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Easy Homemade Chicken Taco Seasoning

An easy homemade chicken taco seasoning that takes easy kitchen staples and turns them into a delicious spice blend! 
Prep Time5 minutes
Course: Seasoning
Cuisine: Mexican
Diet: Gluten Free
Keyword: chicken taco seasoning, easy beef tacos, how to make chicken tacos
Method: No Cook
Author: Ashley McCrary

Equipment

Ingredients

BIG BATCH (Makes about 1 1/2 cups)

  • 1/2 cup + 1 Tablespoon chili powder
  • 3 1/2 Tablespoon cumin
  • 1 Tablespoon salt
  • 1/2 Tablespoon finely ground pepper
  • 2 Tablespoons paprika
  • 2 Tablespoons garlic powder
  • 1 Tablespoon onion powder
  • 3 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • OPTIONAL 2 teaspoons red pepper flakes for spice

Small Batch (Enough for 2-2 1/2 lbs ground turkey/beef) 

  • 1 1/2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 2 1/2 teaspoons cumin
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons paprika
  • 1 teaspoons oregano
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoons pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes OPTIONAL

Instructions

  • Add all of the ingredients to a wide-mouth mason jar. Shake to combine. Store in the pantry for the lifespan of the spices. About 7-8 months. 
  • Use 2 1/2-3 tablespoons per pound depending on how much spice and flavor you like. I always add 3 or a little more with 1/4 cup broth or 1 8 oz can of tomato sauce per 1 lb. of meat. 

Video

Notes

Mac’s Pro Tips

  • Make a Big Batch: If you want to make a lot so you always have some on hand, see the instructions in the recipe card to make a big batch!
  • Make a Small Batch: If you have just one 1 taco seasoning packet worth, make the small batch in the recipe card above. 
  • Spice Level: You can customize the spice level based on your preferences. Omit the red pepper flakes for a milder spice level. If very sensitive to spice, cut the chili powder in half. If you want to add extra spice, add a little cayenne pepper!
  • Make Ahead: This recipe is perfect for making ahead. Make the big batch so you always have some on hand when you need it. It stores well in an airtight container or mason jar in your spice cabinet. 
  • Give as a Gift: I love giving homemade spice blends as gifts. Get mini mason jars, fill them with chicken taco seasoning, and tie them with a bow for a cute and easy gift. 

Serving Tips: Ways To Use This Spice Blend

  • 2 1/2-3 tablespoons of the big batch will replace 1 store-bought taco packet.
  • The small batch recipe replaces 1 store-bought taco packet.
  • Use to season any chicken, turkey, or even beef!
  • Make chicken tacos, enchiladas, chicken nachos, chicken fajitas, and more. 

Easy Chicken Tacos: To make easy chicken tacos follow these steps!

  1. Cut 1lb of boneless, skinless chicken breasts into cubes. 
  2. Place your cubed chicken in a zip-top bag with olive oil, lime juice, and 2.5 tablespoons of seasoning. Shake to coat.
  3. Over medium heat, sauté your seasoned chicken in olive oil.
  4. Once cooked, remove from heat and add to warmed corn tortillas
  5. Top with your favorite toppings like sour cream, cheese, cilantro, tomato, lettuce, and more!

Easy Beef Tacos: You can even use this seasoning for beef tacos! Here are the steps. 

  1. Saute 1lb of ground beef over medium heat.
  2. Once cooked, drain the fat and return to low heat. 
  3. Sprinkle in 1 packet (2.5 tablespoons) of taco seasoning with 1/3 cup of water or broth.
  4. Let simmer for 5-10 minutes adding more water if needed. 
  5. Remove from heat and serve over your favorite tortillas with toppings! 

Storage Tips

  • If you make the big batch, store your leftover seasoning in a mason jar with the lid tightly closed in a cool, dark, dry place like your spice cabinet. Use it when you need taco seasoning!