This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my disclosure policy.

This really is the best DIY Chicken Rub. It’s made with an irresistible blend of seasonings and comes together in just 5 minutes. Perfect for adding so much flavor to any cut of chicken!

side view of a jar of chicken spice rub.


Homemade Dry Rub for Chicken

Skip the store-bought dry rub for your next chicken dinner. This is the best chicken rub, and it’s ready in 5 minutes right at home!

Dry rub is such a great thing to keep on hand. It lasts forever and it’s an easy way to add tons of flavor to your chicken before you cook it.

I love to make a huge batch of this homemade chicken dry rub and keep it on hand for myself or put it in jars and gift it to friends and family for the holidays.

overhead of a bowl of chicken dry rub with a spoon set in the center.

What is Chicken Rub Made Of?

  • Italian Seasoning: Italian seasoning is the perfect versatile base for this chicken rub recipe. Classic Italian seasoning consists of basil, oregano, thyme, rosemary, and sometimes marjoram.
  • Salt and Pepper: I use fine sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Feel free to adjust the amounts to your tastes.
  • Onion Powder and Turmeric Powder: A little bit of onion powder and turmeric take this spice rub to the next level and round out the flavors.
  • Red Pepper Flakes: These are optional, but a great addition if you love a little bit of heat!
overhead of different bowls with spice rub seasonings.

How to Make Chicken Dry Rub

This versatile and flavorful chicken rub recipe takes just a few minutes to come together and is made with ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen!

  1. Combine: Place all of the spices in a jar and mix well.
  2. Store or gift: Cover and store in your pantry or tie the jar up with a ribbon and gift it with your favorite BBQ tools for the holidays!

How to Use Chicken Seasoning Rub

There are tons of tasty ways you can use this chicken seasoning rub. Here are a few of my favorite ways:

And the options don’t stop with chicken! This spice blend works great on oven-roasted vegetables, air fryer broccoli, roasted potatoes, you name it!

Add more flavor!

Want to double down on the flavor? Try any of my 5 delicious and freezer-friendly chicken marinades!

closeup of a jar of chicken rub with a measuring spoon.

Do You Use Oil in Dry Rub for Chicken?

Eventually, yes. The oil definitely should not go into the spice mixture for storage, but in most recipes you will cover the chicken with oil before rubbing it with the spice blend.

The oil not only adds moisture to the chicken, but it also helps the seasonings stick.

How Long Should Dry Rub Sit on Chicken?

That depends. If you’re working with less time, you can rub the dry rub onto the chicken and let it sit for 15-30 minutes. This is the minimum amount of time I recommend. If you’re working with a little bit more time, you can let it marinate in the fridge for anywhere from 1-4 hours.

For the best results, I recommend letting the chicken sit with the seasonings for closer to the 4 hour mark. This gives all of that flavor plenty of time to soak into the meat before you cook it.

a hand touching a bowl with the best chicken rub.

Tips and Notes

  • Mix well. We want all of the flavors in the spice rub to be well-distributed throughout.
  • Pat the chicken dry. Most recipes will recommend this, but in general, plan to use paper towels to gently pat your chicken dry before adding any oil or spices. Removing excess moisture helps create that delicious crispy exterior.
  • Plan for 1-2 tablespoons of dry rub per pound of chicken you’re cooking. This is a general rule; feel free to adjust the amount to your liking!
  • If you’re cooking meat with the skin on, rub the seasonings under the skin so it soaks into the meat.
  • Play with flavors. Feel free to play around with ingredient amounts or add other spices that sound good to you. You can’t really go wrong!

How to Store

This homemade chicken rub will last for at least 6 months in an airtight container or ziplock bag in your pantry. I love to make a big batch to keep on hand for any time I might need it.

More DIY Spice Blends You’ll Love

Other Spice Articles To Read!

Pin this recipe to save it for later!

Pin it!
a jar of chicken spice rub with a measuring spoon.

DIY Best Ever Chicken Rub

5 from 2 votes
This really is the best DIY Chicken Rub. It's made with an irresistible blend of seasonings and comes together in just 5 minutes. Perfect for adding so much flavor to any cut of chicken!
Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • Optional: 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes as desired

Instructions

  • Place all spices into your jar.

Notes

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
About ¼ cup wet rub [enough for 1 to 1½ pounds boneless chicken
Author: Lexi



You May Also Like

Secrets to Quick Dinners
Get my practical tips & advice for a healthier life dropped right into your inbox!
newsletter collage

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe Rating




Comments