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This Homemade Fajita Seasoning uses just a handful of pantry spices to deliver bold, balanced flavor in seconds without the excess sodium and fillers hiding in store-bought packets.
Whether you are looking to make sizzling veggie fajitas, sheet pan chicken fajitas, or simply add flavor to roasted veggies, this seasoning blend will do the heavy lifting for you!
Why Make Your Own Fajita Seasoning?
While it may be tempting to grab a packet of fajita seasoning from your local grocery store, once you see how easy (and how much tastier) this homemade blend is, there will be no going back!
- Cleaner ingredients. No preservatives, fillers, or added sugar. Just simple dried spices and salt.
- Family-friendly flavor. Mild enough for picky eaters, but still packed with smoky, savory depth (aka no complaints at the table).
- Quick + budget-friendly. Costs pennies to make and comes together in under a minute.
- More than just fajitas. Just like my taco seasoning and chili seasoning, this blend works on everything from chicken to veggies to rice.
Spices in Fajita Seasoning
This blend keeps things simple, but each spice pulls its weight to create that classic fajita flavor.
- Chili Powder: Adds warmth and mild heat without overpowering. Use American chili powder, as some European blends are quite spicy.
- Cumin: Brings earthy depth and that classic Tex-Mex flavor.
- Smoked Paprika: Adds a rich, smoky depth. Use regular if that is all you have on hand.
- Garlic + Onion Powder: The backbone of savory flavor.
- Cayenne Pepper: Just a touch for heat. Add more or less to control heat.
- Salt + Pepper: Enhances everything else (and can be adjusted as needed).
Make It Your Own
- Want more heat? Increase the cayenne slightly.
- Keeping it mild? Skip the cayenne altogether.
- Reduce sodium. Cut the salt in half or leave it out and season dishes to taste.
Kristen's Key Tip
For the best flavor, use spices that are less than 6 months old. After that, they will begin to lose their potency and your spice blends may lack intense, bold flavor.
How to Make & Store
Measure, mix, store. Then use your fajita seasoning as desired.
- Mix. Combine all spices in a small bowl or jar. Shake or stir well.
- Store. Keep in an airtight container in a cool, dark place for up to 6 months for best flavor.
How to Use Fajita Seasoning
- Fajitas: Use 1-2 tablespoons per pound of chicken, steak, or shrimp before cooking.
- Swap for taco seasoning: Use as a 1:1 replacement for a milder, more balanced flavor. It works well in my classic taco meat recipe.
- Season veggies: Toss with peppers, onions, or potatoes before roasting at 400°F for 20-25 minutes to build deep flavor.
- Flavor basics: Stir into rice, beans, or even sprinkle over buttered corn for an easy upgrade.
Make a Big Batch
If fajitas (or anything Tex-Mex) are on regular rotation, double or triple this recipe so it's ready when you are. Because let's be honest, anything that saves you from measuring spices on a busy night is a win.
Store in an airtight jar and use as needed for up to 6 months.
This homemade fajita seasoning is a simple way to level up the flavor when cooking at home. Once you start using it, those little packets from the store won't stand a chance. xo, Kristen
Recipes to Use Fajita Seasoning
Homemade Fajita Seasoning
Ingredients
- 4 teaspoons chili powder
- 2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper, optional
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine 4 teaspoons chili powder, 2 teaspoon ground cumin, 2 teaspoon smoked paprika, 2 teaspoon kosher salt, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, and ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper Mix until well combined and then transfer to an airtight container or spice jar.
- Store in airtight container for up to 6 months in pantry or spice cabinet. Use as directed in any recipe that calls for fajita seasoning.
Equipment
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Tastes just like restaurant fajitas!! It’s a perfectly balanced seasoning.!
Thanks for sharing, Jess! Love hearing you enjoyed the seasoning so much!
I’ve never made homemade fajita seasoning before as I always had store bought. This blend was so much better than a premium name brand from the store! It’s your seasoning blend from now on! Thank you! I love your recipes!
Thrilled to hear you enjoyed, Ann! Thank you for sharing!
Followed your vegetable fajita and seasoning receipe to the letter and it worked out fantastic . It was also so simple , easy and scrumptious .
Having leftovers tonight. Really brillant meal for us vegetarians .
Thank you 👏👏
So happy to hear you enjoyed Deborah! It is a favorite here as well!
I made your recipe for a gathering the other day and everyone kept asking for the recipe. It was totally a hit!
Oh I love hearing that Shadi! Fajitas are always loved by company (especially when the seasoning is just right!)
I love this recipe because making your own seasoning is so important. This combination of flavors is delish and exactly what we needed!
YAY! I am so glad this flavored up your fajitas well Brandi!