Copycat Montreal Chicken Seasoning Recipe

This homemade copycat McCormick Montreal chicken seasoning blend brings big, bold flavor with zero fuss—and it’s way better than anything store-bought. Whether you're grilling chicken, roasting vegetables, or jazzing up tofu, this easy seasoning mix made with pantry spices is your new go-to!

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It's a must-make.

This is the kind of seasoning recipe that makes eating healthy taste totally indulgent:

• Bold flavor in every bite – The combo of garlic, black pepper, and herbs packs a punch that instantly elevates your chicken.
• Quick and effortless – Just mix a few pantry staples and you're ready to season in under 5 minutes.
• Budget-friendly and homemade – Skip the store-bought mix and make your own with spices you already have.
• Clean ingredients only – No preservatives or fillers—just real spices and herbs you can feel good about.

Let’s talk texture and flavor.

This spice blend brings smoky warmth from paprika, the sharp bite of ground black pepper and subtle heat from red pepper flakes. The crushed herbs add earthiness, and the coarse salt gives it that perfect savory crunch. Rubbed on chicken, it forms a flavorful crust with crave-worthy texture—crispy edges, juicy middle. Total copycat magic.

What you'll need.

Here's what you're going to need to make Montreal chicken seasoning:

• Course sea salt: that chunky texture is key for authentic Montreal spice vibes.
• Garlic powder: essential for savory depth.
• Paprika: adds rich color and smoky warmth (use smoked, sweet, or regular!).
• Ground black pepper: packs a bold, punchy flavor.
• Red pepper flakes: for just the right amount of heat.
• Onion flakes: a signature part of the classic Grill Mates Montreal profile.
• Dried rosemary: lightly crushed for aromatic punch.
• Dried thyme: earthy and balanced.
• Dried parsley: adds freshness and color.

Customize it your way.

This Montreal chicken seasoning is super flexible—tweak it to your taste or what you have on hand!

• Use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika for extra richness.
• Add crushed fennel seed for a pop of anise flavor.
• Add brown sugar to make it indulgent and slightly caramelized when grilled.
• The actual Grill Mates blend does use a dried, crushed green bell pepper. You can definitely add it, but it can be expensive and harder to find. I didn't notice a huge difference in flavor, so I left it out, opting for a more budget-friendly recipe.
• Dried and crushed lemon zest adds a nice brightness, and why not add coriander for a citrusy, earthy layer that complements the lemon zest? Yes!
• Make a Montreal steak seasoning by using smoked paprika instead of regular paprika, omitting the thyme and parsley, and adding one tablespoon of mustard powder.

Flexible dietary swaps.

Here are some healthy alternatives for this Montreal chicken seasoning if you need to make adjustments:

• Low-sodium – Use reduced-sodium salt or cut the salt in half.
• Less/no heat – Omit or reduce the red pepper flakes and ground black pepper for a mild version.

How to make this recipe for Montreal chicken seasoning.

This homemade spice mix comes together in a snap—and adds instant flavor to anything it touches:

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Mix

Combine all ingredients in a small bowl.

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Rub

Rub directly onto chicken with olive oil before grilling or baking. Use of veggies also!

How to use it.

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This Montreal chicken seasoning is pure versatility—use it anywhere you want bold, herby flavor.

• Rubbed on grilled chicken breasts with a squeeze of lemon.
• Baked chicken thighs coated in olive oil and spice mix.
• Stirred into rice with green bell pepper and onion for easy flavor.
• Sprinkled over roasted red pepper, zucchini, or tofu.

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