Every bite of these Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos with Teriyaki Glaze is like a little celebration on your plate. I remember the first time I expertly folded those wonton wrappers, turning them into delightful crispy shells that cradle tender, teriyaki-glazed chicken. Not only are these tacos a crowd-pleaser, but they’re also incredibly versatile—swap the chicken for shrimp or tofu, and even opt for baked rather than fried shells to suit your cravings. What’s more, they cater to various dietary needs with gluten-free wrappers or low-carb lettuce cups. Whether you’re whipping them up for a game day snack or a cozy dinner, they promise to impress with minimal effort. Ready to elevate your taco game and discover a fun twist on traditional flavors? Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe!

Why is this taco recipe a must-try?

Crispy, Crunchy Delight: The wonton shells create a uniquely satisfying texture that is both crispy and full of flavor.

Versatile Options: Easily swap chicken for shrimp or tofu to cater to different cravings and dietary preferences, making it perfect for any dinner party.

Quick and Easy: With minimal preparation time, you can whip up these tacos without the hassle, offering a fantastic alternative to takeout.

Guilt-Free Indulgence: Choose gluten-free wrappers or low-carb lettuce cups for a healthier twist, allowing everyone to enjoy this dish without compromising their dietary needs.

Flavor Explosion: The teriyaki glaze adds a bold, sweet-savory flavor that elevates these tacos beyond the ordinary, turning them into a culinary adventure.

Pair these tasty tacos with a refreshing iced green tea, and you’ll have a crowd-pleasing dish that stands out during any occasion!

Chicken Wonton Tacos Ingredients

• For the Wonton Shells

Wonton Wrappers – Essential for creating those crispy taco shells; opt for gluten-free wrappers if needed.

• For the Filling

Chicken Breast – The star protein; offers lean and juicy meat, easily substitute with tofu or shrimp.
Teriyaki Sauce – A perfect blend of sweet and savory; consider making it at home for a fresh flavor boost.

• For the Toppings

Vegetable Toppings (e.g., shredded cabbage, green onions) – Provides crunch and freshness, customizable to your liking.
Sesame Seeds – Adds a nutty flavor and visual appeal as a tasty garnish.
Spicy Mayo (optional) – Mix mayo with sriracha for a spicy kick that brings out the flavors of the chicken wonton tacos.

Grab these ingredients, and you’re one step closer to enjoying a delightful culinary experience that will transform your appetizer game!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos with Teriyaki Glaze

Step 1: Prepare Teriyaki Glaze
In a small saucepan, combine teriyaki sauce with a splash of water and heat over medium until it begins to simmer. Stir occasionally for about 5-7 minutes, allowing it to reduce and thicken slightly; the glaze should coat the back of a spoon. Adjust sweetness with honey or a splash of rice vinegar for tanginess, and set the glaze aside to cool.

Step 2: Cook Chicken
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add cubed chicken breast and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring frequently, until the chicken is browned and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, pour in your prepared teriyaki glaze, tossing to coat the chicken completely in that luscious sauce for about 2 more minutes.

Step 3: Shape Wonton Shells
To create crispy wonton shells, heat oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C). Carefully fry wonton wrappers, a few at a time, for about 30 seconds per side until they turn golden brown and crispy. Alternatively, if baking, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and drape the wonton wrappers in a muffin tin, baking them for 8-10 minutes until they are crispy and lightly golden.

Step 4: Assemble Tacos
Once the wonton shells have cooled slightly, fill each one generously with the teriyaki-glazed chicken. Layer on shredded cabbage and green onions for freshness and crunch. Feel free to customize with your favorite toppings, like diced avocado or pineapple chunks, to enhance the flavor profile of these delightful chicken wonton tacos.

Step 5: Serve Immediately
Plate your Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos with a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added texture and visual appeal. To elevate the experience even more, drizzle with spicy mayo if desired. For the best taste, serve these tacos warm and fresh to ensure that crispy texture is at its peak, making for a truly irresistible appetizer or dinner option.

Expert Tips for Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos

Perfect Wonton Shells: Fry the wrappers until golden brown for the best texture. Keep an eye on them, as they can burn quickly!
Prep Chicken Ahead: Cook the teriyaki-glazed chicken in advance to save time. Just reheat it before assembling your chicken wonton tacos.
Avoid Soggy Shells: Fill wonton shells just before serving to maintain their crispiness. The moisture from fillings can make them soggy.
Customize Toppings: Feel free to experiment with toppings like diced cucumber or fresh herbs. Get creative for a unique twist on your tacos!
Baking Tip: If you’re baking the shells, ensure they fit snugly in the muffin tin for a perfectly shaped crispy shell.

How to Store and Freeze Chicken Wonton Tacos

Room Temperature: If you have any assembled tacos, they are best enjoyed fresh. Store them at room temperature for a maximum of 1 hour if serving at a gathering.
Fridge: Leftover teriyaki-glazed chicken can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before enjoying as a tasty meal prep option.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Consider portion sizes that make reheating easier.
Wonton Shells: Fried wonton shells should be fried fresh for optimal crispness, but if you need to store them, keep in an airtight container for up to 24 hours before they lose their texture.

