Chicken Kebabs Shish Tawook Recipe
Here’s an authentic Chicken Kebabs Shish Tawook that’s bursting with Mediterranean flavors. Shish Tawook is a popular Middle Eastern dish made with marinated chicken skewers that are grilled to perfection. The marinade, usually a blend of yogurt, garlic, lemon, and spices, gives the chicken a tender and flavorful taste, making it juicy with a hint of smokiness from the grill. This recipe is perfect for outdoor BBQs, weeknight dinners, or special gatherings, offering a balanced mix of tangy, savory, and slightly spicy flavors.
Ingredients:
Ingredient | Quantity |
Chicken breast (cubed) | 500g |
Greek yogurt | ½ cup |
Garlic (minced) | 4 cloves |
Lemon juice | 2 tablespoons |
Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
Paprika | 1 teaspoon |
Ground cumin | 1 teaspoon |
Ground coriander | 1 teaspoon |
Ground black pepper | ½ teaspoon |
Salt | To taste |
Cayenne pepper (optional) | ¼ teaspoon |
Fresh parsley (chopped) | 2 tablespoons |
Wooden or metal skewers | 8-10 skewers |
Method of Preparation:
Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine Greek yogurt, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, paprika, cumin, coriander, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using). Whisk until all ingredients are well combined to create a smooth marinade.
Marinate the Chicken:
Add the cubed chicken breast to the bowl of marinade and mix well, ensuring all the pieces are evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best flavor.
Preheat the Grill:
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning during grilling.
Skewer the Chicken:
Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece to allow for even cooking. You can alternate the chicken with vegetables like bell peppers and onions if you prefer.
Grill the Shish Tawook:
Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for about 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure all sides are nicely charred and the chicken is cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
Garnish and Serve:
Once the chicken kebabs are done, remove them from the grill and transfer them to a serving platter. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice for extra flavor.
Presentation & Decoration:
Serving:
Serve the
Chicken Kebabs Shish Tawook
hot, alongside traditional sides like garlic sauce (toum), hummus, or tzatziki. It pairs perfectly with fluffy pita bread, grilled vegetables, or a light salad like tabbouleh or fattoush. You can also serve it over a bed of rice or couscous for a heartier meal.
Decoration:
Garnish the platter with extra lemon wedges, fresh parsley, and a sprinkle of paprika or sumac to enhance the presentation. For an added touch, serve with roasted cherry tomatoes or grilled bell peppers on the side to bring more color to the dish.
Conclusion:
This Chicken Kebabs Shish Tawook Recipe is a delicious way to enjoy the classic flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine. The yogurt-based marinade not only tenderizes the chicken but also infuses it with a tangy, spicy kick that’s irresistible. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or cooking on a stovetop grill pan, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends. It’s simple, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion.
