Are you tired of the same old boring grilled meats? Do you want to elevate your BBQ game and impress your friends and family with bold, mouth-watering flavors? Look no further! In this article, we’re sharing 18 scorching hot spicy meat rub recipes that will take your grilling skills to the next level. From classic BBQ dry rubs to international-inspired spice blends, these recipes are guaranteed to add a kick of excitement to your grilled meats.
From tender ribs to juicy steaks and succulent chicken, each recipe has been carefully crafted to deliver maximum flavor with minimal effort. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or just starting out, these spicy meat rubs will help you create show-stopping dishes that are sure to become new favorites.
So go ahead, get ready to ignite your taste buds, and let the grilling begin!
Classic BBQ Dry Rub for Ribs
Elevate your barbecue game with this tried-and-true dry rub recipe, perfect for slathering on pork ribs before slow-cooking to tender perfection.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons paprika
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 tablespoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine paprika, brown sugar, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Mix well until the ingredients are evenly blended.
3. Apply the dry rub liberally to both sides of your pork ribs, making sure to coat them evenly.
4. Let the ribs sit for 15-30 minutes before cooking to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Cooking Time:
– Preheat your grill or smoker to 225°F (110°C).
– Cook the ribs for 2-3 hours, or until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
– Finish with a glaze or additional seasonings as desired.
Smoky Coffee-Chili Steak Rub
Elevate your steak game with this bold and aromatic rub, featuring the deep flavors of smoky coffee and spicy chili peppers. Perfect for grilling or pan-searing, this recipe adds a rich and complex dimension to any cut of beef.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup smoked paprika
– 2 tablespoons instant coffee powder
– 2 tablespoons chili flakes
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, smoked paprika, coffee powder, chili flakes, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Mix well until a uniform blend forms.
3. Generously apply the rub to both sides of your steak, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Let the steak sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking.
5. Grill or pan-sear the steak to desired doneness.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes per side for medium-rare, depending on the thickness and heat of your grill or pan.
Garlic Herb Pork Chop Rub
Elevate your pork chops with this flavorful rub, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Rub the mixture all over pork chops, making sure to coat evenly.
3. Let the rub sit on the pork chops for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
5. Place pork chops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cajun Blackened Chicken Rub
Add a spicy kick to your chicken with this bold Cajun blackened seasoning. Perfect for grilling, baking, or sautéing, this rub is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons paprika
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 tablespoon onion powder
– 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
– 1 tablespoon blackened seasoning blend (such as Tony Chachere’s)
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, blackened seasoning blend, salt, and white pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs.
4. Place chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Brown Sugar Bourbon Beef Rub
Elevate your beef dishes with this aromatic rub that combines the richness of brown sugar, the depth of bourbon, and a hint of spices. Perfect for grilled meats, this recipe is easy to make and adds a burst of flavor to any cut of beef.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon bourbon whiskey
– 2 teaspoons chili powder
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, bourbon, chili powder, garlic powder, and paprika until well combined.
2. Sprinkle the rub evenly over both sides of your beef, making sure it’s fully coated.
3. Let the meat sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate.
4. Cook your beef using your preferred method (grilling, roasting, or pan-frying).
5. Cooking time will vary depending on the cut and cooking method; cook until the internal temperature reaches your desired level of doneness.
Cooking Time: Varies depending on the cut and cooking method
Spicy Chipotle Lime Rub
Elevate your grilled meats or vegetables with this bold and zesty Spicy Chipotle Lime Rub, perfect for adventurous palates.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (minced)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro leaves (chopped)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, chipotle peppers, garlic, and cilantro.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
3. Rub the mixture all over your preferred protein or vegetables (such as chicken, steak, salmon, bell peppers, or zucchini).
4. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Grill or cook according to desired doneness.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Mediterranean Lamb Rub with Rosemary
Transform your lamb dishes with this aromatic blend of Mediterranean flavors and fragrant rosemary. This rub is perfect for lamb chops, legs, or racks.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, rosemary, lemon zest, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over your lamb, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the lamb on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until the lamb reaches your desired level of doneness.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Jamaican Jerk Spice Rub
Add a burst of Caribbean flavor to your favorite meats with this classic Jamaican Jerk Spice Rub recipe. This bold and aromatic blend is perfect for seasoning chicken, pork, beef, or tofu.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon coriander seeds
– 1 tablespoon cumin powder
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine ginger, coriander seeds, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cinnamon, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
2. Mix well until the spices are evenly blended.
3. Use immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 6 months.
Cooking Time:
– No cooking time required! This spice rub is perfect for marinating meats before grilling or roasting.
Sweet and Smoky Pulled Pork Rub
Elevate your pulled pork game with this sweet and smoky rub that adds a depth of flavor to every bite. Perfect for sandwiches, tacos, or just devouring straight from the bone.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup smoked paprika
– 2 tablespoons chili powder
– 1 tablespoon ground cumin
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Apply the rub evenly to your pork shoulder, making sure to coat all surfaces.
3. Let the rub sit for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Cook the pork according to your preferred method (e.g., slow cooker, grill, or oven).
5. Once cooked, shred the pork with two forks and serve.
Cooking Time: Approximately 8-10 hours in a slow cooker or 2-3 hours on the grill or in the oven at 325°F.
Korean Gochujang Beef Rub
Elevate your beef dishes with the bold flavors of Korea’s national chili paste, gochujang. This sweet and spicy rub is perfect for marinating beef before grilling or pan-frying.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, ginger, and black pepper until smooth.
