10 best rubs for chicken

Rubs for chicken are seasoning blends or mixtures of herbs, spices, and other flavorings that are specifically designed to enhance the flavor of chicken when used as a dry rub. These rubs are a popular choice for home cooks, chefs, and barbecue enthusiasts who want to infuse their chicken dishes with a burst of delicious flavor.Here's what you should know about rubs for chicken:

  1. Ingredients: Rubs for chicken typically contain a variety of ingredients chosen for their ability to complement the natural taste of chicken. Common components may include salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, chili powder, cayenne pepper, thyme, rosemary, and other herbs and spices. The exact blend can vary widely between different rubs.

  2. Flavor Enhancement: Rubs for chicken are used to season the chicken before cooking, allowing the flavors to penetrate and infuse the meat. The combination of spices and seasonings adds depth, complexity, and a satisfying taste to the chicken.

  3. Application: To use a chicken rub, simply coat the chicken pieces or the whole chicken with the rub mixture, ensuring that it adheres to the surface. You can apply the rub directly to the meat and then let it sit for a period to allow the flavors to meld. Some cooks also add a small amount of oil to help the rub adhere better.

  4. Cooking Methods: Chicken rubs are versatile and can be used with various cooking methods, including grilling, roasting, baking, smoking, or pan-frying. They can be applied to chicken breasts, thighs, wings, or a whole chicken, depending on your recipe and preference.

  5. Variety: There is a wide variety of chicken rubs available on the market, ranging from mild and savory to spicy and bold. You can choose a rub that aligns with your taste preferences and the flavor profile you want to achieve.

  6. Pairing: Chicken rubs can also be combined with other ingredients, such as marinades, sauces, or brines, to create a more complex flavor profile. This allows for even more customization and creativity in your chicken dishes.

  7. Convenience: Using pre-made chicken rubs can save you time in the kitchen, as they are pre-mixed and ready to use. However, many enthusiasts also enjoy creating their custom rubs by experimenting with different herbs and spices.

In summary, rubs for chicken are a convenient and flavorful way to season chicken dishes, enhancing their taste and aroma. They are a staple in the world of cooking and are commonly used in grilling and barbecue, as well as in various culinary traditions that feature chicken as a primary ingredient.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best rubs for chicken on the market
  

Rubs for chicken from various gourmet brands, including those from Rubie's, are specially crafted blends of herbs, spices, and seasonings designed to enhance the flavor of chicken dishes. These gourmet rubs offer a convenient way to add depth and complexity to your cooking without the need for extensive ingredient preparation.

The exact composition of chicken rubs can vary, but common ingredients include a mix of herbs like thyme, rosemary, and oregano, along with spices such as garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper. Some gourmet rubs may also incorporate specialty ingredients like smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, or dried herbs for a unique flavor profile.

To use these rubs, simply massage the mixture onto the chicken, ensuring that it's evenly distributed. Allow the chicken to marinate for some time before cooking to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.Whether you're grilling, roasting, or pan-searing, the rub creates a savory crust on the outside, while infusing the chicken with a rich and aromatic taste.

These gourmet rubs are often versatile and can be used for various chicken dishes, from simple roasted chicken to more elaborate preparations. They provide a convenient way to elevate your home-cooked meals and add a gourmet touch to your culinary creations.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best rubs for chicken on the market
  

Slap Yo Daddy BBQ Rub - Championship BBQ Seasoning for Chicken, Turkey, Duck, and Seafood - No MSG, Gluten Free Barbecue Rub - Jailbird Chicken, 26 Oz

Slap Yo' Daddy BBQ

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price
  • AWARD WINNING SPICES: Made by Grand Champion Pitmaster Harry Soo, Slap Yo Daddy BBQ Rubs bring championship flavor to your barbecue, perfect for mouthwatering seasoned chicken, juicy turkey, and more!
  • DELICIOUSLY BALANCED FLAVOR: Jailbird Chicken rub seasoning gives your poultry a sweet profile with a touch of heat to enhance the enhance the flavor, texture, and appearance of grilling and smoking.
  • VERSATILE CHAMPIONSHIP SEASONING: The scrumptious flavor of Jailbird Chicken BBQ rub excels beyond smoked meat, elevating vegetables, tofu, potatoes, and even eggs or popcorn to a bold level!
  • GLUTEN AND MSG FREE: Unlike other BBQ rubs and spices, Slap Yo Daddy is gluten free and contains no MSG, making your go-to chicken rub or Thanksgiving turkey seasoning delicious for everyone!
  • ARTISANAL SMALL BATCH: Slap Yo Daddy rubs are Made in the USA and crafted by hand, following the original championship recipe developed by award winning Pitmaster Harry Soo.

