If you’re craving a meal that brilliantly blends the flavors of Asia with a fun, taco-inspired twist, look no further than this Teriyaki Chicken Wonton Taco Bowls Recipe. It’s a vibrant, colorful dish packed with tender chicken glazed in savory teriyaki, crispy wonton strips for that perfect crunch, and a fresh, tangy slaw that balances everything beautifully. This recipe brings together textures and tastes in a bowl that’s not only quick and easy to make but also a total crowd-pleaser. Whether for a weeknight dinner or impressing friends, this dish is a delightful explosion of flavors that will keep you coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is the secret to making this Teriyaki Chicken Wonton Taco Bowls Recipe shine. Each component plays an essential role—from the juicy chicken that carries the teriyaki’s rich, umami notes to the crisp slaw that adds vibrant color and crunch, not to mention the wonton strips that bring a light, crispy texture that makes every bite exciting.
- 2 chicken breasts (cut into bite-size pieces): Choose fresh chicken for juicy, tender bites that soak up every bit of sauce.
- 2-3 tbsp teriyaki sauce: The magical glaze that delivers deep, sweet-savory flavor to your chicken.
- 2 tsp sesame oil: Adds a fragrant, toasty richness, perfect for cooking the chicken and enhancing the slaw dressing.
- 1 tbsp soy sauce: Provides a salty depth that complements the sweetness of the teriyaki.
- 2 tsp garlic (minced): Fresh garlic amps up the flavor with a slight pungency that wakes up the palate.
- 2 tsp ginger (minced): Brings a warm, zesty kick that pairs wonderfully with garlic and soy.
- ¼ cup shredded purple cabbage: Adds crunch and a pop of vibrant purple color.
- ¼ cup shredded green cabbage: Offers a mild crunch and balances the slaw’s flavor.
- ¼ cup shredded carrots: Sweet and colorful, these brighten the bowl both visually and in taste.
- 1 green onion (sliced into thin rounds): Adds a fresh, slightly sharp bite that finishes the dish beautifully.
- 1 tbsp vinegar: Provides zing to the slaw, balancing sweetness and richness.
- 1 tbsp honey: A natural sweetener that ties the slaw dressing together with gentle sweetness.
- 8-10 wonton wrappers: The star players for a crispy, golden crunch to top your bowls.
- Cooking spray: To help crisp the wonton strips evenly without extra oil mess.
- Sweet chili sauce (optional): Adds a spicy-sweet drizzle perfect for finishing touches.
- Sesame seeds: A nutty sprinkle that adds texture and a burst of visual appeal.
- Chopped cilantro: Fresh herbaceous pop to brighten up the whole bowl.
- Lime wedges: A juicy squeeze that adds freshness and a bit of acidity to awaken the flavors.
How to Make Teriyaki Chicken Wonton Taco Bowls Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Teriyaki Chicken
Start by tossing your bite-sized chicken pieces into a hot pan along with sesame oil, teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, minced garlic, and ginger. Let everything mingle and bubble over medium heat until the chicken is cooked through and perfectly coated in that sticky, savory teriyaki glaze. This step is where the dish gets its heart and soul—those flavors will make your whole kitchen smell irresistible.
Step 2: Prepare the Wonton Strips
While the chicken is cooking, cut your wonton wrappers into thin strips. Lay them flat in a single layer inside your air fryer basket, spray with cooking oil to help them crisp up, and air fry at 350°F (190°C) for 4 to 5 minutes. Watch closely because these delicate strips can go from golden to burnt quickly. Once crispy and golden, they’re ready to add that perfect crunch to your bowls.
Step 3: Make the Slaw
In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded purple cabbage, green cabbage, carrots, and sliced green onions. Whisk together the dressing made from sesame oil, vinegar, soy sauce, honey, minced ginger, and garlic, then toss everything together so the slaw is beautifully coated and bursting with fresh zingy flavors. This refreshing layer adds color and a light contrast to the rich chicken.
Step 4: Assemble the Taco Bowls
To build your bowl, start by spooning the vibrant slaw into your serving dishes. Top it generously with the warm, glazed teriyaki chicken. Scatter your golden, crispy wonton strips over everything and finish with a drizzle of sweet chili sauce if you like things a little spicy. Lastly, sprinkle sesame seeds, chopped cilantro, and garnish with lime wedges for a lively pop of flavor and color.
How to Serve Teriyaki Chicken Wonton Taco Bowls Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes like sliced green onions, sesame seeds, and chopped cilantro add delicate bursts of aroma and texture. Don’t skip the lime wedges—squeezing fresh lime juice right before eating lifts all the flavors and brings a brightness that balances the rich teriyaki sauce perfectly.
