Lebanese Chicken Shish Tawook Skewers

Chicken Shish Tawook Skewers with Garlic Sauce
Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 20 mins
Total Time 35 mins
Cooking Method: ,
Cuisine:
Courses: , ,
Difficulty: Beginner
Servings: 4
Calories: 350
Description

This Middle Eastern-inspired chicken shish tawook skewers recipe delivers tender, marinated chicken grilled to smoky perfection and paired with a tangy garlic yogurt dip.

Ingredients
    For the Chicken Skewers
  • 2 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cut into 1 ½ inch cubes)
  • 1 cup of plain Greek yogurt (full-fat or low-fat, based on your preference)
  • 1/4 cup of fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
  • 3 tablespoons of olive oil
  • 6 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon of paprika
  • 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon of ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon of ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
  • 1 tablespoon of tomato paste (optional, for extra color and tang)
    • For the Creamy Garlic Yogurt Dip
  • 1 cup of plain Greek yogurt
  • 3 cloves of garlic, grated or very finely minced
  • 2 teaspoons of lemon juice (adjust based on taste)
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon of salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon of ground black pepper to taste
  • 2 teaspoons of chopped fresh dill or mint (optional, for a refreshing twist)
  • 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika for garnish
Cooking Instructions
  1. 1
    Preparing the Chicken
    • Start by cutting your boneless chicken into uniform 1 ½-inch cubes.
    • Uniformity is key for even cooking and perfect texture.
    • Place the chicken pieces in a large bowl.
    • Pat them dry with paper towels to help the marinade adhere better.
  2. 2
    Marinating the Chicken
    • In a separate mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, cumin, coriander, turmeric, tomato paste (if using), salt, and pepper.
    • Whisk the ingredients until smooth and well-blended.
    • Pour the marinade over the chicken.
    • Use your hands or a spatula to gently toss the pieces, ensuring every cube is thoroughly coated.
    • Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or even better, overnight.
    • The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful and tender it becomes.
  3. 3
    Skewering the Chicken
    • Preheat your grill or BBQ to medium-high heat (about 400°F or 200°C).
    • Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers.
    • Make sure to leave a small gap between each piece for even cooking and that the flavors can meld beautifully with the char from the grill.
  4. 4
    Grilling the Chicken
    • Brush your grill grates with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
    • Place the skewers on the grill.
    • Grill the chicken skewers for about 12-15 minutes, turning them every 3-4 minutes.
    • You want a lovely char on the outside while keeping the inside juicy.
    • The chicken should be cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
    • Once done, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes.
    • This rest period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is tender and moist.
  5. 5
    Preparing the Creamy Garlic Yogurt Dip
    • While the chicken rests, combine the Greek yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
    • Stir until smooth.
    • Taste and adjust the seasoning. If you’re a fan of fresh herbs, gently fold in chopped dill or mint.
    • Garnish with a pinch of smoked paprika on top for an extra pop of color and a hint of smoky flavor.
  6. 6
    Serving Your MasterpieceShish Tawook Skewers Recipe
    • Arrange the grilled shish tawook skewers on a platter.
    • Serve alongside a bowl of the creamy garlic yogurt dip.
    • Garnish with additional fresh herbs or lemon wedges if desired.
    • Enjoy this dish hot off the grill for the best flavor experience.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4

Amount Per Serving
Calories 350kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 18g28%
Saturated Fat 3g15%
Cholesterol 95mg32%
Sodium 650mg28%
Potassium 550mg16%
Total Carbohydrate 8g3%
Dietary Fiber 1g4%
Sugars 4g
Protein 40g80%
Vitamin A 350 IU
Vitamin C 15 mg
Calcium 150 mg
Iron 1.8 mg
Vitamin D 20 IU
Vitamin K 8 mcg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note
  • Let the chicken sit in the marinade for at least 2-4 hours (overnight is best) to absorb all the spices and yogurt.
  • While chicken breast works, thighs stay tender and juicy when grilled.
  • Leave a little space between chicken cubes so they cook evenly and develop a nice crust.
  • Brush the skewers with leftover marinade or a bit of oil while grilling to keep them extra moist.
  • Cook the skewers over 375-400°F (190-200°C) for about 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally.
  • Chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) to be fully cooked but still juicy.
  • After grilling, let them rest for 5 minutes to lock in the juices before serving.
  • Serve with Lebanese garlic sauce (Toum), pita bread, sumac onions, and saffron rice for a complete meal.
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Read it online: https://tinakitchen.com/recipe/lebanese-chicken-shish-tawook/
Chef Tina | Tina Kitchen
Chef Tinah
Food and Lifestyle Blogger

Hi, I'm Chef Tina, a full-time food blogger and travel enthusiast.

My passion for cooking was born in my grandmother’s kitchen, where I discovered that every dish has a story and every meal is a way to connect.

Now, I share delicious and easy recipes to inspire your kitchen adventures.

We hope you enjoy making this recipe.

Happy cooking!