AI BBQ Chicken Rub Recipe (With Real-World Testing!)

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AI is changing everything—even BBQ. But can it really create a competition-level chicken rub? In this experiment, we took ChatGPT’s recommended spice blend and put it to the test against a couple of well-known seasonings. The result? A smoky, sweet, and slightly spicy rub that just might surprise you. Here’s the full breakdown, plus some tweaks to make it even better!

Ingredients

  • 15g Smoked Paprika (30%)
  • 10g Brown Sugar (20%)
  • 7.5g Salt (15%)
  • 5g Black Pepper (10%)
  • 2.5g Garlic Powder (5%)
  • 2.5g Onion Powder (5%)
  • 1.25g Cayenne Pepper (2.5%)
  • 1.5g Ground Mustard (3%)
  • 1g Thyme or Oregano (2%)

Instructions

Step 1: Mix the Spice Blend

In a small bowl, combine all the ingredients. Stir thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of flavors. Store in an airtight container for later use.

Step 2: Prep the Chicken

Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Slice each breast in half for even cooking. Pound with a mallet until uniform in thickness.

Step 3: Season the Chicken

Generously season the chicken with the AI-generated rub. Let it marinate for at least 2 hours, but ideally overnight for deeper flavor.

Step 4: Cook on the Blackstone (or Any Griddle)

  • Preheat your Blackstone or griddle to medium-high heat.
  • Melt a generous amount of butter on the cooking surface.
  • Place the seasoned chicken on the griddle and cook until it develops a golden-brown crust.
  • Flip and cook until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
  • Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Additional Tips

  • Reduce cayenne to 1g if you prefer a milder heat.
  • Increase salt by 1-2g for a more pronounced savoriness.
  • Try cumin instead of thyme if you’re not a fan of herbal flavors.
  • Marinate for at least 2 hours, but overnight is best.
  • For extra caramelization, add a light spritz of oil before cooking.

FAQ

1. Can I use this rub on other meats?

Absolutely! This blend works great on grilled chicken thighs, smoked wings, and even pork.

2. Why use brown sugar in a chicken rub? Won't it burn?

Brown sugar helps create a beautiful crust, but if you’re cooking at high heat, reduce it slightly to avoid burning.

3. Should I add oil before seasoning?

Nope! The rub sticks just fine to the natural moisture in the chicken. If you want extra adhesion, you can lightly spritz the chicken with water before applying the rub.

4. How long should I marinate the chicken?

For best results, let it sit overnight. If you’re short on time, at least 2 hours will still give you great flavor.

5. Can I make a big batch and store it?

Yes! Store in an airtight container for up to 6 months. Just make sure it’s in a cool, dry place.

Conclusion

The AI-generated rub actually held its own against tried-and-true seasonings. While it needed a few adjustments for heat and balance, the foundation was solid—showing that AI might just have a place in BBQ innovation. Whether you stick to the original mix or tweak it to your liking, this rub is worth trying on your next grilled chicken adventure!

Let me know in the comments—Would you trust AI with your BBQ? 🔥🍗