Irresistible Spicy BBQ Chicken Wonton Cups with Apple Coleslaw: Your Ultimate Party Appetizer!

Prepare to elevate your appetizer game with these truly irresistible Spicy BBQ Chicken Wonton Cups. Imagine perfectly crispy, golden wonton shells cradling a generous filling of tender, shredded chicken, generously coated in a tantalizing spicy apple habanero BBQ sauce. But the flavor journey doesn’t stop there – each bite is crowned with a vibrant, crunchy apple coleslaw that adds a refreshing contrast. This dish is an explosion of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors, all delivered within a delightful texture combination. Crafted to be ready in just 35 minutes, these wonton cups are not only incredibly delicious but also remarkably efficient, making them the ultimate crowd-pleaser for any event. Whether you’re hosting an energetic game day celebration, a laid-back backyard barbecue, or an elegant party, these individual bite-sized delights are guaranteed to be the star of your spread.

Disclosure: This post is sponsored byHead Country Bar-B-Q. As always, all opinions are my own.

About These Spicy BBQ Chicken Wonton Cups

As the leaves begin to turn and the air gets crisp, we officially enter the season of gatherings, celebrations, and, of course, delicious food. For many, this time of year signifies the kickoff of tailgating and game day festivities, and when it comes to game day eats, there’s one culinary category that always takes center stage: BBQ. Do you find yourself craving those smoky, savory, and often spicy flavors as much as I do?

Whether it’s the thrill of firing up the grill or simply dousing a perfectly cooked pulled pork sandwich in a rich, tangy sauce, BBQ is an indispensable element on any tailgating spread. And when I say BBQ, I mean incorporating the exceptional quality and flavor of Head Country Bar-B-Q products. While their Original BBQ Sauce is a timeless classic for good reason, for these unique wonton cups, I’m reaching for their extraordinary Apple Habanero BBQ Sauce. This particular sauce is a game-changer, offering a truly distinctive flavor profile that sets it apart.

The magic of Head Country’s Apple Habanero BBQ Sauce lies in its incredible balance. It delivers a delightful sweet tartness derived from real apples, creating a bright and inviting taste. This sweetness is perfectly complemented by a subtle, yet building, heat from the habanero. It’s not an overwhelming spiciness, but rather a warmth that gradually develops with each bite, leaving a pleasant lingering sensation. This unique blend, combined with Head Country’s signature spices, transforms ordinary BBQ dishes into something truly spectacular. Furthermore, its apple notes make it an ideal choice for fall gatherings, harmonizing beautifully with the seasonal abundance of apples and allowing for effortless flavor pairing.

These Spicy BBQ Chicken Wonton Cups are incredibly simple to prepare, making them a definite must-have for your next party menu! Each bite offers an exquisite combination of textures and tastes: juicy, shredded chicken infused with the apple habanero BBQ sauce fills perfectly crunchy, golden wonton cups, which are then crowned with a crisp and refreshing apple coleslaw. You’ll experience sweet, spicy, tangy, and crunchy notes in every single mouthful, creating a truly memorable appetizer experience that your guests will rave about. They strike the perfect balance between comfort food and sophisticated finger food.

My mouth is already watering just reminiscing about these delightful bites! The best part is that they are straightforward enough to whip up on the day of your event, yet also offer fantastic make-ahead potential if you prefer to save time. I’ve included detailed tips below on how to prepare components in advance, along with answers to common questions (FAQs) and other helpful suggestions to ensure your success. Feel free to scroll down to explore all the delicious details, or simply use the convenient Table of Contents above to jump directly to the section you need, including the comprehensive recipe card!

