The Aussie takeaway shop classic seasoning you didn’t know you could (or should) make yourself – salty, savoury, wildly addictive, and ready in 2 minutes flat.
This is the stuff dreams (and Aussie takeaway shops) are made of. If you’ve never heard of it, let me introduce you to this Australian cult seasoning that’s slowly taking over the world.
I originally made this Easy Chicken Salt to go with my Butterflied Portuguese Chicken and Crispy Oven Fries – but honestly, we now put it on everything! Roast potatoes, popcorn, grilled corn … even eggs. It’s the kind of pantry sprinkle that instantly turns a plain snack into a craveable treat.
The best part? You don’t need to make stock or dry out chicken skins (yes, that’s how some people do it). This is a quick-and-dirty version using pantry spices and stock powder (bouillon) – and it absolutely hits the mark. It’s salty, savoury, slightly sweet and full of umami goodness. Bonus: you can adjust it to suit your taste (want more paprika? go for it).
If you’ve ever stared at the spice aisle wondering whether it’s worth buying pre-made chicken salt – let me just say this: it’s not. This version is cheaper, better and made with ingredients you already have on hand. Two minutes of mixing, and you’ve got flavour magic ready to go.
What is chicken salt anyway?
Chicken salt is a beloved Australian seasoning originally made to use on hot chips (fries). It doesn’t always contain actual chicken – most versions are vegetarian and made with chicken stock powder (bouillon), onion, garlic, paprika and a hint of sugar.
Does it actually taste like chicken?
Sort of. It has that savoury, umami, roast-chicken-adjacent flavour – but no actual chicken. It just tastes like it belongs on fries. The chicken stock powder (bouillon) does most of the heavy lifting, so use one you like the flavour of.
How long does Easy Chicken Salt keep?
Stored in an airtight jar in a cool, dry place (like your pantry), it’ll keep for 2–3 months. But I bet you’ll finish it long before then!
Can I use this on more than just fries?
YES. Try it on:
- Roasted veggies
- Popcorn
- Boiled eggs
- Avocado toast
- Grilled corn
- Homemade Fish and Chips
- Barbecued (rotisserie) or Roasted Chicken with Gravy
Watch how to make Easy Chicken Salt
Easy Chicken Salt goes beautifully with the following recipes:
Butterflied Portuguese Chicken
Crispy Oven Fries
Southern “Fried” Baked Chicken Strips
Loaded Potato Taco Bowls
Crispy Sweet Potato Fries
Homemade Potato Wedges
Easy Chicken Salt
This Easy Chicken Salt recipe is your go-to pantry sprinkle for bringing fries, veggies and other foods to life. It’s quick to make, budget-friendly and keeps for months – no weird ingredients, just everyday pantry spices blended into one magical, savoury mix. If your meals need a little something … this is it.
- Total Time: 2 minutes
- Yield: Approx. 21/2 tbsp
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp chicken stock powder (bouillon) (see note 1)
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp caster (superfine) sugar
- ½ tsp sweet paprika
- ¼ tsp ground white pepper
Instructions
- Add all the ingredients to a small bowl or jar.
- Stir or shake well to combine evenly.
- Store in an airtight container in the pantry for up to 3 months (see details below).
Notes
Note 1 – As the chicken stock powder (bouillon) is the key ingredient, be sure to use a good brand that you love the flavour of.
Make Ahead
This is a make-ahead recipe! Store it in an airtight jar in a cool, dry place, such as the pantry, for up to 3 months and use as needed. Great for meal prep days or stocking up before barbecue season.
Leftovers
No refrigeration needed. Store it in an airtight jar in a cool, dry place, such as the pantry. Keeps well for up to 3 months, as long as no moisture gets in.
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Category: Sauces and Dressings
- Method: No cook
- Cuisine: Australian-inspired
