Authentic Shish Tawook Recipe
Introduction
Shish Tawook is a flavorful Middle Eastern grilled chicken dish that’s tender, juicy, and packed with vibrant spices. Marinated in a yogurt-based sauce, this recipe is perfect for a delicious weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue.
Ingredients
- 1 cup yogurt (plain Greek yogurt works well)
- ¼ cup lemon juice (from about 1-2 lemons)
- 1 tbsp lemon zest (from 1 lemon)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4-6 garlic cloves (finely minced)
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp 7-Spice (Baharat spice; or equal parts ground cumin, coriander, and cinnamon)
- ½ tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp chili flakes (optional but recommended)
- 4 chicken breasts (skinless, boneless, cut into cubes)
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the yogurt marinade by combining yogurt, lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, minced garlic, tomato paste, dried oregano, 7-Spice, turmeric, kosher salt, black pepper, and chili flakes (if using) in a large bowl.
- Step 2: Whisk the ingredients together until smooth. Taste and adjust salt if needed; the marinade should be slightly salty.
- Step 3: Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for deeper flavor.
- Step 4: If using bamboo skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers, discarding any leftover marinade.
- Step 5: Preheat and oil a gas or charcoal grill. Grill the skewers, turning every few minutes for even cooking, until the internal temperature reaches 170°F (77°C).
- Step 6: Serve the grilled shish tawook hot with your favorite sides such as rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Tips & Variations
- For extra tender chicken, marinate overnight instead of just 1 hour.
- Use Greek yogurt for a creamier marinade that clings well to the chicken.
- If you don’t have 7-Spice, combine equal parts ground cumin, coriander, and cinnamon as a simple substitute.
- Grill over medium heat to avoid burning the spices while ensuring the chicken cooks through.
- Try serving with garlic sauce (toum) or a drizzle of tahini for added flavor.
Storage
Store leftover cooked shish tawook in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a microwave or in a skillet over low heat to keep the chicken moist. The marinade can be prepared in advance and kept refrigerated for up to 2 days before using.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other cuts of chicken for shish tawook?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well and stay juicy on the grill. Just adjust cooking time accordingly since thighs can take a bit longer than breasts.
Is there a vegetarian alternative to shish tawook?
You can substitute the chicken with firm tofu or paneer cubes marinated in the same yogurt-spice mixture and grilled until golden and slightly charred.
PrintAuthentic Shish Tawook Recipe
Authentic Shish Tawook is a traditional Middle Eastern grilled chicken dish marinated in a flavorful blend of yogurt, lemon, garlic, and spices. Tender, juicy, and infused with aromatic Baharat and turmeric, this recipe brings the perfect balance of tangy, savory, and mildly spicy flavors. Ideal for grilling on a gas or charcoal grill, it’s a classic choice for gatherings or a tasty weeknight meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including marinating time)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
Marinade
- 1 cup Yogurt (plain Greek yogurt recommended)
- ¼ cup Lemon juice (from about 1–2 lemons)
- 1 tbsp Lemon zest (from 1 lemon)
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- 4–6 Garlic cloves (finely minced)
- 1 tbsp Tomato paste
- 1 tsp Dried oregano
- 1 tsp 7-Spice (Baharat spice – or equal parts ground cumin, coriander, and cinnamon)
- ½ tsp Turmeric powder
- 1 tsp Kosher salt
- ½ tsp Black pepper
- 1 tsp Chili flakes (optional but recommended)
Chicken
- 4 Chicken breasts (skinless, boneless, and cut into cubes)
Instructions
- Prepare the yogurt marinade: In a large bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, minced garlic, tomato paste, dried oregano, 7-Spice (Baharat), turmeric powder, kosher salt, black pepper, and optional chili flakes. This mixture forms the flavorful base for marinating the chicken.
- Mix the marinade: Whisk all ingredients together until you achieve a smooth, uniform sauce. Taste the marinade; it should have a slightly salty and tangy flavor that complements the chicken.
- Marinate the chicken: Add the cubed chicken breasts to the marinade, tossing them to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to penetrate. For best results, marinate overnight.
- Skewer the chicken: Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto metal or bamboo skewers. If using bamboo, soak the skewers in water for 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning during grilling. Discard any leftover marinade.
- Grill the chicken: Preheat and oil your gas or charcoal grill. Place the skewers on the grill, turning every few minutes to cook evenly. Grill until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 170°F (77°C), ensuring they are fully cooked and juicy.
- Serve: Remove the skewers from the grill and serve hot. Pair your Shish Tawook with classic sides such as garlic sauce (toum), pita bread, fresh salad, or pickles for a complete meal.
Notes
- Soaking bamboo skewers for 30 minutes helps prevent them from burning on the grill.
- You can marinate the chicken overnight for deeper flavor infusion.
- Ensure the grill is well oiled to prevent sticking.
- Recommended sides include garlic sauce (toum), fresh pita bread, tabbouleh, or pickled vegetables.
- Use a food thermometer to confirm the chicken reaches 170°F (77°C) for safe consumption.
Keywords: Shish Tawook, Middle Eastern chicken, grilled chicken, chicken skewers, yogurt marinated chicken, Baharat spice, grilled kebabs