Essential Ingredients for Flavorful Wonton Cups

Crafting these delectable Spicy BBQ Chicken Wonton Cups requires a selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients that come together to create a symphony of flavors. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need to gather:

• Chicken Broth: This forms the flavorful base for our Instant Pot shredded chicken. You can opt for store-bought chicken broth for convenience, or use homemade if you have it on hand. I recommend choosing a low-sodium variety to better control the overall seasoning of your dish.
• BBQ Sauce: The star of our show, and specifically, Head Country Apple Habanero BBQ Sauce! The unique flavor of this sauce truly elevates the chicken. It boasts a delightful apple sweetness paired with just the right amount of habanero heat and Head Country’s signature blend of spices. It’s an absolute dream for chicken dishes but also pairs fabulously with pork. You’ll only need one bottle to achieve maximum flavor for this recipe.
• Chicken: For this recipe, I primarily use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Their lean texture and ability to absorb flavors make them ideal for shredding. However, you can also use boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or a combination of both) for a slightly richer, more succulent result.
• Wonton Wrappers: These thin, square wrappers are the foundation of our crispy cups. You’ll typically find them in the refrigerated section of your local supermarket, often near other Asian ingredients like tofu or fresh pasta. If your local grocery store doesn’t stock them, check an Asian market. As an alternative, egg roll wrappers can be used – simply cut them to size (more details on this below!).
• Mayonnaise or Greek Yogurt: This is the creamy base for our refreshing apple coleslaw. You can choose full-fat or light mayonnaise based on your preference. For a lighter, tangier option with added protein, plain Greek yogurt makes an excellent substitute.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: An essential component of the coleslaw dressing, apple cider vinegar provides a bright, tangy acidity that cuts through the richness of the BBQ chicken and balances the sweetness of the apple.
• Honey: Used as a natural sweetener in the coleslaw, honey complements the apple and adds a subtle depth of flavor. If you prefer, maple syrup or agave nectar can be used as alternatives.
• Spices: A simple yet effective blend of paprika (sweet or smoked, depending on your preference), kosher salt, and black pepper is all you need to season the coleslaw and enhance the chicken’s natural flavors. Paprika adds a lovely color and a hint of warmth.
• Coleslaw Mix: For ultimate convenience, grab a bag of your favorite pre-shredded coleslaw mix from the produce section. This saves valuable prep time, allowing you to focus on the other delicious components.
• Green Apple: A crisp, tart green apple (like Granny Smith) is highly recommended for this recipe. Its bright tartness provides a fantastic counterpoint to the sweetness of the BBQ sauce and the creaminess of the coleslaw, adding a burst of freshness and crunch.
• Green Onion: While not strictly mandatory, thinly sliced green onion makes a wonderful garnish. It adds a fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of vibrant color that enhances the visual appeal of the finished wonton cups.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

To make these Spicy BBQ Chicken Wonton Cups efficiently and effectively, here are the essential kitchen tools you’ll want to have on hand:

• Instant Pot: This pressure cooker is key for quickly and easily preparing the tender shredded BBQ chicken. I personally use and love the Instant Pot Ultra, but any model like the Instant Pot DUO will work wonderfully.
• Cutting Board: A sturdy cutting board is essential for safely shredding the cooked chicken with two forks.
• 12-Cup Muffin Tin: This is crucial for shaping and baking the individual crispy wonton cups. A standard muffin pan will yield 12 cups per batch.
• Large Mixing Bowl: You’ll need a spacious bowl, ideally from a set of stainless steel mixing bowls, for preparing the coleslaw.
• Whisk: A French wire whisk is perfect for combining the coleslaw dressing ingredients smoothly.
• Wooden Spoon: A long wooden spoon will be useful for stirring and scraping in the Instant Pot, as well as folding the coleslaw ingredients together.

Step-by-Step: How to Make Spicy BBQ Chicken Wonton Cups

Making these Spicy BBQ Chicken Wonton Cups is a straightforward process, broken down into a few simple steps. Follow along to create this incredible appetizer for your next gathering!

Preparing the Instant Pot BBQ Chicken

First, we’ll create the tender, flavorful shredded chicken. Begin by adding your chicken broth and ½ cup of the delicious Head Country Apple Habanero BBQ Sauce to the inner pot of your Instant Pot. Use a whisk to combine these liquids thoroughly, ensuring the sauce is well incorporated with the broth. Once mixed, carefully place your chicken breasts into the sauce mixture.

