This authentic Fajita Seasoning recipe is a game-changer! Perfect for seasoning chicken, beef, shrimp, or vegetables, this bold and flavorful spice mix is ready in just 5 minutes.
Fajita Seasoning Recipe Rundown: What To Know
- Authentic: No fillers, no fluff – this blend is the real deal!
- Easy: Mix it, use it, or store it for later. It’s really that easy.
- Inexpensive: More affordable than store-bought options.
- Customizable: Make it spicy or go low-sodium, it’s up to you!
- Great for Gifting: Homemade spice mixes are always appreciated.
Ellen’s Notes
Ditch the store-bought packets! This authentic fajita seasoning mix recipe is made fresh, without preservatives or fillers, to create the best bold and smoky flavor. As a native Texan who grew up on sizzling fajitas, I guarantee this recipe will bring that unmistakable Texas-style fajita flavor you’re craving. Whether you’re searing steak, grilling chicken, or tossing up veggie or shrimp fajitas, this spice blend is everything you want in a true fajita seasoning.
Key Ingredient Notes
Budget-friendly and made with ingredients you likely already have on hand… Why buy it when you can make it better? Below you will find helpful notes and substitutions for a few key ingredients for this fajita seasoning mix recipe. Visit the printable recipe card below for the full ingredient list and amounts.
- Accent Seasoning (MSG): I know, I know, but just trust me… MSG is not bad for you or harmful! It’s used in my favorite fajita seasoning back home in Texas, and I promise if you check the back of most store-bought versions – you will see it listed. While you can skip it, this Accent seasoning really does help to enhance the flavors and make them pop! It’s my not-so-secret ingredient that will take your fajita seasoning to the next level.
- Chili Powder: Most store-bought chili powders are mild in heat but rich in flavor. Always check the label as some brands may be labeled “hot” or “extra spicy.”
- Cumin: Ground cumin is one of the essential spices that gives fajitas their unmistakable warm, earthy, and slightly nutty flavor. It’s a must-have in any authentic Tex-Mex seasoning blend.
- Garlic Powder: While I usually advise to measure garlic with your heart, you should practice some restraint here! Too much garlic powder will easily overpower the other spices. Especially if you are also using my steak fajita marinade as it also uses fresh garlic.
- Coriander: Coriander seeds are used to grow cilantro, but they do not have the soapy taste some people taste with fresh cilantro. Ground coriander has a more complex flavor, often described as warm, earthy, and slightly sweet and mild citrusy flavor.
- Coarse Sea Salt: If you use regular table salt instead, I recommend cutting the amount in half. Remember you can always add more salt later, but you can’t take it back out!
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How To Make Fajita Seasoning
Making a batch of this fajita seasoning recipe is as simple as measuring the spices and mixing them together. However, below are a few quick tips to ensure it turns out perfect. Visit the printable recipe card for the full instructions.
Make sure to check the expiration date on each spice before using. While spices don’t expire, they do loose potency and can become duller in color over time. For the most vibrant flavor, use spices that are less than a year old and have a strong, rich aroma. Remember, if the scent is faint, the flavor will be too.
Generously coat your protein in the seasoning and let it sit in the fridge for at least an hour, or up to overnight for maximum flavor!
How To Use Fajita Seasoning
Use it to season proteins, like chicken, steak, or shrimp. Veggies (like sliced bell pepper, onions, zucchini or yellow squash) are also delicious with fajita seasoning!
For the best flavor, don’t simply season the meat and cook it right away. Let it marinate for a few hours in the seasoning so the flavors really soak in. Also, remember that after marinating meat in the refrigerator, it’s best to let it sit on the counter for 20 to 30 minutes prior to cooking.
Then cook it however you like and serve your fajitas with all your favorite toppings like guacamole and pico de gallo!
Frequently Asked Questions
Not exactly. While they share many ingredients, fajita seasoning usually has a more balanced, smoky flavor and less of the chili-forward spice that’s common in taco seasoning.
Use about 1 to 1.5 tablespoons of seasoning per pound of meat. You can adjust this to taste, depending on how strong you want the flavor to be.
Keep it in an airtight jar or container in a cool, dark place like your pantry. Make sure to use fresh, dry measuring spoons to keep moisture out.
Yes, all the ingredients in this homemade blend are naturally gluten-free. Just double-check the labels on your spices to be safe.
Yes, just leave out the salt and season your dish to taste during cooking.
Yes! Mix this fajita seasoning with a few tablespoons of olive oil and the juice of one lime. Use it to marinate meat or vegetables for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight, before grilling or pan-searing.
No, fajita seasoning is mild. If you like more spice, boost the heat by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper. Chipotle or ancho chile powder can also be added for extra heat and smokiness.
Fajita Seasoning Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon accent seasoning (MSG), optional, but adds a ton of flavor
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon coarse sea salt
- ½ teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper
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Instructions
- Mix together all the spices in a bowl or jar. Store in an airtight container, out of direct sunlight, for up to one year.
Nutrition
More Homemade Seasoning Recipes
- Elevate your air fryer burger with the BEST burger seasoning!
- This robust steak seasoning recipe is great on any cut of steak.
- This copycat Old Bay seasoning recipe is the best all-purpose seasoning for seafood.
- Homemade ranch seasoning is better than any store-bought brand!
- Our Cajun seasoning recipe is loaded with flavor and perfectly spiced.
Way easier than I thought! I’ll never buy store bought again, thank you!