Honey Lime Chicken Wonton Tacos – The Best Party Appetizer Ever

Honey Lime Chicken Wonton Tacos are more than just a clever twist on taco night—they’re a bold, flavor-packed fusion that turns an ordinary meal into an unforgettable experience. Imagine the zesty punch of lime-marinated chicken glazed in sweet honey, tucked into ultra-crispy wonton shells and topped with creamy avocado crema. Every bite delivers contrast, crunch, and comfort.

This recipe was born in our kitchen at Recipes Tasteful, where we constantly aim to blur the lines between familiar flavors and adventurous twists. As shared on our About Page, we’re driven by a passion for crafting recipes that excite, surprise, and satisfy. These Honey Lime Chicken Wonton Tacos started as a flavor experiment and quickly became a craveable weekly staple—one we couldn’t keep to ourselves.

In this complete guide, you’ll learn how to make mouthwatering honey lime chicken from scratch, shape and fry wonton wrappers into perfectly crisp taco shells, blend the creamiest avocado sauce, and assemble each layer like a pro. Along the way, we’ll dive into smart swaps, storage hacks, and answer questions like how to make it work in a slow cooker or adjust it for different diets.

We’ll also touch on related flavor bombs such as Salsa Verde Honey Lime Chicken, Chicken Wonton appetizers, and Slow Cooker Honey Chicken Tacos, blending inspiration from across the taco spectrum—all centered around one delicious idea: Honey Lime Chicken Wonton Tacos.

For a refreshing side or light lunch twist, try this zesty cilantro lime chicken taco salad—its citrusy notes pair beautifully with the sweet-savory vibe of the tacos.

Let’s get right into it with how to prep your delicious honey lime chicken.

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Mastering the Honey Lime Chicken Filling

Why the Right Chicken Makes All the Difference

When it comes to creating flavor-packed Honey Lime Chicken Wonton Tacos, choosing the right cut of chicken is a game changer. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are the top choice for this recipe thanks to their natural richness and moisture. Their higher fat content gives these tacos a deep, juicy bite that complements the sweet and tangy marinade beautifully. While chicken breasts are leaner and still a viable option, thighs deliver that succulent texture that sets these tacos apart.

For weeknight cooking, cubing the chicken into 1-inch pieces helps it cook quickly and evenly. If you’re making a large batch or planning to use a slow cooker, slightly larger chunks of thigh meat work better. They shred effortlessly after simmering and absorb the sticky honey-lime sauce in every fiber—exactly what you want in each crispy bite of Honey Lime Chicken Wonton Tacos.

Whenever possible, use hormone-free, fresh chicken. It’s the foundation of the flavor and ensures your tacos taste clean, vibrant, and rich. Whether you’re sautéing quickly on the stovetop or letting flavors develop low and slow in a crockpot, the quality of your poultry will shine through in every bite.

Unlocking Flavor: Honey, Lime, Garlic & Bold Spices

The secret to irresistible Honey Lime Chicken Wonton Tacos lies in a bold and well-balanced marinade. At the heart of it is honey—bringing sweetness and helping create a beautiful caramelized finish when seared. Lime juice and zest brighten the dish with citrusy acidity, cutting through the richness of the meat. Fresh garlic adds an aromatic kick, while chili powder and cumin build a warm, smoky base that ties everything together.

This flavor blend is both refreshing and bold, giving the chicken its signature sweet-spicy depth. It’s reminiscent of crowd-favorite dishes like Chicken Verde Tacos and CarlsbadCravings Cilantro Lime Chicken, yet it goes a step further with that irresistible honey glaze and crispy taco shell pairing.

For even more depth, you can add a dash of chipotle powder, smoked paprika, or even a touch of hot honey to intensify both the sweetness and heat. Adjusting the spice levels allows you to tailor the tacos exactly to your preference—whether you love a mellow bite or a fiery kick.

Cooking Methods: Quick Sear vs. Slow Simmer

You’ve got two excellent methods to prepare the chicken for your Honey Lime Chicken Wonton Tacos, and both bring their own perks.

If time is short and you want bold, caramelized edges, the stovetop is the way to go. Heat a skillet with a touch of oil, then add your marinated chicken. Sauté on medium-high until the pieces turn golden, sticky, and fully cooked—about 10–12 minutes. This method brings out the honey’s natural sugars and adds a crispy layer of flavor that works perfectly with the wonton crunch.