2. Place beef (such as flank steak or ribeye) in a large zip-top plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the rub over the beef, turning to coat evenly.
3. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Preheat grill or pan to medium-high heat. Remove beef from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Cook beef to desired doneness.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes per side (grilling), or 3-5 minutes per side (pan-frying)
Texas-Style Brisket Rub
Get ready to experience the bold flavors of Texas with this classic brisket rub recipe. Perfect for slow-cooking, this blend of spices and herbs will infuse your brisket with a rich, smoky flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons chili powder
– 1 tablespoon ground cumin
– 1 tablespoon paprika
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine chili powder, cumin, paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Mix well until spices are evenly blended.
3. Rub the spice blend all over your brisket, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Let the brisket sit for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate.
5. Cook your brisket according to your preferred method (slow cooker, grill, or oven).
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours for slow-cooked brisket, or adjust cooking time based on your chosen cooking method.
Lemon Pepper Chicken Rub
Elevate your chicken dishes with this refreshing and aromatic rub that combines the zing of lemon zest with the warmth of black pepper. Perfect for grilled, baked, or pan-seared chicken, this recipe is a great addition to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 teaspoons black pepper, finely ground
– 1 teaspoon lemon zest (from about 1/4 lemon)
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, black pepper, lemon zest, and garlic powder.
2. Sprinkle salt to taste over the mixture, then whisk until combined.
3. Apply the rub evenly to 4-6 chicken breasts or thighs, depending on size.
4. Cook according to your preferred method: grill for 5-7 minutes per side, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or pan-sear with oil and cook for 3-5 minutes per side.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh lemon slices if desired.
Cooking Time: Varies depending on cooking method and chicken size.
Maple Mustard Pork Rub
Elevate your pork dishes with this sweet and tangy rub, featuring the richness of maple syrup and the pungency of mustard.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Mix until well combined and a thick paste forms.
3. Apply the rub evenly to your pork (pork chops, roast, or ribs) before cooking.
Cooking Time:
– 30 minutes to 1 hour for pork chops
– 2-4 hours for pork roast or ribs
Harissa-Spiced Lamb Rub
Elevate your lamb dishes with this aromatic rub that combines the warmth of harissa peppers with a blend of spices. Perfect for lamb chops, racks, or ground meat.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons harissa pepper paste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together harissa pepper paste and olive oil until smooth.
2. Add the remaining ingredients to the bowl and stir until well combined.
3. Rub the mixture all over lamb pieces or ground meat, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Let the rub sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking.
Cooking Time:
– Lamb chops: 10-12 minutes per side for medium-rare
– Ground lamb: 5-7 minutes, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks
Ancho Chili Chocolate Steak Rub
Ancho Chili Chocolate Steak Rub Recipe
Elevate your steak game with this unique and flavorful rub that combines the richness of chocolate, the warmth of ancho chilies, and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons dark brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon ground ancho chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/4 cup coriander seeds, toasted and ground
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, cocoa powder, ancho chili powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and coriander seeds.
2. Add garlic and salt; mix until well combined.
3. Rub the mixture all over your steak (preferably 1-2 pounds), making sure to coat evenly.
4. Let the steak sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking.
5. Grill or pan-fry the steak to desired doneness.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-15 minutes per pound, depending on cooking method and desired level of doneness.
Greek-Inspired Gyro Meat Rub
Elevate your gyro game with this flavorful meat rub inspired by the Mediterranean! This blend of herbs and spices will transport your taste buds to the streets of Greece.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon zest
– 1 tablespoon dried oregano
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 tablespoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, lemon zest, oregano, garlic powder, paprika, and cumin.
2. Mix well until the ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Rub the mixture evenly onto your preferred meat (lamb, beef, or chicken), making sure to cover all surfaces.
5. Allow the meat to marinate for at least 30 minutes before grilling or cooking.
Cooking Time:
– Grilled gyro meat: 3-5 minutes per side
– Pan-seared gyro meat: 4-6 minutes per side
Five-Spice Asian Pork Rub
Elevate your pork dishes with this aromatic and flavorful rub, perfect for grilling, roasting, or pan-frying. This blend of five essential spices, along with brown sugar and garlic, creates a mouthwatering combination that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon five-spice powder
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, five-spice powder, ginger, garlic powder, and black pepper until well combined.
2. Rub the mixture all over your pork (or poultry), making sure to coat evenly.
3. Let the pork marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours in the refrigerator.
Cooking Time:
– Grilling: 5-7 minutes per side
– Roasting: 20-25 minutes
– Pan-frying: 4-6 minutes per side
Fiery Habanero Mango Chicken Rub
Add a spicy kick to your chicken with this bold and tangy rub, featuring the sweetness of mango and the heat of habanero peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup smoked paprika
– 1/4 cup grated fresh ginger
– 2-3 habanero peppers, seeded and chopped (depending on desired level of heat)
– 1/2 cup mango puree
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, smoked paprika, grated ginger, habanero peppers, and mango puree.
3. Mix until well combined, then stir in olive oil and garlic powder.
4. Rub the mixture all over 1-2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or grill for 10-12 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to level up your grilling game with these 18 spicy meat rub recipes! From classic BBQ ribs to international flavors like Korean gochujang beef and Jamaican jerk chicken, this collection has something for every palate. Whether you’re looking for a sweet and smoky pulled pork or a bold and spicy steak, these recipes will guide you to grilling perfection.