Chipotle BBQ Dry Rub Recipe

This smoky, sweet Chipotle BBQ Dry Rub is made with brown sugar, chipotle powder, and smoked paprika, and is ready in just 5 minutes. It creates a caramelized, spicy crust that instantly upgrades chicken wings, ribs, or roasted vegetables. I love keeping a jar in the pantry for whenever I need a quick flavor boost.

Better Than Takeaway

I started making this rub because I loved the flavor at my favorite wing spot but wanted to control the salt and sugar levels at home. The store-bought versions often taste mostly of salt, but this homemade blend lets the smoky chipotle heat really shine through.

My first attempt was a bit too spicy, so I learned that balancing the heat with enough brown sugar is key to getting that sticky, caramelized finish on the grill. It is now my go-to secret weapon for everything from game day wings to slow-cooked pork shoulder.

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Chipotle BBQ Dry Rub Recipe Ingredients

• 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 tbsp chipotle powder
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp dry mustard powder
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)

How To Make Chipotle BBQ Dry Rub Recipe

1. Measure Ingredients: Gather all your spices and measure them carefully into a small mixing bowl.
2. Mix and De-clump: Whisk the ingredients together thoroughly. Use a fork or your fingers to break apart any stubborn clumps of brown sugar so the mixture is completely uniform.
3. Apply or Store: Generously pat the rub onto chicken, pork, or beef before cooking, or transfer the mixture immediately to an airtight spice jar for storage.

Recipe Tips

Break the Sugar: Brown sugar tends to harden or clump over time. If your sugar is lumpy, you can pulse the entire mixture in a spice grinder for a few seconds to get a fine, free-flowing powder.

Check Spice Freshness: Since this recipe relies heavily on dried spices, ensure your chipotle powder and paprika are fresh. Old spices lose their potency and can result in a bland rub.

Let It Sit: When using this on meat, apply the rub at least 30 minutes before cooking. This allows the salt and sugar to draw moisture to the surface, creating a delicious tackiness that helps the crust form.

What To Serve With Chipotle BBQ Dry Rub

This rub is famously paired with chicken wings to recreate that casual dining restaurant experience at home. It also works exceptionally well on pork ribs or pulled pork, where the sweetness of the brown sugar complements the rich meat. For a vegetarian option, toss chickpeas or cauliflower florets in olive oil and this rub before roasting for a spicy, crunchy snack.

How To Store

Store this dry rub in an airtight glass jar or spice container in a cool, dark cupboard. It will stay fresh for up to 6 months. If the brown sugar hardens over time, simply give the jar a vigorous shake or break it up with a spoon before using.

FAQs

Is this rub very spicy?
It has a medium kick due to the chipotle and cayenne. You can reduce the heat by omitting the cayenne pepper and slightly reducing the chipotle powder if you prefer a milder flavor.

Can I use this as a wet marinade?
Yes. To turn this dry rub into a wet marinade, simply mix 2 tablespoons of the rub with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and a splash of apple cider vinegar.

What is chipotle powder?
Chipotle powder is made from smoked, dried jalapeño peppers. It provides a distinct earthy, smoky heat that regular chili powder cannot replicate.

Nutrition

• Calories: 25
• Total Fat: 0g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 290mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 6g
• Protein: 0g