These Chicken Wonton Tacos are a fun twist on taco night! Crispy wonton wrappers hold juicy chicken and fresh toppings, making each bite a tasty treat.
Honestly, who can resist a crunchy shell filled with yummy goodness? I love adding a sprinkle of cilantro for a pop of flavor. They’re great for sharing—or not! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Wonton Wrappers: These are crucial for creating the taco shell. If you can’t find wonton wrappers, you can use egg roll wrappers cut into smaller squares, but be mindful they may need a bit longer to fry.
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. For a healthier option, consider using cooked turkey or a plant-based chicken substitute. Leftover cooked meats work well too!
Spices: Chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika add depth to the chicken. If you’re looking for a milder flavor, you can reduce the chili powder or skip it entirely. Don’t have these spices? Try taco seasoning as an all-in-one substitute!
Vegetable Oil: For frying, vegetable or canola oil is best due to their high smoke points. You might also use peanut oil for a richer flavor. If frying isn’t an option, bake your wonton shapes for a crispy texture without the oil!
How Do I Get Perfectly Crispy Wonton Shells?
Frying wontons to achieve that perfect crunch can be tricky, but it’s doable! Here’s how:
- Make sure your oil is hot enough by testing with a small piece of wonton wrapper. It should sizzle immediately when submerged.
- Carefully shape the wonton wrappers as they soften quickly. Use a spoon handle or taco mold for uniform taco shapes.
- Fry each side for about 30 seconds until golden brown, as over-frying can lead to a tough shell. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- If you experience soggy shells, make sure not to overcrowd the oil during frying. Frying in batches helps them cook evenly.
With a little attention, you’ll have crunchy shells ready to fill with deliciousness in no time!
How to Make Chicken Wonton Tacos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 wonton wrappers
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- 2 cups shredded lettuce (iceberg or romaine)
- 1 avocado, diced or sliced
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or mozzarella)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- Salsa or hot sauce, to taste
- Sour cream or crema, for garnish
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 20 minutes to prep and cook. You’ll spend a bit of time frying the wonton shells, but the tasty filling and fresh toppings come together quickly. Perfect for a fun dinner or gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Filling:
In a bowl, mix the cooked chicken with chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until the chicken is evenly coated with the spices. This will give your tacos a wonderful flavor!
2. Shape and Fry Wonton Shells:
In a deep skillet or pan, pour about 1 inch of vegetable oil and heat it to 350°F (175°C). While the oil heats, take each wonton wrapper and fold it over the handle of a wooden spoon or a taco shell mold, gently pressing to form a taco shape. Be careful—they soften quickly!
3. Fry the Wonton Shells:
Once the oil is hot, carefully submerge the shaped wonton into the oil. Fry for about 30 seconds until one side is golden and crispy, then flip to fry the other side for another 30 seconds. Remove each taco and drain on a paper towel. Repeat with the remaining wonton wrappers.
4. Fill the Tacos:
Now that your wonton shells are ready, take each one and fill it with a spoonful of the seasoned chicken mixture. Don’t be shy—load them up!
5. Add the Fresh Toppings:
On top of the chicken, sprinkle in some shredded lettuce, add avocado slices, and top with shredded cheese and chopped green onions. Drizzle with salsa or hot sauce to taste. The more, the merrier!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Finish off each taco with a dollop of sour cream or crema and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, if you like. These little bits add so much flavor!
7. Enjoy!
Serve your Chicken Wonton Tacos immediately while the shells are still crispy. Have extra salsa or hot sauce on the side for those who like it spicy. Enjoy your new favorite taco night!
Can I Use Store-Bought Wonton Wrappers?
Absolutely! Using store-bought wonton wrappers is highly recommended for convenience. Just make sure to seal them well to avoid any leakage during frying.
What Can I Substitute for the Chicken?
If you’re looking for alternatives, shredded rotisserie chicken is a great option, or you can use cooked turkey or even a plant-based protein for a vegetarian twist!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Wonton Tacos?
Leftover tacos can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, keep the filling and wonton shells separate to maintain their crispy texture. Reheat the chicken filling in the microwave and fry fresh wonton shells if possible.
Can I Bake the Wonton Shells Instead of Frying?
Yes! For a healthier version, you can bake the wonton shells. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), lightly brush the shaped shells with oil, and bake for about 10-12 minutes until golden and crispy.