I love cooking with different textures and flavours, and it’s no secret that I enjoy a good BBQ. I find that the combination of good quality meat and vegetables, combined with spices, smoke, and time, can create some of the most delicious and complex flavours.
Chicken is such a versatile meat that it pairs beautifully with a wide array of flavours. But what are the best spices for chicken? In my experience, herbs and spices like paprika, garlic, thyme, and rosemary can truly elevate your chicken dishes to the next level.
If you’re a flavour enthusiast like me, here’s my list of the best spices for chicken. From classic rubs to bold and spicy blends, this guide is packed with inspiration to help you create mouth-watering chicken meals that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
You’ll notice I haven’t included exact measurements for the rubs. That’s because cooking is all about taste testing, experimenting, and having a bit of fun in the kitchen. For spicy ingredients and salt, start slow. You can always add more.
In This Blog
- Best Classic Chicken Rubs
- Best Spicy Chicken Rubs
- Best Herb Chicken Rubs
- Best BBQ Rubs for Chicken
- Best Spices for Roast Chicken
- Best Spices for Chicken Stir Fry
- Best Spices for Chicken Stew
- Browse Our Chicken Spices
Best Classic Chicken Rubs
Standard Chicken Rub
Grilled chicken breasts on a plate
You can’t go wrong with the classic trio of salt, pepper, and garlic. This simple yet flavourful rub enhances the natural taste of chicken without overpowering it. It’s my go-to when I want a quick and easy meal that’s guaranteed to please.
- Salt: 1 tsp
- Black pepper: 1 tsp
- Garlic powder: 1 tsp
Lemon Pepper Rub
Add a zesty twist to your chicken with this refreshing lemon pepper rub. The citrus notes brighten up the dish, making it perfect for grilling or roasting.
- Lemon zest: 1 tsp
- Black pepper: 1 tsp
- Garlic powder: 1 tsp
- Salt: 1 tsp
Best Spicy Chicken Rubs
Medium Spice Chilli Rub
If you’re looking to kick things up a notch, this medium spice chilli rub is just the ticket. The combination of paprika and cayenne pepper adds a pleasant heat, while the brown sugar balances it out with a touch of sweetness.
- Paprika: 1 tsp
- Cayenne pepper: 1/2 tsp
- Garlic powder: 1 tsp
- Onion powder: 1 tsp
- Brown sugar: 1 tsp
- Salt: 1 tsp
For a ready-made option, try our Nashville Spicy Chicken Rub—it’s one of our best spice rubs for chicken.
Mild Spice Chilli Rub
Prefer something a bit milder? This rub skips the cayenne pepper but keeps all the flavour. It’s a hit with kids and adults alike.
- Smoked paprika: 1 tsp
- Garlic powder: 1 tsp
- Onion powder: 1 tsp
- Oregano: 1/2 tsp
- Cumin: 1/2 tsp
- Salt: 1 tsp
Best Herb Chicken Rubs
Herb and Garlic Rub
This aromatic rub is one of my favourites when I’m in the mood for something savoury. The blend of herbs adds depth to the chicken, making it incredibly flavourful.
- Thyme: 1 tsp
- Rosemary: 1 tsp
- Basil: 1 tsp
- Garlic powder: 1 tsp
- Black pepper: 1 tsp
- Salt: 1 tsp
Italian Herb Rub
Bring a taste of the Mediterranean to your kitchen with this Italian-inspired blend. It’s perfect for baked or grilled chicken.
- Oregano: 1 tsp
- Basil: 1 tsp
- Parsley: 1 tsp
- Garlic powder: 1 tsp
- Onion powder: 1 tsp
- Salt: 1 tsp
- Black pepper: 1 tsp
For convenience, check out our Nonna’s Spices Seasoning—it’s packed with the best herbs and spices for chicken.
Best BBQ Rubs for Chicken
Smoky BBQ Rub
Grilled chicken wings with smoky BBQ rub on a platter
When it comes to the best spice rubs for chicken, this smoky BBQ rub tops the list. It combines sweet, smoky, and spicy flavours that caramelise beautifully on the grill.
- Smoked paprika: 1 tsp
- Brown sugar: 1 tsp
- Garlic powder: 1 tsp
- Onion powder: 1 tsp
- Chilli powder: 1/2 tsp
- Cumin: 1/2 tsp
- Salt: 1 tsp
- Black pepper: 1 tsp
Cajun Spice Rub
Add some Southern flair to your chicken with this bold Cajun rub. It’s bursting with flavour and just the right amount of heat.
- Paprika: 1 tsp
- Garlic powder: 1 tsp
- Onion powder: 1 tsp
- Oregano: 1 tsp
- Thyme: 1 tsp
- Cayenne pepper: 1/2 tsp
- Salt: 1 tsp
- Black pepper: 1 tsp
Best Spices for Roast Chicken
Classic Roast Chicken Rub
There’s something comforting about a classic roast chicken seasoned to perfection. This rub enhances the rich, savoury flavours we all love.
- Paprika: 1 tsp
- Garlic powder: 1 tsp
- Onion powder: 1 tsp
- Thyme: 1 tsp
- Sage: 1 tsp
- Salt: 1 tsp
- Black pepper: 1 tsp
Herb Butter Rub
For an indulgent roast, try this herb butter rub. Mixing the spices with softened butter creates a rich flavour that bastes the chicken as it cooks.
- Softened butter: 2 tbsp
- Rosemary: 1 tsp
- Thyme: 1 tsp
- Garlic powder: 1 tsp
- Lemon zest: 1 tsp
- Salt: 1 tsp
- Black pepper: 1 tsp
Best Spices for Chicken Stir Fry
Basic Stir Fry Seasoning
Stir-fried chicken and vegetables in a wok
A simple stir fry can be transformed with the right spices. This basic seasoning blend is a great starting point.
- Garlic powder: 1 tsp
- Ginger powder: 1 tsp
- Onion powder: 1 tsp
- Soy sauce: 2 tbsp
- Sesame oil: 1 tsp
Spicy Stir Fry Seasoning
If you like a bit of heat, this spicy seasoning will elevate your stir fry to new heights.
- Garlic powder: 1 tsp
- Ginger powder: 1 tsp
- Chilli flakes: 1/2 tsp
- Soy sauce: 2 tbsp
- Sesame oil: 1 tsp
Best Spices for Chicken Stew
Hearty Chicken Stew Seasoning
There’s nothing like a hearty chicken stew to warm you up on a chilly day. This seasoning blend adds depth and warmth to your stew.
- Thyme: 1 tsp
- Rosemary: 1 tsp
- Bay leaf: 1
- Garlic powder: 1 tsp
- Onion powder: 1 tsp
- Paprika: 1 tsp
- Salt: 1 tsp
- Black pepper: 1 tsp
Spicy Chicken Stew Seasoning
For those who like their stew with a kick, this spicy blend is perfect. Adjust the chilli powder to your taste to get the perfect level of heat.
- Chilli powder: 1 tsp
- Cumin: 1 tsp
- Paprika: 1 tsp
- Garlic powder: 1 tsp
- Onion powder: 1 tsp
- Oregano: 1 tsp
- Salt: 1 tsp
- Black pepper: 1 tsp
Browse Our Chicken Spices
I’m always tinkering in the kitchen, experimenting with new spice combinations, and finding ways to make simple chicken recipes extraordinary.
If you’re as passionate about flavour as I am, check out our Ultimate Spice Guide for more inspiration or follow me on Instagram.
Alternatively, browse our range of chicken rubs to get maximum satisfaction with minimal effort.
