Authentic Shish Tawook is a beloved Middle Eastern dish featuring tender chunks of chicken marinated in a creamy blend of yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, and aromatic spices before being grilled to perfection. The result is incredibly juicy, smoky, and flavorful chicken that pairs beautifully with rice, pita bread, or a fresh salad. Whether served at a summer barbecue or as a family dinner, this classic Lebanese favorite is always a crowd-pleaser.
Shish Tawook has become one of those meals that instantly brings everyone together in our home. My husband absolutely loves the irresistible aroma of the marinated chicken sizzling on the grill, and it never takes long before the whole family gathers around the table. We often make extra skewers because everyone reaches for seconds, and serving them with warm pita bread, garlic sauce, and fresh vegetables makes the meal feel like a special occasion. It’s one of those recipes that never fails to create happy memories and satisfied smiles.
Why This Authentic Shish Tawook
- Tender and juicy chicken thanks to the flavorful yogurt marinade.
- Traditional Middle Eastern ingredients create authentic taste.
- Easy to prepare ahead of time for effortless entertaining.
- Perfect for grilling, baking, or cooking on a stovetop grill pan.
- Delicious served with garlic sauce, rice, hummus, or pita bread.
- Balanced flavors of lemon, garlic, and warm spices make every bite unforgettable.
- Ideal for family dinners, gatherings, and summer cookouts.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 2 pounds (900 g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into large cubes
- 0.18 pound (80 g) plain Greek yogurt
- 0.11 pound (50 g) tomato paste
- 0.10 pound (45 g) fresh lemon juice
- 0.04 pound (20 g) garlic, finely minced
- 0.07 pound (30 g) olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
For Serving
- Pita bread
- Garlic sauce (toum)
- Steamed rice
- Sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions
- Fresh parsley and lemon wedges
Directions
- In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, tomato paste, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, paprika, cumin, oregano, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper until well blended.
- Add the chicken cubes and toss thoroughly to coat each piece with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to develop.
- Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
- Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the skewers for 12–15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is nicely charred and cooked through.
- Remove the skewers from the heat and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve hot with pita bread, garlic sauce, rice, and your favorite fresh vegetables.
Notes
- Chicken thighs can be used instead of chicken breasts for even juicier results.
- Marinating overnight produces the most authentic flavor and tenderness.
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
- Shish Tawook can also be baked in a 425°F (220°C) oven for 20–25 minutes.
- A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving enhances the flavors.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Estimated nutritional value per serving: approximately 280–330 calories, depending on accompaniments.