Are you craving vibrant, authentic Mexican flavors? Look no further! This homemade Mexican chicken seasoning recipe is your secret weapon for transforming ordinary chicken into an extraordinary culinary experience. It's incredibly easy to make, incredibly versatile, and perfect for adding a burst of sunshine to any meal. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is your passport to delicious, healthy meals. Get ready to elevate your chicken dishes to the next level!
Ingredients:
This recipe yields approximately ¼ cup of seasoning, enough to generously flavor 2-3 pounds of chicken. Feel free to double or triple it for larger batches.
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients: Before you begin, ensure you have all the spices measured and ready to go. This will make the process quick and efficient.
Step 2: Combining the Spices: In a small bowl, combine all the spices: chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Mix them thoroughly until they are evenly distributed.
Step 3: Storing Your Seasoning: Transfer the homemade Mexican chicken seasoning to an airtight container. This will preserve its freshness and flavor for several months. Label the container with the contents and date for easy identification.
Cooking Tips & Variations:
- Adjust the Heat: Want it spicier? Add more cayenne pepper or a pinch of chipotle powder. Prefer a milder flavor? Simply omit the cayenne pepper altogether.
- Experiment with Other Spices: Feel free to add other spices to customize your blend. A dash of smoked paprika adds a smoky depth, while a teaspoon of dried thyme provides an earthy aroma.
- Beyond Chicken: This seasoning blend is fantastic on pork, beef, fish, and even vegetables! Get creative and explore different applications.
- Make it a Rub: For extra flavor, use this seasoning as a dry rub for your chicken. Apply it generously before cooking, ensuring that it adheres to the meat properly.
Delicious Dishes You Can Make:
This versatile seasoning is perfect for a variety of quick dinner ideas, including:
- Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas: Toss sliced chicken and vegetables with the seasoning and roast on a sheet pan for an easy weeknight meal.
- Chicken Tacos: Marinate your chicken in the seasoning before cooking it for incredibly flavorful tacos.
- Chicken Enchiladas: Use the seasoning to flavor the chicken filling for your enchiladas.
- Slow Cooker Chicken: Add the seasoning to your slow cooker recipe for tender, flavorful chicken.
Nutritional Information (per 1 tablespoon):
- Calories: Approximately 15-20
- Protein: Negligible
- Fat: Negligible
- Carbohydrates: Negligible
This homemade Mexican chicken seasoning recipe is a simple yet effective way to elevate your cooking. It is a staple in my kitchen, and I'm confident it will become a favorite in yours too. Enjoy the delicious and easy recipes you create with it!