Prefer hands-off cooking? Go for the slow cooker method. Add your seasoned chicken and marinade to a crockpot and let it cook on low for six hours or high for three to four. Once the chicken is fork-tender, shred it directly in the pot and let it absorb the concentrated juices for maximum flavor. This method mimics the texture and flavor style of Slow Cooker Honey Chicken Tacos while blending seamlessly into your crispy wonton shell format.

Either way, the result is the same: sweet, spicy, tender chicken that forms the soul of your Honey Lime Chicken Wonton Tacos.se that forms the heart of these amazing tacos.

Crafting the Perfect Crispy Wonton Tacos

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Why Wonton Wrappers Make Genius Taco Shells

The Crispy Secret Behind Every Bite

The true magic of Honey Lime Chicken Wonton Tacos lies not just in the filling, but in the irresistibly crispy shell that holds it all together. If you’ve never used wonton wrappers to make tacos, you’re about to discover a game-changing twist. These ultra-thin wrappers fry up light and golden, giving each taco a satisfying crunch that complements the juicy chicken and creamy avocado perfectly. Far from your typical tortilla, the wonton shell brings elegance and a unique texture to these Honey Lime Chicken Wonton Tacos, making every bite addictive.

Traditionally found in dumplings or chicken wonton soup, these wrappers take on an entirely new role when folded and fried into taco shells. Their thinness allows for fast cooking, and their neutral flavor enhances, rather than competes with, the bold ingredients found in Honey Lime Chicken Wonton Tacos. When fried just right, they puff slightly, crisp up beautifully, and provide the ideal canvas for a taco that’s light, crunchy, and packed with fusion flair.

Frying the Perfect Wonton Taco Shells

To get started on your Honey Lime Chicken Wonton Tacos, lay out 24 square wonton wrappers. You’ll also need a neutral oil—vegetable or canola works best—for frying. Heat your oil to about 350°F, ensuring it’s hot enough to crisp without burning. The trick to shaping the shells is to drape each wonton wrapper over a wooden spoon handle and gently lower it into the oil. Hold the shape with tongs, and fry each side for about 20–30 seconds until golden and firm.

Once fried, transfer the shells to a paper towel–lined tray. Keep your oil at a steady temperature and fry in batches to avoid soggy results. You’ll notice how the shells take on that signature golden hue that makes Honey Lime Chicken Wonton Tacos so visually appealing. Don’t be tempted to overcrowd the pan—these shells fry quickly and need space to maintain their crisp texture.

If you’re looking for a lighter option, the baked route still delivers. Lightly oil both sides of the wrappers, shape them over an oven rack or muffin tin, and bake at 375°F for 5–7 minutes. While baked shells won’t be quite as crisp as their fried counterparts, they’re still a great base for a healthier batch of Honey Lime Chicken Wonton Tacos.

Building the Layers of Flavor

With your shells ready, it’s time to build the soul of your Honey Lime Chicken Wonton Tacos. Start with a small scoop of black beans for an earthy, creamy foundation. Add a generous spoonful of your honey-lime marinated chicken—whether freshly seared or shredded from a slow cooker, the flavor will shine through. Then comes the fresh layer: diced avocado, juicy tomatoes, and sharp red onion all bring brightness and contrast.

A final sprinkle of chopped cilantro enhances the flavor profile and adds vibrant color. The last touch? A drizzle of avocado crema, coming in the next part of our guide. Together, these components create the ideal bite—crispy, sweet, creamy, and fresh—capturing the essence of Honey Lime Chicken Wonton Tacos in every mouthful.

This combination is what makes these tacos stand out from traditional chicken tacos salsa crockpot versions. The shell adds a new textural layer that turns the whole dish into a next-level fusion masterpiece.

Prep Ahead for Stress-Free Taco Nights

The beauty of Honey Lime Chicken Wonton Tacos lies in their flexibility. You can easily prepare the elements in advance for quick assembly later. The wonton shells, once fried, stay crisp for up to two days when stored in an airtight container. Just make sure they’re completely cool before sealing to preserve the crunch.

