If you’re wondering how to make fajita seasoning mix yourself, then either you’re looking for savings, or don’t like the fillers and sugar in store bought mixes. Both are great reasons! Fortunately, this simple homemade fajita seasoning recipe comes together in less than 5 minutes. Seasoning mixes are one of those items that seem pretty harmless, right? It’s just spices mixed together? WRONG. I found this out after poring over dozens of fajita seasoning labels to find what’s similar. And I was surprised to find a few things… many contain sugar, which is why I give an option to include Besti in this homemade fajita seasoning mix; bromelain, a meat tenderizer; cornstarch, and MSG. Some of these things serve a purpose (meat tenderizer = awesome!) and sugar will obviously add sweetness, but cornstarch and MSG? No thanks! So, I came up with an easy 7-ingredient version of my own. You’re going to love it!
What Is Fajita Seasoning?
Fajita seasoning is a Mexican spice blend primarily used to cook fajita meat and vegetables. The most common fajita seasoning ingredients are listed below.
Fajita Seasoning Ingredients
You only need a few common ingredients to make DIY fajita seasoning:
Chili powder – This is the primary ingredient in taco seasoning. It adds flavor and a little heat. Sea salt – I like to include this to have the amount built in for my fajita recipes, but you could omit it and add separately to your liking. Garlic powder Onion powder Paprika Cumin Dried oregano Cayenne pepper – This makes it hot! Omit or reduce if you don’t like much spice.
This fajita seasoning recipe also contains two optional ingredients that make it special:
How To Make Fajita Seasoning
Once you see how to make fajita seasoning from scratch, you’ll never need to buy it again! And even if you add the tenderizer, the cost is much more reasonable than purchasing it – without worrying about fillers or weird ingredients. Simply mix all the fajita seasoning ingredients together in a jar, and you’re done!
Is fajita seasoning gluten-free?
Yes, this fajita seasoning recipe is naturally gluten-free. If this matters to you, be careful with store bought versions, which sometimes contain fillers that have gluten.
Is fajita seasoning spicy?
Yes, this fajita seasoning is moderately spicy. Reduce or omit the cayenne pepper if you don’t like heat.
What does the bromelain in the fajita mix recipe do?
Bromelain powder is a natural enzyme that comes from pineapple. It naturally breaks down proteins, so is used in many commercial meat seasonings as a tenderizer. Those usually contain sugar, so be sure to use a pure powder instead of a liquid version. If you don’t have it, it’s fine to just skip it, too. IMPORTANT: If you do use bromelain powder, be sure to cook your meat right away after seasoning. The enzyme reaction will continue until you cook it, so if you let meat sit in a bromelain-containing seasoning for too long, it will be mushy. If you like your fajitas (or any cut of steak) cooked less than medium-well or well done, it’s best to skip the bromelain powder, because it won’t stop working until the meat reaches 160 degrees F.
How much fajita seasoning per pound of meat?
Use 1 tablespoon of simple chicken fajita seasoning per pound of chicken. Similarly use the same amount for steak or seafood, too. This amount varies depending on what fajita seasoning recipe you use and how spicy you like things, but is a good rule of thumb for this specific fajita seasoning recipe.
What is the difference between fajita seasoning and taco seasoning?
These two seasonings are very similar. In fact, if you don’t have fajita seasoning on hand, you can often use taco seasoning for a close-enough fajita seasoning substitute. The differences will vary depending on the recipes you use, but in general:
Taco seasoning contains more cumin and paprika, while fajita seasoning has more garlic and onion powder. Fajita seasoning typically has sugar (or in this case, a natural sweetener) and a tenderizer, while taco seasoning does not.
Fajita Seasoning Mix Storage Instructions
Can you make it ahead?
Yes, this homemade fajita seasoning recipe keeps very well.
How to store homemade fajita seasoning mix
Store simple fajita seasoning recipe in an airtight container for up to 1 year. It will last longer, but tastes best within a year!
How To Use Fajita Seasoning
There are so many ways to use this easy homemade fajita seasoning! Here are some ideas:
Fajitas – Of course, the obvious way to use fajita seasoning is for making fajitas! One of the fastest ways is Instant Pot Steak Fajitas. Ground beef – Similar to taco seasoning, you can add water and homemade fajita seasoning to your beef for a flavorful Mexican meat. Perfect for a taco salad if you don’t have taco seasoning. Juicy chicken – Sprinkle your chicken with fajita seasoning before baking. Steak – If you like your steak with a Mexican flair, fajita seasoning is perfect for that. Sauteed vegetables – Check my low carb vegetables list for low carb options.
More Homemade Seasoning Recipes
If you like this homemade chicken fajita seasoning, you might also like some of these other homemade seasoning recipes:
Cajun Seasoning – Simple and packed with flavor and a touch of heat. Try it on veggies, burgers, and of course, keto jambalaya! Italian Seasoning – Just 6 ingredients to make this Italian seasoning and you probably have all of them already. Use it in sauces, veggies, and zucchini noodles. Taco Seasoning – Gluten-free, and made with natural and simple ingredients you can find at any store. Chili Seasoning – Very similar to fajita seasoning, but more suited for chili.
Spice Jars – Once you get started making your own healthy seasonings, you need somewhere to put them! This kit has everything you need, including labels and a funnel for easy transfer. Bromelain powder – If you’d like to add this optional ingredient in this fajita seasoning recipe, it will make your meat so much more tender. Highly recommended!
Simple Homemade Fajita Seasoning Mix Recipe Pin It For Later!
Share your recipe picture by tagging @wholesomeyum and hashtag it #wholesomeyum on Instagram, or in our Facebook support group, too - I’d love to see it! Makes approximately 1/3 cup, or enough for 5 pounds of meat. Use 1 tablespoon seasoning per pound of meat.
