Chicken Shish Tawook
Craving a delicious, easy-to-make chicken dish? Discover the ultimate chicken shish tawook with Mangoes and Palm Trees, a Middle Eastern classic!
The chicken shish tawook features tender, marinated chicken skewers grilled to perfection in 5 simple steps, delivering authentic Middle Eastern flavors with a tropical twist. Perfect for barbecues, family dinners, or meal prep, this Middle Eastern chicken skewers recipe is versatile, healthy, and bursting with taste. Pair it with our Middle Eastern Chicken Recipes for more inspiration!
What Is Shish Tawook?
Chicken shish tawook is a beloved Middle Eastern dish featuring marinated chicken skewers, known for their juicy, flavorful bite. Originating in Lebanon and Turkey, this grilled chicken tawook is celebrated for its tender texture and vibrant spices, making it a versatile addition to any meal. Its global popularity stems from its ease of preparation and adaptability, enjoyed with various sides across cultures.
Origin of the Dish
Rooted in Lebanese and Turkish cuisine, "shish" translates to skewers and "tawook" to chicken. The yogurt-based marinade, infused with garlic, lemon, and spices, ensures tenderness and rich flavor, a hallmark of Middle Eastern grilling traditions, as noted by The Mediterranean Dish.
Popularity Around the World
Its health benefits, vibrant flavors, and ease of preparation have made shish tawook a global favorite. From Middle Eastern restaurants to home kitchens, it’s served with rice, salads, or pita, adapting to local tastes in countries like the USA, Canada, and beyond.
| Country | Popular Accompaniment |
|---|---|
| Lebanon | Tabbouleh, garlic sauce |
| Turkey | Pilaf, grilled vegetables |
| USA | Salad, pita bread |
Essential Ingredients for Chicken Shish Tawook Recipe
The tropical shish tawook relies on fresh, high-quality ingredients to deliver its authentic, flavorful profile.
Chicken Selection
Use 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes for even cooking and optimal marinade absorption. Opt for fresh, organic chicken for the best flavor and texture, ensuring firm, pink meat with no odor.
Spices and Marinades
The marinade blends creamy yogurt with tangy lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and a mix of warm spices—paprika, cumin, coriander, and turmeric—for a rich, aromatic flavor that defines shish tawook.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken breasts | 2 lbs | Cut into 1-inch cubes |
| Plain yogurt | 1 cup | Full-fat or Greek |
| Lemon juice | 1/4 cup | Freshly squeezed |
| Olive oil | 3 tbsp | Extra virgin |
| Garlic | 4 cloves | Minced |
| Paprika | 2 tsp | - |
| Ground cumin | 1 tsp | - |
| Ground coriander | 1 tsp | - |
| Ground turmeric | 1/2 tsp | - |
| Sea salt | 1 tsp | - |
| Black pepper | 1/2 tsp | Freshly ground |
Marinade Preparation
A well-crafted marinade is key to juicy, flavorful shish tawook.
Mixing the Marinade
In a large bowl, whisk together 1 cup plain yogurt, 1/4 cup lemon juice, 3 tbsp olive oil, 4 minced garlic cloves, 2 tsp paprika, 1 tsp cumin, 1 tsp coriander, 1/2 tsp turmeric, 1 tsp sea salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper until smooth. The yogurt tenderizes the chicken, while spices add depth, as outlined by The Spruce Eats.
Marinating Time
Place 2 lbs chicken cubes in a zip-lock bag or bowl, pour in the marinade, and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for 4-12 hours, ideally overnight, turning occasionally to ensure deep flavor penetration. Avoid marinating beyond 24 hours to prevent texture breakdown.
Skewering the Chicken
Proper skewering ensures even cooking and presentation.
Preparing the Skewers
Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning, or use cleaned metal skewers for durability and ease. Ensure skewers are long enough to hold 6-8 chicken cubes.
Threading the Chicken
Thread marinated chicken cubes onto skewers, leaving small gaps (1/4 inch) for even cooking. Optionally, alternate with 1-inch pieces of bell peppers or onions for added color and flavor. Avoid overcrowding to ensure thorough grilling.
Grilling Techniques
Grilling imparts smoky flavor and perfect texture to shish tawook.
Grill Setup
Clean grill grates with a wire brush, preheat to medium-high (375-400°F/190-204°C), and lightly oil grates with a paper towel dipped in vegetable oil to prevent sticking. Ensure even heat distribution for consistent cooking.
Cooking Temperature
Grill skewers for 10-12 minutes, flipping every 5 minutes to achieve grill marks and an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer to confirm doneness, avoiding overcooking.
Alternative Cooking Methods
If a grill isn’t available, these methods yield delicious results.
Oven Roasting
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place skewers on a parchment-lined baking tray or rack, and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until 165°F (75°C). Broil for 2-3 minutes for a charred finish.
Pan Frying
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook skewers for 5-7 minutes per side, turning to brown evenly, until 165°F (75°C). Use a grill pan for grill marks if desired.
Flavor Enhancements
Elevate the dish with these flavor-boosting additions.
Herbs and Spices
Add 2 tbsp chopped parsley or cilantro to the marinade for freshness, or 1/4 tsp cayenne for a spicy kick. Extra garlic (1-2 cloves) or 1 tsp smoked paprika enhances depth and smokiness.
