Introduction
Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos are a fun, flavour-packed dish that brings together the crunch of fried wonton shells with savoury, seasoned chicken and fresh toppings. These tacos are perfect when you want something different from traditional tacos but still crave bold, satisfying flavours. They work beautifully as appetisers, party food, or even a casual dinner option. I often make these when entertaining because they look impressive yet come together surprisingly quickly. The contrast between the crispy shell, juicy chicken, and fresh toppings creates a balance that keeps every bite interesting. With their playful presentation and irresistible crunch, crispy chicken wonton tacos are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that delivers restaurant-style flair right at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is quick, versatile, and full of texture. The wonton shells bake or fry into a perfectly crisp taco shape, while the seasoned chicken delivers savoury depth. They are easy to customise with different sauces and toppings, making them ideal for gatherings or family meals.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Wonton Wrappers
Wonton wrappers form the taco shells, becoming light and crispy when baked or fried.
Chicken Breast
Chicken breast provides lean protein and absorbs seasoning and sauce very well.
Olive Oil
Olive oil is used for cooking the chicken and adding flavour.
Garlic
Garlic adds aroma and savoury depth to the chicken filling.
Soy Sauce
Soy sauce brings saltiness and umami to the dish.
Hoisin Sauce
Hoisin sauce adds sweetness and depth, balancing the savoury chicken.
Sesame Oil
Sesame oil contributes a nutty aroma that enhances the overall flavour.
Cabbage Slaw Mix
Cabbage slaw adds crunch and freshness to balance the crispy shells.
Green Onions
Green onions provide mild onion flavour and colour.
Carrots
Carrots add sweetness and extra crunch to the filling.
Sweet Chilli Sauce
Sweet chilli sauce adds gentle heat and a glossy finish.
Salt
Salt enhances the flavour of the chicken.
Black Pepper
Black pepper adds subtle warmth.
Directions
Preheat the oven to 190°C. Lightly grease the outside of oven-safe muffin tin cavities.
Press wonton wrappers gently between the cavities to form taco shapes. Bake for 7–9 minutes until golden and crisp. Remove and let cool.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until lightly browned and cooked through.
Stir in garlic, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, salt, and black pepper. Cook for a few minutes until the chicken is well coated and fragrant.
In a bowl, combine cabbage slaw, carrots, green onions, and sweet chilli sauce. Toss lightly.
Assemble the tacos by filling the crispy wonton shells with chicken and topping with the slaw mixture. Serve immediately.
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.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results
Servings and timing
This recipe makes approximately eight to ten wonton tacos. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with a cooking time of 15 minutes.
Storage/reheating
The chicken filling can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Wonton shells should be stored separately and assembled just before serving to maintain crispness.
Variations and Customizations
Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos are highly adaptable. For extra heat, a small amount of sriracha or chilli paste can be added to the chicken. I have also prepared these tacos using shredded rotisserie chicken, which saved time and worked very well.
You can substitute the slaw with a simple cucumber salad for a lighter option. For added richness, a drizzle of sesame dressing or spicy mayonnaise works beautifully. These tacos can also be made with shrimp or beef for variety, keeping the same crisp shells and fresh toppings.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
These tacos provide protein from chicken and vegetables from the slaw. Baking the wonton shells instead of frying reduces overall fat content. Portion size can be adjusted depending on whether they are served as appetisers or a main dish.
Expert Tips & Customizations
Do Not Overbake the Wontons
They crisp quickly and can burn if left too long.
Season the Chicken Well
Bold seasoning ensures flavour in every bite.
Assemble Just Before Serving
This keeps the shells crisp and fresh.
FAQs
Can I fry the wonton shells instead of baking?
Yes, frying creates an extra-crispy shell.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Prepare components ahead, but assemble just before serving.
What sauce works best?
Sweet chilli, hoisin, or spicy mayonnaise all work well.
Can I use chicken thighs?
Yes, thighs add extra juiciness.
Are these spicy?
They are mild, but spice can be added easily.
Can I make them gluten-free?
Use gluten-free wrappers and sauces.
Do these work for parties?
Yes, they are ideal finger food.
Can I bake the chicken?
Yes, though skillet cooking adds more flavour.
What vegetables pair well with this dish?
Cabbage, carrots, and cucumbers work well.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, simply prepare in batches.
Conclusion
Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos are a crunchy, flavourful dish that combines playful presentation with bold, satisfying taste. Easy to customise and quick to prepare, they are perfect for entertaining, casual dinners, or anytime you want something a little different. With their crisp shells, savoury chicken, and fresh toppings, these tacos are guaranteed to be a standout on any table.
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