Crunchy Asian-Style Chicken Tacos

This Crunchy Asian-Style Chicken Tacos recipe combines crispy, golden wonton wrappers with flavorful chicken marinated in a savory mix of teriyaki sauce, sesame oil, and ginger. Topped with a refreshing Asian slaw and a drizzle of sweet chili sauce, these tacos offer a fusion of flavors that will surprise and delight your taste buds. With the perfect balance of crunch, savory, and sweet, this recipe is sure to become a crowd favorite. It’s an exciting twist on the classic taco, featuring a unique blend of Asian-inspired ingredients that are easy to prepare and fun to eat.

Ideal for a family dinner, casual gatherings, or even a weeknight treat, these tacos are not only delicious but also versatile and customizable. The crispy wonton shells paired with the tender, flavorful chicken make each bite a perfect combination of textures. Whether you’re looking for a new way to enjoy tacos or just craving something fresh, these Asian-style chicken tacos are a must-try.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Crispy and Crunchy: The wonton wrappers are fried to golden perfection, providing a satisfying crunch in every bite. It’s the perfect contrast to the tender marinated chicken and fresh slaw.
2. Flavorful Chicken Marinade: The combination of teriyaki sauce, sesame oil, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger makes the chicken flavorful, juicy, and tender—each bite is packed with umami.
3. Refreshing Asian Slaw: The slaw adds a fresh, crisp element that balances out the richness of the chicken. The sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and honey bring a sweet and tangy contrast to the dish.
4. Customizable: This recipe can be adjusted to suit your tastes. Want it spicier? Add some hot sauce. Prefer a lighter slaw? Use fewer ingredients or swap out the honey for a bit of lime.
5. Fun and Unique: These tacos are a fun and unexpected twist on a classic favorite, making them perfect for gatherings, parties, or just to change things up at dinner.

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Ingredients

Chicken & Marinade:

• 2 skinless, boneless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons teriyaki sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 teaspoons fresh garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced

Asian Slaw:

• 1 bag coleslaw mix
• 1/4 cup green onions, diced
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey

Shell & Toppings:

• 16 wonton wrappers
• Sweet chili sauce, for topping
• Sesame seeds, for garnish
• Chopped cilantro, for garnish

Variations

• Protein Swap: Instead of chicken, you can use shrimp, tofu, or even pork for different protein options.
• Spicy Slaw: Add a bit of sriracha to the slaw or marinate the chicken in a spicy sauce for an extra kick.
• Baked Wonton Wrappers: If you want to make this recipe a bit lighter, you can bake the wonton wrappers instead of frying them for a crunchy but healthier option.
• Veggie Slaw: Add shredded carrots, bell peppers, or cucumbers to the slaw for extra crunch and color.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free soy sauce and wonton wrappers to make this dish suitable for those avoiding gluten.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Marinade

In a bowl, combine the teriyaki sauce, sesame oil, soy sauce, minced garlic, and ginger. Add the thinly sliced chicken breasts to the bowl, making sure each piece is coated with the marinade. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Step 2: Make the Asian Slaw

In a separate bowl, combine the coleslaw mix, diced green onions, sesame oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce, and honey. Toss everything together until the slaw is evenly coated in the dressing. Set aside in the refrigerator while you prepare the rest of the dish.

Step 3: Fry the Wonton Shells

Heat a few tablespoons of oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Carefully place the wonton wrappers into the hot oil and fry them until golden and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the shells from the oil and place them on a paper towel to drain excess oil.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

In the same pan, add the marinated chicken and cook over medium-high heat until the chicken is fully cooked through, about 6-8 minutes, depending on the thickness of the slices. Stir occasionally to ensure the chicken is evenly cooked.

Step 5: Assemble the Tacos

Once the wonton wrappers are crispy and the chicken is cooked, it’s time to assemble the tacos. Place a crispy wonton shell on each plate, then fill with the cooked chicken. Top with a generous amount of the Asian slaw and drizzle with sweet chili sauce. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped cilantro for extra flavor and presentation.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When frying the wonton wrappers, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them in batches to ensure they crisp up evenly.
• Marinate the Chicken: For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but if you have more time, let it marinate for up to 2 hours.
• Keep the Slaw Fresh: If you’re making the slaw ahead of time, store it separately from the wonton shells and chicken to maintain its crunchiness.
• Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter slaw, you can add more honey or a splash of agave syrup to taste.

How to Serve

These crunchy Asian-style chicken tacos are perfect on their own for a quick meal. Serve them with a side of rice or a light vegetable dish like sautéed greens or a cucumber salad for a complete meal. They’re also great for a party or get-together, served as a fun appetizer or finger food.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers:

Leftover chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The slaw can also be stored in a separate container for up to 2 days.

Freezing:

While the fried wonton shells can be frozen, it’s best to freeze the chicken and slaw separately. The wonton wrappers can be frozen in a single layer, then transferred to a zip-top bag for storage.

Reheating:

Reheat the chicken in a pan over medium heat until warmed through. To crisp up leftover wonton shells, bake them in the oven at 375°F for 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I make the tacos ahead of time?

It’s best to assemble them just before serving to maintain the crispiness of the wonton shells. However, you can prepare the chicken and slaw in advance.

2. Can I use store-bought coleslaw mix?

Yes, using pre-shredded coleslaw mix is a time-saving option for this recipe.

3. Can I bake the wonton wrappers instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake the wonton wrappers for a healthier option. Just brush them lightly with oil and bake at 375°F for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.

4. Can I use a different sauce for the chicken marinade?

Yes, you can swap the teriyaki sauce for a different Asian marinade, such as hoisin or oyster sauce, for a different flavor profile.

5. Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce and check that the wonton wrappers are gluten-free.

6. Can I add other toppings to the tacos?

Feel free to add other toppings such as sliced avocado, shredded carrots, or jalapeños for extra flavor and crunch.

7. How do I keep the wonton shells crispy?

Fry the wonton wrappers just before serving and avoid adding too much moisture (such as sauce) to them before serving.

8. Can I make the slaw spicy?

Yes, you can add a bit of sriracha or chili flakes to the slaw for an extra kick.

9. How long should I marinate the chicken?

At least 30 minutes, but if you have more time, marinate for up to 2 hours for maximum flavor.

10. Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?

Yes, this recipe works well with shrimp, pork, or tofu for a variety of protein options.

Conclusion

These Crunchy Asian-Style Chicken Tacos offer a perfect combination of textures and flavors that will elevate your taco game. The crispy wonton wrappers, marinated chicken, and tangy slaw come together to create a mouthwatering meal that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a casual party, or just craving something different, this recipe is a fun and delicious option. Try it out, and enjoy a delightful twist on the classic taco!

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