Shish Tawook – Tender, Flavorful Grilled Chicken Skewers
Ready to impress your taste buds with minimal effort?
This Shish Tawook recipe packs a punch of juicy, tender chicken marinated in a dreamy blend of garlic, lemon, and Mediterranean spices.
It’s the perfect dish to throw on the grill (or a grill pan) when you want something flavorful, quick, and oh-so-satisfying.
The best part? It’s a total crowd-pleaser that requires just a handful of simple ingredients—making it your new go-to for easy, flavorful meals.
Ready to grill? Let’s dive in!
For Shish Tawook:
- Chicken – I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into large chunks. You can also use thighs if you prefer dark meat.
- Plain Whole Milk Yogurt – Provides a creamy base for the marinade, helping to tenderize the chicken.
- Lemon Juice – Fresh lemon juice adds a zesty tang and enhances the flavor of the chicken.
- Olive Oil – Helps to coat the chicken and keeps it moist while grilling.
- Garlic – Crushed garlic gives the dish its signature bold, aromatic flavor.
- Tomato Paste – Adds depth to the marinade and gives a subtle richness.
- Paprika – For a mild smokiness and beautiful color.
- Cinnamon – A touch of warm spice that adds an unexpected depth of flavor.
- Oregano – Brings a fresh, herbal note to the marinade.
- Ground Ginger – Adds a hint of warmth and a slight kick to balance the other flavors.
- Salt & Black Pepper – For seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
For Grilling:
- Vegetable Oil – To grease the grill or grill pan, ensuring the chicken doesn’t stick and gets a nice sear.
Authentic Shish Tawook (Lebanese Grilled Chicken Skewers)
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into large chunks
- ½ cup plain whole milk yogurt
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 6 garlic cloves, crushed
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp paprika
- ¾ tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp ground ginger
- 1 tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, tomato paste, and all the seasonings (paprika, cinnamon, oregano, ginger, salt, and pepper). Whisk everything together until well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and toss to coat them in the marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or up to 24 hours) for the best flavor.
- Thread the Skewers: When ready to cook, thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers. Optionally, add a wedge of onion to each skewer for extra flavor.
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat the grill to medium heat. Grill the skewers for 5-8 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and slightly charred.
- Serve: Serve the Shish Tawook with warm pita bread, fresh lettuce, and a drizzle of garlic sauce if desired.
Notes
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container. They will keep 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 for maximum flavor.
- Grill Pan Option: If you prefer cooking on a grill pan, the Anolon grill pan is highly recommended for great results (affiliate link).
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Sure! Chicken thighs are a fantastic option for Shish Tawook, and they add even more juiciness and flavor. You can use either, so it’s up to your preference.
- How long should I marinate the chicken?
For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours. If you have more time, letting it sit overnight will give you even more flavorful results!
- Can I skip the skewers and just grill the chicken?
Absolutely! If you don’t have skewers, you can grill the chicken directly. Just make sure to cook the chunks evenly on both sides until they’re fully done.
- Can I make the marinade in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the marinade up to 3 days ahead. Simply store it in an airtight container and refrigerate it until you’re ready to use it.
- How do I keep the chicken from sticking to the grill?
Before grilling, brush the skewers or grill pan with a little oil. This will help prevent the chicken from sticking and ensure a nice, even char.