Additional Marinade Tips
Incorporate 1 tsp honey for subtle sweetness or 1 tbsp tomato paste for umami richness. Marinate in a zip-lock bag for even coating and easy cleanup, ensuring all chicken pieces are fully submerged.
Serving Suggestions
Present shish tawook to highlight its vibrant, Middle Eastern flavors.
Side Dishes
Serve with basmati rice, couscous, or warm pita bread for heartiness. Pair with a cucumber-tomato salad, tabbouleh, or our salad recipes for freshness and balance.
Sauce Pairings
Offer garlic yogurt sauce (1 cup yogurt, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tbsp lemon juice), tahini sauce, or harissa for creaminess or heat. For a *Mangoes and Palm Trees* twist, try a mango-yogurt sauce (1/2 cup yogurt, 1/4 cup mango puree, 1 tsp lime juice).
Vegetarian Alternatives
Adapt shish tawook for plant-based diets with these options.
Tofu Shish Tawook
Marinate 1 lb firm tofu cubes in the same yogurt-based marinade for 2-4 hours. Grill or bake until golden (15-20 minutes at 400°F/200°C), and serve with garlic sauce or tahini, as inspired by our vegetarian recipes.
Vegetable Skewers
Skewer 1-inch pieces of bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and mushrooms, marinate in the same spice blend, and grill for 8-10 minutes until tender. Serve with a tropical mango-yogurt dip for a colorful, healthy option.
Health Benefits of Shish Tawook Recipe
This dish is both delicious and nutritious, offering a balanced meal.
Nutritional Value
A serving (4 oz chicken) provides approximately 30g protein, 10% daily vitamin B6, 15% niacin, and selenium, supporting muscle repair and immunity. Garlic and lemon offer antioxidants, as detailed by Healthline. The dish is low in carbs (5g per serving) and moderate in fat (8g).
Healthy Cooking Tips
Grill to reduce fat content, use extra virgin olive oil for heart-healthy fats, and add vegetables (peppers, onions) to increase fiber and vitamins. Pair with whole grains like quinoa or brown rice from our Healthy Meal Plans for a balanced plate.
Common Mistakes
Avoid these pitfalls for perfect shish tawook.
Overcooking the Chicken
Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) without drying out. Grill over medium-high heat and check doneness early to preserve juiciness.
Incorrect Marinade Ratios
Measure precisely: 1 cup yogurt, 1/4 cup lemon juice, 3 tbsp olive oil, 4 garlic cloves, and 1 tsp each of spices (paprika, cumin, coriander). Incorrect ratios can lead to an unbalanced flavor or tough texture.
Storing Leftovers
Keep shish tawook fresh for future meals with proper storage.
Refrigeration Tips
Cool chicken to room temperature within 2 hours. Store in airtight containers, refrigerate at ≤40°F (4°C) for 3-4 days, and label with dates to track freshness.
Reheating Methods
Microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, covered with a damp paper towel, or reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes until 165°F (75°C). Add a splash of broth to maintain moisture.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
The ultimate chicken shish tawook from Mangoes and Palm Trees is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that brings authentic Middle Eastern taste to your table. With juicy skewers and a tropical mango-yogurt sauce, it’s a crowd-pleaser for barbecues or family dinners. Share your shish tawook creations on Facebook with #MangoesPalmTrees or in the comments!
Recap of Key Points
Marinate chicken with yogurt, lemon, and spices, grill or bake for tender skewers, and serve with rice, pita, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Encouragement to Try the Recipe
Dive into this simple, delicious recipe and savor the vibrant flavors of the Middle East with a *Mangoes and Palm Trees* tropical twist!
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Chicken Shish Tawook?
A Middle Eastern dish of grilled chicken skewers marinated in yogurt, garlic, and spices.
How Long Should I Marinate Chicken for Shish Tawook?
Marinate for 4-12 hours, ideally overnight, for maximum flavor and tenderness.
What Ingredients Are Needed for Shish Tawook Marinade?
Yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, paprika, cumin, coriander, turmeric, salt, and pepper.
Can I Cook Shish Tawook Without a Grill?
Yes, bake in the oven or use a stovetop grill pan for similar results.
What Sides Go Well with Chicken Shish Tawook?
Basmati rice, pita bread, tabbouleh, cucumber-tomato salad, or tzatziki sauce.
Is Chicken Shish Tawook Spicy?
It’s mildly spiced but can be adjusted with cayenne or harissa for heat.
How Do I Store Leftover Chicken Shish Tawook?
Refrigerate in airtight containers at ≤40°F (4°C) for up to 3-4 days.
Can I Use Chicken Breast for Shish Tawook?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for lean, tender skewers.
Can I Make Shish Tawook Vegetarian?
Yes, use tofu or vegetables like peppers and zucchini in the same marinade.
What’s the Best Sauce for Shish Tawook?
Garlic yogurt sauce, tahini, or a tropical mango-yogurt sauce pairs perfectly.
More Chicken Recipes to Try
What's Your Favorite Way to Serve Chicken Shish Tawook?
With Pita With Rice As a Wrap
Vote and share your choice on Facebook with #MangoesPalmTrees!
