Taco Bell chicken seasoning can transform the ‘okay’ meal you were gonna make into a flavorful feast!
Mastering this homemade blend is easier than you think, and the best part is, you probably already have most of these spices in your pantry!
This recipe captures the essence of Taco Bell’s famous seasoning with a straightforward mix of chili powder, cumin, and paprika.
To really nail the flavor, toast your spices lightly before mixing them. Oh yeah baby!
How to Make Taco Bell Chicken Seasoning Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 tsp Onion Powder
- 1 tsp Cornstarch
- 1 tsp Garlic Salt
- 2 tsp Ground Cumin
- 2 tsp Paprika
- 2 tbsp Chili Powder
- 1 tsp Cayenne Pepper
- 1 tsp Sugar
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1:
In a small mixing bowl, combine all the spices: onion powder, cornstarch, garlic salt, ground cumin, paprika, chili powder, cayenne pepper, and sugar.
Step 2:
Stir the mixture thoroughly until all the ingredients are well-blended and appear uniform in color.
Step 3:
Store the seasoning mix in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Step 4:
To use, sprinkle the seasoning over boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into strips, ensuring even coverage.
Step 5:
Cook the seasoned chicken in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked, typically taking about 6-8 minutes per side.
Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe
Spice Level:
If you prefer a milder seasoning, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper to suit your taste.
Storage Tip:
Seal the container tightly and store it in a cool, dry place to keep your seasoning mix fresh for several months.
Even Coating:
For an even coating on your chicken, you might consider using a plastic bag to shake and coat the pieces more effectively.
Adjusting Saltiness:
Should you find the mix too salty, use half the amount of garlic salt and adjust according to your preference.
Flavor Enhancement:
Try marinating your chicken with the seasoning mix and a bit of lime juice for at least 30 minutes for enhanced flavor!
What to Serve with Taco Bell Chicken Seasoning
Warm Tortillas
You can’t go wrong with serving your chicken seasoned with Taco Bell’s mix in warm tortillas.
Corn tortillas have a unique flavor and texture, but flour tortillas are a crowd favorite.
Warming the tortillas on a skillet or directly over the flame makes your meal even more authentic!
Spanish Rice
Spanish rice is a classic match for any taco-flavored chicken dish.
Its slightly tangy and tomato-infused taste pairs incredibly well with the seasoned chicken.
Cooking the rice in chicken broth gives it an extra savory depth of flavor that complements the meal.
Grilled Vegetables
If you want a healthier side, grilling some veggies is a fantastic option.
Peppers, onions, zucchini, and mushrooms all caramelize beautifully and add a nice layer of freshness.
Drizzle them with a little olive oil and sprinkle salt before tossing them on the grill.
Black Bean Salad
Sometimes a simple black bean salad is all you need for a stand-out accompaniment.
Mixing black beans with corn, red bell pepper, and avocados creates a refreshing contrast.
Add lime juice, cilantro, and a bit of salt to tie it all together.
Sweet Potato Fries
For a twist, consider serving sweet potato fries alongside your seasoned chicken.
Their natural sweetness and crispy texture bring something unexpected yet delicious to the plate.
Try dusting them with a bit of chili powder for a subtle spicy kick.
Variations and Substitutions
Spice Adjustments
You can tweak the heat by adjusting the amount of cayenne pepper.
If you prefer a milder taste, consider using just a pinch of cayenne or replace it with red pepper flakes.
A smoky flavor can be achieved by using smoked paprika instead of regular paprika.
Herb Substitutes
If Mexican oregano is unavailable, try using coriander for a different twist.
Coriander imparts a slightly citrusy note that complements the other spices well.
Don’t hesitate to experiment with different herb combinations to find your unique blend.
Customizing Ingredients
For a unique taste, you can swap onion flakes with onion powder.
All-purpose flour can be replaced with cornstarch if needed, maintaining thickness and texture.
Alter the garlic salt to plain garlic powder and some regular salt to manage the sodium content.
How to Store Leftover Taco Bell Chicken Seasoning
Storing leftover Taco Bell chicken seasoning correctly keeps all those amazing flavors fresh and ready for your next dish!
You might be surprised how easy it is to keep it just like new.
Airtight Containers
Make sure you store the seasoning in an airtight container.
This prevents moisture from getting in and keeps the seasoning from losing its flavor.
Cool, Dry Place
Keep the container in a cool, dry place.
Your pantry or a cupboard away from direct sunlight works perfectly for this.
Label and Date
Label the container with the date you made the seasoning.
This helps you keep track of its freshness and ensures you’re using your homemade blend while it’s at its best!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overuse of Spices
Using too many spices at once can drown out individual flavors.
I know it’s tempting to add more, but keeping spices balanced makes a difference!
Insufficient Marination Time
Forgetting to marinate the chicken is a big missed opportunity for flavor.
You want those seasonings to soak right into the meat for the best outcome.
Try to marinate for at least 30 minutes or even longer for deeper flavor.
Incorrect Cooking Temperature
Cooking the chicken at the wrong temperature can lead to dryness or uneven cooking.
Aim for a medium-high heat to get that nice char on the outside.
Keeping an eye on the temperature helps the chicken stay juicy and perfectly cooked.
Taco Bell Chicken Seasoning Recipe
- 2 tsp Onion Powder
- 1 tsp Cornstarch
- 1 tsp Garlic Salt
- 2 tsp Ground Cumin
- 2 tsp Paprika
- 2 tbsp Chili Powder
- 1 tsp Cayenne Pepper
- 1 tsp Sugar
- In a small mixing bowl, combine all the spices: onion powder, cornstarch, garlic salt, ground cumin, paprika, chili powder, cayenne pepper, and sugar.
- Stir the mixture thoroughly until all the ingredients are well-blended and appear uniform in color.
- Store the seasoning mix in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- To use, sprinkle the seasoning over boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into strips, ensuring even coverage.
- Cook the seasoned chicken in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked, typically taking about 6-8 minutes per side.
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