This authentic shish tawook recipe features tender chicken cubes marinated in a creamy yogurt, lemon, and garlic sauce, then grilled until juicy and lightly charred. A classic Middle Eastern favorite, shish tawook is flavorful, simple, and perfect for grilling season.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Juicy, tender chicken every time
- Authentic Middle Eastern flavors
- Easy yogurt-based marinade
- Perfect for grilling or meal prep
- Family-friendly and halal-friendly
Ingredients
- 1 cup plain yogurt (Greek or regular)
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4–6 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon 7-spice (baharat)
- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- 4 chicken breasts, skinless and boneless, cut into cubes
Instructions
- In a large bowl, add yogurt, lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, garlic, tomato paste, dried oregano, 7-spice, turmeric, salt, black pepper, and optional chili flakes.
- Whisk until the marinade is smooth and well combined.
- Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and toss until evenly coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight for best flavor.
- Thread the marinated chicken onto metal or soaked bamboo skewers. Discard excess marinade.
- Preheat and oil a grill. Grill the skewers, turning every few minutes, until fully cooked and lightly charred.
- Chicken is ready when the internal temperature reaches 170°F (77°C).
- Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Tips & Tricks
- Longer marination equals more tender chicken
- Use metal skewers for even cooking
- Do not overcook to keep chicken juicy
- Add vegetables like peppers or onions to skewers if desired
Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Marination Time: 1–12 hours
- Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes (plus marination)
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Middle Eastern
- Difficulty: Easy
- Dietary Notes: Gluten-Free, Halal-friendly
Notes
- Cook indoors using a grill pan if needed
- Serve with garlic sauce, hummus, or rice
- Leftover chicken is great for wraps or salads
Nutrition (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 36g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fat: 16g
FAQ
What is shish tawook made of?
Shish tawook is made with chicken marinated in yogurt, lemon, garlic, and spices, then grilled.
Can I bake shish tawook instead of grilling?
Yes, bake at 425°F for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.
Is shish tawook spicy?
It’s mildly spiced, but chili flakes can be adjusted.
Can I freeze marinated chicken?
Yes, freeze up to 2 months before cooking.
What sides go with shish tawook?
Rice, pita bread, salad, garlic sauce, or grilled vegetables.
Storage
- Refrigerator: Up to 3 days
- Freezer: Marinated raw chicken up to 2 months
- Reheating: Skillet or oven until warmed through
Similar Recipes
Authentic Shish Tawook (Grilled Chicken Skewers)
Ingredients
- 1 cup plain yogurt Greek or regular
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 –6 garlic cloves finely minced
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon 7-spice baharat
- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes optional
- 4 chicken breasts skinless and boneless, cut into cubes
Instructions
- In a large bowl, add yogurt, lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, garlic, tomato paste, dried oregano, 7-spice, turmeric, salt, black pepper, and optional chili flakes.
- Whisk until the marinade is smooth and well combined.
- Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and toss until evenly coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight for best flavor.
- Thread the marinated chicken onto metal or soaked bamboo skewers. Discard excess marinade.
- Preheat and oil a grill. Grill the skewers, turning every few minutes, until fully cooked and lightly charred.
- Chicken is ready when the internal temperature reaches 170°F (77°C).
- Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Notes
- Cook indoors using a grill pan if needed
- Serve with garlic sauce, hummus, or rice
- Leftover chicken is great for wraps or salads
Conclusion
This authentic shish tawook recipe delivers juicy, flavorful grilled chicken with classic Middle Eastern taste. Simple ingredients, big flavor, and reliable results make this recipe a must-try for any home cook.