Last Updated on October 25, 2023 by Toya
My go-to chili seasoning recipe adds the most amazing fiery flavors to chili recipes!

Chili seasoning mix
This homemade chili seasoning is the perfect seasoning mix to use for any chili recipe. It is a great substitute for store-bought chili seasoning in a pinch.
This seasoning blend is also great because it is free of additives and preservatives!
What is chili seasoning made of?
Chili seasoning blend is a combination of spices and herbs like chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, oregano, and salt.
- Chili Powder: This is the primary ingredient and source of heat in chili seasoning. It’s usually made from dried and ground chili peppers, which can range from mild to hot varieties.
- Cumin: Ground cumin adds an earthy and smoky flavor to the mix, complementing the heat of the chili powder.
- Paprika: Paprika can be either sweet or smoked, contributing a subtle sweetness or a smoky depth, respectively, to the seasoning.
- Oregano: Dried oregano provides an herbaceous and aromatic note, balancing the heat and richness of the chili.
- Garlic Powder: Garlic powder enhances the savory aspect of the seasoning, adding a hint of garlic flavor.
- Onion Powder: Onion powder complements the garlic powder by introducing a mild onion flavor.
- Salt: Salt is a fundamental component that helps to bring out and balance the flavors in the chili.
- Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a touch of spiciness and depth.
Chili seasoning ingredients
- 2 tablespoons of paprika
- 1 tablespoon of cumin
- 2 teaspoons of cayenne
- 2 teaspoons of garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons of onion powder
- 1 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 teaspoon of oregano
- 1 ½ teaspoons of salt
- ½ teaspoons of red pepper flakes
How to make chili seasoning
Gather all the ingredients in one place.
Add everything to a bowl, plate or jar and mix.
Pour the seasoning mix into a jar with a tight seal and use it whenever you need to.
Possible variations
This is a basic shrimp boil blend recipe. However, as mentioned above, it is versatile, so please feel free to play around with different herbs and spices and customize to your taste. For example, you can choose to…
- Use smoked paprika instead: Add some more smokiness by using smoked paprika.
- Add ground coriander to the seasoning blend: Add a citrusy, earthy, and slightly sweet flavor to the mix with some ground coriander.
How to use chili seasoning
Here are some easy ways to use chili spice blend:
- Chili: The most obvious use is to season chili, whether it’s a classic beef chili, a vegetarian chili, or a white chicken chili. Sprinkle the seasoning into the pot while cooking, and adjust the quantity to achieve your desired flavor.
- Roasted Vegetables: Toss vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, or butternut squash in a mix of olive oil and chili seasoning before roasting. The seasoning adds a spicy kick and depth of flavor to the veggies.
- Grilled Meats: Use chili seasoning as a dry rub for grilling steaks, chicken, or pork. It forms a delicious crust and infuses the meat with smoky heat.
Storing
Storing your homemade chili seasoning recipe is essential to preserve its flavor and potency. Follow these steps to ensure it stays fresh for an extended period:
- Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Store your chili seasoning mix in an airtight container in a cool, dry, and dark place. Avoid exposure to heat, moisture, or direct sunlight, as these elements can diminish the quality of the spices.
- Airtight Container: Use an airtight container, such as a glass jar with a tight-sealing lid or a resealable plastic container. The goal is to prevent moisture and air from getting inside the container, which can lead to clumping and loss of flavor.

Chili Seasoning Recipe
My go-to chili seasoning recipe adds the most amazing fiery flavors to chili recipes!
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons of paprika
- 1 tablespoon of cumin
- 2 teaspoons of cayenne
- 2 teaspoons of garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons of onion powder
- 1 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 teaspoon of oregano
- 1 ½ teaspoons of salt
- ½ teaspoons of red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Gather all the ingredients in one place.
- Add everything to a bowl, plate or jar and mix.
- Pour the seasoning mix into a jar with a tight seal and use it whenever you need to.