These Chicken Wonton Tacos are a fun twist on traditional tacos! Crispy wonton shells are filled with juicy chicken and fresh toppings, making every bite a tasty treat.
They’re perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a casual dinner. Personally, I love adding a bit of salsa and avocado on top for an extra kick. Yum! 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Wonton Wrappers: These are key for making crispy taco shells. If you can’t find wonton wrappers, egg roll wrappers can work in a pinch, just cut them down to size. Some even try homemade versions with flour and water!
Chicken: Shredded chicken is best for this recipe. I love using leftover rotisserie chicken for ease. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you can use shredded jackfruit or even sautéed mushrooms for a delicious twist.
Lettuce: Iceberg gives a nice crunch, but you could swap it for romaine or even cabbage. For an added flavor boost, consider using arugula or spinach.
Salsa/Sweet Chili Sauce: The dip can really enhance the flavor. If you’re not a fan of sweet chili sauce, try a homemade pico de gallo or any salsa you prefer. It adds freshness and zest!
How Do I Shape and Fry the Wonton Shells Perfectly?
Shaping the wonton wrappers can be tricky, but here’s how to get it right:
- Use an inverted taco rack or place chopsticks over a bowl to create a “V” shape for the wrappers.
- Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) for the crispiest result. Use a thermometer for accuracy.
- Fry the wrappers for just 1-2 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning. They should turn golden brown.
- After frying, drain on paper towels to keep them crispy.
Remember, keeping an eye on them during frying is key. These tips will help you achieve that perfect crunch!
How to Make Chicken Wonton Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Tacos:
- 12 wonton wrappers
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- 2 chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
- 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup finely chopped white onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives or green onions
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- Salsa or sweet chili sauce, for serving
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 20 minutes to prepare and cook the Chicken Wonton Tacos. This includes frying the wonton shells and assembling the tacos. It’s a quick and delightful dish that you can whip up in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
In a deep frying pan or pot, heat vegetable oil over medium heat to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to ensure the oil is the right temperature for frying. This is key to achieving crispy taco shells!
2. Prepare the Wonton Shells:
Take the wonton wrappers and shape them into taco shells. You can do this by folding each wrapper over the side of an inverted metal taco rack or placing chopsticks across the top of a bowl to form a “V” shape. Carefully fry each wrapper in the hot oil until golden and crisp, about 1-2 minutes. Once done, remove them and let them drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil. Allow them to cool so they hold their shape.
3. Season the Chicken:
In a bowl, take your shredded chicken and season it with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well so that the flavors are evenly distributed.
4. Assemble the Tacos:
Now it’s time to put everything together! Take each cooled wonton taco shell and place a generous spoonful of the seasoned chicken at the bottom. This will be the tasty filling.
5. Add the Delicious Toppings:
On top of the chicken, layer in the shredded iceberg lettuce, diced tomatoes, finely chopped onion, chives, and a sprinkle of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese. Feel free to add more or less of each topping according to your taste!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Chicken Wonton Tacos with salsa or sweet chili sauce on the side for dipping or drizzling over them. Enjoy these delightful tacos immediately for the best crunch and flavor!
These Chicken Wonton Tacos are a delightful fusion dish, blending crispy wonton shells with savory chicken and fresh toppings. They’re perfect for parties, casual dinners, or just a fun weeknight treat!
Can I Use Store-Bought Shredded Chicken?
Absolutely! Store-bought shredded rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds fantastic flavor. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning to your preference since pre-cooked chicken might already include salt and spices.
What Can I Substitute for Wonton Wrappers?
If you can’t find wonton wrappers, try using egg roll wrappers instead—just cut them down to the desired size. Alternatively, you can make your own with simple flour and water dough!
How Do I Keep the Wonton Tacos Crispy?
To maintain their crispiness, serve the tacos immediately after assembling. If you need to make them ahead of time, store the fried wonton shells separately from the fillings and assemble just before serving.
Can I Bake the Wonton Shells Instead of Frying?
Yes! To bake them, brush the wonton wrappers lightly with oil and place them in a muffin tin to hold their shape. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes, or until they’re golden and crispy.
