Are you tired of bland, dry chicken that leaves you disappointed? Get ready to transform your grilling game with this Simple Grilled Chicken Dry Rub recipe that promises restaurant-quality flavor in just 25 minutes! With a perfect blend of spices and a foolproof grilling technique, you'll create juicy, perfectly seasoned chicken that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Whether you're a grilling novice or a backyard BBQ master, this recipe is your ticket to becoming a chicken-grilling legend.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Remove chicken thighs from refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking to allow them to come to room temperature, which ensures more even cooking.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to create a uniform dry rub seasoning.
- Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the dry rub adhere better and promotes better browning.
- Generously coat each chicken thigh with the prepared dry rub, ensuring all sides are evenly covered. Gently massage the seasoning into the meat to help it penetrate.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 375-400°F. Clean and oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Place chicken thighs on the grill, skin-side down if using bone-in thighs. Close the grill lid and cook for 6-7 minutes.
- Flip the chicken thighs and continue grilling for an additional 6-8 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F when checked with a meat thermometer.
- Remove chicken from the grill and let rest for 5-7 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, which ensures moist and tender meat.
- Serve hot and enjoy your perfectly grilled chicken with your favorite sides.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always let your chicken sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before grilling to ensure even cooking.
- Moisture Management: Pat the chicken dry before applying the rub to help seasonings stick and achieve a beautiful, crispy exterior.
- Rub Technique: Massage the dry rub gently into the meat to help the flavors penetrate deeply.
- Grill Prep Matters: Clean and oil your grill grates to prevent sticking and achieve those beautiful grill marks.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F to ensure food safety without overcooking.
- Rest Your Meat: Let the chicken rest for 5-7 minutes after grilling to redistribute juices, keeping the meat moist and tender.Pro tip: For extra flavor, try experimenting with additional spices like smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, or dried herbs to customize your dry rub!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 1g
Protein: 23g
Fat: 17g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 110mg