User questions & answers

Question: Where is the "hot" version of this rub
Answer: I don't have the product any more but I really doubt it will work on the type of container in the question. If it were me, I wouldn't try it. My model broke opening glass quart containers.
Question: Which one would be best for turkey? His site recommend the original rub but i don't see it anywhere
Answer: No, it is electric. I seldom use it because it does not fit most of the quart jars I use. They made oneyears ago that was adjustable and it was great. This one is not!
Question: Is there any nuts in these products
Answer: There is a release button on the top of your jar opener. Press it and hold while gently pulling up the upper body of your opener. If this does not release the can, unplug your jar opener and then try it again. If that is unsuccessful call the customer service number listed in your owners manual. 800-738-0245.
Question: Is there any sugar in the beef rub
Answer: Soda bottles, usually come in liter bottles, are too tall to fit in. I’ve used it for years and never thought about something being plastic so it must work on plastic. I know it works on plastic lids.
Question: is the pricing correct for the model jw400 black & decker open-it-all jar, can and bottle opener? I have seen it for $49.97 from E-bay
Answer: I'm afraid my answer must be no, it cannot open the grapefruit jar.i know the jar and it will not fit. Just a note, I love my jar opener and don't know how I ever lived without it.
Question: Has anyone bought a used one that's good what is it look like dirty or chipped.i've never bought a used item on Amazon before
Answer: It needs to be a stiff plastic bottle. Ones that squish the least bit won’t work. I think their directions said the cap needs to be an inch or wider. It is very useful, especially for us elders.
Question: How small of a bottle can it open
Answer: The size of the opening cap cannot be less than 30mm, and it cannot be larger than 88mm
Question: Will this jw400 model open the 64 ounce plastic square del monte jars that hold red grapefruit slices
Answer: Item adjusts automatically to open small, medium and large jars. It takes a few seconds to perform no matter what the jar size is.

Product features

MEET BBQ PITMASTER HARRY SOO

Slap Yo Daddy BBQ is the love child of BBQ Pitmasters Head Cook Harry Soo. Preparing a bucket list of wishes, he started competing in barbecue circuits in 2008. His co-worker Janice, after organizing a fundraiser, helped Harry serve BBQ brisket to several dozen co-workers, many of whom were African American with roots in the South. They received many compliments, including, “This is the best BBQ I’ve eaten! You should enter a contest!” And the rest, as they say, is history.

Traeger Pellet Grills SPC170 Chicken Rub with Citrus and Black Pepper

Traeger

Based on 10 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Traeger Grills SPC170 Chicken Seasoning and BBQ Rub

  • Great Tasting Cooking Seasoning: Featuring citrus and black pepper flavors
  • Compatible Meat/Proteins: The perfect BBQ rub to complement your chicken creations
  • Easy Storage: Rub comes in a stackable aluminum tin container
  • Kosher, Gluten Free, and GMO Free
  • Made in USA

User questions & answers

Question: The picture shows pork and poultry rub but the title on the page says prime rib seasoning and bbq rub, which 1 is it or are they the same thing
Answer: Yes. That is for the large size bottle. It is definitely worth it!
Question: Can i buy just the empty tins
Answer: (4) 14 oz BBQ Rubs & (1) 12 oz Holy Cow
Question: Is this good for a turkey
Answer: The Holy Gospel is a different blend compared to the Gospel. Both equally delicious. Holy Gospel is going to be a mixture of Gospel and Holy Cow.
Question: What are the ingredients
Answer: 14 oz per bottle

Product features

Taste

Premium ingredients mean premium taste. Whether you’re looking for something sweet, to a kick of heat, our line of rubs has a little something for everyone.

Pairing

Our rubs are each designed to pair perfectly not only with proteins and veggies, but with Traeger sauces and pellet flavors as well, for a complete, flavorful meal from start to finish.

Application

Sprinkle it on lightly or give your protein a proper rubdown to fuse the spices together and add big Traeger flavor to whatever hits the bbq.

