There’s something irresistibly satisfying about the sound of crispy wonton shells fresh out of the oven, and when those cups are brimming with savory rotisserie chicken and a luscious peanut sauce, you know you’re in for a treat. I first discovered this delightful recipe for Peanut Chicken Wonton Cups during a little dinner party where I wanted to impress my friends without spending hours in the kitchen. These charming bites quickly became the star of the evening, each morsel bursting with flavors that dance through salty, sweet, and spicy notes.
With just a handful of everyday ingredients and minimal prep time, these wonton cups are the perfect solution for anyone tired of the same old appetizers or seeking a fun twist on party snacks. As you gather with friends or family, you’ll find these easy peanut chicken wonton cups may just become your go-to dish—whether for game nights, holiday gatherings, or simple celebrations of good food and great company. Come join me in creating these delicious little morsels that are sure to elevate your next get-together!
Why will you love Peanut Chicken Wonton Cups?
Irresistible Flavor: Each bite bursts with a rich, nutty peanut sauce complemented by tender chicken and colorful veggies.
Crispy Texture: The baked wonton shells create a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.
Effortless Preparation: With minimal ingredients and quick assembly, these cups are ready to impress without the hassle.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for any gathering, they offer a unique twist that will have guests clamoring for the recipe.
Versatile and Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite ingredients or try different sauces to make it your own!
Serve them warm for the best experience, and if you’re looking for more fun variations, check out my ideas for customizing these delightful bites!
Peanut Chicken Wonton Cups Ingredients
For the Wonton Cups
• Wonton Wrappers – These create the crispy, crunchy shell that cradles the delicious filling.
For the Peanut Sauce
• All-Natural Crunchy Peanut Butter – This rich ingredient gives the sauce its nutty flavor and creamy texture.
• Water – Used to thin the peanut sauce to the right consistency for drizzling.
• Hoisin Sauce – Brings a touch of sweetness and umami depth to the sauce.
• Chili Crisp – Adds a spicy kick and delightful texture to the sauce; adjust based on your heat preference.
• Fresh Lime Juice – Balances the richness of the peanut butter with zesty brightness; add to taste.
For the Filling
• Chopped Rotisserie Chicken Meat – A convenient source of protein that enhances the overall flavor of the cups.
• Grated Carrot – Provides a lovely crunch and vibrant color to brighten up the filling.
• Red Fresno Chile – Introduces heat and color; feel free to swap for milder peppers if you prefer.
• Shredded Cabbage (Green or Purple) – Adds freshness and crunch for a refreshing contrast.
• Thinly Sliced Red Onion – Lends sharpness and an extra layer of flavor to the filling.
• Kosher Salt – Necessary for enhancing all the flavors in the filling; season to taste.
For Garnishing
• Fresh Cilantro Leaves – Adds a pop of freshness and visual appeal; optional for serving.
With these ingredients at the ready, you’ll be well on your way to crafting flavorful Peanut Chicken Wonton Cups that will entice your guests and make entertaining feel effortless!
How to Make Peanut Chicken Wonton Cups
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial for achieving perfectly crispy shells.
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Grease muffin tins lightly with cooking spray. This will help the wonton wrappers release easily after baking.
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Place wonton wrappers into the muffin tins, gently molding them to fit. This creates your little cups that will hold all the tasty filling.
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Mix peanut butter, water, hoisin sauce, chili crisp, and lime juice in a bowl until smooth. This creamy sauce will bring everything together with a lovely richness.
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Combine chopped rotisserie chicken, grated carrots, Fresno chili, cabbage, and onion in another bowl. Season with kosher salt to taste—this adds depth to your filling.
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Fill the wonton cups with the chicken mixture, then gently drizzle with your prepared peanut sauce. This layering creates flavor-packed bites!
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Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the wonton wrappers are golden brown. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
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Top with fresh cilantro before serving for a pop of color and flavor, making your Peanut Chicken Wonton Cups look irresistible!
Optional: Serve with additional peanut sauce on the side for dipping.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Peanut Chicken Wonton Cups?
These delightful bites make for an unforgettable appetizer experience, but the fun doesn’t stop there—let’s build a complete meal around them!
- Coconut Rice: Creamy and fragrant, it provides a lovely balance to the rich peanut sauce, transforming your meal into an exotic delight.
- Asian Slaw: A crispy, tangy side that adds freshness and crunch, complementing the savory flavor of the wonton cups perfectly.
- Chili Garlic Edamame: These tender yet firm beans bring in hearty protein while offering a satisfying pop of flavor with every bite!
- Fruit Salad with Lime Dressing: Sweet and refreshing, this dish cuts through the savory richness, bringing brightness and a touch of sweetness to your table.
- Cucumber and Radish Pickles: The tangy crunch acts as a fantastic palate cleanser between bites, elevating the overall tasting experience.
- Spicy Mango Salsa: With a hint of sweetness and spice, this vibrant salsa adds color and excitement, perfectly enhancing the flavor profile of the wonton cups.
Enjoy the mingling of these textures and flavors as you gather around the table, creating precious moments with friends and family that will linger long after the meal is over!
How to Store and Freeze Peanut Chicken Wonton Cups
Fridge: Store leftover Peanut Chicken Wonton Cups in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will keep them fresh while preserving their delicious flavors.
Freezer: If you need to store them longer, freeze the uncooked cups before baking. Place filled cups on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To restore crispiness, reheat baked wonton cups in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–12 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it may lead to sogginess.
