3 Bold Chicken Rubs from Around the World
Big flavor, no marinade required—just rub, rest, and roast or grill. If you’ve got chicken and 5 minutes, you’ve got dinner that tastes like you spent all day. Dry rubs are one of my favorite ways to season chicken—especially when grilling or roasting—because they’re quick, flavorful, and easy to tweak depending on what you’re in the mood for. These three rubs bring serious global flavor: one rooted in smoky North Africa, one bright and lemony from the Middle East, and one that’s all about authentic Jamaican Jerk heat. Each is punchy, aromatic, and dead simple to pull off. Let’s get into it. 🔥 1. Authentic Jamaican Jerk Rub This is not your sweet “BBQ jerk chicken” nonsense. This is bold, peppery, herby, and deeply aromatic—exactly what jerk should be. Built on allspice, thyme, and Scotch bonnet-level heat, this dry rub is an absolute beast on the grill, especially with dark meat. What’s in it: 1 tbsp ground allspice 2 tsp dried thyme 1 tsp ground cinnamon 1 tsp ground gi...