Homemade Spice Rub

Welcome to a journey of flavors with our delightful Homemade Spice Rub! If you’re someone who enjoys elevating simple dishes with a touch of magic, this recipe is your new best friend. Perfect for those who love experimenting in the kitchen, this spice rub is a harmonious blend of earthy paprika and aromatic thyme. It’s made to enhance not just chicken, but also steak, potatoes, and more. Plus, it’s kid-friendly, thanks to its mild profile without any chili heat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This spice rub is a versatile and quick way to add a burst of flavor to your meals. It’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or when you have guests over. Not only does it make your chicken taste divine, but it also leaves you with crispy skin that everyone will love. The best part? You’ll have enough left over for another meal, saving you time later in the week!

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Roasting pan
• Small mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons
• Paper towels

Ingredients

• 8 medium chicken drumsticks, skin intact
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 2 teaspoons black pepper
• 1/2 tablespoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon dried thyme
• 1 tablespoon dried crushed rosemary

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F. Coat the bottom of your roasting pan with olive oil.
2. Rinse the chicken drumsticks and trim off any excess skin. Pat them dry with paper towels for crispier skin.
3. In a small bowl, combine the salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and rosemary.
4. Generously season the chicken on all sides with the spice mixture.
5. Arrange the chicken in the prepared roasting pan and bake for 35 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165-185 °F.

Tips for Success

For the crispiest skin, make sure the chicken is completely dry before applying the spice rub. Don’t skip the step of trimming excess skin to ensure even cooking. Keep an eye on the internal temperature to avoid overcooking.

Additional Tips and Variations

Feel free to customize this spice rub to suit your taste. Add a pinch of cayenne for heat or swap thyme for oregano for a different flavor profile. This rub can also be used to season roasted vegetables or mixed into mashed potatoes for a flavorful twist.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This spice rub is low in calories and packed with flavor, making it a great choice for a healthy meal. The olive oil provides healthy fats, while the herbs and spices offer antioxidant benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use this spice rub on other meats? Absolutely! This rub works well with beef, pork, or even as a seasoning for grilled vegetables.

How should I store any leftover spice rub? Store any extra spice rub in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months.

Can I make this spice rub in advance? Yes, you can prepare the spice mix in advance and store it in a jar, ready to use whenever you need it.

Conclusion

We hope you enjoy making and savoring this Homemade Spice Rub as much as we do. It’s a simple yet powerful way to add flavor to your meals, and we can’t wait for you to try it. Share your culinary creations and experiences with us in the comments below. Happy cooking!