DIY Chicken Taco Seasoning Mix for Flavorful Tacos

Ditch the store-bought packets and make a simple, flavorful Homemade Chicken Taco Seasoning at home. Combine common pantry spices with chicken bouillon granules for a savory, well-rounded mix that seasons cooked ground chicken or turkey, or works as a marinade for raw poultry. This recipe makes about 6 tablespoons — roughly the equivalent of three 2-tablespoon store-bought envelopes.

Craving Chicken Tacos? Use this homemade chicken taco seasoning!

This blend balances smoky ancho chili powder, garlic and onion powders, Mexican oregano, cumin, and coriander. Chicken bouillon granules add savory depth and salt. Use it to season ground chicken or turkey, or mix with oil and lime juice to marinate chicken for grilling.

Use about 2 tablespoons of this seasoning per 1 to 2 pounds of meat, adjusting for taste and sodium preferences.

To Make This Chicken Taco Seasoning You Will Need:

• ancho chili powder – Gives a smoky, rich flavor; mild to medium heat.
• chicken bouillon granules – Adds savory umami, salt, and roasted poultry flavor.
• black pepper – Provides subtle bite.
• paprika – Adds color and mild sweetness.
• mexican oregano – Earthy and slightly bitter; regular oregano can be substituted.
• cumin (ground) – Warm, earthy, with a hint of citrus.
• garlic powder – Milder, slightly sweet garlic flavor.
• onion powder – Concentrated onion flavor.
• coriander (ground) – Citrusy and slightly sweet.
• cayenne pepper – Finishes with warming heat; adjust to taste.

WHAT ARE THE BEST SPICES FOR MAKING YOUR OWN SEASONINGS AND SPICE BLENDS?

Choose spices that fit your budget and taste. Higher-quality spices often offer better color, aroma and flavor. Popular reliable brands include Morton & Bassett, Simple Organic, Frontier Co-op and Penzeys. Use what you enjoy and store spices in a cool, dark place to preserve their vibrancy.

In a container with a tight-fitting lid, measure and add the following:

• 2 tablespoons ancho chili powder (or regular chili powder)
• 2 tablespoons chicken bouillon granules
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano (rub between your palms to break it up)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or less, to reduce heat)

What is Ancho Chili Powder?

Ancho chili powder comes from dried poblano peppers that are ground into a powder. It offers a mild to moderate smoky heat and a deep, slightly fruity flavor, making it ideal in Mexican and Tex-Mex recipes.

Stir the spices thoroughly until evenly combined.

Once blended, transfer to a jar and secure the lid tightly. Store in a cool, dry, dark place for up to six months for best flavor, though it may remain usable longer.

Now you have a versatile homemade chicken taco seasoning ready for tacos, bowls, grilled chicken, and other taco-inspired dishes. Homemade blends let you control salt and heat while delivering fresh flavor.

Enjoy!