The honey lime chicken can be cooked ahead of time, refrigerated, or even frozen for future use. Reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave before assembling. For busy weeknights, you can also let your slow cooker handle the chicken while you prep other components. Honey Mexican chicken simmered in a crockpot, then added to crispy wonton shells, offers a stress-free way to bring dinner together fast.

These make-ahead tricks mean you can enjoy Honey Lime Chicken Wonton Tacos on your schedule—whether for a weeknight dinner, a party platter, or a last-minute craving. Everything from the shell to the filling can be planned in advance and quickly assembled for a stunning and satisfying dish.

The versatility of Honey Lime Chicken Wonton Tacos makes them perfect for casual meals, elegant appetizers, or a full-on taco bar. Their portability, crisp texture, and bold flavor profile make them one of the most exciting ways to elevate your taco game—no matter the occasion..

Whipping Up the Silkiest Avocado Crema

What Is Avocado Crema and Why It Matters

When it comes to building layers of flavor in Honey Lime Chicken and Avocado Nacho Wonton Tacos, the avocado crema is the magic touch. It’s the cooling contrast to the bold chili-lime chicken and crispy shells. Creamier than guacamole, with a slightly tangy twist, this crema adds a luxurious texture and elevates your tacos from tasty to unforgettable.

Think of it like a cousin to sour cream or a smooth guac—but with an extra punch of lime and silkier consistency. It spreads easily, clings to the chicken beautifully, and harmonizes every ingredient in one rich bite.

Ingredients and Quick Prep Steps

Here’s what you’ll need to make this velvety avocado crema:

• ½ ripe avocado (the softer, the better)
• ¼ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt (for added tang and creaminess)
• Juice of ½ a lime (for that bright zing)
• Salt to taste

Optional add-ins for a flavor kick:

• A tiny pinch of garlic powder
• A sprinkle of cumin
• Fresh chopped cilantro for herbal depth

How to make it:

1. Add all the ingredients to a food processor or blender.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Adjust salt or lime to taste. If it’s too thick, add 1–2 tsp of water to thin it slightly.

In just five minutes, you’ll have a silky topping that rivals anything you’d get at a gourmet taco truck.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This avocado crema holds well in the fridge for up to two days if stored in an airtight container. To prevent browning, press a piece of plastic wrap directly against the surface before sealing the lid. The acidity from the lime helps slow oxidation, keeping your sauce fresh and vibrant.

This is especially helpful if you’re planning a batch of chicken verde tacos or lime chicken tacos slow cooker style and want your toppings ready ahead of time.

Flavor Pairing and Versatility

While made specifically for this taco recipe, this avocado crema is incredibly versatile. It works wonderfully with salsa verde honey lime chicken, makes a killer dip for chips, and adds richness to burrito bowls or wraps. You could even dollop it over chicken wonton nachos or serve with roasted veggies for a fresh, creamy contrast.

It’s not just a sauce—it’s a flavor booster that completes the taco experience.

Assembling the Ultimate Honey Lime Chicken & Avocado Nacho Wonton Tacos

Layering Ingredients for Maximum Flavor

Mastering the Art of Layering Flavors

When it comes to building the perfect Honey Lime Chicken Wonton Tacos, it’s all about thoughtful layering. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in the final bite—contributing not just flavor, but texture, color, and balance. The crispy wonton shell offers the initial crunch, followed by the warm, sticky-sweet chicken that melts in your mouth. Then comes the creamy avocado, the pop of fresh tomato, and the tangy red onion, all topped off with a cooling swirl of avocado crema. It’s this carefully crafted order that turns your Honey Lime Chicken and Avocado Nacho Wonton Tacos into something unforgettable.

To start, spoon a small layer of black beans into each shell. These add a creamy, earthy base that anchors the rest of your toppings. Next, heap on your honey-lime marinated chicken while it’s still hot—this brings in that signature sweet-spicy flavor that defines Honey Lime Chicken Wonton Tacos. Then, top with a medley of freshly diced avocado, tomatoes, and finely chopped red onion for a refreshing crunch. A sprinkle of chopped cilantro follows, delivering a bright, herby spark. Finally, drizzle with homemade avocado crema, but only at the end—this keeps your shells crisp and your textures just right.

