Another mishap was letting the wontons sit too long before baking or frying them. It’s best to cook them immediately after stuffing for optimal crispiness. If they sit, they tend to become soggy and lose that delightful crunch.
I also learned the hard way that not sealing the edges properly leads to unfortunate leaks during cooking. Make sure to really pinch the wrappers to seal them tight, and if you want, you can also dab a little water on the edges to help them stick together better.
Lastly, if deep-frying, make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the wontons. If it’s not hot enough, they can become greasy rather than crispy. A quick test is to drop in one wonton; if it bubbles and fries instantly, you’re good to go!
Serving Suggestions
These Chicken Wonton Tacos are versatile and can be served as an appetizer or main dish. I love to pair them with a fresh salad on the side for a light meal. A zesty lime vinaigrette complements the flavors beautifully. You could also lay out a taco bar, letting your guests choose their toppings. It’s perfect for entertaining!
For a family night, I often serve some rice or quinoa alongside to soak up all those delicious flavors. The crunchiness of the tacos, paired with something soft like rice, creates a delightful contrast. Plus, it keeps everyone satisfied!
If you want to keep it more casual, serve these tacos with some homemade guacamole and salsa on the side. Everyone loves to dip, and you can make it a fun, interactive meal where everyone can customize their plates.
Variations & Customizations
Feel free to switch up the protein in these tacos! Ground beef, turkey, or even shrimp can be used based on your preferences. I tried a version with BBQ chicken once, and my family could not get enough of that smoky-sweet flavor!
For a vegetarian option, I recommend using a mix of black beans, corn, and bell peppers. It’s just as satisfying and bursting with flavor. You can even add some sautéed mushrooms for an umami kick.
And if you want to spice things up, add chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili powder to the filling for an extra kick! Everything from sweet to spicy can be tailored to your taste.
How to Store, Freeze & Reheat
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare in my house!), you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure they cool down completely before sealing them to prevent sogginess.
For longer storage, I love freezing the unfilled wonton wrappers. You can prepare a batch and freeze them raw, ready to go when a craving strikes. When you’re ready to cook, just add the filling and bake or fry them straight from frozen—it’s that easy!
When reheating, the oven is your best friend to get that crispiness back. Just pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, and you’ll have them tasting as good as fresh.
Conclusion
I hope you enjoy making these Applebee’s Chicken Wonton Tacos as much as I do! They’re a wonderful blend of flavors and textures and always bring a smile to my table. There’s something magical about sharing a delicious meal with friends and family, and this recipe does just that. Happy cooking!