Chicken Wonton Tacos Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing these tacos to suit your tastes and dietary needs!

Tofu Option: Replace chicken with firm tofu for a delightful vegetarian twist; just cube and sauté until golden.
Shrimp Swap: Use shrimp instead of chicken for a quick and flavorful seafood option; season with additional spices for a kick.
Baked Shells: Opt for baked wonton shells by draping them over muffin tins and baking at 375°F (190°C) for a healthier alternative.
Gluten-Free: Choose gluten-free wonton wrappers so everyone can enjoy this delicious dish without worry.
Low-Carb: For a low-carb version, try using lettuce cups instead of wonton wrappers, creating a fresh and crunchy base.
Tropical Teriyaki: Add pineapple chunks to the teriyaki glaze for a sweet and tropical flavor that balances beautifully with the salty sauce.
Decorative Veggies: Pile on additional toppings like diced avocado or crunchy radishes for extra color, texture, and freshness.
Spicy Kick: Mix sriracha into your spicy mayo for an extra layer of heat that adds a punch to every bite.

These variations invite you to explore delightful new flavors, whether you’re in the mood for something healthier or simply want to try a different twist on the classic! For a delicious complement to your meal, consider serving these tacos alongside a refreshing cucumber salad or perhaps even a plate of crispy Buffalo Chicken Taquitos for added variety.

Make Ahead Options

These Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos are perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep! You can prepare the teriyaki-glazed chicken and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; just make sure to store it in an airtight container to prevent drying out. The teriyaki glaze can also be made ahead and stored separately for up to 5 days. To maintain the crunch of your wonton shells, fry or bake them fresh before serving, but you can shape the wrappers and leave them covered at room temperature for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the chicken, fill the shells, and enjoy a delicious, make-ahead meal that’s just as delightful as when freshly made!

What to Serve with Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos with Teriyaki Glaze

Elevate your meal with delightful pairings that enhance the bold flavors and textures of these scrumptious tacos.

Asian-Style Cucumber Salad: A refreshing counterpart, this crunchy salad balances the sweetness of the teriyaki glaze.
Garlic Edamame: Lightly salted and bursting with flavor, these protein-rich pods make for a perfect healthy snack alongside your tacos.
Miso Soup: Warm, savory, and soothing, this classic dish will complement your crispy tacos beautifully, offering a comforting balance.
Spicy Mayo Dipping Sauce: For those who love a kick, this creamy sauce adds an exciting layer of flavor, perfect for drizzling over your tacos.
Iced Green Tea: A refreshing beverage, its subtle bitterness contrasts well with the sweetness of the teriyaki, cleansing your palate.
Pineapple Fried Rice: The sweet, tropical notes of this side dish play off the savory chicken, turning your meal into a vibrant experience. Enjoy each bite enjoying the harmony of flavors.
Sesame Noodles: The nutty taste and chewy texture of sesame noodles provide a deliciously filling contrast, rounding out your dining experience.
Fresh Fruit Platter: Light and refreshing, seasonal fruits can cleanse the palate after the rich flavors of the tacos, bringing a bright note to your meal.
Chocolate Mochi: For dessert, the chewy texture and sweet chocolate filling of mochi makes a delightful finish, leaving everyone craving more!

Crispy Chicken Wonton Tacos with Teriyaki Glaze Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe ingredients for the filling?
Absolutely! When choosing chicken, look for breasts that are pinkish with no dark spots, indicating freshness. If using vegetables, select crisp, vibrant cabbage and firm green onions without wilting. If opting for shrimp, choose ones that are translucent and slightly firm to the touch.

What’s the best way to store leftover chicken and wonton tacos?
Very! The leftover teriyaki-glazed chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Remember to reheat it thoroughly before serving. As for wonton shells, they are best when fried fresh for that crisp texture. If you have any leftovers, store them in a sealed container at room temperature for no more than 24 hours to maintain some crunch.

Can I freeze the chicken or wonton wrappers?
Absolutely! To freeze the cooked teriyaki chicken, let it cool completely and place it in an airtight container. You can keep it frozen for up to 3 months. For the wonton wrappers, they can be frozen before frying. Stack wrappers separated by parchment paper to prevent sticking, then place them in a zip-top freezer bag for easy access.

What if my wonton wrappers are soggy after frying?
Very! If your wonton shells turn out soggy, it could be due to not frying them long enough or overcrowding the pan. Ensure the oil is evenly heated to about 350°F (175°C) and fry the wrappers until they are golden brown—about 30 seconds per side. If frying them fresh, make sure to fill them just before serving to maintain their crispness.

Are these chicken wonton tacos suitable for dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! You can easily make these tacos gluten-free by using gluten-free wonton wrappers. If you’re looking for a low-carb option, substitute the wonton shells with crisp lettuce cups for a fresh alternative. Just be cautious about any allergies; for instance, if you’re serving these to guests, verify your teriyaki sauce is free of common allergens like soy or gluten if needed.