Secure the lid on your Instant Pot and set it to the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” setting. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. After the cooking cycle is complete, allow the pressure to naturally release for 5 minutes. This natural release helps keep the chicken incredibly tender and juicy. Following the 5-minute natural release, manually release any remaining pressure by carefully turning the steam release valve. Once the float valve drops, it’s safe to open the lid.

Carefully remove the cooked chicken to a cutting board. Using two forks, shred the chicken until it reaches your desired consistency. While the chicken is being shredded, stir the remaining BBQ sauce into the existing sauce in the Instant Pot insert. Return the shredded chicken to the pot, ensuring it’s fully coated in the thickened, flavorful sauce. Set the Instant Pot to the “Saute” function and allow the sauce to simmer and thicken for a couple of minutes, stirring consistently, until it reaches a rich, luscious consistency. This step ensures the chicken is extra saucy and delicious. Turn off the Instant Pot and cover it to keep the chicken warm while you prepare the other components.

Baking the Crispy Wonton Cups

While your chicken is cooking, you can prepare the wonton cups. Preheat your oven to 350˚F (175˚C). Lightly spray each cup in a 12-cup muffin tin with cooking spray. Gently press one wonton wrapper into each cup, ensuring it forms a snug cup shape. Spray these first wrappers with another light layer of cooking spray. This helps them crisp up beautifully and prevents sticking. Then, place a second wonton wrapper directly on top of the first, pressing it down well into the bottom of the cup to reinforce the structure and create extra crispiness.

Bake the wonton cups in the preheated oven for approximately 15 minutes, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown and are visibly crispy. Keep a close eye on them, as baking times can vary slightly. Once baked, carefully remove the muffin tin from the oven and set the crispy wonton cups aside to cool slightly. They will become even crispier as they cool.

Crafting the Refreshing Coleslaw

In a large mixing bowl, prepare the creamy and tangy coleslaw dressing. Whisk together the mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), apple cider vinegar, honey, paprika, salt, and pepper until the dressing is smooth and well combined. Next, add your bag of coleslaw mix and the thinly sliced green apple to the bowl. Using a wooden spoon or tongs, gently fold all the ingredients together until the coleslaw and apple are thoroughly coated in the dressing. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if desired. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the coleslaw until you’re ready to assemble, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Final Assembly and Serving

Now for the exciting part – assembly! Once all your components are ready, it’s time to bring these delicious appetizers to life. Fill each crispy wonton cup generously with the warm, shredded BBQ chicken, dividing the chicken mixture evenly among the cups. For an extra boost of flavor and a beautiful glossy finish, drizzle a little extra Head Country Apple Habanero BBQ sauce over the chicken in each cup.

Next, add a dollop or scoop of the refreshing apple coleslaw on top of the BBQ chicken. This layer adds a crucial crunch and a tangy contrast to the rich chicken. Finally, for an appealing garnish and a hint of fresh onion flavor, sprinkle thinly sliced green onion over each wonton cup. Serve immediately while the wonton cups are at their crispiest and the chicken is warm. These vibrant, flavorful bites are sure to be a hit!

Pro Tips for Perfect Spicy BBQ Chicken Wonton Cups

To ensure your Spicy BBQ Chicken Wonton Cups are nothing short of spectacular, consider these helpful tips:

• Try Pulled Pork for a Twist: If you’re looking to change things up or prefer pork, these wonton cups are incredibly versatile. You can easily swap the chicken for pulled pork. Simply use 2 pounds of boneless pork shoulder, cut into cubes. Cook the pork on manual high pressure in your Instant Pot for 40 minutes, then allow for a natural pressure release. Once tender, shred the pork and mix it with the Head Country Apple Habanero BBQ sauce just as you would the chicken. This alternative offers a richer, more robust flavor profile that’s equally delicious.
• Make a Double Batch for Larger Crowds: Hosting a big party or a large family gathering? This recipe is incredibly easy to double, and the cooking times remain the same! The main considerations are having an extra 12-cup muffin tin for the wonton cups and a larger mixing bowl for the coleslaw. Doubling the recipe is a fantastic way to ensure there are plenty of these popular appetizers to go around.

