If you’re looking for bold flavor with minimal effort, Tajin Chicken is about to be your new go-to. This juicy, zesty dish is marinated in a vibrant blend of citrus and the iconic chili-lime seasoning that makes everything taste better—Tajin. It’s spicy, tangy, and perfectly balanced for a weeknight dinner that feels like something special.
Tajin, a Mexican seasoning made from chili peppers, lime, and salt, adds a delicious kick without overwhelming the dish. This recipe is all about letting the seasoning shine—paired with garlic, olive oil, and a splash of citrus for a marinade that infuses every bite with flavor.
Why You’ll Love Tajin Chicken
Tajin Chicken isn’t just a flavor bomb—it’s also:
- Quick and easy with minimal prep
- Made with just a handful of ingredients
- Perfect for grilling, baking, or pan-searing
- Naturally gluten-free and low carb
- Versatile enough to serve with rice, salads, tacos, or wraps
Whether you’re cooking for the family or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe fits right in.
Ingredients in Tajin Chicken
You’ll need only a few pantry staples for this bold, juicy chicken:
Chicken Thighs or Breasts: Boneless and skinless for quick cooking and easy marinating
Tajin Seasoning: The star of the show—zesty, salty, and slightly spicy
Garlic: Adds depth and a savory touch to the marinade
Olive Oil: Helps keep the chicken juicy and distributes the seasoning evenly
Lime Juice: Enhances the Tajin with extra citrus zing
Honey or Maple Syrup (optional): A hint of sweetness to balance the heat
Instructions
Marinate: In a bowl or zip-top bag, combine Tajin, minced garlic, olive oil, lime juice, and honey (if using). Add the chicken and mix to coat. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 8 hours for deeper flavor.
Cook:
- Grill: Preheat grill to medium-high. Cook chicken 5–6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
- Oven: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, or until juices run clear.
- Stovetop: Sear in a hot skillet with a bit of oil for 5–7 minutes per side.
Rest & Serve: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with your favorite sides or chop for tacos and bowls.
How to Make Tajin Chicken?
Pair it with:
Cilantro Lime Rice: Light and refreshing
Grilled Veggies: Think bell peppers, onions, or corn
Avocado Salad: Creamy, cooling contrast
Warm Tortillas: For a taco night upgrade
Cauliflower Rice or Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb option
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
Serving Size: 1 piece (approx. 4 oz cooked)
Calories: 250
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 580mg
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 3g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 27g
Cholesterol: 90mg
How to Serve Tajin Chicken?
Taco Night: Shred it and stuff into tortillas with slaw and crema
Salad Topper: Slice over greens with avocado and lime vinaigrette
Meal Prep Bowls: Layer with rice, beans, corn, and salsa
Party Platter: Serve sliced with toothpicks and dipping sauce for appetizers
Additional Tips
Adjust the Heat: Use extra Tajin for more kick, or mild varieties for less heat
Marinade Magic: Don’t skip the lime—it activates the chili flavor
Batch Cook: This chicken freezes well after cooking, perfect for meal prep
Make it Creamy: Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt as a cooling topping
Tips & Variations / Quick Tips
- Swap lime for orange juice for a sweet twist
- Use drumsticks or wings for a fun party platter
- Add sliced jalapeños or chipotle for smoky spice
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use Tajin on other proteins?
A1: Absolutely! Tajin works great on shrimp, fish, tofu, or even roasted veggies.
Q2: Is Tajin spicy?
A2: Tajin has a mild kick, but it’s more tangy than hot. You can always add more heat if desired.
Q3: How long should I marinate the chicken?
A3: A minimum of 30 minutes works, but for the best flavor, marinate for 2–8 hours.
Q4: Can I cook this in the air fryer?
A4: Yes! Air fry at 375°F for 16–18 minutes, flipping halfway.
Q5: What’s the best way to store leftovers?
A5: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Q6: Can I use skin-on chicken?
A6: Definitely—just be sure to adjust cooking time and crisp the skin for added flavor.
Tajin Chicken
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs chicken thighs boneless, skinless
- 2 tbsp Tajin seasoning
- 2 limes zest and juice separated
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Zest one lime and season both sides of the chicken thighs with Tajin seasoning. Transfer to a bowl and toss with the zest and juice from one lime. Let the chicken marinate for 15 minutes.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil.
- Pan fry the chicken thighs for 6 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Remove from heat and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes. Serve with the pan juices and squeeze the juice from the remaining lime wedges on top.
- Enjoy your delicious Tajin chicken!
Notes
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add more Tajin seasoning to taste.
- This chicken pairs well with rice, a light salad, or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
- Let the chicken rest after cooking to ensure the juices are locked in and the meat stays tender.
