Homemade Poultry Seasoning Recipe (Chicken or Turkey)

The right seasoning is the key to elevating your chicken or turkey dishes. Grocery store blends can be hit or miss; let’s face it, they often come with a long list of preservatives and additives. That’s why making your homemade poultry seasoning is a total game-changer. It’s super easy, and you control exactly what goes in, ensuring it’s fresh and flavorful.

Whether roasting a juicy chicken for Sunday dinner or preparing a festive turkey for Thanksgiving, a perfect blend of spices can bring your dish to life. Plus, you can tweak the ingredients to match your taste preferences. So grab your jars and whip up a batch of this delicious homemade blend!

If you are looking for more seasoning recipes, I have a few more you might want to try. For a classic seasoning for beef, try this steak seasoning. Or, if you are having a BBQ, a simple BBQ rub will be great for almost any meat dish you make.

Still in the mood for more flavor? Try making this six ingredient Italian seasoning for pizzas, pasta or chicken.

Reasons You’ll Love This Poultry Seasoning

• Customizable Flavors: You can adjust the ingredients to suit your taste, whether you prefer a more herbaceous blend or something with a kick.
• Fresh Ingredients: By making your seasoning blends, you can use fresh, high-quality ingredients and avoid the preservatives and additives found in many pre-packaged options.
• Cost-Effective: Creating your seasoning mix is often cheaper than buying specialty blends, and you can make larger batches for future use.
• Versatility: This seasoning isn’t just limited to chicken or turkey; it works wonderfully with various meats and even enhances vegetables, making it a must-have in your kitchen!

What’s in This Poultry Seasoning Recipe?

• Sage: This aromatic herb has a warm, slightly peppery flavor that pairs beautifully with poultry. It’s particularly known for enhancing the richness of chicken and turkey dishes, making it a staple in many kitchens.
• Thyme: Ground Thyme brings subtle earthiness and depth to your seasoning mix. Its delicate leaves are packed with flavor and complement a variety of savory dishes, making it a versatile herb to have on hand for enhancing not just poultry but also vegetables and sauces.
• Marjoram: With its mild, sweet flavor, ground marjoram adds a delightful hint of citrus to your own blend. Often used in Mediterranean cuisine, it works well with other herbs in this mix to create a well-rounded profile.
• Rosemary: Known for its robust and aromatic qualities, rosemary lends a pine-like fragrance and taste to your poultry dishes. It’s particularly effective in roasted preparations and can also be used to infuse oils or marinades for added depth.
• Nutmeg: This warm, nutty spice provides an unexpected depth of flavor that elevates your homemade spice blend. A little goes a long way, and it pairs excellently with the earthy tones of the other ingredients, creating a harmonious and well-balanced seasoning.

The complete list of ingredients, quantities, and instructions can be found in the printable recipe card below.

Substitutions and Additions

• Celery Salt: For an added layer of flavor, try incorporating celery salt. It introduces a unique savory flavor that pairs beautifully with poultry.
• Garlic Powder or Onion Powder: A sprinkle of garlic or onion powder can enhance the depth of your seasoning mix. These ingredients add richness and a bit of zest that complements the herbs perfectly.
• Cayenne Pepper or Paprika: If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding cayenne pepper or smoked paprika. The former will give your dish a spicy kick, while smoked paprika adds a wonderful smokiness.
• Other Herbs: Feel free to mix in other herbs like oregano, chives, or dill for a fun flavor twist that suits your palate. Each herb can bring its own unique profile, allowing you to personalize the seasoning to your liking. 

How to Make Homemade Poultry Seasoning (step-by-step directions)

1. Mix all the ingredients thoroughly in a small bowl. (Photos 1, 2 & 3)
2. Use immediately or keep in a sealed jar or container in the pantry for up to a month. (Photo 4)

Recipe Tips

• Start Small: If unsure about your spice preferences, begin with smaller quantities of each ingredient and adjust as you go. It’s easier to add more than to tone down an overpowering mix.
• Taste as You Go: Feel free to taste the mixture as you combine the ingredients. This will help you get a feel for the balance and allow you to make any tweaks before finalizing your seasoning.
• Use a Mortar and Pestle: For the freshest flavor, consider lightly crushing your dry herbs and spices before mixing. This releases their essential oils, enhancing the overall aroma and taste.
• Pair Wisely: To elevate your meal when using your own poultry seasoning, consider pairing it with complementary side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.
• Experiment: Based on what you have in your pantry, don’t hesitate to experiment with other herbs or spices. Culinary creativity can lead to delightful surprises!

Storing Tips 

Proper storage is essential to ensure your homemade seasoning retains freshness and flavor. Start by transferring the seasoning into an airtight container, such as a glass jar with a tight lid or a resealable plastic bag. 

Store the container in a dark, cool place away from direct sunlight and heat, like a pantry spice rack or cupboard. This will help prevent the herbs and spices from losing their potency. Limit shelf life to one month for optimal flavor retention.

Serving Suggestions 

• Roasted Chicken or Turkey: Rub the seasoning generously over your poultry before roasting for a flavorful, aromatic dish. Add lemon slices and fresh herbs inside the cavity for added zest, and use some rotisserie chicken stock with it.
• Grill or Sauté: Sprinkle the seasoning onto chicken breasts or thighs before grilling or sautéing. It infuses the meat with rich flavor and pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables.
• Soups and Stews: Add a teaspoon or two to your soups or stews to enhance the savory depth. It pairs particularly well with chicken broth-based recipes.
• Vegetable Dishes: Toss roasted vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and zucchini with this seasoning for an easy and delicious side dish.
• Stuffing and Casseroles: Incorporate the seasoning into your chicken stuffing mixture or casseroles to give them a delightful, herbaceous kick. 
• Marinades: Mix the seasoning with olive oil, vinegar, or yogurt to create a marinade for chicken or turkey that infuses the meat with flavor while tenderizing it before cooking. 

Recipe FAQs

Need More Homemade Seasoning Blend Recipes? Try These:

• Homemade Spaghetti Seasoning Spice Blend
• Homemade Pumpkin Pie Spice Recipe (DIY Spice Mix)
• All-Purpose BBQ Dry Rub For Amazing Barbecue Recipes
• Herbs de Provence Recipe (Homemade Herb Blend)
• Homemade Blackening Seasoning (Cajun Rub Mix)
• See all our spice blend recipes!