If you’re chasing big, bold, addictive flavor, meet your new favorite secret weapon: Zaab seasoning. Inspired by the famous Zaab wings at KFC in Thailand, this spice blend hits every flavor note you could want—salty, sweet, tangy, spicy, and just flat-out delicious.
“Zaab” (also spelled Zab or Zabb) is Thai slang that means “intensely delicious”, especially when used to describe food with bold, crave-worthy flavors. And that’s exactly what this seasoning delivers.
This is my homemade recreation of that irresistible Zaab dusting you find on those legendary Thai fried chicken wings—only now, you can sprinkle it on everything.
🧠 Why This Zaab Seasoning Works
This seasoning blend is all about contrast and intensity, which is why it’s so addicting. Here’s what makes it shine:
- Salty: From salt and chicken powder/MSG
- Sweet: Coconut sugar adds depth and balance
- Acidic: Citric acid and lime leaf bring that mouthwatering zing
- Spicy: Dried chilies give it real heat and color
- Nutty & aromatic: Toasted sticky rice and garlic round everything out
It’s the perfect balance of Thai flavor profiles, designed to wake up your taste buds and keep you coming back for more.
🍗 How to Use Zaab Seasoning
This isn’t just a chicken seasoning—it’s a finishing spice you’ll want to put on everything. Here are some killer ways to use it:
- Fried Chicken – Just like KFC Thailand’s Zaab wings. Toss your hot fried chicken in a generous coat of this seasoning. (Try my Thai-Taiwanese Fried Chicken)
- Grilled or Fried Veggies – Zaab up some eggplant, mushrooms, or even corn on the cob.
- Fries & Chips – Dust over fries, tater tots, or homemade potato chips for a Thai snack vibe.
- Rice or Noodles – A sprinkle goes a long way to liven up plain carbs.
- Eggs or Tofu – Fantastic on scrambled eggs, omelets, or crispy tofu.
- Popcorn – Yup. Sweet, salty, spicy Zaab popcorn = elite movie snack.
💡 Pro tip: Use it as a finishing powder, not a cooking spice. Sprinkle it on hot food right after cooking so it sticks and the aroma pops.
Zaab Seasoning – Thai-Inspired Flavor Bomb for Chicken, Veggies & More
n/a
servings10
minutesIngredients
12 g 12 garlic powder
50 g 50 sticky rice, toasted and ground
10 g 10 citric acid
6 g 6 lime leaves, dried and ground
15 g 15 dried Thai chilies, ground (or sub with cayenne + paprika for less heat)
60 g 60 coconut sugar
20 g 20 salt
10 g 10 chicken powder (or MSG for a vegetarian-friendly version)
Directions
- Toast the sticky rice in a dry skillet until golden and nutty. Let cool, then grind into a coarse powder.
- Grind your dried chilies, lime leaves, and any other whole components until fine.
- Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix thoroughly. Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.
🧂 Storage Tips
- Store in an airtight spice jar or container
- Keep in a cool, dark place (pantry or spice drawer)
- Stays fresh for up to 3 months, though you’ll probably use it all long before then!
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re recreating the viral KFC Zaab wings or just want a do-it-all Thai spice mix to wake up your weeknight meals, this Zaab seasoning recipe is guaranteed to deliver.
It’s sweet, sour, salty, spicy, and endlessly addictive—true to its name, intensely delicious.
