Fajita Seasoning made easy! Toss the packet—this homemade mix is faster, cheaper, and way more flavorful.
Use this seasoning recipe in some of our favorite recipes like this Southwestern Fajita Crockpot Quinoa, Shrimp Fajitas, or Vegetarian Fajitas.
What Is In Fajita Seasoning?
This blend combines chili powder, paprika, cumin, onion powder, garlic powder, sugar, salt, and pepper. We also like to add in some ground cayenne pepper for some heat (easy to increase or leave out!)
Today we’re sharing the best homemade Fajita Seasoning that perfectly replaces one packet of store-bought seasoning. Want more? This recipe is very easy to double or triple! Package the seasoning in your own packets for convenience.
Quick Tip
Be sure to use chili powder — not to be confused with chilli powder which is very hot. We’re using American chili powder in this recipe. We find McCormick® to be a relatively mild brand (not sponsored).
What Is The Difference Between Fajita Seasoning And Taco Seasoning?
The two are quite similar, but taco seasoning typically has more chili powder and oregano while fajita seasoning has more cumin. Fajita seasoning is less spicy than taco seasoning.
How To Make Fajita Seasoning
Simply measure out all the spices and whisk them together in a small bowl or add directly to the dish you’re preparing. Use immediately or store; more on this below!
How To Season Chicken For Fajitas
No need for special chicken fajita seasoning—this works with 1 pound of chicken breasts, thighs, or tenders.
- Start by preparing 1 pound of chicken — trim off excess fat and pat dry with a paper towel.
- In a small bowl, add in 2 tablespoons olive oil, juice, and zest of 1 lemon, along with the seasonings in this recipe. Whisk until smooth. Set aside 2 tablespoons of this mixture for later.
- Pour the remaining mixture over the chicken and knead it into the chicken, coating all the surfaces of the chicken.
- Marinate for 30 minutes up to 5 hours and cook or cook right away — on the grill, in the oven, on the stovetop, in the air fryer, etc.
You can also use this recipe as a Steak Fajita Seasoning (more details on this Steak Fajitas recipe).
Quick Tip
If you make up a batch of Fajita Seasoning and store it in a jar, use kitchen math to season the fajitas. One batch of this recipe makes 7 teaspoons of seasoning blend. Since 3 teaspoons equal 1 tablespoon, measure out 2 tablespoons + 1 teaspoon seasoning to equal one packet.
Recipe Tips
- Making a keto fajita seasoning? Just skip the sugar.
- Check that your spices are fresh—look at expiration dates and avoid using any stored near heat or sunlight.
- Seal spice containers right after mixing to keep flavor in and moisture out.
Storage
Fajita Seasoning Storage
- Store each fajita seasoning packet in an air-tight container in a cool, dark place (like a cabinet or pantry). I like to store homemade packets in small plastic bags or make a big batch to store in a jar or spice container.
- As long as it is stored properly, homemade Fajita Seasoning can last 6 months to a year.
- Seasoning blend make-ahead: When I make this recipe, I’ll typically make 5 or 6 more packets of the seasoning. Since all the spices are out and I’m measuring anyways, it takes just a few extra minutes. Measure out the spices, put them in labeled individual snack-size bags, and store those packets with your spices.
More Homemade Seasoning Blends:
Seasoning Mixes
Taco Seasoning
Dressings
Pumpkin Pie Spice
Seasoning Mixes
Blackening Seasoning
Dressings
Apple Pie Spice
Fajita Seasoning
Equipment
Ingredients
- 2 teaspoons ground chili powder see note 1
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper optional, see note 2
Instructions
- Measure out all the spices and stir them together in a small bowl or add directly to the dish you’re preparing. Use immediately or store.
- Read note 3 for how to season chicken with this seasoning blend!
- Make Ahead: When I make this recipe, I typically make 5 or 6 more “packets” of the seasoning. Measure out the spices, put them in labeled individual snack-size bags, and store those packets with your spices. If using bulk seasoning blend, 2 tablespoons + 1 teaspoon is the equivalent of 1 packet.
Recipe Notes
- Start by preparing 1 pound of chicken—trim off excess fat and pat dry with a paper towel.
- In a small bowl, add in 2 tablespoons olive oil, juice and zest of 1 lemon, and the seasonings in this recipe. Whisk until smooth. Set aside 2 tablespoons of this mixture, saving for later.
- Pour the remaining mixture over the chicken and knead it into the chicken, coating all the surfaces of the chicken.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
4 Ingredients?????
Can’t you count, or do you just lie to people to click and come to your website. And yes, I know, you won’t have the integrity to post this.
I’m confused; where are you seeing 4 ingredients being advertised anywhere?