Shish Tawook (Grilled Chicken Skewers)
As the sun sets and the air fills with the warm, inviting scent of marinated chicken sizzling on the grill, the scene transforms into a heartwarming gathering place. This is the essence of Shish Tawook, the beloved grilled chicken skewers that evoke memories of summer barbecues and family celebrations. Tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor, Shish Tawook (Grilled Chicken Skewers) promise to be a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive treat for any occasion. Let your senses dance with the aroma of garlic and citrus while you create a dish that not only satisfies the hunger but also nourishes the soul.
Why This Recipe Works
Shish Tawook is a culinary treasure for many reasons. It’s not just a recipe; it’s a tradition, a way to gather and celebrate togetherness. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with this homemade dish:
- Simplicity: With straightforward ingredients and easy steps, this recipe fits perfectly into your busy life.
- Flavorful: A delightful marinade infused with garlic and spices ensures each bite is an explosion of taste.
- Versatile: Enjoy it on skewers, in pita wraps, or over a fresh salad.
- Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will devour these tender bites, making it a surefire hit at the dinner table.
- Celebratory: Ideal for potlucks, birthday parties, or just a simple gathering with friends.
Ingredient Breakdown
To create delectable Shish Tawook (Grilled Chicken Skewers), gather the following ingredients:
- Chicken Breast: 1.5 pounds, cut into 1.5-inch cubes. Tender cuts are best.
- Yogurt: 1 cup, Greek is preferred for creaminess. (Dairy-free option: use coconut yogurt.)
- Lemon Juice: 1/4 cup, freshly squeezed for brightness.
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced. The more, the merrier!
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons, for richness and moisture.
- Cumin: 1 teaspoon, adding warm earthiness.
- Paprika: 1 teaspoon, giving a gentle kick.
- Salt: 1 teaspoon, essential for flavor enhancement.
- Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon, for a subtle heat.
- Skewers: Wooden or metal, soaked if wooden to prevent burning.
Prep and Cooking Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Marinating Time: 1 to 4 hours (longer for deeper flavor).
- Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes (including marinating).
Perfect for a quick dinner or a relaxed weekend meal, these skewers won’t keep you in the kitchen for long!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Marinate: In a large bowl, combine the yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until smooth.
- Prepare Chicken: Add the cubed chicken to the marinade, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to 4 hours for enhanced flavor).
- Preheat Grill: Preheat your grill (or grill pan) to medium-high heat, creating that perfect sear.
- Assemble Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
- Grill: Place the skewers on the grill, cooking for about 10-15 minutes. Turn occasionally until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks—when the edges turn golden and the aroma fills the air, you’ll know it’s almost time!
- Rest: Remove from the grill and let rest for 5 minutes to keep them juicy.
- Serve: Enjoy your Shish Tawook with pita bread, fresh veggies, and your favorite dipping sauces.
Tips and Creative Variations
- Flavor Infusions: Add a splash of pomegranate molasses for a sweet-tart note or mix in some fresh herbs like parsley or mint.
- Vegetable Additions: Alternate chicken pieces with cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or zucchini for a colorful veggie medley.
- Healthy Twist: For a lower-carb option, serve the skewers atop a bed of greens rather than with pita.
Serving Suggestions
Picture this: a dazzling spread where your Shish Tawook shines next to a vibrant tabbouleh salad, warm pita bread, and a zesty garlic sauce. These skewers are perfect for family dinners, outdoor grilling parties, or even brunch spreads — simply pair with a side of grilled veggies for a well-rounded meal.
Storage and Leftovers
Let’s face it: there may be leftovers, and that’s a good thing! To keep your Shish Tawook perfect:
- Fridge: Store cooked skewers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: If you have more than you can eat, freeze the skewers. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in freezer bags for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Gently reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
Pro Kitchen Secrets
- Rest Before Serving: Always let your skewers rest a few minutes after grilling to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Brighten the Flavors: Add a touch of lemon juice right before serving; it brings a fresh zing that elevates the dish.
- Don’t Crowd the Grill: Ensure there’s space between each skewer for even cooking and better flavor development.
FAQs
- Can I use chicken thighs instead? Absolutely! Chicken thighs will yield even juicier skewers.
- Can I make these ahead of time? Yes! The marinated chicken can be prepared the night before and grilled when needed.
- What’s a good dipping sauce for Shish Tawook? A creamy garlic sauce or tahini dressing pairs beautifully with these skewers.
- Can I grill these on a stovetop? Yes! A grill pan will work perfectly to achieve those delicious grill marks.
Conclusion
Cooking Shish Tawook (Grilled Chicken Skewers) is not just about the food; it’s about gathering around the table, sharing laughter, and creating cherished memories. So, roll up your sleeves and indulge in the joy of creating something special for your loved ones. Each skewer represents a flavor of home, tradition, and celebration that you can share with family and friends. Try it today, and watch how this comforting classic can turn into a beloved staple in your recipe book!
Contents
Shish Tawook
Ingredients
Marinade Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds Chicken Breast, cut into 1.5-inch cubes Tender cuts are best.
- 1 cup Greek Yogurt Preferred for creaminess. Dairy-free option: use coconut yogurt.
- 1/4 cup Lemon Juice, freshly squeezed For brightness.
- 4 cloves Garlic, minced The more, the merrier!
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil For richness and moisture.
- 1 teaspoon Cumin Adding warm earthiness.
- 1 teaspoon Paprika Giving a gentle kick.
- 1 teaspoon Salt Essential for flavor enhancement.
- 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper For a subtle heat.
- pieces Skewers (Wooden or Metal, soaked if wooden) To prevent burning.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until smooth.
- Add the cubed chicken to the marinade, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to 4 hours for enhanced flavor).
- Preheat your grill (or grill pan) to medium-high heat.
- Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
Cooking
- Place the skewers on the grill, cooking for about 10-15 minutes. Turn occasionally until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
- Remove from the grill and let rest for 5 minutes to keep them juicy.
- Serve with pita bread, fresh veggies, and your favorite dipping sauces.
Notes
Written by Salaheddine — founder of Tasty Sunrise, sharing easy and comforting homemade recipes for every occasion.