Our favorite Fajita Seasoning blend is so simple to make and uses spices you probably already have in your cabinet! Skip the store-bought packets; you’ll never want to use them again after seeing how easy and delicious making your own seasoning blends is.
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.
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?
Our 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!)
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 to get a special chicken fajita seasoning– you can use this recipe 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
- If you’re watching sugar intake or looking to make a keto fajita seasoning, simply leave out the sugar.
- To make sure the spices and herbs being used are fresh and ready to taste their best, check the labels and make sure spices have not expired and have been away from heat and direct sunlight. Heat/sunlight will dry out the spices and make them lose potency.
- Seal bottle lids or plastic bags immediately after making the spice blend to help lock in the flavor and keep out any potential moisture.
- Here is a list of great seasoning tips when looking to improve the flavor with what you’re preparing.
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
- Taco Seasoning with loads of recipes to use it in!
- Pumpkin Pie Spice with cinnamon and nutmeg
- Apple Pie Spice with cinnamon and cardamom
Fajita Seasoning
Ingredients
- 2 teaspoons ground chili powder Note 1
- 1 teaspoon each: paprika, white sugar, ground cumin, fine sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon each: onion powder, garlic powder
- 1/8 teaspoon: ground cayenne pepper, optional (Note 2)
Instructions
- FAJITA SEASONING: 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.
- USE THE SEASONING: Read Note 3 for how to season chicken with this seasoning blend!
- STORAGE: Store in an airtight container in a cool, dark place (like a cabinet or pantry). I like to store these homemade packets in small plastic bags or make a big batch to store in a jar or spice containers (we love these!) As long as it is stored properly, homemade fajita seasoning can last 6 months up to a year.
- MAKE AHEAD: I get it-- fajita seasoning packets are easy and convenient! And that’s why I’ve started making my own packets. 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. If using bulk seasoning blend, 2 tablespoons + 1 teaspoon is the equivalent of one 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?