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Flavorful Smoked Paprika Dry Rub Recipe Easy Perfect for Ribs and Chicken

flavorful smoked paprika dry rub - featured image

A smoky, sweet, and slightly spicy dry rub perfect for ribs and chicken that is quick to make and packed with flavor. This rub enhances meat with a juicy, tender, and flavorful crust.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. Measure out each spice: smoked paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, cayenne pepper, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
  2. Combine all measured ingredients in a medium mixing bowl.
  3. Mix thoroughly using a whisk or fork until evenly combined with uniform color and texture.
  4. Optional: sift the rub through a fine mesh sieve for a finer texture.
  5. Pat dry your ribs or chicken pieces with paper towels before applying the rub.
  6. Generously sprinkle the rub over all sides of the meat and press gently to ensure full coverage.
  7. Wrap the rubbed meat in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably overnight, to allow flavors to penetrate.
  8. Cook ribs low and slow at 275°F (135°C) for 2.5-3 hours or grill chicken over medium heat for 20-30 minutes until cooked through.
  9. Avoid burning the rub by cooking over medium heat or indirect heat and watch for flare-ups.

Notes

Pat meat dry before applying rub for better adhesion. Let rub rest on meat at least 30 minutes or overnight for best flavor. Cook ribs low and slow to avoid tough meat or burnt rub. Use indirect heat to prevent flare-ups. Flipping meat only once or twice helps keep crust intact. Add wood chips like hickory or apple for extra smoky flavor. Store leftover rub in airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: smoked paprika dry rub, ribs dry rub, chicken dry rub, BBQ rub, smoky dry rub, easy dry rub recipe, backyard BBQ, grilled ribs, grilled chicken