Following this order ensures each layer of your Honey Lime Chicken Wonton Tacos builds perfectly on the next, so no single ingredient overpowers the others. The result is a balanced, multi-sensory taco that hits every flavor note—from sweet and tangy to rich and creamy.

Visual Appeal: Because Food Should Look as Good as It Tastes

Honey Lime Chicken Wonton Tacos aren’t just a flavor bomb—they’re a visual feast too. The vibrant green avocado and cilantro, the juicy red tomatoes, the golden brown crunch of the fried wonton shell, and the soft, pale green crema drizzle come together like art on a plate. Each assembled taco looks like it was made for a magazine spread.

If you’re hosting a dinner or serving at an event, arrange the Honey Lime Chicken Wonton Tacos on a large platter for dramatic presentation. Add fresh lime wedges on the side for guests to squeeze as they please. A final garnish of crumbled Cotija or feta cheese (if desired) adds both color and saltiness. For extra flair, consider a few dipping sauces—like mango salsa, chipotle crema, or classic salsa verde—served in small bowls alongside your platter of Honey Lime Chicken Wonton Tacos.

These tacos don’t just deliver on taste—they’re a showstopper, whether you’re feeding your family or entertaining guests.

Tips to Keep the Crunch and Serve Fresh Every Time

Crispy shells are a key feature of Honey Lime Chicken Wonton Tacos, so maintaining their crunch is essential. The trick? Don’t assemble until the moment you plan to serve. Letting your tacos sit with moist ingredients inside for too long leads to sogginess—especially from juicy toppings like tomato and avocado crema.

To prep smart: fry your wonton shells ahead of time and store them in a sealed, air-tight container at room temperature. Make your honey lime chicken and crema in advance as well. You can reheat the chicken gently in a pan with a splash of lime juice to revive its freshness without drying it out. Chop your veggies just before assembling to preserve their crunch and color.

This make-ahead method makes Honey Lime Chicken Wonton Tacos the ideal dish for both everyday dinners and large gatherings. Whether you’re replicating the feel of chicken tacos salsa crockpot for a cozy night in or prepping a festive tray of honey Mexican chicken bites for a crowd, these tacos adapt beautifully to your needs.

No matter how you serve them—on a weeknight, at a dinner party, or as bite-sized appetizers—Honey Lime Chicken Wonton Tacos are guaranteed to impress. With the right layering, a fresh finish, and attention to texture, you’ll get that irresistible combination of crispy, creamy, sweet, and savory in every single bite., this assembly approach ensures you serve a taco that wows every time.

Adapting Honey Lime Chicken & Avocado Nacho Wonton Tacos for Any Lifestyle

Healthier Choices That Still Taste Incredible

Just because you’re eating cleaner doesn’t mean you have to ditch flavor. These Honey Lime Chicken & Avocado Nacho Wonton Tacos are surprisingly flexible—and can be lightened up without sacrificing taste.

Start by skipping the deep fryer. Instead, bake your wonton wrappers—a quick brush with olive oil and 5–7 minutes in the oven delivers a satisfying crunch with way less fat.

Want to lighten the crema? Replace sour cream with nonfat Greek yogurt, which adds protein and creaminess without the heaviness. Choose chicken breast over thighs if you’re looking for a leaner meat. You can even reduce the honey just a bit—2 tablespoons instead of 3—to cut sugar while still keeping that sweet-tangy zing.

These smart swaps allow you to enjoy a lighter version that still echoes the bold taste of dishes like slow cooker honey chicken tacos or lime chicken tacos slow cooker–style—without the guilt.

Dairy-Free and Gluten-Free? No Problem

For those avoiding dairy, the fix is easy. Use a plant-based yogurt like almond or coconut yogurt in the avocado crema. The texture stays smooth, and the flavor still pops with lime and avocado.

Need it gluten-free? Replace wonton wrappers with gluten-free mini tortillas or even use crisp lettuce leaves for a fresh, wrap-style taco. These alternatives keep the crunch and let the bold honey-lime chicken flavor shine.

Even if you’re inspired by traditional chicken verde tacos, you can keep this dish 100% gluten- and dairy-free and still absolutely delicious.

Vegetarian? Try This Flavor-Packed Alternative

Not eating meat? You can still enjoy the punchy flavor of this dish with a simple swap. Replace chicken with chickpeas or roasted cauliflower.

