Shish Tawook – Grilled Chicken Skewers
Ready to take your grilling game to the next level?
This Shish Tawook recipe is the perfect combination of juicy, tender chicken and bold Mediterranean flavors.
Marinated in a tangy mix of yogurt, lemon, garlic, and spices, these skewers are a surefire way to impress everyone at your next BBQ.
Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just looking for a quick, delicious dinner, these flavorful chicken skewers will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen!
For Shish Tawook:
- Chicken – Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into large chunks for the perfect tender, juicy skewers.
- Yogurt – This is the base of the marinade, making the chicken moist and tender.
- Lemon Juice – Adds a tangy flavor to brighten the marinade and balance the richness.
- Olive Oil – For extra flavor and moisture, it helps the marinade stick to the chicken.
- Garlic – Crushed garlic infuses the chicken with bold, aromatic flavor.
- Tomato Paste – Adds depth and a rich, slightly sweet taste to the marinade.
- Paprika – Gives a smoky, mildly spicy flavor to the chicken.
- Cinnamon – Adds warmth and a hint of sweetness to balance the savory spices.
- Oregano – A touch of Mediterranean freshness to complement the spices.
- Ground Ginger – Adds a subtle heat and depth to the marinade.
- Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the other flavors.
For Grilling:
- Wooden Skewers – For threading the chicken and grilling.
- Onions (optional) – For extra flavor, thread onion wedges onto the skewers with the chicken.
Shish Tawook – Authentic Lebanese Grilled Chicken Skewers
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Ingredients:
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into large chunks
- ½ cup plain whole milk yogurt
- ¼ cup lemon juice
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 6 garlic cloves, crushed
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ¾ teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon oregano
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, crushed garlic, tomato paste, and all the spices (paprika, cinnamon, oregano, ginger, salt, and pepper). Whisk until everything is well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken chunks into the marinade and mix to coat evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Skewer the Chicken: When ready to cook, thread the marinated chicken onto skewers. Optionally, add a wedge of onion to each skewer for extra flavor.
- Grill: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Grill the chicken for 5-8 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and golden brown.
- Serve: Serve the grilled Shish Tawook with pita bread, fresh lettuce, and garlic sauce for an authentic experience.
Notes:
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the marinade up to 3 days in advance. Marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours before grilling.
Calories: 276 kcal | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 33g | Fat: 14g | Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 99mg | Sodium: 595mg | Potassium: 648mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g
Vitamin A: 270 IU | Vitamin C: 7mg | Calcium: 44mg | Iron: 1mg
- How long should I marinate the chicken for the best results?
Marinate the chicken for at least 4 hours, but if you have more time, letting it sit overnight will give the flavors more time to penetrate the meat, making it extra juicy and flavorful.
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative—they’re naturally juicier and more forgiving if you cook them a bit longer, so they’re perfect for grilling.
- What’s the easiest way to thread the chicken onto skewers?
To make threading the chicken easier, cut the chicken into uniform pieces. This ensures they cook evenly and makes the process quicker. If you want extra flavor, you can also alternate with onion wedges on the skewers!
- What should I serve with Shish Tawook?
Serve your Shish Tawook with pita bread, fresh lettuce, and garlic sauce. You can also add a simple side like rice, roasted vegetables, or a salad for a more complete meal.
- How do I know when the chicken is done?
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Alternatively, check that the juices run clear and the meat is no longer pink inside.
