Shish Taouk
Lebanese Grilled Chicken Skewers
Tender, yogurt-marinated chicken cubes grilled to perfection with a slight char. A ubiquitous and beloved Lebanese favorite, traditionally served with a potent garlic sauce (Toum).
🧂 Ingredients
- 600 g Boneless, skinless chicken breast(Cut into 1.5-inch cubes)
- 150 g Plain yogurt(Full-fat recommended for best results)
- 3 tbsp Fresh lemon juice(From about 1 medium lemon)
- 4 cloves Garlic(Minced or grated)
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- 1 tsp Salt
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper
- 1 tsp Optional spices(Such as paprika, cumin, or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat)
- 8-10 Wooden or metal skewers(If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes prior to use to prevent burning)
- for serving Toum (Lebanese garlic sauce)(Homemade or store-bought)
- for serving Pita bread(Warm)
- for serving Pickled vegetables(Such as cucumbers or turnips)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the marinade: In a medium bowl, combine the plain yogurt, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, black pepper, and any optional spices. Whisk until well combined and smooth.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 2
Marinate the chicken: Add the cubed chicken breast to the marinade. Toss well to ensure every piece is coated. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to a resealable bag. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or preferably overnight, for maximum tenderness and flavor infusion. The yogurt will begin to break down the chicken fibers, making it incredibly tender.
⏱️ 3+ hours (marinating) - 3
Assemble the skewers: Remove the chicken from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before cooking to bring it closer to room temperature. Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto the prepared skewers, leaving a small space between each piece to allow for even cooking. Aim for about 4-5 pieces of chicken per skewer.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 4
Preheat your grill or grill pan: If using an outdoor grill, preheat it to medium-high heat (around 200-230°C / 400-450°F). If using a grill pan, heat it over medium-high heat on the stovetop. Lightly oil the grill grates or grill pan to prevent sticking.
- 5
Grill the skewers: Place the chicken skewers on the preheated grill or grill pan. Cook for approximately 5-7 minutes per side, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through, opaque, and has developed a nice char on the edges. The internal temperature should reach 74°C (165°F). Avoid overcrowding the grill; cook in batches if necessary.
⏱️ 10-15 minutes - 6
Rest and serve: Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve hot with warm pita bread, a generous dollop of toum (garlic sauce), and your favorite pickled vegetables.
⏱️ 5 minutes (resting)
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The longer you marinate the chicken (up to 24 hours), the more tender and flavorful it will be.
- ✓Toum is a potent emulsified garlic sauce that is essential for authentic Shish Taouk. If you don't have it, consider making it from scratch or purchasing it from a specialty store.
- ✓Don't overcook the chicken, as it can become dry. The yogurt marinade helps keep it moist, but vigilance is key.
- ✓Soaking wooden skewers prevents them from burning on the grill.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add sumac to the marinade for a tangy, lemony flavor.
- Thread vegetables like bell peppers and onions onto the skewers along with the chicken.
- Serve the chicken wrapped in pita bread with lettuce, tomato, and toum for a delicious sandwich.