Dry Rub for Chicken Recipe

This Dry Rub for Chicken is the best homemade spice blend for grilling and smoking. Elevate your grilled and smoked meat using pantry staples. Feel free to make it spicy by adding cayenne pepper.

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Good seasonings for chicken can be hard to find! So I like making my own.

What Does Dry Rub Mean?

A dry rub is a blend of dry spices and herbs that is applied and rubbed onto the surface of the food to add flavor before cooking. This helps amplify the flavors of the spices and herbs. You can allow the wings to rest in the rub (refrigerated for 30 minutes to overnight) if you want the flavor to really penetrate into the chicken. This is completely optional.

The purpose of a dry rub is to create a crust around the chicken or meat. A dry rub will enhance the flavor of the chicken without using moisture or a liquid marinade. Rubs are usually a little more coarse than simply adding seasoning.

The main difference between a dry rub and a marinade is the absence of moisture. A marinade will tenderize the meat. A dry rub does not.

As a rule of thumb, when applying a rub you should apply enough to fully coat the chicken or meat. You don’t want to see any empty spots. Add more spices if necessary.

What Spices You Will Need

• Brown Sweetener or Brown Sugar
• Chili Powder
• Garlic Powder
• Onion Powder
• Smoked Paprika
• Salt
• Pepper

How to Make it Spicy

Add cayenne pepper and adjust to taste. I typically use a teaspoon.

Can You Use it as a Dry Rub For Meat?

Absolutely! This works great for all poultry including chicken wings, chicken thighs, Instant Pot Pulled Pork, Air Fryer Ribs, and more.

How to Store the Seasoning and Rub

If you are making a large batch of the rub, store it in an airtight container. I love to use these glass jars for storage. Ground spices usually last for 6 months. After that they will start to lose their flavor. I check this by giving the jar a whiff. If the smell is still potent it’s probably still good.

How to Make Enough Rub for 10 Pounds of Meat

You will need 3 1/2 tablespoons of brown sugar or brown sweetener, 1 1/2 tablespoons chili powder, 1 1/2 tablespoons smoked paprika, 2 1/2 teaspoons onion powder, 2 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder, 1 1/4 teaspoons salt, 1 1/4 teaspoons pepper.

Pair the Seasoning With These Recipes

Dry Rub Chicken Wings
Air Fryer Frozen Wings
Air Fryer Fried Chicken Wings
Traeger Smoked Chicken Breast

More Homemade Seasonings and Rubs

Homemade Blackened Seasoning
Homemade Chili Seasoning
Homemade Ranch Seasoning
Homemade Taco Seasoning
Homemade Steak Seasoning Rub
Homemade Burger Seasoning and Rub
Homemade BBQ Seasoning and Rub