavor. Just before serving, fill each wonton wrapper with the chicken mixture and fry them in hot oil—this way, they will stay crispy and fresh! The wonton wrappers can also be kept on hand for up to 3 days—just ensure they're stored in a cool dry place to prevent moisture. Enjoy quicker dinners with just as much deliciousness!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos, ensure your oil is hot enough before frying to achieve that perfect golden crispiness; a simple test is dropping a small piece of wonton wrapper in the oil—it should sizzle immediately.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan when frying to keep the temperature consistent and allow even cooking; fry in batches if necessary.
- For an extra boost in flavor, marinate the chicken briefly in soy sauce and garlic before cooking to enhance the taste throughout the meat.
- Lastly, make sure to drain the fried tacos on paper towels promptly to remove excess oil and maintain their crunchy texture.
Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe ingredients for my Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos?
Absolutely! When picking boneless, skinless chicken breasts, look for those that are pale pink in color and have a fresh, clean smell. Avoid any that appear discolored or have a slimy texture. As for the green onions, choose ones with firm, vibrant green tops and white stalks. They should feel crisp and not wilted, ensuring a fresh garnish for your tacos.
What’s the best way to store leftover Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos?
For sure! After letting them cool, store your uneaten tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to place a paper towel inside the container to absorb any moisture and help maintain their crispiness. If you want to keep them longer, it’s best to freeze them.
Can I freeze Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos?
Certainly! To freeze, arrange uncooked, wrapped tacos in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about 1 hour until solid, and then transfer them to a freezer bag for longer storage—up to 3 months! When you’re ready to cook them, there’s no need to thaw; just fry them straight from the freezer, adjusting the cook time as needed.
What should I do if my tacos are soggy after frying?
Very! To avoid soggy tacos, ensure your oil is hot (around 350°F or 175°C) before frying, which helps create a crust quickly. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan as it can lower the oil temperature. If you find your tacos are still soggy, try draining them on paper towels immediately after frying and give them a light re-fry in fresh oil for extra crunch.
Are there any dietary considerations for the Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos?
Absolutely! These tacos are not gluten-free due to the wonton wrappers, but you can substitute with gluten-free wrappers if needed. For those with a soy allergy, consider using coconut aminos or a homemade marinade without soy sauce for flavor. When it comes to pets, keep them away from any garlicky or fried foods, as they can be harmful to pets, especially dogs.
How long can I store cooked Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos?
Great question! Cooked tacos can be safely stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember to keep them in an airtight container to prevent them from getting too soft. If you need to, you can reheat them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes until they regain their delightful crunch, giving you that freshly made experience again.
Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare the chicken.
- In a skillet over medium heat, add about 1 cup of vegetable oil. Cook the seasoned chicken breasts for approximately 5-7 minutes on each side, until golden brown. Remove from heat and shred using two forks.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with 2 tablespoon of low-sodium soy sauce and the minced garlic. Mix well.
- Take each wonton wrapper and place about one tablespoon of the savory chicken mixture in the center. Fold and seal tightly.
- Heat the oil again and fry each taco for about 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
- Optional: Top with chopped green onions for an extra burst of freshness.
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