This Restaurant Chain Doesn't Gatekeep One Of Its Boldest Burger Rubs

While many restaurants keep recipes under wraps, Firebirds Wood Fired Grill has taken a more generous approach. The chile rub used to season the Durango Burger is freely available for those who want to try to whip up their own burgers at home. Firebirds' Durango Burger has found a dedicated following because of this recipe. "I've tried it, it is delicious," wrote a fan on Facebook. Customers have also noted the architecture of the burger, as it is an impressive presentation that demands attention.

Made up of ancho chile powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, sugar, and salt, Firebirds' seasoning blend offers the kind of smoky depth, easy sweetness, and gentle heat that can make recipes crave-worthy. "We season everything to the fullest to make every bite mouth-watering," a Firebirds chef told KGUN9. Made with quality beef that is perfectly seared on a wood-fired grill and plated with pepper jack, crispy onions, lettuce, tomato, and roasted garlic ranch dressing, this is a dish that only calls for extra napkins. 

Once the ingredients to make the seasoning blend are collected, you can adjust the components of the rub to suit your own preferences. Add more ancho chile powder for a smokier taste, or pull back on the cayenne for less heat in your burger. You may want to make more of this rub to set aside in your kitchen to use on chicken thighs or cobs of corn. Even a quick sprinkle on top of a plate of scrambled eggs can turn a basic brunch into something a bit more satisfying.

The chefs at Firebirds generously coat burger patties in the simple 5-ingredient blend to prepare meat for the grill and ensure that each bite is well seasoned. Packed into a toasted brioche bun, this is the kind of gourmet-style burger that can instantly elevate any backyard cookout. For vegetarians, a Durango burger can be made with a plant-based replacement and seasoned with the same rub before pieces are assembled with the recipe's standard cheese, pickles, fried onions, and roasted garlic ranch dressing. Just like at Firebirds, any burger can be served with tater tots, steak fries, cider slaw, fresh fruit, soup, or a simple salad to build a meal that is sure to banish any level of hunger.