Mix all rub ingredients in an airtight container. Shake well.
Make the sauce:
Whisk all ingredients together in a small sauce pan and simmer for 30 minutes.
For the wings:
Rub the chicken with the 1 1/2 Tbsp of rub and salt.
Place the wings in a 4 quart slow cooker. Pour 1/2 Cup of the BBQ sauce over the wings.
Cover and cook on low for 3 to 4 hours.
Preheat the oven broiler. Transfer the wings to a rimmed baking sheet lined with foil. Broil for about 10 minutes on high, until the wings begin to turn golden brown in spots.
Warm the remaining BBQ sauce if it's cold and toss a cup of it with the wings. Add the rest if you like them extra spicy.