Rub with Love, Chicken Rub, 3.5 oz

Rub with Love

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

All natural ingredients. No MSG. Use this fragrant blend of star anise, cinnamon, coriander, and ancho chili for roasting or grilling chicken, turkey, rabbit or seafoods.

  • From Seattle's own Tom Douglas
  • Made market fresh in small batches
  • No artificial ingredients

User questions & answers

Question: Crazy question, can I rub on cooked salon
Answer: There is Maple Sugar, and Cane Sugar.
Question: How much sodium is in it
Answer: The ones on Ebay are JW200 and only open jars. This is also a can opener. JW400. I got mine in 1982 when they were popular. Im just now needing a new one because my rubber things are wearing out. No idea why B&D stopped making it. Its an awesome products. The ones I saw in Ebay for JW400 were high. Not $46
Question: What is the sodium percentage in the veggie rub? We are on a low sodium diet
Answer: This machine is an awesome product. I highly recommend it, especially for Seniors or women who find it difficult to open jars. The only used items I've bought on Amazon have been books and they were in very good condition.
Question: What are the ingredients
Answer: It can open a litre size soda bottle cap, but the bottle is too tall for the opening. I have opened olive oil bottles, catsup bottles and small jars. I love this machine!

Kosmos Q Honey Killer Bee BBQ Rub | Sweet & Savory Blend | Great on Brisket, Steak, Chicken, Ribs & Pork | Best Barbecue Rub | Meat Seasoning & Spice Dry Rub | 13 oz Shaker Bottle

Kosmos Q

Based on 908 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Product Description Kosmos Q began with the purpose of spending time with friends and family while doing what we love to do, barbecuing. Kosmos Q has grown into a thriving company that supplies nearly every top BBQ Competition Competitor in the country. Since the inception of our Competition BBQ Product lines in 2009 Kosmos Q has quickly became the leader in Barbecuing due to our commitment to customer satisfaction. We do not just rely on instinct we also rely on professionals that know what it takes to be the best as do. Kosmos Q has won multiple grand and reserve grand championships in the very competitive world of competition BBQ. With invites to the American Royal, Jack Daniels World Cook-Off, and the Chest to Chest world Brisket Cook-Off rest assure that we test every product before it is released to the public. From our specialized blending techniques to our state of the packaging facility we only ship the freshest product, so rest assure that you are being served by the industry leader and with try you will understand why it pays to use Kosmos Q products.

  • This award-winning Honey Killer Bee BBQ rub will take your cooking to the next level helping you transform poultry, and beef, into lip-smacking, delicious meat… you'll be sure to “wow” even the toughest of BBQ critics
  • Our unique blend of spices is the perfect balance of honey and savory spices, delivering a mouthwatering explosion of sweet BBQ goodness, which enhances your barbeque creations for an experience your tastebuds will crave
  • It’s easy to use, which helps you infinitely have a customizable knock-your-socks-off spice blend. Simply sprinkle on or rub into your meat of choice to enjoy sweet-smelling and deliciously succulent dishes
  • The flavor is versatile and goes on almost anything, so with just a sprinkle, you can enhance the flavor of casseroles, potatoes, baked beans, and more! This means you can soon find yourself being asked to host all the family barbecues and tailgates
  • It is tested in World Championships by World Champions, so rest assured quality is guaranteed. If it’s not good enough for us at Kosmos Q, then it’s not good enough for you

User questions & answers

Question: Is the honey killer bee rub good on smoked boston butt
Answer: I prefer a spicier rub on my pulled pork but it is a very good rub for pork. After you pull the pork reseason it again while it’s still hot.
Question: Which rub has less 'heat', for guests who don't appreciate a spicy kick: dirty bird or killer bee
Answer: Killer Bee. There is no kick. Great flavor! It is my family's all time favorite. I have not tried Dirty Bird.
Question: Are any or all of these rubs gluten and dairy free
Answer: No on gluten, not sure in dairy
Question: Can it just be eaten or i have to use in something
Answer: I think if you were to draw out a big line and snort it, that would be much better than just eating it. The taste and aromas will last a lot longer.