More tasty BBQ appetizer recipes to try:Honey BBQ Grilled Chicken Wings |Hearty BBQ Charcuterie Board |BBQ Short Ribs Fondue |Skillet Southwestern BBQ Chicken Dip

Can These BBQ Chicken Wonton Cups Be Prepared in Advance?

Absolutely, these Spicy BBQ Chicken Wonton Cups are fantastic for make-ahead preparation, which is a huge bonus when you’re hosting! You can prepare the shredded chicken, bake the wonton cups, and even make the apple coleslaw up to 3 days before your event. This allows you to assemble them quickly just before serving, minimizing stress on party day.

To make ahead, ensure you store each component in separate, airtight containers. The shredded BBQ chicken should be refrigerated, as should the coleslaw. The baked wonton cups can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container to maintain their crispness. When you’re ready to serve, gently reheat the shredded chicken in the microwave or on the stovetop until warm, then follow the assembly instructions. This strategic prep ensures optimal freshness and texture for each element, giving you more time to enjoy your guests!

Can I Experiment with Different BBQ Sauce Flavors?

Certainly! While the Head Country Apple Habanero BBQ Sauce offers a uniquely delicious sweet and spicy profile that pairs perfectly with the apple coleslaw, feel free to customize the flavor to your preference or what you have on hand. Head Country Bar-B-Q offers a diverse range of sauces, each with its own distinct character. For those who crave even more heat, their Hot & Spicy BBQ Sauce would be an excellent choice, adding a fiery kick that will tantalize your taste buds. If you prefer a more classic, well-rounded BBQ flavor, their beloved Original BBQ Sauce is always a reliable and delicious option. Experimenting with different sauces can completely transform the character of these wonton cups, allowing you to tailor them to any palate.

Wonton vs. Egg Roll Wrappers: Are They Interchangeable?

Yes, in essence, wonton wrappers and egg roll wrappers are made from the same type of dough! They are both thin, pliable sheets of dough typically made from wheat flour, eggs, and water. The primary difference lies in their size and thickness. Wonton wrappers are generally smaller, usually about 3-inch squares, and are a bit thinner. Egg roll wrappers, on the other hand, are larger, typically rectangular, and slightly thicker. This makes them more durable for rolling. However, if you find yourself unable to locate wonton wrappers at your grocery store, egg roll wrappers make for a fantastic substitute. Simply cut the larger egg roll wrappers into approximately 3-inch squares to achieve the desired wonton size. This simple modification ensures you can still enjoy these crispy cups even if wonton wrappers aren’t available.

Need some more inspiration for game day? Check out my appetizers recipe page!

What to Serve Alongside Your Spicy BBQ Chicken Wonton Cups

These spicy BBQ chicken wonton cups are incredibly versatile and make a fantastic addition to almost any party spread, regardless of the occasion! While they are truly perfect for game day gatherings, their appeal extends far beyond. Consider them for casual backyard barbecues, lively birthday parties, fun game nights, or even as a unique appetizer for holiday celebrations. Their individual serving size and robust flavor make them an instant hit.

When it comes to beverage pairings, you can’t go wrong. If you’re looking for a refreshing cocktail to complement the rich flavors, I highly recommend something lighter and effervescent, such as a sparkling whiskey sour. To maintain the delightful apple theme woven throughout this recipe, consider pairing them with an apple gin and tonic with a hint of thyme, a vibrant apple cider margarita, or a warming apple bourbon smash. For non-alcoholic options, a crisp apple cider or a refreshing ginger ale would also be excellent choices. These wonton cups also pair wonderfully with other classic BBQ sides like baked beans, corn on the cob, or a simple green salad for a complete and satisfying spread.

Storage Instructions for Leftovers and Meal Prep

Proper storage is key to enjoying these delicious wonton cups, whether you have leftovers or are preparing components ahead of time. Store any fully assembled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days, though for best texture, it’s always recommended to eat them fresh.