Side Dishes
If you want to turn this bowl into a full-on feast, consider pairing it with steamed jasmine rice or sticky rice to soak up any extra sauce. A side of edamame or simple miso soup also complements the Asian flavors in a light and nourishing way.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve these bowls family-style with all the components laid out separately so everyone can customize their own. You could also elevate the presentation by layering the ingredients in clear glass bowls to show off the colorful layers of slaw, chicken, and wontons, turning this delicious meal into a visual masterpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Teriyaki Chicken Wonton Taco Bowls keep well in the fridge for up to two days. Store the components separately—the cooked chicken in an airtight container, the slaw in its own bowl (to stay crisp), and keep wonton strips in a paper towel-lined container to maintain their crunch.
Freezing
While the chicken can be frozen after cooking, the wonton strips and slaw do not freeze well due to texture changes. If you plan to freeze, portion out the chicken alone in freezer-safe containers and thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat the teriyaki chicken gently in a skillet over medium heat to preserve its juicy flavor. Avoid microwaving to keep it moist and tender. For the wonton strips, a quick toast in the air fryer or oven will revive their crispness before serving again.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs add a bit more fat and tenderness, which can make the dish even juicier and more flavorful. Just cut them into bite-sized pieces and cook thoroughly as with the breasts.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
You can swap the chicken for tofu or tempeh—marinate and cook them the same way in the teriyaki mixture. The slaw and wonton strips remain the perfect crunchy complement.
Can I bake the wonton strips instead of air frying?
Yes, you can bake the wonton strips on a baking sheet at 375°F (190°C) for 6 to 8 minutes, turning halfway, until golden and crisp. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
How spicy is the sweet chili sauce?
Sweet chili sauce has a mild to medium spice level with a sweet undertone, offering a pleasant kick without overwhelming the dish. It’s optional but adds a lovely contrast.
What type of vinegar works best for the slaw?
Rice vinegar is ideal because of its mild acidity and slightly sweet flavor. It blends harmoniously with sesame oil and honey to make the perfect slaw dressing.
Final Thoughts
This Teriyaki Chicken Wonton Taco Bowls Recipe is a delightful meal that strikes a perfect balance between fresh, crunchy, savory, and sweet elements—all in one bowl. It’s easy to prepare yet feels special enough to share with loved ones. I encourage you to dive in, customize it your way, and enjoy every delicious bite of this vibrant dish. Once you try it, I promise it will become a favorite in your recipe rotation!
Print
Teriyaki Chicken Wonton Taco Bowls Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Description
These Teriyaki Chicken Wonton Taco Bowls combine tender, savory chicken cooked in a flavorful teriyaki sauce with crunchy air-fried wonton strips and a fresh, tangy cabbage-carrot slaw. Finished with sweet chili sauce, sesame seeds, cilantro, and lime wedges, this dish delivers a perfect balance of textures and tastes in a vibrant, easy-to-make meal perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients
Chicken and Sauce
- 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
- 2–3 tbsp teriyaki sauce
- 2 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tsp garlic, minced
- 2 tsp ginger, minced
- Pinch of salt
Slaw
- ¼ cup shredded purple cabbage
- ¼ cup shredded green cabbage
- ¼ cup shredded carrots
- 1 green onion, sliced into thin rounds
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp vinegar
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp honey
- ½ tsp ginger, minced
- ½ tsp garlic, minced
Wonton Strips
- 8–10 wonton wrappers
- Cooking spray
Garnishes
- Sweet chili sauce (optional)
- Sesame seeds
- Chopped cilantro
- Lime wedges
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to a pan along with sesame oil, teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, minced garlic, minced ginger, and a pinch of salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and well coated in the flavorful sauce.
- Prepare Wonton Strips: Cut wonton wrappers into thin strips. Spread them out in a single layer inside your air fryer basket and spray lightly with cooking oil to ensure crispiness.
- Air Fry Wonton Strips: Air fry the wonton strips at 350°F (190°C) for 4 to 5 minutes until they turn crisp and golden brown. Monitor them closely to prevent burning.
- Make the Slaw: In a mixing bowl, combine shredded purple cabbage, green cabbage, shredded carrots, sliced green onions, sesame oil, vinegar, soy sauce, honey, minced ginger, and minced garlic. Toss everything together until well coated.
- Assemble the Bowls: Divide the prepared slaw evenly between serving bowls. Spoon the cooked teriyaki chicken over the slaw, then top with crispy wonton strips. Drizzle sweet chili sauce over the top if desired.
- Garnish and Serve: Finish each bowl with a sprinkle of sesame seeds, additional sliced green onions, chopped cilantro, and lime wedges on the side. Serve immediately while the wonton strips remain crisp and the flavors fresh.
Notes
- Keep a close eye on wonton strips while air frying—they can burn quickly.
- For a spicier kick, add sriracha or chili flakes to the chicken or drizzle more sweet chili sauce.
- Leftover chicken can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, but add wonton strips fresh to keep them crunchy.
- Use gluten-free soy sauce for a gluten-free version.
- Vegetables can be swapped based on preference, such as adding bell peppers or snap peas.
