Shish Tawook

The tantalizing aroma of marinated chicken sizzling on a grill transports you to sun-soaked Mediterranean shores. Shish Tawook is a delightful Middle Eastern dish that combines tender chicken with a vibrant marinade, and it can be prepared in as little as 20 minutes or left to marinate overnight for an irresistible flavor explosion. This recipe works brilliantly because the yogurt tenderizes the chicken while infusing it with zesty and aromatic components.

This dish is perfect for anyone craving a quick yet impressive meal that can serve as a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering highlight. You can easily marinate the chicken ahead of time, making it great for those busy days when you still want a homemade touch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The yogurt marinade ensures juicy, tender chicken every time.
• It’s a quick dish, ready in only 30 minutes.
• Grill marks add a beautiful charred finish.
• Preparation can be done in advance for convenience.

What You’ll Need

Gather the following ingredients to create this flavorful dish:

For the Marinade

• 1/2 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 3 cloves garlic, grated
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper

For the Chicken

• 1 lb boneless and skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

Plain yogurt can be substituted with Greek yogurt for a thicker marinade.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Olive oil can be replaced with melted butter.
• Lemon juice works well with lime juice.
• Tomato paste can be swapped with ketchup.
• Ground cumin may be substituted with coriander.

How to Make It

Start by marinating the chicken for maximum flavor.

1. Mix the Marinade
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, tomato paste, garlic, paprika, ground cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir until well blended.

2. Marinate the Chicken
   Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are evenly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 20 minutes or up to overnight to enhance the flavors.

3. Skewer the Chicken
   Remove the chicken from the marinade and thread onto skewers. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.

4. Grill the Skewers
   Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 2-5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Yes, freeze before grilling for up to 2 months.
Reheat: Microwave on medium for 2-3 minutes or grill briefly.

Tips for Best Results

• For even cooking, cut the chicken into uniform pieces.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F.
• Leave the chicken to marinate longer for more depth of flavor.
• Grill at an ideal temperature to achieve perfect sear marks.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with fluffy rice or warm pita bread.
• Pair with a fresh salad or tabbouleh for a light meal.
• Enjoy with a side of garlic sauce or tahini dressing.