For optimal results when prepping the different elements before a party, here’s how to store each component separately:

• Baked Wonton Cups: Once baked and completely cooled, store the crispy wonton cups at room temperature in an airtight container. This helps prevent them from becoming soft or soggy. They will remain crisp for up to 3 to 4 days.
• BBQ Shredded Chicken: Transfer the shredded chicken to a separate airtight container and refrigerate. It can be stored safely for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken in the microwave or on the stovetop until thoroughly warm before assembling the cups.
• Apple Coleslaw: Store the prepared coleslaw in its own airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and crunchy for up to 3 days. Give it a good stir before serving to redistribute the dressing.

Finally, if you make these spicy BBQ chicken wonton cups, please be sure to give this recipe a rating or leave a comment! I love to hear when you all make recipes, and I do take the time to respond to every single comment. Feel free to drop questions below too, if you have them!

Oh and be sure to tag me onInstagram if you make the recipe! Love being able to see these recipes come to live in your homes – it’s my favorite thing to look through those photos. It really means the world to me!

Spicy BBQ Chicken Wonton Cups with Apple Coleslaw

The dynamic combination of spicy apple habanero BBQ chicken, crispy wonton cups, and fresh, tangy apple coleslaw creates an incredibly easy and irresistible appetizer perfect for any casual or festive gathering.

Prep Time: 15 minutes mins

Cook Time: 30 minutes mins

Total Time: 40 minutes mins

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Equipment

• Instant Pot DUO
• Instant Pot Ultra
• Long Wooden Spoon
• French Wire Whisk
• Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls
• Muffin Pan

Ingredients

For the Apple Coleslaw

• 1/2 cup nonfat Greek yogurt or mayonnaise
• 1 Tbsp mayonnaise
• 1 1/2 tsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 1/2 tsp honey
• 1/4 tsp paprika sweet or smoked
• 1/4 tsp kosher salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 lb coleslaw mix
• 1 green apple thinly sliced

For the Instant Pot BBQ Chicken

• 1/2 cup low sodium chicken broth
• 1 1/4 cups Head Country Apple Habanero BBQ Sauce divided
• 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts

For the Wonton Cups & Garnish

• 24 wonton wrappers square
• Cooking Spray
• Garnish: thinly sliced green onion

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray each cup in a 12-cup muffin tin with cooking spray.
• In a large bowl, whisk together the yogurt (or mayonnaise), additional mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined for the coleslaw dressing. Add the pre-shredded cabbage mix and thinly sliced green apple, tossing gently to ensure everything is thoroughly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.
• To prepare the Instant Pot chicken, add chicken broth and 1/2 cup of Head Country Apple Habanero BBQ Sauce to the inner pot of your Instant Pot. Whisk these liquids together until smoothly combined. Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into the sauce.
• Seal the Instant Pot lid and set it to Manual (or Pressure Cook) on High pressure for 10 minutes. Once cooked, allow a natural pressure release for 5 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure.
• Carefully remove the cooked chicken to a cutting board. Using two forks, shred the chicken to your desired consistency.
• Add the remaining Head Country Apple Habanero BBQ Sauce to the sauce in the Instant Pot and whisk to combine. Return the shredded chicken to the pot, stirring well to coat every piece. Set the Instant Pot to “Saute” and simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring constantly, to allow the sauce to thicken slightly. Turn off the Instant Pot and cover to keep the chicken warm.
• While the chicken is cooking, prepare your wonton cups. Press one wonton wrapper into each cup of the prepared muffin tin, molding it to fit. Spray this first wrapper with a light mist of cooking spray. Place a second wonton wrapper on top, pressing it down firmly into the bottom of the cup and spraying again with cooking spray for extra crispiness.
• Bake the wonton wrappers in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and perfectly crisp. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool.
• To assemble, fill each crispy wonton cup evenly with the warm shredded BBQ chicken. Drizzle a little extra Head Country BBQ sauce over the chicken for added flavor and shine. Top with a generous scoop of the chilled apple coleslaw. Garnish with thinly sliced green onion and serve immediately for the best experience!

Cuisine: BBQ

Category: Appetizer