Make a homemade fajita seasoning mix using spices you likely already have in your pantry. This easy blend is perfect for fajitas and other dishes, and it takes less than 5 minutes to prepare.
I waited far too long to make my own fajita spice mix, but it’s so simple and quick there’s no reason not to have a jar ready. This blend brightens chicken, beef, vegetables and even tofu.
Use the mix for Skillet Chicken Fajitas or to season burritos, taco fillings, roasted vegetables, or chicken lettuce wraps. If a recipe calls for several individual spices, you can often substitute this mix instead—just omit duplicate seasonings listed in the original recipe.
How to make homemade fajita seasoning mix
What you need:
- 5 minutes
- Jar or airtight container
- Common spices from the pantry
You can mix the spices directly in a jar and seal, or combine them in a bowl and transfer to a container afterward. Either method works—just make sure the mix is well blended and stored airtight.
My version uses salt, garlic powder, chili (or cayenne), paprika, cumin, black pepper, dried oregano, a touch of sugar, and cornstarch. Sugar and cornstarch are optional—cornstarch can help the seasoning cling to meat, and sugar can balance heat, but both can be omitted if you prefer.
If you like smoky flavor, swap regular paprika for smoked paprika. To increase heat, add more chili powder or cayenne pepper. Adjust salt to taste.
The spice level here was mild-to-medium—easy to customize. Store the seasoning in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight for best shelf life.
Fajitas originally referred to skirt steak, not the assembled dish we know today. Over time people experimented and expanded the name to include the whole flavorful meal. The result is a versatile, well-loved flavor profile you can recreate at home with this simple mix.
What do you think of this homemade blend?
Homemade Fajita Seasoning Mix
Ingredients
- 3 teaspoons Cayenne Pepper (or chili powder)
- 3 teaspoons Salt
- 3 teaspoons Garlic Powder
- 3 teaspoons Paprika (preferably smoked)
- 3 teaspoons Cumin
- ½ teaspoon Black Pepper
- 3 teaspoons Dried Oregano
- 3 teaspoons Granulated Sugar (optional)
- 3 teaspoons Cornstarch (optional)
Instructions
-
In a small bowl, mix all ingredients until well combined. Transfer the blend to a jar and seal tightly.
-
Store in a cool, dry place. Use about 2–2½ tablespoons of seasoning per pound (450 g) of chicken, or adjust to taste.
Notes
- Use 2–2½ tablespoons of this mix per pound (450 g) of chicken pieces.
- Store in an airtight jar to preserve freshness.
- Cornstarch and sugar are optional and can be omitted.
- Reduce salt slightly if you prefer a lower-sodium blend.
- If you don’t have cayenne, substitute with chili powder.
Nutrition
, Carbohydrates: 36 g
, Protein: 4 g
, Fat: 3 g
Nutrition information is an estimate and may vary based on ingredients and portion sizes.
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