Description
Discover the best dry rub for grilled chicken! This flavorful spice blend elevates any cut, ensuring juicy, mouthwatering results for your favorite chicken recipes.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 tbsp smoked paprika (key for depth)
- 1 tbsp brown sugar (caramelizes beautifully)
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp black pepper (freshly ground)
- 1 tbsp kosher salt
- 1 tsp dried thyme (or rosemary)
Instructions
STEP 1: Make the Rub
- In a small bowl, combine all ingredients
- Whisk until completely uniform (or pulse in spice grinder for 5 sec)
STEP 2: Prep Chicken
- Pat chicken very dry with paper towels
- Lightly brush with olive oil (helps rub stick)
STEP 3: Apply Rub
- Use 1 tbsp per breast or 2 tbsp per whole chicken
- Massage into every surface (including under skin if possible)
- Let sit 15 mins at room temp
STEP 4: Cook
🔥 Grill Method:
- Preheat to 375°F (190°C)
- Grill 6-8 mins/side until 165°F internal temp
🍳 Bake Method:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C)
- Bake 20-25 mins on parchment-lined sheet
✈️ Air Fryer Method:
- Cook at 380°F (193°C) for 12-15 mins
STEP 5: Rest & Serve
- Let chicken rest 5 mins before cutting
- Garnish with fresh herbs if desired
Notes
- For Crispy Skin: Add 1 tsp baking powder to rub.
- Sugar-Free Swap: Use 1 tsp mustard powder instead of brown sugar.
- Storage: Keep extra rub in an airtight jar for 6+ months.
- Double Duty: Use on roasted veggies, or popcorn!
- Prep Time: 5
- Cook Time: 15-25
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Grill, Bake, Air Fry
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2
- Calories: 35
- Sugar: 4
- Sodium: 580
- Fat: 0.2
- Carbohydrates: 8
- Protein: 1
Keywords: best chicken dry rub, homemade spice blend, easy seasoning