Fajita Seasoning

Fajita Seasoning

by
Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

There’s nothing like the sizzle of fajitas fresh off the skillet—bold, smoky, and bursting with flavor. The secret? A great fajita seasoning blend. Skip the store-bought packets and make your own with simple pantry staples. This recipe lets you control the spice level and avoid unnecessary additives. Whether you’re seasoning chicken, beef, or veggies, this mix will elevate your fajita game. Plus, it’s quick to whip up and lasts for months. Ready to bring restaurant-quality taste home? Let’s get mixing!

Why You’ll Love This Seasoning

  1. Bold, balanced flavor – Smoky, spicy, and slightly sweet, this blend enhances meats and veggies perfectly.
  2. Easy to make – Just whisk together common spices—no fancy ingredients needed.
  3. Versatile – Use it on chicken, steak, shrimp, or even roasted veggies.
  4. Budget-friendly – A single batch costs pennies compared to store-bought versions.

Once you try this fajita seasoning, you’ll never go back to pre-packaged mixes.

Fun Facts About Fajita Seasoning

  • Origin story: Fajitas started with Mexican ranch workers in Texas who grilled skirt steak (the original “faja” or “belt” cut).
  • Spice blend evolution: Traditional fajitas relied on simple salt and chili, but modern blends include garlic, cumin, and smoked paprika.
  • Versatile beyond fajitas: This seasoning works great in tacos, burrito bowls, and even marinades.

Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tbsp ground cumin
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for heat)
  • ½ tsp sugar (optional, balances spice)
Fajita Seasoning

Step-by-Step Fajita Seasoning Method

  1. Gather all spices – Measure each one precisely for the best balance.
  2. Mix in a bowl – Whisk everything together until fully combined.
  3. Taste and adjust – Need more heat? Add extra cayenne. Prefer milder? Reduce it.
  4. Store properly – Keep in an airtight jar away from light and heat.

Tips and Twists

Tips:

  • Toast whole cumin seeds before grinding for deeper flavor.
  • Use sea salt for a cleaner taste.
  • Double the batch—it keeps for 6 months!
  • For extra smokiness, add a pinch of chipotle powder.
  • Mix with olive oil for a quick marinade.

Variations:

  • Citry twist: Add 1 tsp lime zest for brightness.
  • Extra heat: Include ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes.
  • Herb-forward: Boost with extra oregano or cilantro.

Storage, Reheating, and Make-Ahead Tips

  • Storage: Keep in an airtight container in a cool, dark place for up to 6 months.
  • Reheating: Not needed—just sprinkle on food before cooking.
  • Make-ahead: Prep a big batch for quick weeknight meals.

Serving Suggestions

  • Toss with grilled chicken and bell peppers for classic fajitas.
  • Sprinkle on roasted sweet potatoes for a veggie twist.
  • Mix into sour cream for a zesty dipping sauce.
  • Season shrimp before sautéing for tacos.
  • Stir into rice for extra flavor.

FAQ About Fajita Seasoning

1. Can I freeze this seasoning?
No need—it stores well at room temperature.

2. Is this gluten-free?
Yes, as long as your spices are gluten-free.

3. How spicy is it?
Moderate—reduce cayenne if sensitive to heat.

4. Can I use fresh garlic instead?
Yes, but the powder blends better for dry rubs.

5. What’s the best meat for this seasoning?
Chicken, steak, and shrimp all work great!

Final Thoughts on Fajita Seasoning

Making your own fajita seasoning is a game-changer. It’s fresher, tastier, and healthier than store-bought versions. Plus, you can tweak it to your liking. Once you try this blend, you’ll wonder why you ever bought the packets. Happy cooking!

Fajita Seasoning
Print

Fajita Seasoning

Skip store-bought mixes with this simple fajita seasoning blend! Smoky, spicy, and perfectly balanced for chicken, steak, or veggies. Ready in minutes—no fancy ingredients needed.
Course Condiment, Seasoning
Cuisine Mexican, Tex-Mex
Keyword DIY fajita spice, easy seasoning blend, fajita seasoning, homemade spice mix, homemade taco seasoning
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings 1 batch (about ¼ cup)
Calories 5kcal
Author Abby Marlow

Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tbsp ground cumin
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp cayenne pepper adjust for heat
  • ½ tsp sugar optional

Instructions

  • In a small bowl, combine all spices.
  • Whisk thoroughly until evenly mixed.
  • Taste and adjust heat (add more cayenne if desired).
  • Store in an airtight container for up to 6 months.
  • Use 2-3 tbsp per pound of meat or veggies when cooking.

Notes

Tip: For extra depth, toast whole cumin seeds before grinding.
Variation: Add 1 tsp lime zest for a citrusy kick. This fajita seasoning also works great in marinades!
Nutrition:
(Serving: 1 tsp) Calories: 5, Fat: 0.2g, Carbs: 1g, Protein: 0.3g

Explore More Recipes on Our Blog

Love bold flavors? Try these next:

Each of these dishes pairs perfectly with your new homemade fajita seasoning!

Leave a Comment

Recipe Rating