It’s taco night and your kitchen is filled with the delicious aroma of sizzling chicken. But wait – what’s the secret that makes your tacos taste so amazing? It’s all in the seasoning!
Perfect chicken tacos start with the right seasoning. Chicken taco seasoning is your flavor booster, and trust me, it’s easier to make than you might think (especially when I use it for Shredded Crispy Chicken Tacos). I learned this trick from my mamma, who could turn any meal into a flavor explosion, and now it’s time for you to experience the same magic.
Yummy…! 😉
Ingredients Used to Make Chicken Taco Seasoning
To create your own best chicken taco seasoning recipe, grab these everyday ingredients:
- Chili Powder: This is your flavor base, giving a rich depth.
- Cumin: Adds that warm, earthy undertone.
- Garlic Powder: For a savory kick.
- Onion Powder: Complements with a hint of sweetness.
- Paprika: Brings a touch of smoky goodness.
- Oregano: A dash of herbal freshness.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for perfect seasoning balance.
- Red Pepper Flakes (optional): For those who like a bit of heat.
How to Make Chicken Taco Seasoning
Ready to up your taco game? Here’s how to mix up your own chicken taco seasoning:
- Mix the Spices: In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of chili powder, 1 tablespoon of cumin, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1 teaspoon of oregano, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. If you’re feeling adventurous, add red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Stir Together: Use a whisk or spoon to blend everything well. You want an even mix of all those fantastic flavors.
- Store: Transfer your seasoning to an airtight container. Keep it in a cool, dry place, and it’ll stay fresh for up to 6 months.
- Use: When it’s time to cook your chicken, sprinkle about 2 tablespoons of the mix per pound of meat. Mix well and cook as usual for tasty chicken tacos.
There you have it! Your homemade chicken taco seasoning is ready to transform taco night into a flavorful fiesta. With just a few simple ingredients and a bit of mixing, you’re on your way to taco perfection. Enjoy every bite and let the flavor party begin!
Quick Cooking Recipe
- Preparation Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Author: Jen Sharpin | So Damn Delish
- Yield: 5-6 pounds of chicken
Turn your taco night into a flavor fiesta with this easy chicken taco seasoning recipe. It’s quick to make, budget-friendly, and packed with all the bold, mouthwatering flavors you love.
Ingredients
- Chili Powder
- Cumin
- Garlic Powder
- Onion Powder
- Paprika
- Oregano
- Salt and Pepper
- Red Pepper Flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Combine all spices in a small bowl: 2 tablespoons of chili powder, 1 tablespoon of cumin, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1 teaspoon of oregano, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper.
- Mix well.
- Store in an airtight container.
Notes
- Feel free to adjust the spice levels based on your taste. Add more red pepper flakes for extra heat or skip them for a milder seasoning.
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 20
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 0.5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0.4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Substitutions for Chicken Taco Seasoning
Creating your own chicken taco seasoning allows for flexibility and personalization to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Here are some substitutions to consider:
Allergies and Dietary Restrictions
- Salt Substitute: Use a low-sodium salt substitute if you need to reduce sodium intake.
- Onion and Garlic Sensitivity: Replace garlic and onion powder with their low-FODMAP alternatives, like garlic-infused oil or chives.
Spice Substitutes
- Chili Powder: Use ancho chili powder or a blend of cayenne and paprika if you don't have regular chili powder.
- Cumin: Substitute with coriander powder for a different, yet complementary flavor.
- Paprika: If out of paprika, use a combination of cayenne and a small amount of sugar to mimic its flavor profile.
Herb Substitutes
- Oregano: Replace with marjoram for a similar herbal note.
- Red Pepper Flakes: Use fresh chopped chili or hot sauce to add heat.
How to Use Chicken Taco Seasoning
Your homemade chicken taco seasoning is versatile and can elevate various dishes beyond just tacos. Here are some creative ways to use this seasoning to enhance your favorite cuisines:
Chicken Tacos
- Season the Chicken: Sprinkle about 2 tablespoons of the best chicken taco seasoning packet per pound of chicken. You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thighs, or even ground chicken.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a bit of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until it’s fully cooked through and slightly crispy.
- Assemble Tacos: Serve the seasoned chicken in warm tortillas. Top with your favorite taco toppings like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, cheese, sour cream, and guacamole.
Fajitas
- Marinate the Chicken: Mix the chicken taco seasoning with a bit of olive oil and lime juice. Coat chicken strips with the mixture and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Cook with Vegetables: Sauté the marinated chicken with sliced bell peppers and onions until everything is tender and cooked through.
- Serve: Serve the fajita mixture in warm tortillas with your favorite toppings.
Burrito Bowls
- Season the Chicken: Use the chicken taco seasoning to season diced or shredded chicken.
- Build Your Bowl: Layer seasoned chicken over a bed of rice. Add black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, cheese, and avocado.
- Drizzle with Sauce: Finish with a drizzle of salsa, sour cream, or a squeeze of lime.
Enchiladas
- Prepare the Filling: Mix seasoned, cooked, and shredded chicken with a bit of enchilada sauce.
- Roll the Enchiladas: Spoon the chicken mixture into tortillas, roll them up, and place them seam-side down in a baking dish.
- Bake: Top with more enchilada sauce and shredded cheese. Bake until bubbly and golden.
Salads
- Season the Chicken: Sprinkle the chicken taco seasoning over chicken breasts or thighs and grill or pan-sear until fully cooked.
- Create a Salad: Slice the cooked chicken and serve over a bed of mixed greens. Add toppings like black beans, corn, avocado, cherry tomatoes, and cheese.
- Dress the Salad: Drizzle with a lime-cilantro dressing or your favorite vinaigrette.
For more easy and DELISH recipes that make every meal a winner, check out So Damn Delish. I’m all about turning simple ingredients into spectacular dishes that won’t break the bank or your schedule!
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Perfect Chicken Taco Seasoning: Spice Up Your Taco Nights!
Turn your taco night into a flavor fiesta with chicken taco seasoning recipe at sodamndelish. It’s quick to make and packed with all the bold flavors you love.
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 5-6 pounds of chicken
Ingredients
- Chili Powder
- Cumin
- Garlic Powder
- Onion Powder
- Paprika
- Oregano
- Salt and Pepper
- Red Pepper Flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Combine all spices in a small bowl: 2 tablespoons of chili powder, 1 tablespoon of cumin, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1 teaspoon of oregano, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper.
- Mix well.
- Store in an airtight container.
Notes
- Feel free to adjust the spice levels based on your taste. Add more red pepper flakes for extra heat or skip them for a milder seasoning.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 20
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 0.5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0.4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