Toss chickpeas or cauliflower florets in the same honey-lime spice mix, then roast them until slightly crisp. Once cooked, layer them into your baked wonton shells or tortillas, top with avocado crema, and sprinkle with cilantro.

The result? A crave-worthy taco that’s plant-based, satisfying, and every bit as delicious as its meaty counterpart.

Kid-Approved Modifications

Got picky eaters at the table? These tacos can easily be made more kid-friendly. Tone down the heat by cutting back the chili powder or omitting it altogether. You can also reduce the onion or avocado if your little ones aren’t fans of bold flavors.

For a fun twist, let kids build their own tacos. Set out the ingredients buffet-style and let them assemble their favorites. It turns dinner into a fun, hands-on experience—and ensures everyone eats what they like.

Even if your usual go-to is chicken wonton soup or something simple like salsa crockpot chicken, this taco variation gives you an adventurous, buildable option that works for all ages.

Smart Storage, Meal Prep, and Leftover Ideas

Meal Prep Like a Pro Without Losing Freshness

One of the best things about Honey Lime Chicken & Avocado Nacho Wonton Tacos is how easy they are to prep in advance. With a few clever tricks, you can have everything ready to go—even on your busiest days.

Here’s how to break it down:

• Chicken: Cook the honey lime chicken up to 3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave with a splash of lime juice to revive flavor.
• Avocado crema: Best when made fresh, but you can prep it 24–48 hours ahead. To prevent browning, store it in a sealed container with plastic wrap pressed directly onto the surface.
• Veggies: Dice tomato, red onion, and cilantro ahead of time. Store them separately in airtight containers.
• Wonton shells: Fry (or bake) the taco shells and keep them crisp in a container lined with paper towels. Don’t refrigerate or they’ll lose their crunch.

Everything can be stored individually and assembled when you’re ready to serve—so nothing gets soggy or limp.

These tips make weeknight dinners feel like a breeze, just like preparing slow cooker honey chicken tacos that are ready when you walk in the door.

Freezing and Reheating for Long-Term Planning

Got leftovers or planning for future meals? Here’s what you can and can’t freeze:

No-go on crema and veggies: Avocado crema and fresh toppings don’t freeze well—they separate and lose their texture.

Beans freeze well too: You can portion your rinsed black beans and keep them frozen for taco night emergencies.

If you’re prepping for a crowd or want to replicate the feel of chicken verde tacos or chicken salsa crockpot meals, doubling the chicken and freezing half is a game-changer.

Creative Ways to Use Leftovers

Don’t toss those taco fillings—transform them instead. Leftover honey lime chicken and avocado crema are surprisingly versatile.

Ideas for repurposing:

• Toss chicken and beans into a salad with crunchy romaine, tortilla strips, and a drizzle of crema.
• Make a quick rice bowl: add cilantro-lime rice, roasted veggies, and your taco toppings.
• Turn them into wraps or quesadillas for next-day lunch.
• Use leftover shells and fillings to build nachos—bake them topped with cheese, and drizzle crema over the top.

With options like these, your tacos keep giving—even when the party’s over. And they’ll still taste like fresh honey Mexican chicken tacos made minutes ago.

Looking for more avocado-based fusion dishes? Try our crowd-pleasing chicken and avocado quesadillas for another delicious way to pair creamy avocado with juicy chicken.

Flavor Boosts and Creative Fusion Ideas

Elevate Your Tacos with Bold Add-Ins

If you’ve already mastered the basics of this recipe, it’s time to explore some flavor upgrades. These additions can enhance the taco’s complexity while still honoring that crave-worthy honey-lime foundation.

Flavor boosters to try:

• Pickled red onions: Add tang, crunch, and color contrast.
• Jalapeño or serrano slices: For those who like a little heat, raw or pickled works.
• Queso fresco or Cotija: Adds a salty, crumbly finish—great against the sweet chicken.
• Grilled pineapple chunks: Adds a tropical punch that pairs beautifully with honey and lime.
• Chipotle crema: Swirl a little adobo sauce into your avocado crema for smoky depth.

These extras can transform your tacos from weekday dinner into gourmet showstoppers. It’s like mixing the familiar flair of chicken tacos with salsa and the creative energy of your favorite taco truck.

