Wonton Chicken Taco Salad

Wonton Chicken Taco Salad offers a unique blend of flavors that surprisingly complement each other, making it a standout dish for any meal. You might think combining Asian and Mexican elements would clash, but this salad proves otherwise with its harmonious textures and tastes. Its customizable nature means you can cater to various preferences, which is a plus for gatherings. If you’re curious about how to elevate your salad game with this enticing fusion, stick around to explore its history and discover the recipe that’ll impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

When you try this Wonton Chicken Taco Salad, you’ll quickly understand why it’s a favorite for so many. This recipe isn’t only easy to prepare but also highly customizable, making it perfect for any occasion. You can whip it up in about 25 minutes, with a total time of 1 hour and 30 minutes. The combination of honey-garlic chicken and zesty slaw offers a delightful flavor experience that everyone will enjoy.

One of the best parts is the flexibility. You can substitute ingredients to meet dietary needs, whether you prefer gluten-free options or healthier alternatives like low-fat cheese. Plus, using wonton wrappers instead of traditional tortillas helps keep the calorie count low while still delivering a satisfying crunch. Meal prep can also save you time and help you plan your meals efficiently.

You’ll appreciate the crispy texture of the baked wonton shells, which pair beautifully with the hot chicken and cold salad. Assembling the tacos just before serving guarantees freshness.

You can also experiment with different marinades for the chicken, or switch out proteins to suit your taste. This recipe is truly versatile, allowing you to create a meal that everyone can love.

History

Emerging from the fusion of Asian and Mexican cuisines, the Wonton Chicken Taco Salad traces its inspiration back to restaurant chains like Applebee’s, known for their Chicken Wonton Tacos.

While the exact origin of the dish isn’t specified, it has gained popularity as home cooks and bloggers adapt the original idea into simpler, more accessible versions. You’ll find that the transformation from tacos to salad involves replacing the fried wonton taco shells with crispy wonton strips, making it easier to enjoy.

The influence of Asian flavors shines through in the use of wontons and soy sauce-based marinades. Many variations exist, showcasing different marinades like teriyaki or oyster sauce, and various cooking methods, from frying to baking. The dish typically serves 6-8 people, making it ideal for gatherings and busy weeknight dinners.

The slaw component often includes pre-made slaw mixes, which can be enhanced with additional dressings and seasonings.

This dish reflects a broader trend where busy cooks recreate restaurant favorites in a more convenient form. The flexibility and customizability of the Wonton Chicken Taco Salad have contributed to its widespread appeal, making it a popular choice for quick weeknight dinners.

Recipe

Wonton Chicken Taco Salad Recipe

This Wonton Chicken Taco Salad is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that makes for a perfect meal any day of the week. The marinated chicken, combined with a fresh and crunchy salad, is elevated by the crispy wonton strips that add a satisfying crunch. The combination of soy sauce, teriyaki sauce, and sesame dressing in the marinade infuses the chicken with a savory depth, while the salad brings a rejuvenating crunch with its vibrant vegetables. Wonton strips are a key element to enhancing the overall texture of the dish.

Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner or a gathering, this dish is sure to impress. Preparation is straightforward, and you can customize the salad to suit your taste. Feel free to add or omit any ingredients based on your preference. The chicken can be marinated in the morning and cooked in the evening, making it a convenient option for busy days.

With the addition of lime wedges for a zesty finish, this salad isn’t only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a feast for both the eyes and the palate.

Ingredients:
– 1 lb chicken breast, diced
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tbsp sesame dressing
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 4 cups coleslaw mix
– 1 cup shredded carrots
– 1/2 cup sliced green onions
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 cup white cabbage, shredded
– 1 cup red cabbage, shredded
– 1 cup romaine lettuce, shredded
– 1 cup iceberg lettuce, shredded
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 cup sugar snap peas, chopped
– 1/4 cup sesame oil
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp sugar
– 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
– 1 tsp salt
– Wonton wrappers
– Cooking spray or olive oil
– Lime wedges (for serving)

Cooking Instructions:

In a bowl, combine soy sauce, teriyaki sauce, sesame dressing, and brown sugar to create the marinade. Add the diced chicken and mix well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 20-30 minutes to marinate.
Preheat a skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat. Drain excess marinade from the chicken and add it to the heated pan. Cook the chicken for approximately 7-8 minutes, or until cooked through and browned. Remove from heat and set aside.
In a large bowl, add the coleslaw mix, shredded carrots, sliced green onions, chopped cilantro, and any additional salad ingredients you choose (white cabbage, red cabbage, romaine, iceberg, red bell pepper, sugar snap peas).
In a separate small bowl, whisk together sesame oil, rice vinegar, honey, sugar, grated ginger, and salt to create the dressing. Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and toss to coat evenly.
For the wonton strips, preheat your oven to 375°F. Spray the wonton wrappers with cooking spray or brush with olive oil. Place them on a baking sheet and bake for 7-8 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning, until crispy.
To assemble the salad, layer the tossed salad mixture, cooked chicken, and baked wonton strips on a serving platter or in individual bowls. Serve with lime wedges on the side.

Extra Tips:

When making your Wonton Chicken Taco Salad, consider marinating the chicken overnight for an even more intense flavor. You can also experiment with other toppings such as sweet chili sauce, sesame seeds, or chopped cashews to enhance the dish further.

If you prefer a lighter version, opt for less dressing or use a low-sodium soy sauce. Enjoy the flexibility of this recipe by adjusting the ingredient quantities to suit your taste!

Final Thoughts

This Wonton Chicken Taco Salad not only tantalizes your taste buds but also offers a nutritious and versatile meal option. You can enjoy this dish without the high calorie and sodium content typical of traditional wonton tacos. By swapping in fresh vegetables and lean proteins, you’ll create a meal that’s both satisfying and healthier.

Preparation is a breeze compared to making wonton tacos. You can easily prep ingredients ahead of time, making it a quick option for busy days. The flexibility of this salad allows you to customize it to your liking, whether you prefer more veggies or different sauces.

Feel free to experiment with marinades and toppings, such as soy sauce or sesame dressing, to create exciting flavor combinations. Adding baked wonton strips gives that satisfying crunch without excess fat. Additionally, this salad can provide a significant source of protein contributing to muscle maintenance which enhances its nutritional value.

FAQ

You might’ve some questions about preparing and customizing the Wonton Chicken Taco Salad.

First, you’ll want to start with marinating the chicken. Using ingredients like soy sauce, teriyaki sauce, and sesame oil will add great flavor. Marinate the diced chicken breast for at least 20-30 minutes before cooking it in a skillet over medium-high heat until it’s browned and cooked through.

For the salad, combine coleslaw mix, shredded carrots, and green onions. Toss these with an Asian-style dressing, such as sesame dressing or Asian Sesame Vinaigrette. To add crunch, include wonton strips or create baked wonton shells in a muffin tin. These baked wonton wrappers serve as a sturdy alternative to traditional taco shells, making them perfect for your salad.

Customization is key! You can add refried beans, jalapenos, or guacamole to suit your taste. Different proteins, like cooked ground beef, work well too. If you enjoy cheese, try adding cheddar or pepper jack. For extra heat, consider drizzling sweet chili sauce on top.

Finally, assemble your salad just before serving to keep the wontons crispy. You can prepare ingredients ahead of time, making it easy to enjoy this delicious dish!