Serving Tips: Warm these delightful appetizers up before serving to bring back their wonderful crunch and flavor!
Make Ahead Options
These Peanut Chicken Wonton Cups are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the filling—made with rotisserie chicken, grated carrots, and spices—up to 3 days in advance. Simply refrigerate it (store it in an airtight container) until you’re ready to assemble. On the day of serving, all you need to do is fill the wonton cups with the prepped mixture and drizzle on the peanut sauce, then bake them for 12-15 minutes until they’re golden. This approach ensures that you have delicious, fresh Peanut Chicken Wonton Cups that are just as appetizing and satisfying, while also allowing you to enjoy your time with family and friends.
Peanut Chicken Wonton Cups Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative with these fun twists to make this recipe your own!
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Creamy Alternative: Substitute tahini for a nut-free creamy base that still brings a rich flavor to the sauce. This unique swap will offer a delightful sesame note that blends smoothly with the ingredients.
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Spicy Kick: Add a splash of sriracha directly into the peanut sauce for an extra kick. This spice elevates the flavor profile without overbearing heat, perfect for those who like a little flare!
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Vegetable Medley: Toss in finely chopped bell peppers or snap peas for extra crunch and vivid color. These fresh additions not only enhance the look of your cups but also add a nutritious twist that’s irresistible.
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Herbal Freshness: Swap fresh cilantro for chopped basil or mint for a fresh aromatic twist. The bright flavors of these herbs will give your wonton cups a refreshing lift that surprises the palate.
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Cheese Delight: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese into the filling for a gooey, melty surprise. The cheese adds both richness and an unexpected yet delicious contrast to the creamy filling.
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Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free wonton wrappers or phyllo dough for those avoiding gluten. This simple switch keeps the delightful crunch while ensuring everyone can enjoy these tasty treats.
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Flavorful Marinade: Marinate the rotisserie chicken in soy sauce or teriyaki sauce before assembling for an added depth of flavor. This extra step will infuse the filling with a savory sweetness that enhances every bite.
Embrace these variations to craft the Peanut Chicken Wonton Cups perfectly tailored to your tastes and dietary preferences!
Expert Tips for Peanut Chicken Wonton Cups
• Watch the Bake Time: Keep a close eye on your wontons, as baking times may vary depending on your oven, to prevent burning.
• Mix Meat Types: Combining white and dark meat from the rotisserie chicken enhances the flavor and keeps the filling juicy and tender.
• Customize the Heat: Adjust the spiciness of the peanut sauce by adding more chili crisp or even a dash of sriracha for a fiery kick.
• Prevent Cracking: Handle wonton wrappers gently to avoid cracking; use a serving plate underneath to catch any fallen filling during assembly.
• Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the filling in advance and assemble the Peanut Chicken Wonton Cups just before baking for maximum freshness.
Peanut Chicken Wonton Cups Recipe FAQs
How should I choose the right wonton wrappers?
When selecting wonton wrappers, look for those that are fresh and pliable, preferably in the refrigerated section. Check for any tears or dryness; they should feel soft—not brittle. I recommend opting for square wrappers, as they fit perfectly into muffin tins for this recipe.
How should I store leftover Peanut Chicken Wonton Cups?
Leftover Peanut Chicken Wonton Cups can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep them fresh, allow them to cool to room temperature before sealing. It’s essential to reheat them in the oven to restore their crisp texture—this way, they’ll taste just as delightful as they did on the first day!
Can I freeze Peanut Chicken Wonton Cups?
Absolutely! To freeze, assemble the cups with the filling but do not bake them. Place the uncooked cups on a baking sheet and freeze them individually until solid. Then transfer the frozen cups to a freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to cook, bake them directly from frozen; just add an extra 2-3 minutes to the bake time.
What if my peanut butter sauce is too thick?
If your peanut butter sauce turns out too thick, simply add a tablespoon of water at a time until you reach your desired consistency. Stir well to ensure a smooth mix. A well-thinned sauce will drizzle nicely over the filling and enhance the overall flavor of the Peanut Chicken Wonton Cups.
Are these wonton cups safe for pets or people with peanut allergies?
If you’re making these Peanut Chicken Wonton Cups for guests, be sure to ask about any peanut allergies beforehand. Since they contain peanut butter and other allergens, they should not be given to pets or anyone with nut allergies. For a nut-free version, consider using sunflower seed butter as a substitute, but make sure to adjust the sauce ingredients accordingly.
Can I make these wonton cups ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Assemble the Peanut Chicken Wonton Cups just before baking to ensure they stay crispy. If you’re preparing for a large gathering, I often make the filling in advance, which makes the actual baking process a breeze!
Delicious Peanut Chicken Wonton Cups for Effortless Entertaining
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial for achieving perfectly crispy shells.
- Grease muffin tins lightly with cooking spray.
- Place wonton wrappers into the muffin tins, gently molding them to fit.
- Mix peanut butter, water, hoisin sauce, chili crisp, and lime juice in a bowl until smooth.
- Combine chopped rotisserie chicken, grated carrots, Fresno chili, cabbage, and onion in another bowl. Season with kosher salt to taste.
- Fill the wonton cups with the chicken mixture, then gently drizzle with your prepared peanut sauce.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the wonton wrappers are golden brown.
- Top with fresh cilantro before serving.