I combine the crispiness of fried wonton wrappers with juicy, flavorful shredded chicken and fresh toppings to create a playful, handheld taco experience. These Chicken Wonton Tacos are perfect when I want something fun, quick to assemble, and utterly satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how these tacos bring together textures and flavors: the crunch of the wonton shell, the savory warmth of chicken, and the brightness of fresh toppings. They're perfect for parties, weeknight dinners, or as a fun twist on traditional tacos. The recipe is flexible, and I can tweak the chicken seasoning or toppings to suit my mood.

Ingredients

(Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

12 wonton wrappers
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (about 1 large chicken breast)
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 small onion, finely chopped (about ½ cup)
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon chili powder
¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
¼ cup sour cream
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
1 teaspoon lime juice (fresh)
1 cup shredded lettuce
½ cup diced tomato
¼ cup chopped cilantro
Lime wedges, for serving

Directions

Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the shredded chicken to the skillet, stirring to coat well with the spices and onion mixture. Cook for 2–3 minutes until warmed through.
While the chicken warms, prepare the creamy sauce: in a small bowl, mix sour cream, mayonnaise, and lime juice until smooth.
In a separate nonstick or lightly greased skillet, fry each wonton wrapper one at a time. Flatten it gently and fry for about 30 seconds per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove to a paper towel–lined plate to drain.
To assemble, place a crisp wonton shell on a plate. Spoon a portion of the spiced shredded chicken into it. Top with a drizzle of the creamy sauce, then add shredded lettuce, diced tomato, and chopped cilantro.
Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the tacos.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6 tacos (serves about 2–3 people)
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

Spicy version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped fresh jalapeño to the chicken mixture.
Cheesy twist: Sprinkle a little shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese over the chicken before placing the toppings.
Vegetarian alternative: Replace the chicken with seasoned, sautéed mushrooms or black beans.
Asian-inspired: Add a dash of soy sauce or hoisin when cooking the chicken, and top with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.

storage/reheating

If I have leftover filling, I store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm the chicken gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed for moisture. I don’t recommend storing assembled tacos, since the wonton shells will soften. I fry fresh shells when I’m ready to eat.

FAQs

What kind of chicken works best for this recipe?

I prefer to use a cooked, shredded chicken breast or thigh—leftovers or rotisserie chicken work beautifully.

Can I bake the wonton wrappers instead of frying?

Yes—I can lightly brush each wrapper with oil and bake at 400 °F (200 °C) for about 5–7 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.

Is there a gluten‑free version?

I could use gluten‑free wrappers or tortillas instead of wonton wrappers. The seasoning and fillings remain the same.

Can I prep parts of this recipe ahead of time?

Yes. I can shred and season the chicken in advance and store it in the fridge. I also mix the sauce ahead of time. I fry the wonton shells just before serving so they stay crispy.

How can I adjust this recipe for more servings?

I scale up each ingredient proportionally (e.g. double the chicken, onions, spices) and fry more wonton shells. The method stays the same.

Conclusion

I always find making Chicken Wonton Tacos brings a burst of flavor and crunch to the dinner table. They’re quick, customizable, and fun to eat. Whether for a casual meal or a small gathering, they never disappoint—and I enjoy tweaking the flavors to suit what I’m craving.