Teriyaki Chicken Taco Bowls

Craving something new, exciting, and bursting with flavor? These Teriyaki Chicken Wonton Taco Bowls are about to become your weeknight dinner MVP. Imagine crispy, golden-brown wonton shells cradling juicy, savory teriyaki chicken, topped with fresh, crunchy veggies. It’s the perfect fusion of Asian and Mexican cuisines, and it’s guaranteed to be a hit with the whole family. This recipe is trending right now because it’s customizable, quick, and seriously satisfying – a total win for busy weeknights and adventurous eaters. Ditch the same-old dinner routine and get ready to experience a flavor explosion! I have a feeling this will be your new favorite.

As a recipe developer with years of experience creating globally-inspired dishes, I’m constantly seeking ways to transform everyday ingredients into extraordinary meals. I’ve spent countless hours perfecting this recipe, ensuring it’s both approachable for beginner cooks and exciting enough for seasoned chefs. This Teriyaki Chicken Wonton Taco Bowl recipe is the culmination of my passion for bold flavors, textural contrasts, and easy-to-follow instructions. I want to show you just how easy it is to bring restaurant-quality food to your table, without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients: Your Flavor Arsenal

Let’s gather our ingredients! This recipe is flexible, so feel free to adjust the quantities to your liking and dietary needs. Don’t be afraid to substitute or experiment – that’s where the real magic happens!

• Wonton Wrappers: These are the foundation of our crispy taco shells. Wonton wrappers are made from flour, water, and eggs (or sometimes just flour and water). They have a neutral flavor, which makes them the perfect vessel for all the bold flavors we’re adding. You can usually find them in the refrigerated section of your grocery store, near the tofu and egg roll wrappers.
• Chicken Thighs: I prefer chicken thighs because they are more flavorful and stay juicier than chicken breasts, even when cooked at high heat. Chicken thighs contain more fat, which renders down during cooking, creating a richer flavor. If you prefer chicken breast, make sure not to overcook it to avoid dryness.
• Teriyaki Sauce: You can use store-bought teriyaki sauce for convenience, or you can make your own. Homemade teriyaki sauce allows you to control the sweetness and sodium levels. Look for a teriyaki sauce with lower sodium to help control the saltiness of the dish.
• Soy Sauce: A key ingredient in teriyaki sauce, soy sauce adds umami and saltiness. Use low-sodium soy sauce to control the overall sodium content.
• Brown Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps the teriyaki sauce thicken. You can substitute with honey or maple syrup. Brown sugar contains molasses, which gives it a characteristic caramel flavor.
• Garlic & Ginger: Freshly minced garlic and ginger are essential for adding aromatic depth. Garlic contains allicin, a compound known for its health benefits and pungent aroma. Ginger adds a warm, spicy, and slightly sweet flavor.
• Sesame Oil: A little sesame oil goes a long way in adding a nutty, toasted flavor. Use toasted sesame oil for a more intense flavor.
• Rice Vinegar: Adds acidity to balance the sweetness and saltiness of the teriyaki sauce.
• Cornstarch: Used to thicken the teriyaki sauce.
• Toppings: Get creative! Shredded carrots, chopped cucumbers, sliced green onions, sesame seeds, avocado, and cilantro are all great options. Consider adding a spicy element like sriracha mayo or pickled jalapeños for extra zest.

Expert Tips for Wonton Taco Bowl Perfection

Here are my top tips, gleaned from countless test kitchen trials, to ensure your Teriyaki Chicken Wonton Taco Bowls are a smashing success. I’ve even included notes on common pitfalls and how to avoid them!

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: When cooking the chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. Overcrowding will lower the temperature of the pan and cause the chicken to steam instead of sear, resulting in less flavorful chicken.
• Crispy Wonton Shells: To get perfectly crispy wonton shells, brush them lightly with oil before baking. Keep a close eye on them in the oven, as they can burn quickly. I found that baking them in a muffin tin helps them keep their shape.
• Flavor Boost: For an extra layer of flavor, try marinating the chicken in the teriyaki sauce for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful it will be.
• Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the teriyaki sauce or drizzle the finished bowls with sriracha mayo.
• Perfect Wonton Shape: Experiment with different methods for shaping the wontons. You can use a muffin tin, or simply drape them over the bars of your oven rack to create a taco shell shape. Watch closely to avoid burning!

Storage & Reheating Tips

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the chicken and toppings separate from the wonton shells to prevent the shells from getting soggy. Reheat the chicken in a skillet or microwave. The wonton shells are best enjoyed fresh, but you can reheat them in the oven or air fryer to crisp them up. Alternatively, you can use the chicken and toppings in a rice bowl or salad for a different twist. Avoid microwaving wonton shells, they will get soggy.

FAQ: Your Burning Questions Answered

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh. Press the tofu to remove excess moisture, then cube it and pan-fry or bake it until golden brown. You can also use plant-based chicken substitutes that are widely available in stores.

Can I make the wonton shells ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the wonton shells ahead of time. Let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay crispy for a day or two. Just be sure to keep them away from moisture. The goal is to avoid moisture so they stay crispy.

Can I use ground chicken instead of chicken thighs?

Yes, ground chicken works well in this recipe. Brown the ground chicken in a skillet, then drain off any excess fat. Add the teriyaki sauce and simmer until the sauce has thickened. Adjust cooking time according to package direction of the ground chicken.

What other toppings can I use?

The possibilities are endless! Consider adding pickled onions, kimchi, bean sprouts, edamame, shredded lettuce, or a drizzle of peanut sauce. Get creative and use your favorite taco toppings, Asian-inspired ingredients, or mix and match!

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free wonton wrappers and gluten-free tamari or soy sauce. Double check all other ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free. If you can’t find gluten-free wonton wrappers, try using lettuce cups or corn tortillas instead.

Can I freeze the teriyaki chicken?

Yes, you can freeze the teriyaki chicken. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

What if I don’t have rice vinegar?

If you don’t have rice vinegar, you can substitute it with white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar. Use the same amount as the recipe calls for. The taste will be slightly different, but it will still provide the necessary acidity to balance the flavors.

Your Turn to Create!

There you have it – Teriyaki Chicken Wonton Taco Bowls that are sure to become a family favorite! This recipe is all about combining flavors and textures in a fun and approachable way. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, casual gatherings, or any time you’re craving something a little different.

Now it’s your turn to get cooking! I encourage you to experiment with the toppings and adjust the flavors to your liking. Don’t be afraid to make it your own! Let me know in the comments below how your Teriyaki Chicken Wonton Taco Bowls turn out. I’d love to hear about your variations and what you liked best. Be sure to snap a photo and tag me on social media!

Print