Spice Rubbed Grilled Chicken

Name: Spice Rubbed Grilled Chicken
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons paprika; 1 tablespoon garlic powder; 1 tablespoon onion powder; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil

Highlighted under: Quick Fix Eats

I love cooking chicken on the grill, especially when I can elevate its flavor with a spice rub. This Spice Rubbed Grilled Chicken recipe is one of my favorites because it combines bold spices that create a mouthwatering crust around the juicy chicken. It's easy to prepare and the aromatic mix of spices makes my BBQ parties unforgettable. Whether I’m hosting friends or just cooking for my family, this dish always draws rave reviews and leaves them asking for seconds. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-27T10:29:27.626Z

When I first experimented with spice blends, I was surprised at how a few simple ingredients could transform a regular chicken breast into something extraordinary. The secret lies in letting the spices marinate on the chicken for at least 30 minutes, which ensures that every bite is packed with flavor. I remember the first time I served this dish; my friends were blown away by how delicious and juicy it turned out!

During my grilling adventures, I found that using a high heat to sear the chicken initially gives you that beautiful char on the outside while keeping the meat moist inside. This balance of temperature can make all the difference, especially when it comes to grilling chicken. Don't shy away from experimenting with different spice combinations – you'll discover your own signature blend!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Aromatic spice blend that fills the air with tantalizing scents
Juicy and tender chicken that’s perfectly grilled
Quick and easy preparation, perfect for weeknight dinners

The Importance of the Spice Rub

The spice rub is the heart of this dish, elevating the chicken's flavor profile considerably. Paprika gives a depth of flavor and vibrant color, while brown sugar balances the heat with a touch of sweetness. The cayenne pepper adds a kick, but you can adjust the quantity to your desired spice level. This nuanced blend not only enhances the taste but also forms a beautifully caramelized crust when grilled, creating a visually appealing and flavor-packed exterior.

To ensure the spice rub adheres well, it's crucial that the chicken is evenly coated with olive oil before applying the rub. This step not only helps the spices cling but also contributes moisture during grilling. If you find your spices aren't sticking as well as you'd like, consider adding a teaspoon of mustard or vinegar to the olive oil for added adhesion and a zingy flavor boost.

Grilling Techniques for Perfect Chicken

Grilling chicken can be tricky, especially if you want it juicy inside and perfectly charred outside. Preheating your grill to medium-high heat is essential for achieving that sear. You’ll know the grill is ready when water droplets sizzle upon contact. For even cooking, it’s advisable to pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness, ensuring that thinner portions don't dry out while the thicker parts cook through. A good meat thermometer helps ensure your chicken hits the safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) without overcooking.

Don't forget to let the chicken rest after grilling! Resting for about 5-10 minutes allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a tender bite. If you skip this step, you might find the juices running out and leaving you with dry chicken. When slicing, cut against the grain for the most tender pieces, and consider serving with a squeeze of fresh lemon or lime for extra brightness.

Ingredients

To prepare this flavorful chicken, gather the following ingredients.

Spice Rub Ingredients

2 tablespoons paprika
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon dried thyme

Chicken Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil

Combine all the ingredients in a bowl to create a flavorful spice rub.

Instructions

Once your ingredients are ready, follow these steps to achieve a perfect grilled chicken.

Make the Spice Rub

In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper, and dried thyme until well combined.

Prepare the Chicken

Rub the olive oil over the chicken breasts, then generously coat them with the spice rub. Make sure to cover all sides for the best flavor.

Marinate

Allow the chicken to marinate with the spice rub for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight in the refrigerator for more flavor.

Grill the Chicken

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Serve

Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with your favorite sides.

Once you have grilled the chicken, enjoy it with a refreshing side salad or grilled vegetables.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add more cayenne pepper to the spice rub. Serving with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice enhances the flavors wonderfully.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the advantages of this Spice Rubbed Grilled Chicken is that you can easily prep it ahead of time. If you're short on time, marinate the chicken in the spice rub the night before, allowing the flavors to infuse overnight in the refrigerator. This not only saves time on cooking day but also enhances the flavor significantly. Just be sure to keep it tightly covered to prevent any cross-contamination with other foods.

If you have leftovers, store the grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make the chicken rubbery. Instead, try reheating in a skillet on low heat or briefly in a preheated oven until warmed through. This will help retain its juiciness and flavor.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a refreshing cucumber salad, grilled vegetables, or a tangy coleslaw to balance the spicy chicken. For a heartier meal, accompany it with garlic mashed potatoes or a fluffy quinoa salad. You can also serve the chicken in tortillas with fresh salsa and avocado for a flavorful twist on tacos.

Feel free to experiment with the spice rub. If you want to try something different, swap in equal parts of chili powder for the paprika, or add a hint of cumin for a smoky flavor. Additionally, if you're aiming for a lower sodium version, you can reduce the salt or substitute it with a salt-free seasoning blend without sacrificing too much flavor in this recipe.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use bone-in chicken; just increase the grilling time until it reaches the right internal temperature.

→ What can I serve with grilled chicken?

This dish pairs well with a variety of sides like grilled veggies, rice, or a fresh salad.

→ Can I prepare the spice rub beforehand?

Absolutely! You can make the spice rub up to a week in advance and store it in an airtight container.

→ Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this chicken holds up well in the fridge for meal prepping and can be reheated easily.