The Ultimate Guide to Chicken Taco Seasoning: Kick Your Taco Game Up a Notch!

Let’s face it – store-bought taco seasoning packets are convenient, but they often fall flat with their bland, one-dimensional flavors that leave your chicken tacos tasting…well, ordinary. If you’re tired of mediocre tacos and want to elevate your Taco Tuesday experience, making your own chicken taco seasoning is the way to go!

I’ve been making homemade taco seasonings for years, and trust me, once you try this approach, you’ll never go back to those store-bought packets again. The difference is seriously night and day.

Why Make Your Own Chicken Taco Seasoning?

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s talk about why homemade seasoning is just better:

• Cost-effective – Way cheaper than buying individual packets
• Healthier – No MSG, preservatives, or fillers (many store brands contain cornstarch, sugar, and anti-caking agents)
• Customizable – Adjust the spiciness and salt levels to your preference
• Better flavor – Bold, smoky, and layered flavors that store-bought seasonings can’t match
• Convenience – Make a big batch and always have it on hand

One of my friends tried this recipe and texted me “OMG why didn’t I start making my own taco seasoning years ago?!” That’s the typical reaction I get

The Perfect Chicken Taco Seasoning Recipe

After testing countless variations I’ve landed on this perfect blend that brings out the best in chicken tacos. It’s got just the right balance of smoky, savory and slightly spicy notes.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 2-4 tablespoons chili powder (McCormick recommended for milder flavor)
• 2-3 tablespoons ground cumin
• 1-2 tablespoons smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
• 2 teaspoons onion powder
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried Mexican oregano (regular oregano works too)
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 teaspoons salt (adjust to taste)
• Optional: ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (for extra heat)

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a small bowl or jar
2. Whisk together (or seal and shake if using a jar)
3. Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place
4. Use 2 tablespoons of seasoning per pound of chicken

That’s literally it! Takes about 5 minutes to throw together, and you’ll have enough for several taco nights.

Why These Ingredients Work Together

Each ingredient in this blend plays an important role:

Chili powder provides that signature taco flavor and adds color to your chicken. I like using McCormick brand because it’s milder – if you’re outside the US/Canada, be careful as chili powder elsewhere is often pure ground chilies and much spicier!

Cumin brings that earthy, warm taste that’s essential for authentic Tex-Mex flavor. It’s the backbone of good taco seasoning.

Smoked paprika adds a lovely smoky sweetness. This is one of my secret ingredients that takes the seasoning from good to great.

Garlic and onion powders provide those savory base notes without having to chop anything fresh.

Mexican oregano has hints of citrus and floral pepper that regular oregano doesn’t. It’s worth seeking out, but regular oregano works in a pinch.

Black pepper adds that familiar peppery kick.

Salt enhances all the other flavors – don’t skip it, but feel free to adjust the amount to your dietary needs.

How to Use Your Homemade Chicken Taco Seasoning

Now that you’ve got this amazing seasoning blend, here’s how to use it for the best chicken tacos:

For Ground Chicken Tacos:

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with 1 tablespoon olive oil
2. Add 1 pound of ground chicken and break it apart with a spoon
3. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of your homemade seasoning over the chicken
4. Stir well to coat the chicken as it cooks
5. Add ½ cup chicken broth or water and bring to a simmer
6. Cook until most of the liquid is absorbed (5-10 minutes)
7. Serve in warm tortillas with your favorite toppings

For Shredded Chicken Tacos:

1. Place boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs in a slow cooker
2. Sprinkle with 2-3 tablespoons of your seasoning blend
3. Add 1 cup of canned diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel)
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours
5. Shred the chicken with two forks
6. Serve in your favorite tortillas with toppings

Beyond Tacos: Other Uses for Your Seasoning Blend

This versatile chicken taco seasoning isn’t just for tacos! Here are some other ways I use it:

• Sprinkle on popcorn for a zesty snack
• Season roasted potatoes or chickpeas
• Add to soups and chilis for extra flavor
• Mix into sour cream or Greek yogurt for an easy dip
• Use as a rub for grilled chicken or pork
• Season eggs for breakfast tacos
• Add to quesadillas, enchiladas, or burrito bowls

What to Serve with Your Chicken Tacos

To complete your taco feast, consider these delicious accompaniments:

• Toppings: Shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado slices
• Sides: Mexican rice, beans (try charro beans for something special), roasted corn salsa
• Drinks: Margaritas, horchata, or Mexican beer with lime

FAQs About Homemade Chicken Taco Seasoning

Q: How long does homemade taco seasoning last?
A: When stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark place, it will maintain peak flavor for about 6 months.

Q: How much seasoning equals one store-bought packet?
A: Typically, 2 tablespoons of homemade seasoning equals one packet.

Q: Is this seasoning spicy?
A: As written, it’s mild to medium heat. Adjust the red pepper flakes or use cayenne pepper to increase the spiciness.

Q: Can I use this for beef tacos too?
A: Absolutely! Though some people prefer a bit less cumin and a touch of brown sugar when using it for beef.

Q: Is this seasoning gluten-free?
A: Yes, all the spices are naturally gluten-free, unlike some store packets that may contain fillers with gluten.

My Final Thoughts

I’ve been making this chicken taco seasoning for years now, and it never disappoints. The comments I get from friends and family when they taste these tacos are worth the extra 5 minutes it takes to mix up this blend.

The beauty of homemade seasoning is that you can tweak it to suit your family’s preferences. Like it spicier? Add more red pepper flakes. Watching your sodium? Cut back on the salt. It’s totally customizable!

So next time you’re planning taco night, skip those bland store-bought packets and whip up this homemade chicken taco seasoning instead. Your taste buds (and your dinner guests) will thank you!

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Note: This recipe makes about 5-8 tablespoons of seasoning, depending on how heaping your measurements are. I usually double or triple the recipe to have plenty on hand for future taco nights!