Shish Tawook is incredibly flavorful thanks to its tangy, garlicky yogurt marinade. The chicken stays tender and juicy, whether grilled, baked, or pan-seared. It’s also a flexible dish—you can serve it with pita, rice, or salad, and it’s naturally high in protein and easy to prepare. Perfect for meal prep or summertime grilling.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Plain yogurt
Garlic
Lemon juice
Tomato paste
Olive oil
Paprika
Ground cumin
Ground coriander
Salt
Black pepper
Optional: cayenne pepper or chili flakes for heat
Wooden or metal skewers
Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Directions
In a bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, tomato paste, olive oil, and all spices. Mix well to form the marinade.
Cut the chicken into bite-sized cubes and add to the marinade. Toss to coat thoroughly.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before cooking to prevent burning.
Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers.
Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
Grill the skewers for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and slightly charred.
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation takes about 15 minutes, with at least 2 hours of marinating time. Cooking time is approximately 12 minutes, so plan for a total of around 2 hours and 30 minutes including marination.
Variations
Oven-Baked: Bake the skewers at 425°F (220°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Pan-Seared: Cook the chicken pieces in a hot skillet if you don’t have a grill.
Spicy Version: Add extra chili flakes or a touch of harissa to the marinade.
Herb Twist: Mix in fresh herbs like oregano or thyme for a different flavor profile.
Dairy-Free: Use a plant-based yogurt alternative if avoiding dairy.
Storage/Reheating
Leftover shish tawook can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm the chicken in a skillet over medium heat or microwave for 1–2 minutes until heated through.
For freezing, store the uncooked marinated chicken in freezer-safe bags and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and cook as directed.
FAQs
What does “Shish Tawook” mean?
“Shish” means skewer, and “Tawook” refers to chicken in Turkish. Together, it means “chicken on skewers.”
Can I make Shish Tawook without skewers?
Yes, you can cook the marinated chicken pieces directly in a pan or oven without skewers.
What’s the best yogurt for the marinade?
Use plain whole milk yogurt for the richest flavor and best tenderizing effect.
Can I grill this indoors?
Yes, use a grill pan or cast iron skillet on the stovetop to achieve similar results.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
At least 2 hours, but overnight marinating delivers the best flavor and tenderness.
Can I use chicken thighs?
Yes, thighs are juicier and more forgiving during cooking, though chicken breast works just as well.
Is this dish spicy?
Not inherently. It’s savory and tangy, but you can add spice to suit your taste.
What should I serve with Shish Tawook?
Serve with pita bread, garlic sauce (toum), rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance and cook when ready.
How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?
Don’t overcook it, and use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Conclusion
Shish Tawook is a beloved classic that brings together bold Middle Eastern flavors in a dish that’s both simple and deeply satisfying. Whether you grill it outdoors or cook it on the stovetop, these juicy, marinated chicken skewers are sure to become a regular favorite. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy a delicious, protein-packed meal with minimal effort.
Shish Tawook is a traditional Middle Eastern dish featuring marinated chicken skewers grilled to perfection. Infused with a garlicky yogurt marinade, lemon, and warm spices, it’s flavorful, juicy, and perfect for both weeknight dinners and festive occasions.
Ingredients
1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into cubes
1 cup plain yogurt
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon tomato paste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper or chili flakes (optional)
Wooden or metal skewers
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
In a bowl, mix together yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, tomato paste, olive oil, paprika, cumin, coriander, salt, pepper, and cayenne (if using) to make the marinade.
Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and toss to coat evenly.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before cooking.
Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers.
Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
Grill the skewers for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot.
Notes
Marinate overnight for the most flavor and tenderness.Can be baked at 425°F (220°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.Use dairy-free yogurt for a dairy-free version.Add fresh herbs like oregano or thyme for a different twist.Great served with garlic sauce (toum), pita bread, or salad.
