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Flavorful Smoky Chipotle Baby Back Ribs Recipe Easy Bold Spice Rub

smoky chipotle baby back ribs - featured image

This recipe features baby back ribs coated in a bold smoky chipotle spice rub, cooked low and slow for tender, juicy meat with a flavorful crust. Perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings, it delivers a smoky, spicy, and slightly sweet flavor without complicated prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 racks baby back ribs (about 2 to 2.5 pounds / 900 to 1100 grams)
  • 2 tablespoons chipotle chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar (packed)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1.5 teaspoons salt (kosher or sea salt)
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C).
  2. Remove the silver skin membrane from the back of each rack of ribs using a butter knife and paper towel.
  3. In a medium bowl, combine chipotle chili powder, smoked paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to blend.
  4. Lightly brush both sides of each rack with olive oil. Generously rub the spice mixture all over the ribs, pressing it into the meat.
  5. Place ribs bone side down on a wire rack set inside a rimmed baking sheet.
  6. Cover tightly with aluminum foil to create a steamy environment.
  7. Bake ribs in the oven for about 2.5 to 3 hours until tender and meat starts pulling away from the bones.
  8. Optional: Mix apple cider vinegar with a splash of water and spritz ribs halfway through cooking to brighten flavor and tenderize meat.
  9. Remove foil and broil ribs in the oven for 3-5 minutes or grill over medium-high heat to crisp and char the rub, watching carefully to avoid burning.
  10. Let ribs rest for 10 minutes before slicing between the bones and serving.

Notes

Remove the silver skin membrane for tenderness. Wrap ribs tightly in foil during baking to retain moisture. Finish under broiler or on grill for a crispy crust. Spritz with apple cider vinegar for brightness and moisture. Rest ribs before slicing to keep juices. Avoid microwaving leftovers to prevent drying out.

Nutrition

Keywords: baby back ribs, chipotle ribs, smoky ribs, BBQ ribs, easy ribs recipe, spicy ribs, oven baked ribs, grill ribs, bold spice rub