Pan Fried Tajín Chicken Recipe
If you’re craving something zesty, quick, and impossibly flavorful, let me introduce you to Pan Fried Tajín Chicken. This dish is a total game-changer for weeknight dinners: juicy chicken kissed with a punch of citrus, a hint of heat, and that signature tangy Tajín magic. Whether you pile it onto rice, tuck it into tacos, or toss it over a salad, this chicken brings a sunny Mexican-inspired flair to your table in under 30 minutes. Get ready for a bold burst of flavor and a recipe you’ll find yourself making on repeat!
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll love how this recipe keeps things simple with just a handful of key ingredients, each one playing its part to deliver vibrant flavors and a gorgeous golden crust. Here’s what you’ll need for Pan Fried Tajín Chicken, plus a few handy tips for each:
- Chicken thighs or breasts: Opt for boneless, skinless pieces; thighs stay super juicy, while breasts give a leaner bite—choose your favorite!
- Tajín seasoning: The star of the show, this chili-lime blend brings that addictive tang and subtle heat.
- Garlic powder: Adds a mellow, aromatic backbone to the spice mix—don’t skip it!
- Onion powder: Rounds out the flavor, providing a savory depth that complements the Tajín perfectly.
- Olive oil: For a crisp, golden sear and a touch of richness.
- Butter: Just a little bit makes the chicken extra luscious and helps brown it beautifully.
- Lime juice: Brightens every bite and amplifies the Tajín’s citrus kick—freshly squeezed is best.
- Fresh cilantro (optional): A sprinkle on top adds a pop of color and fresh, herbal finish.
How to Make Pan Fried Tajín Chicken
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Start by patting your chicken dry with paper towels—this is crucial for getting that irresistible golden crust. Whether you go for thighs or breasts, removing excess moisture means the seasonings stick better and the chicken browns beautifully.
Step 2: Mix the Seasonings
In a small bowl, combine the Tajín seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder. This spice trio is the secret to Pan Fried Tajín Chicken’s signature flavor: tangy, savory, and just the right amount of heat. Mix well so every sprinkle is perfectly blended.
Step 3: Season the Chicken
Rub the spice blend evenly over both sides of each chicken piece. Don’t be shy—make sure every nook and cranny is coated! This is where all that crave-worthy flavor gets locked in.
Step 4: Sear in the Skillet
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbly, add the chicken in a single layer. Let it sizzle away for 5–6 minutes per side (time will depend on thickness) until each piece is gorgeously golden and cooked through. You’re aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Finish with Lime
In the last minute of cooking, squeeze the juice of a fresh lime right over the chicken. That citrusy burst brings the whole dish to life, making Pan Fried Tajín Chicken truly irresistible.
Step 6: Rest, Slice, and Serve
Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 3–5 minutes—this keeps it juicy and tender. Slice and serve, garnishing with a shower of fresh cilantro if you like that extra pop of color and freshness.
How to Serve Pan Fried Tajín Chicken
Garnishes
Fresh cilantro is a classic, but you can also drizzle with a little extra lime juice or scatter some thinly sliced radishes for crunch and color. A sprinkle of crumbled Cotija cheese or a few avocado slices would make the plate pop, too.
Side Dishes
Pan Fried Tajín Chicken pairs beautifully with fluffy rice, warm tortillas, or a crisp green salad. Try it with grilled corn, black beans, or a quick cabbage slaw for a full-on fiesta. The chicken’s bold flavors hold their own with just about any side you love.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the chicken and tuck it into tacos or burritos, layer it over nachos, or pile it into bowls with your favorite grains and veggies. It’s also fantastic chopped up and tossed into a salad with a creamy avocado dressing or stuffed into a crusty roll for a zippy sandwich.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let leftover Pan Fried Tajín Chicken cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It’ll stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days, making it perfect for meal prep lunches or quick weeknight dinners.
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze this chicken! Slice or leave whole, then wrap tightly and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. It’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture.
Reheating
To keep the chicken juicy, reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed. The microwave works too, but cover the chicken with a damp paper towel to prevent it from drying out. A quick warm-up is all it takes to bring back that fresh-cooked flavor.
FAQs
Can I use chicken tenders or cutlets instead?
Absolutely! Chicken tenders or thinly sliced cutlets cook even faster, making them a great choice if you’re in a hurry. Just keep an eye on the cooking time—they’ll be done in just a few minutes per side.
What if I don’t have Tajín seasoning?
If you can’t find Tajín, you can make a quick substitute with chili powder, lime zest, and a pinch of salt, but the authentic blend really brings that unique flavor and tang. Treat yourself to a bottle if you can!
Is Pan Fried Tajín Chicken spicy?
It has a gentle, zesty heat, but it’s mild enough for most palates. If you want more kick, add a pinch of cayenne or choose a spicier version of Tajín. For less heat, just use a bit less seasoning.
Can I make Pan Fried Tajín Chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook the chicken ahead and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. It reheats beautifully, so it’s perfect for meal prepping lunches or dinners during a busy week.
What’s the best way to use leftovers?
Leftover Pan Fried Tajín Chicken is incredibly versatile—try it in tacos, wraps, salads, or even on top of pizza for a flavorful twist. It’s also fantastic chopped up for meal-prep grain bowls or quick quesadillas.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend Pan Fried Tajín Chicken enough—it’s a bright, bold, and ridiculously easy way to spice up your dinner routine. If you love dishes that deliver maximum flavor with minimum effort, this one’s a must-try. Give it a whirl and let your taste buds take a little trip to flavor town!
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Pan Fried Tajín Chicken Recipe
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A flavorful and easy-to-make Pan Fried Tajín Chicken recipe featuring juicy chicken thighs or breasts seasoned with zesty Tajín spice, garlic, and onion powders, then finished with fresh lime juice and optional cilantro garnish for a bright Mexican-inspired dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasonings
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 1/2 tablespoons Tajín seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Cooking Fats and Garnish
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Juice of 1 lime
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear and help the seasoning stick evenly.
- Season Chicken: In a small bowl, combine Tajín seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder. Rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken pieces.
- Heat Pan and Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil and butter together in a large skillet over medium heat until hot and butter is melted and sizzling.
- Pan Fry Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet in a single layer. Cook without moving for 5–6 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
- Add Lime Juice: In the final minute of cooking, squeeze the fresh lime juice over the chicken to brighten the flavors.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from heat and let it rest for 3–5 minutes to retain juices. Slice if desired and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Notes
- Serve over rice, in tacos, or on top of a salad for a versatile meal.
- For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or use extra-spicy Tajín seasoning.
- This recipe works well with chicken tenders or cutlets for faster cooking time.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
