If you’re craving a dish that combines crunchy, savory, and fresh flavors in every bite, you’re going to fall head over heels for this Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe. It’s that perfect fusion of an Asian-inspired twist on classic tacos, where crispy wonton wrappers serve as the taco shell, hugging tender teriyaki-marinated chicken and vibrant coleslaw. This recipe is a total game-changer for your taco nights or casual gatherings, offering a delightful crunch and an explosion of flavor with every mouthwatering bite.

Three crispy, golden-brown fried taco shells stand upright on a white plate placed on a white marbled surface. Each shell is filled with several layers: a base of crispy fried chicken pieces, topped with shredded green and purple cabbage, thin orange carrot strips, and chopped fresh green herbs. The tacos are drizzled with a dark brown sauce that pools slightly on the plate, and sprinkled generously with white sesame seeds and small bright green onion pieces for garnish. The focus is close up, showing the crunchy texture of the shells and vibrant colors of the fresh toppings. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the ingredients right is key to nailing the texture and bold taste in this Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe. Each component plays its part, whether it’s the juicy chicken for protein, tangy coleslaw for freshness, or crispy wontons that replace a traditional tortilla, making these tacos irresistibly mighty and crunchy.

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced: Thin slices ensure quick cooking and perfect tenderness.
1/4 cup teriyaki sauce: Adds that sweet and savory depth to the chicken.
1 tbsp sesame oil (divided): Brings a toasty richness to both marinade and coleslaw.
1 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce: Adds umami without overwhelming saltiness.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses a punch of aromatic flavor throughout the dish.
1 tsp fresh ginger, grated: Offers a zesty warmth and freshness to the marinade.
2 cups coleslaw mix (cabbage and carrots): Provides crisp texture and bright color to balance the richness.
2 green onions, thinly sliced: Adds a mild onion bite and freshness.
1 tbsp rice vinegar: Gives the coleslaw a tangy lift.
1 tsp honey: Balances acidity with subtle sweetness.
12 wonton wrappers: The secret to that unbeatable crispy taco shell texture.
2 tbsp sweet chili sauce: Adds a kick of spice and sweetness for drizzling.
1 tsp sesame seeds: Introduce little bursts of nutty crunch as garnish.
2 tbsp chopped cilantro: Bright herbaceous notes that finish the tacos beautifully.

How to Make Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by tossing those thinly sliced chicken breasts with teriyaki sauce, half of the sesame oil, soy sauce, minced garlic, and freshly grated ginger. This quick 10-minute marinade makes the chicken burst with flavor as it soaks up the sweet, savory, and slightly spicy notes, ensuring every bite is juicy and exciting.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the marinated chicken until it’s thoroughly cooked and starting to caramelize, about 5 to 7 minutes. The quick cooking time keeps it tender but perfectly flavorful, creating the ideal protein base for your tacos.

Step 3: Prepare the Coleslaw

While the chicken is cooking, toss together the coleslaw mix, sliced green onions, rice vinegar, honey, and the remaining sesame oil in a bowl. This fresh, crunchy slaw adds brightness and a little natural sweetness that beautifully contrasts the rich chicken and crispy wonton shells.

Step 4: Fry the Wonton Wrappers

Now for the fun part: frying. In a shallow pan with a bit of oil, lightly fry each wonton wrapper for just 20 to 30 seconds on each side. The goal is to achieve a golden, crispy shell that’s light but sturdy enough to hold all the delicious filling without sogginess.

Step 5: Assemble Your Tacos

Fill each crispy wonton shell with a generous spoonful of cooked chicken, followed by the vibrant coleslaw. Then drizzle the sweet chili sauce over the top for a perfect balance of heat and sweetness that ties every element together harmoniously.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Finish off by sprinkling a teaspoon of sesame seeds and a sprinkle of fresh chopped cilantro atop each taco. These garnishes not only enhance the visual appeal but add layers of texture and fresh herbaceous notes that elevate the whole experience.

How to Serve Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe

Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

To make your Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe truly shine, consider adding extra crunchy sliced radishes, thinly sliced jalapeños for a fresh heat, or a drizzle of creamy avocado crema. These garnishes add texture, freshness, and a cooling note to contrast the spicy-sweet chili sauce.

Side Dishes

Pair your tacos with light, refreshing sides like a cucumber salad, edamame beans sprinkled with sea salt, or even simple steamed jasmine rice. These sides keep the meal balanced, providing subtle complementing flavors without competing with the boldness of the tacos.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun presentation, serve your Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe on a wooden board, each taco propped upright in a taco holder, or arrange them beautifully on a platter layered with banana leaves for an Asian vibe. Add small bowls of extra sweet chili sauce or lime wedges for interactive and eye-catching service.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, store the cooked chicken and coleslaw separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the wonton shells away from moisture to maintain their crispness.

Freezing

While it’s best to enjoy the wonton shells crispy and fresh, you can freeze the cooked marinated chicken by itself for up to 1 month. When ready, thaw in the refrigerator and reheat gently before assembling.

Reheating

Reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through to retain juiciness. Avoid reheating the wonton shells as they will lose their crisp texture. Instead, fry fresh wonton shells just before serving for the best eating experience.

FAQs

Can I use ground chicken instead of sliced chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Ground chicken can work well as a filling, though you may want to adjust cooking time and seasoning. The texture will be different but still delicious—just make sure to cook it thoroughly and mix it well with the sauce before filling your wonton shells.

What if I don’t have wonton wrappers? Can I use something else?

If wonton wrappers aren’t on hand, small taco shells or even lettuce cups can substitute. However, these won’t have the same crunch and delicate texture that make this recipe stand out, so consider picking up wonton wrappers to get the authentic crispy experience.

Is there a vegetarian version of this Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe?

Definitely! Swap the chicken with crispy tofu or sautéed mushrooms marinated in teriyaki sauce. These plant-based alternatives absorb the flavors beautifully and can be cooked just as easily. The coleslaw and crispy wonton shells add the same fresh crunch you love.

Can I make the wonton shells ahead of time?

You can fry the wonton shells a few hours in advance and keep them in a single layer on a paper towel-lined tray at room temperature. To revive their crispness before serving, pop them into a hot oven or toaster oven for a couple of minutes.

How spicy is the sweet chili sauce used in this recipe?

The sweet chili sauce balances sweetness with a mild, approachable heat. It adds a gentle kick rather than intense spiciness, making this recipe perfect even for those who prefer milder flavors but still want a bit of zing.

Final Thoughts

This Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe is such a joy to make and devour, combining crispy goodness with vibrant, fresh flavors that dance on your palate. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or treating yourself to a fun twist on tacos, these wonton tacos are guaranteed to become a new favorite. Give it a whirl—you won’t regret it!

Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos Recipe