Fusion Twists: Taking Global Cues

The base recipe is already a fusion—Asian wonton wrappers meet Mexican-style chicken. But there’s so much room to play.

Global flavor mashups you’ll love:

• Korean-style tacos: Swap out cumin for gochujang or Korean chili flakes in the marinade and top with kimchi slaw.
• Thai-style tacos: Use lemongrass and fish sauce in your chicken marinade and finish with Thai basil and crushed peanuts.
• Mediterranean remix: Replace crema with tzatziki and add cucumber and feta to the filling.

The versatility of honey lime chicken allows it to pair with so many global profiles. You can think of this as a base for dishes that remind you of chicken wonton wraps, lime tacos with an Asian spin, or Mexican street tacos—but reinvented through your own lens.

Taco Bar Night: Make It a DIY Experience

One way to bring everyone to the table? Create a build-your-own taco bar.

Here’s what to include:

• Honey lime chicken (main protein)
• Fried or baked wonton shells
• Black beans, tomato, avocado, onion, cilantro
• Assorted cremas and salsas (salsa verde, chipotle, avocado, mango)
• Cheese options (dairy and dairy-free)
• Lime wedges and hot sauces

Guests can mix and match, kids can play chef, and you can introduce new toppings every time. Think of it as turning your kitchen into a mini CarlsbadCravings Cilantro Lime Chicken–style pop-up—but with your own signature twist.

Planning a party platter? Pair your Honey Lime Chicken Wonton Tacos with mini chicken avocado quesadillas for a mix of crispy bites and cheesy handhelds everyone will love.

Entertaining with Wonton Tacos – Events, Parties & Pairings

Why These Tacos Are Party-Perfect

Honey Lime Chicken & Avocado Nacho Wonton Tacos aren’t just tasty—they’re built to impress. Bite-sized, colorful, crunchy, and packed with flavor, they make ideal appetizers, game-day snacks, or even mains for a taco night spread.

They offer the flair of gourmet food with the comfort of a taco—and their mini size makes them perfect for social events. Compared to heavier options like traditional tacos or loaded nachos, these have a balanced bite that doesn’t overwhelm.

Plus, with make-ahead options and easy assembly, they’re a host’s best friend.

Serving Suggestions for a Crowd

When serving for groups, prep ingredients ahead and offer a taco bar setup or pre-assembled trays.

Two serving styles to try:

1. DIY Taco Station: Set out trays of wonton shells, toppings, and fillings buffet-style. This keeps the shells from getting soggy and allows guests to personalize.
2. Pre-Assembled Mini Tacos: Fill each shell just before serving. Arrange on platters with lime wedges and a drizzle of crema for a beautiful presentation.

You can even create themed boards or mix them in with other finger foods like chicken verde tacos or slow cooker salsa chicken bites for variety.

Drink Pairings to Complement the Flavors

To really elevate the experience, pair your tacos with beverages that highlight the lime, honey, and smoky spice.

Perfect drink matches:

• Margaritas: Classic lime margaritas echo the citrus in the chicken and crema.
• Spiked agua fresca: Think watermelon or pineapple with a splash of tequila.
• Citrusy wheat beer or a crisp lager: Cuts through the richness and keeps it refreshing.
• Sparkling limeade or ginger ale (non-alcoholic): Fun, fizzy, and citrus-forward for all ages.

These drinks complement the bold flavors of the tacos without overpowering them—and they keep your event feeling festive and flavorful.

Side Dishes That Match the Mood

Pair your tacos with light sides that continue the fresh and zesty theme:

• Street corn salad (esquites)
• Cilantro-lime rice or quinoa
• Roasted sweet potatoes with cumin
• Tortilla chips with mango or verde salsa

If you’ve been inspired by salsa verde honey lime chicken dishes or other citrus-forward Mexican favorites, you’ll love how these sides echo and extend the meal’s vibe.

Whether it’s a full party platter or a casual Friday night with friends, these tacos are guaranteed to steal the spotlight.

If you’re looking to expand your crispy chicken game beyond tacos, you’ll love these crispy irresistible crack chicken tenders—a perfect companion recipe to serve alongside your Honey Lime Chicken Wonton Tacos.

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