Name: Pan Fried Tajín Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons Tajín seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon lime juice; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Fresh chopped cilantro and lime wedges for garnish (optional)

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Let me introduce you to a dish that’s about to become your weeknight superstar: Pan Fried Tajín Chicken. Imagine juicy, golden chicken breasts bursting with citrusy heat and a vibrant Mexican-inspired vibe, ready in under 30 minutes. This recipe takes the zingy charm of Tajín seasoning and wraps your favorite chicken cut in layers of flavor, making every bite as lively as it is delicious. Whether you serve it with rice, tuck it into tacos, or crown a fresh salad, this irresistible dish never fails to impress.

Pan Fried Tajín Chicken Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

For Pan Fried Tajín Chicken, a handful of everyday staples come together in a truly spectacular way. Each ingredient is carefully chosen to build layers of flavor, juicy texture, and that unmistakable Latino flair this dish is famous for. Here’s why every item in your lineup matters.

Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts soak up all the marinade and fry up tender, making the perfect base for this recipe.
Tajín seasoning: This citrusy chile-lime spice brings the magic—it’s the signature of this dish and gives the chicken its tangy kick.
Garlic powder: No kitchen should be without it—here, it adds mellow depth and mouthwatering aroma.
Onion powder: Essential for a rounded flavor, it works in the background to bring everything together.
Paprika: A sweet-smoky note that boosts color and adds a subtle warmth to every bite.
Black pepper: Just a touch for a little extra boldness and sharpness in the mix.
Lime juice: This brightens the flavors and works as a quick marinade for that signature Tajín tang.
Olive oil: Key to getting that perfectly crisp, golden crust while keeping the chicken juicy.
Fresh chopped cilantro and lime wedges (optional): The finishing touch—herby, aromatic, and just the pop of color and freshness every plate craves.

How to Make Pan Fried Tajín Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by placing your chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap. Grab a meat mallet (or even a rolling pin!) and gently pound them to an even thickness. This helps them cook quickly and evenly, keeping everything juicy and tender instead of dry or tough.

Step 2: Mix the Seasonings

In a small bowl, combine the Tajín seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper. This spice blend is what sets Pan Fried Tajín Chicken apart and gives it that electric flavor profile—don’t be shy about mixing it really well so every bit of chicken gets coated in zesty magic.

Step 3: Season and Marinate

Generously rub the seasoning blend all over both sides of each chicken breast. Once coated, drizzle the lime juice on top; the citrus helps the spices penetrate and keeps things ultra-tender. Let the chicken rest for 15–30 minutes if you have the time—this quick marinade is a game changer!

Step 4: Pan Fry to Perfection

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When it shimmers, lay the chicken breasts in (they should sizzle right away). Cook for 5–7 minutes per side, turning once, until they’re perfectly golden and reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Don’t crowd the pan—work in batches if needed for even browning.

Step 5: Rest and Slice

Transfer your chicken to a plate and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This little break lets the juices redistribute so every bite stays succulent and flavorful. Slice the chicken across the grain for the most tender results, and get ready to bask in the aroma!

How to Serve Pan Fried Tajín Chicken

Garnishes

A finishing sprinkle of fresh chopped cilantro and a few lime wedges elevate this vibrant plate. The herbal brightness and extra squeeze of lime make the flavors pop, adding a fresh, inviting look that instantly brightens your table.

Side Dishes

Pan Fried Tajín Chicken is fantastically versatile. Pair it with fluffy rice, tuck juicy slices into warm tortillas for easy tacos, or set it over a crisp salad for a lighter meal. Even a dollop of creamy avocado or a scoop of Mexican street corn can make it sing.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing the chicken thin and layering it in a colorful grain bowl, or chop it for zesty tacos and burrito bowls. For a brunch twist, serve it atop avocado toast or a hearty hash. The possibilities are endless—and each presentation brings something new to your table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Pan Fried Tajín Chicken keeps beautifully! Store any extra chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Slice or dice it as needed for salads, wraps, or sandwiches throughout the week.

Freezing

If you want to prepare in advance, this recipe freezes well. Once cooled, wrap individual chicken breasts tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-friendly bag for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the chicken gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, covered, until hot throughout. A squeeze of fresh lime just before serving helps revive that citrusy Tajín sparkle.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a juicier alternative and work just as brilliantly in Pan Fried Tajín Chicken. Just adjust your cook time since thighs can be a bit thicker and may need a few extra minutes to cook through.

Is Tajín spicy?

Tajín has a mild-to-medium spice level, mostly known for its tangy combination of chili, lime, and salt. If you’re looking for extra heat, feel free to sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix!

Can I prep the chicken ahead of time?

You sure can! Go ahead and pound, season, and marinate the chicken earlier in the day, then cover and refrigerate. It’ll be packed with even more flavor and ready to cook right before dinner.

What’s the best pan for frying this chicken?

A heavy-bottomed skillet like cast iron works beautifully for Pan Fried Tajín Chicken, holding heat evenly and helping you get that crave-worthy golden crust. Stainless steel or nonstick skillets work well too—just make sure they’re large enough so the chicken isn’t crowded.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The most reliable way is to use a meat thermometer; you’re looking for an internal temperature of 165°F at the thickest point. If you don’t have one handy, cut into the center; the chicken should be opaque and the juices should run clear.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving big flavor with minimal effort, you can’t beat Pan Fried Tajín Chicken. It’s simple, vibrant, and packed with personality, perfect for weeknight dinners or fun gatherings with friends. Give this recipe a try and watch it disappear right off the plate—your tastebuds and anyone else at your table will thank you!

Pan Fried Tajín Chicken Recipe

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4.9 from 17 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Pan Fried Tajín Chicken recipe is a delicious and flavorful dish that is quick and easy to make. Tender chicken breasts are seasoned with Tajín spice blend, garlic, and onion powder, then pan-fried to perfection. Serve with a squeeze of lime juice and fresh cilantro for a vibrant finish.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Seasoning:

2 tablespoons Tajín seasoning
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Other:

1 tablespoon lime juice
2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh chopped cilantro and lime wedges for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound to an even thickness using a meat mallet.
Season the Chicken: Mix Tajín seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper. Rub the seasoning mixture over both sides of each chicken breast. Drizzle lime juice over the chicken and marinate for 15–30 minutes.
Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken breasts for 5–7 minutes per side until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the pan, let it rest for 5 minutes, then slice and serve garnished with cilantro and lime wedges.