Pin It This Peanut Chicken Wonton Cups recipe always brightens my table with its mix of crunchy textures and bold flavors. These bite-sized delights became an instant favorite after I brought them to a neighborhood potluck. Each cup delivers a punchy combination of savory chicken, creamy peanut sauce, and crisp veggies tucked into a toasty wonton shell. They are ideal for gatherings or a fun family dinner where everyone helps assemble and top their own.
I first created these for a game night with friends who love trying new flavors. They were gone within minutes and many asked for the recipe right away. Now I keep wonton wrappers and a bag of shredded carrots on hand just for these.
Ingredients
- Wonton wrappers: for the cup shell use fresh wrappers from the refrigerated section for the best crisp
- Cooked chicken breast: shredded or diced rotisserie chicken is great for convenience
- Creamy peanut butter: forms the rich and nutty base of the sauce make sure to use a smooth variety for easy blending
- Low-sodium soy sauce: balances the peanut butter and allows you to control the saltiness of the final mix
- Honey: brings a touch of natural sweetness and helps mellow the sauce
- Rice vinegar: provides a subtle tang and lightens the overall flavor of the filling
- Fresh ginger: finely grated brightens up the sauce with a gentle heat
- Garlic: minced adds aromatic depth and rounds out the flavors
- Shredded carrots and thinly sliced red bell pepper: add crunch color and a sweet snap to every bite
- Green onions: for a burst of freshness look for firm vibrant stalks
- Chopped roasted peanuts: to garnish for even more crunch and nuttiness
- Sesame seeds: optional but lend a toasty finish and weekend flair
Instructions
- Prepare the Wonton Shells:
- Brush both sides of each wonton wrapper very lightly with oil and gently press into a mini muffin tin. Bake at three hundred seventy five degrees Fahrenheit for about eight minutes until golden and crisp. Let cool before removing to keep their shape intact.
- Make the Peanut Sauce:
- In a small bowl whisk together peanut butter soy sauce honey rice vinegar ginger and garlic. The sauce should be smooth and pourable. If it is too thick add one to two teaspoons of warm water to loosen it up.
- Mix the Chicken Filling:
- Toss shredded chicken with half of the peanut sauce in a large bowl. Make sure each piece is evenly coated and glistening. Save the rest of the sauce for drizzling.
- Prepare the Veggie Toppings:
- Julienne carrots and red bell pepper as thin as possible for the best texture. Slice green onions on a bias for a little flair. Roughly chop the roasted peanuts for maximum crunch.
- Assemble the Cups:
- Spoon a generous tablespoon of the peanut chicken into each crispy wonton shell. Add a scatter of shredded carrots and bell pepper. Drizzle with more peanut sauce then sprinkle with green onions peanuts and sesame seeds if using.
Pin It These cups remind me of family get-togethers where everyone assembled their own. My favorite part is always those roasted peanuts on top I could eat them by the handful.
Storage Tips
Peanut Chicken Wonton Cups are best enjoyed fresh so the shells stay crisp. If you need to prep ahead keep the chicken mixture and veggies in separate airtight containers in the fridge. Store crispy wonton shells at room temperature in an uncovered container or paper bag to prevent sogginess. Assemble right before serving and leftovers can be stored but the cups may soften slightly.
Ingredient Substitutions
No chicken on hand Use shredded turkey or tofu for a vegetarian option. Swap honey with maple syrup or brown sugar for a different sweetness. If you like heat stir a bit of sriracha into the peanut sauce. Sunflower seed butter works for nut-free allergies but the flavor will be a little different.
Serving Suggestions
Set up a build-your-own bar with toppings so guests can customize. For a lighter meal serve with a crisp cucumber salad or steamed greens. These also pair well with sweet chili dipping sauce or fresh lime wedges for squeezing.
Cultural Notes
Peanut sauces and crispy carbs show up across many Asian cuisines from Thai satay dips to Northern Chinese shredded chicken salads. This recipe brings together those beloved flavors in playful party form. The filling nods to classic US buffet and takeout dishes but is homemade and lighter.
Pin It Sprinkle your finished cups with extra chopped peanuts or a hint of fresh herbs for a party-perfect finish. Make extra because these will disappear fast.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, shredded rotisserie chicken works well and saves time, blending easily with the peanut sauce.
- → How do I keep wonton cups crispy?
Brush wonton wrappers with oil and bake until golden. Fill cups just before serving to maintain crispness.
- → Is there a substitute for peanut butter?
Sunflower seed butter or almond butter can be used for a different flavor or nut allergy-friendly option.
- → Can I make these ahead?
Prepare chicken and peanut filling in advance, and bake wonton shells separately. Assemble right before serving.
- → Which vegetables pair best?
Shredded carrots, cucumber, scallions, and red peppers add freshness and crunch to each wonton cup.