Homemade Fajita Seasoning
This simple homemade fajita seasoning is a must-have on your spice rack. Say goodbye to store-bought blends and create your own spice mix at home. Packed with aromatic spices, this recipe is your ticket to elevating your fajita game with a burst of authentic Tex-Mex goodness in every bite.
This versatile homemade fajita seasoning isn’t just for fajitas; it can enhance a variety of dishes. Sprinkle it generously over grilled chicken or shrimp for a zesty twist, or mix it into sour cream for a vibrant and flavorful dip.
It’s equally fantastic as a seasoning for roasted vegetables, giving them that perfect Tex-Mex kick. Get ready to elevate your tacos, quesadillas, and even simple rice dishes with this all-purpose seasoning blend that’s sure to become a pantry staple.
Ingredients in Homemade Fajita Seasoning
I always recommend homemade seasoning because you can control what goes in and what stays out of it. This simple fajita seasoning includes chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and ground pepper.
Please scroll ⬇️ to the recipe card to see the full ingredient amounts and instructions.
Instructions
Step 1: Mix the spices together. In a bowl, combine the chili powder, ground cumin, garlic powder, paprika, dried oregano, salt, and ground black pepper. Use a whisk or a spoon to ensure an even distribution of the spices.
Step 2: Adjust to taste. Taste the mixture and adjust the quantities according to your preference.
Step 3: Store. Transfer the fajita seasoning to an airtight container for storage. Label the container with the date of preparation to keep track of its freshness.
Recipe Tips
- For maximum flavor infusion, allow meats or vegetables to marinate in the fajita seasoning for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This gives the spices ample time to penetrate and enhance the ingredients, resulting in a more robust and savory outcome.
- Don’t be afraid to get creative and customize your fajita seasoning to suit different preferences. Add a pinch of smoked paprika for a deeper smokiness, or introduce a touch of cayenne pepper if you crave an extra kick. Read on for some variation ideas.
Variations
- Smoky Fajita Seasoning: Introduce a smoky depth by adding ground chipotle pepper or smoked paprika to your fajita seasoning mix.
- Citrus Fajita Seasoning: Enhance the vibrancy with citrusy notes by incorporating dried orange, lemon, or lime zest.
- Spicy Fajita Seasoning: Kick up the heat by incorporating ground habanero pepper or cayenne for a fiery version of your fajita seasoning.
Ways to Use Fajita Seasoning
Fajita seasoning is so versatile and can be incorporated into a variety of dishes. For a classic Tex-Mex experience, marinate sliced chicken, beef, or shrimp with fajita seasoning, then stir-fry, bake, or air fry with vibrant bell peppers and onions for sizzling fajitas that embody the essence of the Southwest. Instant pot chicken fajitas is personally my favorite way to use this seasoning.
Elevate your grilling game by generously sprinkling fajita seasoning over your favorite meats before they hit the barbecue. The seasoning adds a smoky and savory kick, enhancing the flavors of chicken, steak, or pork with each charred bite.
For a vegetarian twist, toss an array of veggies – from mushrooms to zucchini and colorful bell peppers – in fajita seasoning, creating a quick and flavorful option that can be served in tacos or over rice. The possibilities are as diverse as the seasoning itself, making it a kitchen essential if you’re craving a burst of Tex-Mex flair.
How to store it
Store in an airtight container. Transfer the fajita seasoning to an airtight container to protect it from moisture, light, and air. This helps maintain the quality and potency of the spices.
Store in a cool, dark place. Store the sealed container in a cool, dark place like a pantry or cupboard. Avoid placing it near the stove or other heat sources, as heat can compromise the flavor and shelf life of the spices.
Avoid refrigeration. While spices should be kept in a cool place, avoid refrigerating the fajita seasoning. Refrigeration can introduce moisture, potentially causing clumping and diminishing the quality of the blend.
RECIPE
Easy Homemade Fajita Seasoning
Ingredients
- ½ tablespoon chili powder
- ½ tablespoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon (sweet or smoked) paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon ground pepper (or to taste)
Instructions
- Mix the spices together. In a bowl, combine the chili powder, ground cumin, garlic powder, paprika, dried oregano, salt, and ground black pepper. Use a whisk or a spoon to ensure an even distribution of the spices.
- Adjust to taste. Taste the mixture and adjust the quantities according to your preference.
- Store. Transfer the fajita seasoning to an airtight container for storage. Label the container with the date of preparation to keep track of its freshness.