Sweet And Smoky Rub For Pork And Chicken
This deliciously Sweet and Smoky Rub recipe is a must have for your kitchen pantry. It’s perfect for smoked pork butt, grilled chicken, and even vegetables. Plus it only takes a few minutes to make!

Why This Recipe Works
- It’s Easy – You probably already have everything you need in your pantry!
- Better Taste – There’s no added chemicals or preservatives, and it tastes much fresher than store bought dry rubs.
- Versatile – I first created this dry rub recipe to used on my smoked pork butt, but now I use it on pork chops, chicken breast, vegetables, and more.
- Customizable – Want more sweetness? Add some extra brown sugar. More smokiness? Add some more paprika or cumin. Want heat? Add some chili powder and cayenne.
- It’s Cheaper – Good store bought dry rubs are expensive! Why spend a fortune when you can make a big batch of my sweet and smoky rub for a fraction of the cost?
Step by Step
- Okay try to keep up because this recipe is pretty complicated (just kidding!) 🙂
- Just measure out each ingredient and add to a bowl. Then grab a spoon or whisk and mix until well-combined. You can use it right away or store in an airtight container.
WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?
Storage Tips
- Store leftover rub in an airtight container. I like to use either a mason jar or these plastic containers
- Keep spices and rubs in a cool, dry place like your pantry to maximize freshness
- Avoid contamination – use utensils that are clean and dry to prevent moisture or bacteria mixing with your rub
- If stored correctly, this rub will keep for about 6 months to a year before it starts losing flavor
- Be sure to label your rub with the date you made it. I like to use masking tape or painter’s tape as you can see in the photo below.

Sweet and Smoky Rub
This deliciously Sweet and Smoky Rub recipe is a must have for your kitchen pantry. It’s perfect for smoked pork butt, grilled chicken, and even veggies!
- Prep Time: 5
- Total Time: 5 minutes
Ingredients
- ¼ cup light brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 2 teaspoons black pepper
- 3 teaspoons garlic powder
- 3 teaspoons paprika
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- ½ teaspoon ground mustard
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ¼ teaspoon celery seed
If you want more heat:
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
Measure each ingredient and stir together until well-combined. Store inside an airtight container for up to a year.
Notes
- Proper storage is important to maintain freshness. Store rub inside an airtight container and in a cool, dark place like a pantry
- This rub works great on pork, chicken, veggies, and more
