Copycat Applebee’s Sweet Chili Chicken Tacos
These Copycat Applebee’s Sweet Chili Chicken Tacos are an irresistible appetizer or main dish! Crispy wonton shells are filled with sweet and spicy glazed chicken and topped with a refreshing sesame slaw. They come together in 30 minutes or less, making them perfect for parties or a fun weeknight meal!
Equipment
- Saucepan
- Frying Pan
- Tongs
- Mixing Bowls
- Whisk
- Baking Dish
Ingredients
Sweet Chili Sauce:
- 4 tbsp pineapple juice canned or fresh
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp rice wine vinegar
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1 tsp cornstarch
Chicken:
- 1 boneless skinless chicken breast (diced into small pieces)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp olive oil
Wonton Shells:
- 8 wonton wrappers
- 1 cup frying oil or cooking spray for baking
Sesame Slaw:
- 1 cup slaw mix cabbage and carrots
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- ½ tsp sesame oil
- ½ tsp ginger paste
- ½ tsp soy sauce
Garnishes (Optional):
- 1 green onion chopped
- 1 tsp sesame seeds
Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Sweet Chili Sauce
- In a saucepan over medium-low heat, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, ketchup, rice wine vinegar, and red pepper flakes. Let it slowly bubble, then add cornstarch and stir until slightly thickened.
2️⃣ Cook the Chicken
- Dice the chicken breast into small, bite-sized pieces (no larger than ½ inch). Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat and sauté the chicken for 5 minutes until golden.
3️⃣ Coat the Chicken in Sauce
- Slowly pour in the sweet chili sauce and toss the chicken until fully coated. Let it cook for another 1-2 minutes, then remove from heat and set aside.
4️⃣ Fry or Bake the Wonton Shells
- Frying method: Pre-fold the wonton wrappers and fry in hot oil until crispy, about 30 seconds per side. Drain on paper towels.
- Baking method: Lightly spray wonton wrappers with cooking spray, fold over the edges of a baking dish, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes until golden brown.
5️⃣ Make the Sesame Slaw
- In a bowl, toss the slaw mix with mayonnaise, sesame oil, ginger paste, and soy sauce. Mix well to coat evenly.
6️⃣ Assemble the Tacos
- Fill each crispy wonton shell with sweet chili chicken. Top with sesame slaw, then garnish with green onions and sesame seeds. Serve immediately and enjoy!