Jack Daniel's 01762 Chicken Original Quality Rub, 11.5 oz

Jack Daniel's

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Jack Daniel’s has always had respect for charcoal. After all, that’s what makes our whiskey so special. We have used charcoal to give our whiskey its signature flavor since our founding in 1866. Our whiskeys flow drop by drop down 10-foot sections of charred sugar maple, coursing through the black, cracked wood into charred barrels that we make by hand. With such a high regard for charcoal, it makes sense we pride ourselves in what is cooked over it. Just like our charcoal-mellowed whiskey, our rubs have their own unique flavor. Jack Daniel's Chicken Rub. Your taste buds will sing with the delight from this spicy flavor. With original quality. It contains no alcohol, no MSG. This product is free from gluten.

  • Your taste buds will sing with the delight from the spicy flavor of Jack Daniel’s Chicken Rub
  • Spicy, sweet flavor that is great for chicken and other poultry
  • Gluten Free
  • No MSG
  • Made in the USA

Emeril's Seasoning Blend, Chicken Rub, 3.7 Ounce

Emeril

Based on 310 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Celebrity chef, Emeril Lagasse, creates his signature recipes to bring bright flavors right to your kitchen. Enjoy Emeril's Mustard in multiple delicious flavors and cook like a true chef. You are going to love our Emeril's pasta sauces, seasonings, rubs, cooking sprays, mustards and more. Get fantastic flavor with every meal and make the same types of delicious dishes you have seen Emeril make on TV. There is no ordinary mustard in Emeril's pantry. Kick your cooking up a notch with Emeril's mustards. Using only the finest ingredients, Emeril's mustards are masterfully blended to achieve superior flavor. Pair Emeril's exquisite blends with meats, cheeses, breads, and marinades. As one of the most widely used condiments in the world, Emeril has certainly paid mustard respect with his exquisite collection of mustards. Your soups, steaks and spaghetti will have flavor like they have never had before. Emeril's Mustard's are a wonderful addition to your favorite recipes.

  • Chicken: the staple of the American dinner menu
  • Introduce a new preparation to your stovetop, oven and grill with Emeril's Chicken Rub
  • For all the ways you cook chicken, consider the endless possibilities. With Emeril's special blend, chicken is treated right
  • Unlike any other, this mix is made just for the special bird, the chicken
  • Packaged in a resealable sprinkling jar; made in the USA
  • Product formulation and packaging may change. Please refer to the product label for the most accurate information.

Bolners Fiesta Extra Fancy Chicken Rub 6 oz.

Bolner's Fiesta

Based on 176 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Sprinkle Bolner's Fiesta Brand Chicken Rub 30 minutes prior to cooking or refrigerate up to 24 hours for maximum flavor development. Cook over a hot charcoal fire until done (internal temperature of 170 degrees F). Flavor hint: Chicken can be baked or roasted in a hot oven. Chicken can be rolled in flour and deep fried.

User questions & answers

Question: How much salt is in this
Answer: A quick google search came up with this: Ingredients: Dried porcini mushroom powder, flake salt, granulated garlic, smoked paprika, black pepper, natural lemon juice powder (corn syrup solids, lemon juice solids, natural flavors), cracked rosemary, marjoram, tarragon, dill weed, chervil, thyme. Contains naturally occurring sulfites from mushrooms.Nutritional Facts:Serving Size = 1 teaspoon. Amount per serving: Calories 10, Fat Calories 0, Total Fat 0g, Sodium 310 mg, Total Carb 1g, Protein 0g.*Gluten Free
Question: Are your seasonings keyo friendly? does these products contain any sugar, starches, etc? i am keto & it makes a big difference to me
Answer: I am unaware of a "Hot" version.
Question: Is this MSG free
Answer: I've had good luck with his "Chicken Championship Rub" as well as his "Original" rub on turkey.
Question: Can i used this on steak
Answer: No, there are no nuts in Slap Yo' Daddy BBQ rubs. In fact, Slap Yo' Daddy is produced in a nut-free facility. Thank you for your question!

McCormick Grill Mates Montreal Chicken Seasoning, 23 oz

McCormick

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

McCormick Grill Mates Montreal Chicken Seasoning brings layers of bold flavor to grilled dishes. Bump up chicken, seafood or veggies with a savory blend of all-natural herbs and spices, featuring garlic, salt, onion, orange peel, paprika and green bell pepper. Sprinkle, rub, or bag and shake to find the perfect seasoning balance. These flavors go great on meat or veggies, so try combining the two for a killer kebob. Dinner tastes better when it’s made easy and served fresh from the grill.

