CHICKEN TACO SEASONING

This chicken taco seasoning will elevate your taco nights in no time! Say goodbye to store-bought packets filled with additives and hello to a fresh, homemade blend packed with bold flavors. With the perfect combination of chili powder, garlic, cumin, and paprika, this seasoning takes your chicken to the next level, making it ideal for tacos, fajitas, taco salads, and more. It’s quick to whip up, customizable to your preferred spice level, and so much better than anything you’ll find in a store. Once you try it, you’ll never want to go back to pre-made taco seasoning again!

Why You Will Love Homemade Chicken Taco Seasoning

• This taco seasoning is packed with flavor! It’s the perfect blend of spices to elevate your chicken tacos to the next level!
• Once you try this delicious seasoning, you won’t want to go back to store-bought packets.
• It’s made with simple, easy-to-find ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.
• This chicken taco seasoning recipe is so easy and quick! Simply mix all the spices in a bowl.
• It’s a clean, wholesome blend of spices without additives or preservatives.
• It is customizable. Adjust the heat with cayenne pepper or chipotle chili powder for a spicier kick.

What Is Chicken Taco Seasoning?

This homemade chicken taco seasoning is a flavorful spice blend used to season chicken for tacos! We combined a mix of herbs and spices for a bold, smoky, and deep flavor profile that adds delicious flavor to your chicken. It’s easy to make with simple pantry staples.

Ingredients Needed

• Chili Powder: The foundation of the taco seasoning. It adds warmth and a touch of spice. For a different flavor profile, substitute with ancho chili powder or chipotle chili powder.
• Cumin: Brings earthy, nutty notes to the taco seasoning.
• Smoked Paprika: Adds a smoky and sweet flavor.
• Garlic Powder: Adds incredible depth of flavor.
• Onion Powder: Provides a mild, sweet, and savory onion flavor that blends seamlessly into the taco seasoning.
• Oregano: Complements the earthy and smoky spices, bringing balance and depth.
• Salt and Pepper: Amplifies all the other flavors for a well-rounded taste.
• Cayenne Pepper: Optional, if you prefer added heat.

What Chili Powder To Use

Chili powder is a key ingredient in this taco seasoning, and there are a few options to choose from based on the flavor profile you want. You can swap any chili powder for another in a 1:1 ratio.

• Regular Chili Powder: A mild, earthy flavor with a touch of sweetness. Ideal if you prefer a more subtle seasoning with moderate heat.
• Ancho Chili Powder: Mild in heat but adds a smoky, slightly fruity flavor. It’s great for adding depth and complexity.
• Chipotle Chili Powder: If you like it spicy, chipotle chili powder adds a smoky, bold heat that will elevate your seasoning.

How To Make Chicken Taco Seasoning

Step 1: Add chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to a small bowl.

Step 2: Stir all the spices together until well combined.

Step 3: Use the seasoning immediately in your recipe or transfer it to an airtight container. Store in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months.

Serving Suggestions

This versatile taco seasoning is perfect for chicken and other proteins! For a classic option, rub it onto boneless skinless chicken breasts, bake them until fully cooked, and shred the meat to make flavorful tacos. Or, use this taco seasoning for to make slow cooker chicken tacos! Use your favorite corn tortillas or flour tortillas and top your tacos with delicious options like pico de gallo, protein guacamole, or avocado crema. For an extra burst of flavor, pair it with cottage cheese queso and serve alongside sides like charro beans or cilantro lime cauliflower rice.

You can also use this seasoning for ground chicken, ground turkey, ground beef, or even chicken thighs. It’s a fantastic way to season proteins for burrito bowls, salads, or wraps. For another option, use this seasoning to flavor chicken fajitas, served with sautéed peppers and onions.

Expert Tips

• Mix Well: Thoroughly mix all of the spices to evenly distribute the flavors.
• Coat Evenly: For the best flavor, evenly coat the chicken or your protein of choice with the seasoning.
• Larger Batch: Double or triple this recipe to make extra taco seasoning and store it in an airtight container for quick and easy use in future meals.

How To Store Taco Seasoning

Store your taco seasoning in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, such as a pantry or spice cabinet. This will keep it fresh and flavorful for up to 6 months.

Variations

• Spicy: Want a kick of heat? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or to taste. Also, you can substitute the chili powder with chipotle chili powder for a smoky, spicy flavor.
• Mild: If you prefer a milder flavor, leave out the cayenne pepper and reduce the chili powder for a more subtle seasoning.
• Low-Sodium: Reduce the amount of salt added.
• Make Dip: Mix this taco seasoning with Greek yogurt to create a flavorful dip for veggies or chips!
• Roast Vegetables: This taco seasoning isn’t just great for chicken and proteins. You can also use it to season veggies! Toss vegetables like cauliflower, zucchini, or sweet potatoes with the seasoning and roast them for a flavorful side dish.
• Add To Beans: Stir some of this seasoning into black beans, pinto beans, or refried beans for a boost of flavor.
• Soup and Chili: You can add this taco seasoning to soups, chili, or taco soup for incredible flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Taco Seasoning Does This Make?

This homemade chicken taco seasoning recipe makes about 3 tablespoons of seasoning. For general use, you’ll want to use 2-3 tablespoons of seasoning for every pound of chicken or adjust based on your flavor preference. For comparison, store-bought taco seasoning packets usually contain about 1 ounce (roughly 2 tablespoons).

Is Taco Seasoning Gluten-Free?

Yes, this homemade chicken taco seasoning is naturally gluten-free.

How Long Does Homemade Taco Seasoning Last?

This homemade taco seasoning can last up to 6 months when stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.

Can I Make Taco Seasoning Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can make this taco seasoning ahead of time. It’s great to already have it on hand whenever you need it. You can even double or triple this recipe to have enough stored for multiple uses.

Can I Use This Taco Seasoning For Other Dishes?

Yes, this taco seasoning is incredibly versatile. Aside from making chicken tacos, it also works well for seasoning other proteins, for seasoning vegetables before roasting them, and in burrito bowls, salads, and soups.

More Recipes To Try Next!

• Ground Turkey Enchilada Skillet 
• Protein Guacamole
• Slow Cooker Chicken Tinga
• Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
• Sheet Pan Chicken Tacos
• Mango Corn Salsa
• Air Fryer Shrimp Tacos
• Skinny Margarita Recipe

If you try this recipe please be sure to leave us a comment and star rating ★★★★★ letting us know how it turns out for you.