Name: Shish Tawook Grilled Chicken Skewers Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 4 h 25 min
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into large chunks; ½ cup plain whole milk yogurt; ¼ cup lemon juice; ¼ cup olive oil; 6 garlic cloves, crushed; 1 tablespoon tomato paste; 1 teaspoon paprika; ¾ teaspoon cinnamon; ½ teaspoon oregano; ½ teaspoon ground ginger; 1 teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Jump to Recipe· 3.8 from 81 reviews

If you are craving a vibrant, juicy dish that bursts with Middle Eastern flavors, the Shish Tawook Grilled Chicken Skewers Recipe is exactly what you need. This recipe combines tender chicken breast chunks marinated in a tangy yogurt and lemon blend, infused with aromatic spices like cinnamon and paprika, then grilled to smoky perfection. Whether you’re hosting a backyard gathering or just want a delicious weeknight meal, these skewers are simple to prepare yet incredibly satisfying. The balance of creamy, tangy, savory, and smoky notes makes this dish an unforgettable delight that you will want to share with everyone you love.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A sequence of four photos showing a white bowl on a white marbled surface with ingredients and mixing stages. The first image shows many ingredients separated: orange oil pools over red paste and crushed spices, white yogurt, and crushed garlic clustered on the right side. The second image shows the bowl filled with a blended orange-brown thick sauce with some swirl patterns on top. The third image shows raw cubed chicken pieces placed on top of the sauce in the bowl. The fourth image shows the chicken coated in the thick orange-brown sauce with some streaks of white yogurt visible, with a spoon stirring the mix. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each playing a crucial role in developing the rich flavors, tender texture, and enticing aroma of the Shish Tawook Grilled Chicken Skewers Recipe. From the creamy yogurt to the vibrant spices, every element works in harmony to elevate this classic favorite.

2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast: Provides juicy, lean meat perfect for marinades and grilling.

½ cup plain whole milk yogurt: Acts as a tenderizing base that keeps the chicken moist and adds subtle tang.
¼ cup lemon juice: Brightens the marinade with refreshing acidity and helps activate the tenderizing enzymes.
¼ cup olive oil: Adds richness and ensures a smooth marinade that coats the chicken beautifully.

6 garlic cloves, crushed: Infuses a bold and savory punch that defines the classic taste.
1 tablespoon tomato paste: Brings depth, slight sweetness, and lovely color to the marinade.
1 teaspoon paprika: Adds smoky warmth and a vibrant hue to the skewers.

¾ teaspoon cinnamon: Introduces a subtle, sweet-spicy undertone that surprises and delights.
½ teaspoon oregano: Contributes an earthy, herbaceous flavor that balances the spices.
½ teaspoon ground ginger: Offers a zesty warmth that complements the garlic and cinnamon.

1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and helps with moisture retention in the chicken.
¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of gentle heat and complexity.

How to Make Shish Tawook Grilled Chicken Skewers Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the marinade

Start by combining all the marinade ingredients in a large bowl — yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, crushed garlic, tomato paste, paprika, cinnamon, oregano, ground ginger, salt, and black pepper. Whisk them together until you have a smooth, aromatic mixture. This blend is the heart of your skewers, setting the stage for juicy, flavorful chicken.

Step 2: Marinate the chicken

Next, toss the large chicken chunks into the marinade, carefully coating each piece. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it rest in the fridge for at least four hours—overnight is even better. This slow soak allows the chicken to deeply absorb those incredible flavors while becoming tender and succulent.

Step 3: Thread the chicken on skewers

When ready to grill, thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers. For added flair and taste, tuck a wedge of onion between chunks of chicken on each skewer. This not only adds a pleasant crunch but also enhances the stovetop or grill aroma.

Step 4: Grill to perfection

Place your skewers on a preheated grill or grill pan over medium heat. Cook for about 5 to 8 minutes on each side, making sure the chicken is cooked all the way through with beautiful grill marks and a slightly smoky char. The grilling gives the chicken that irresistible outdoor flavor you’re craving.

How to Serve Shish Tawook Grilled Chicken Skewers Recipe

The image shows two views of four skewers placed side by side on a black grill pan with ridges. Each skewer has chunks of cooked meat and pieces of white onion spaced between them. The meat is light golden brown on the left side, with a slightly cooked look, while on the right side, the meat is more deeply cooked with darker grill marks and a richer golden orange color. The onions are slightly charred in some spots. The grill pan's surface shows faint grill lines and a few small meat juices. The background is a white marbled texture. The scene appears bright and clear, focusing on the difference between partially cooked and fully grilled meat skewers. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

The perfect garnish elevates your Shish Tawook Grilled Chicken Skewers Recipe beyond just a meal. Fresh chopped parsley or mint leaves can brighten each bite, while a sprinkle of sumac adds a tangy, slightly lemony twist that complements the marinade wonderfully.

Side Dishes

Serve these skewers with warm pita bread and a side of garlic sauce or toum for dipping. Crisp lettuce or a colorful salad with tomatoes and cucumbers rounds out the meal, adding freshness, crunch, and a cool contrast to the smoky chicken.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, arrange the skewers over a bed of fragrant rice pilaf, dotted with toasted pine nuts and fresh herbs. Alternatively, transform the dish into a delicious wrap by stuffing grilled chicken and garnishes into warm flatbread, then rolling it up for a handheld feast perfect for casual dinners or picnics.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover Shish Tawook Grilled Chicken Skewers Recipe should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh and tasty for up to 3 to 4 days, making it easy to enjoy this flavorful meal again without redoing all the work.

Freezing

If you want to keep the skewers longer, you can freeze them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Be sure to remove as much air as possible to maintain quality. Frozen skewers are best used within 2 months for maximum flavor and tenderness.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the skewers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 to 15 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as this can dry out the chicken. Reheating this way helps preserve that fresh-off-the-grill juiciness.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are even juicier and work beautifully with this marinade. Just adjust the grilling time to ensure they are cooked through but still tender.

How long should I marinate the chicken for the best flavor?

While 4 hours is a minimum, marinating overnight yields the most flavorful and tender chicken. The longer the chicken soaks, the deeper the taste.

Is yogurt necessary in the marinade?

Yogurt acts as a natural tenderizer and adds a subtle tang that is key to authentic Shish Tawook flavor. You could substitute with labneh or buttermilk, but plain whole milk yogurt is your best bet.

Can I cook Shish Tawook indoors without a grill?

Yes, a grill pan works wonderfully. Preheat it over medium heat and cook the skewers as you would on an outdoor grill, achieving lovely char marks and smoky flavor.

What can I serve with the skewers for a complete meal?

Pair them with pita bread, garlic sauce, and a fresh salad for a balanced, satisfying spread that captures the essence of Middle Eastern dining.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about the Shish Tawook Grilled Chicken Skewers Recipe that turns an ordinary dinner into a flavorful celebration. The harmony of spices, creamy marinade, and grill-kissed chicken creates a heartfelt dish you’ll want to make again and again. I encourage you to dive into this recipe and experience the joy of these tender, aromatic skewers — your taste buds and loved ones will thank you for it!

Shish Tawook Grilled Chicken Skewers Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need