Shish Tawook
Tender, juicy chicken skewers marinated in a flavorful blend of yogurt, lemon, garlic, and Middle Eastern spices, then grilled to perfection. Shish Tawook is a beloved dish across the Levant, with variations found in Syrian cuisine that emphasize a balance of savory, tangy, and aromatic notes.
🧂 Ingredients
- 700 g Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts(cut into 1.5-inch cubes)
- 120 ml Plain yogurt(full-fat recommended)
- 60 ml Lemon juice(freshly squeezed)
- 60 ml Olive oil
- 30 g Tomato paste
- 6 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 2 tsp Paprika
- 1 tsp Allspice
- 0.5 tsp Cayenne pepper(or to taste)
- 1.5 tsp Salt
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper
- 1 medium Red onion(cut into chunks for skewering)
- 1 medium Bell pepper(any color, cut into chunks for skewering)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a large bowl, whisk together the yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, tomato paste, minced garlic, paprika, allspice, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- 2
Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or preferably 4-24 hours for maximum flavor.
- 3
If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- 4
Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, alternating with chunks of red onion and bell pepper.
- 5
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
- 6
Grill the skewers for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly charred. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- 7
Remove from grill and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For extra tender chicken, use chicken thighs.
- ✓Marinating overnight will yield the most flavorful results.
- ✓Don't overcrowd the skewers; leave a little space between the pieces for even cooking.
- ✓Serve with pita bread, garlic sauce (toum), or a fresh salad.
🔄 Variations
- Add a tablespoon of harissa paste to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- Incorporate other vegetables like cherry tomatoes or zucchini onto the skewers.
- For a different flavor profile, add a pinch of ground cumin or coriander to the marinade.