  • McCormick Grill Mates Montreal Chicken Seasoning features a robust blend of ingredients like garlic, onion, black and red pepper and paprika
  • Kosher with no MSG added
  • Blended especially for chefs, McCormick Grill Mates Montreal Chicken Seasoning gives made-from-scratch convenience and taste with unmatched, vibrant flavor for exceptional recipes
  • Our 23 oz size is perfect for back-of-house usage and easy recipe customization
  • Grill Mates Montreal Chicken Seasoning is versatile and gives meat and seafood a zesty punch of flavor

User questions & answers

Question: What are the sulfiting agents listed in the ingredients? Are these "sulfiting agents" all natural ingredients
Answer: I don’t know. I have not microwaved my bowls. They are hot when they come out of the oven though.
Question: Is this safe for people with sever gluten allergy (includes cross-contamination with gluten
Answer: I haven't tried it but I would guess that the bowl might take some extreme heat for a SHORT time. Our broiler goes to 550 degrees; another broiler at a family member's only goes to 450. The stress on the bowl might weaken it for future use... Sorry I can't tell you for certain.
Question: Would this be a good seasoning for rice
Answer: I believe it is a type of ceramic or porcelain.
Question: Is Montreal Chicken season gluten free
Answer: The 16 oz ceramic bowls are solid red outside, and white inside with the black rim inside. Exactly as shown on the pictures

Product features

Seafood

Citrus is always a good call to even out the flavor of any seafood dish. Try our alcohol inspired seasonings like Mojito Lime to bring out the zest in your seafood menu items.

Veggies

Grill over an open flame to get a tender-crisp consistency. Caramelizing flames, a touch of smoke, and our vegetable seasoning go a long way for your staple vegetable side dishes.

Steak

Highlight your steak menu items with the peppery, garlic flavor of our Montreal Steak Seasoning. Use the seasoning to compliment any veggie side.

Szeged Chicken Rub Seasoning (szeged) 5oz - 2 Pack

Szeged

Based on 91 reviews Check latest price

Product description

2

  • Package contains 7-ounces of chicken rub seasoning
  • Keep in a cool dry place
  • A kosher product

Stubb's Chicken Rub, 5.04 oz

Stubb's

Based on 274 reviews Check latest price

Product description

When it came to Bar-B-Q, Stubb would say, "It all starts with a good rub." Stubb's Chicken Rub is a Texas-style blend of real sea salt, honey, garlic and mustard that’ll add bold flavor variety to all the ways that you prepare chicken. C.B. Stubblefield, known as “Stubb”, introduced himself by saying “Ladies and Gentlemen, I’m a cook.” He served Texas Bar-B-Q that was authentic, with no fancy ingredients. His products are crafted with the same pride. Stubb’s Chicken Rub is a blend of sea salt, honey, garlic and mustard that adds big Texas flavor to chicken. There’s no artificial flavors and it’s gluten-free and Non GMO Project verified. Generously coat any cut of chicken, pork, even seafood or vegetables with the Chicken Rub before cooking.

  • Convenient Chicken Rub made with real sea salt, honey, garlic & mustard
  • Legendary Texas flavor with no artificial flavors
  • Made with quality gluten free, Non GMO Project verified ingredients
  • Lends Texas Bar B Q flavor to chicken, pork, seafood or vegetables
  • Rub generously on meat before cooking and serve with Stubb’s Bar B Q Sauce

Product features

Humble Beginnings

Every bottle of Stubb’s Bar-B-Q Sauce is crafted as a tribute to our namesake, C.B. Stubblefield. His belief in legendary ingredients, hard work and careful craftsmanship remains the backbone of the company. And with every bottle of his sauce, that legend continues.

More Than Sauce

Making quality bar-b-q is all about love and happiness. It also helps if you truly enjoy every minute of the process. You’re definitely going to need some sauce, but if you want it done right, you might need some rubs and marinades too.

Real Ingredients

Stubb’s dedication to his craft was what truly set him apart. And his Bar-B-Q sauce is just the same. He always used real ingredients. And that’s the authentic flavor that continues to be loved by so many.

Made with Music

When the best bar-b-q cook in town is also a fan of live music, you’ve got yourself a pretty good time on your hands. Everyone knows that when you have good tunes and good bar-b-q, you can expect a good time with friends and family.

Latest Reviews

View all