It’s Grilling Time Spice Rub

I feel as if I’ve been waiting for summer since November so I am thrilled that it’s finally here. It’s time to break out the charcoal grill and make a batch of my favorite grilling spice rub. I’ve concocted many spice blends in my day and I’ve found this one has the elements I like most. It’s smoky, sweet, spicy and savory with just the right amount of salt.

Shopping for the ingredients is a snap thanks to Penzeys Spices and the Lexington Co-Operative Market’s bulk spice department. The fact that they are a city block apart makes it easy to get everything I need.

It’s Grilling Time Spice Rub

1/4 cup brown sugar
2 1/2 tablespoons Chipotle chili powder
2 1/2 tablespoons Ancho chili powder
2 tablespoons garlic powder
2 tablespoons onion powder
1 tablespoon salt
1 tablespoon dried lemon zest
1 tablespoon ground ginger
1 tablespoon dry mustard
1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper
2 teaspoons ground coriander
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon Epazote or Mexican oregano
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon


Mix all ingredients in a large bowl. Add 8 chicken pieces and toss to coat well. Cover and refrigerate 4 hours to overnight. Grill until nicely charred and cooked through or as you would any other chicken dish.


I make a large batch of this rub and store it in a canning jar in the refrigerator to keep it fresh, however, it doesn’t last long in my house. Although it’s incredible on chicken, it’s wonderful on pork tenderloin, salmon filets or shrimp. Add a teaspoon of the rub to mayonnaise or Dijon mustard for a real zing!

Happy grilling!

Penzeys Spices
783 Elmwood Avenue
Buffalo, New York 14222
716.887.9777

Lexington Co-Operative Market
807 Elmwood Avenue
Buffalo, New York 14222
716.886.2667