shish tawook recipe
The Best shish tawook recipe
I love this recipe because it’s versatile. It works for everyday meals, like a quick weeknight dinner, but it also shines when you’re hosting, especially during the warmer months. The grilled chicken or lamb is so tender, it practically falls off the bone, and the tangy, slightly sweet marinade makes it feel like a restaurant-quality dish without the fuss. Plus, the health benefits are real—lean protein, plenty of vitamins from the fresh ingredients, and no heavy sauces to weigh you down. It’s the kind of meal that’s satisfying, nourishing, and always a hit with everyone at the table.
Classic Shish Tawuk (Chicken Shish Kebabs)
A flavorful and tender dish featuring marinated chicken skewers grilled to perfection with a tangy tomato sauce. Perfect for summer gatherings or a quick weeknight meal.
🥘Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 12 wooden or metal skewers
- 1 cup pine nuts (optional)
- 1 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 cup crushed tomatoes
- ½ cup tomato paste
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt to taste
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. -
2
In a bowl, combine chicken thighs with olive oil, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well and let marinate for at least 15 minutes. -
3
Thread a chicken piece onto each skewer, alternating with pine nuts and parsley if using. Secure with toothpicks if needed. -
4
Heat the sauce ingredients in a saucepan over medium heat until simmering. Reduce heat and let it thicken for about 5 minutes. -
5
Grill the skewers for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred. -
6
Brush the grilled skewers with the sauce and serve immediately with your favorite sides.
🔧Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Skewer holder or tongs
- Grill or grill pan
- Mixing spoon
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Classic Shish Tawuk (Chicken Shish Kebabs) Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Shish Tawuk (Chicken Shish Kebabs)
1. What is shish tawook, and how does it differ from other grilled kebabs?
Shish tawook is a classic Middle Eastern grilled kebab made with chicken, typically seasoned with a mix of spices like cumin, coriander, garlic, and paprika. Unlike kebabs that use beef or lamb, shish tawook focuses on chicken, often skewered with a combination of vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes. The key difference lies in the flavor profile and texture—shish tawook is lighter and more aromatic, with a tender, juicy chicken that soaks up the spices beautifully.
2. Can I use frozen chicken for shish tawook, or should I use fresh?
You can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it completely first. Fresh chicken is ideal because it holds its shape better when skewered and cooks more evenly. If using frozen, pat it dry thoroughly before marinating and cutting into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
3. What’s the best way to marinate the chicken for shish tawook?
Marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours (or overnight for deeper flavor), but no longer than 4 hours to avoid over-saturation. Combine 1 cup of chicken broth or water, 1/2 cup lemon juice, 1/2 cup olive oil, 3 cloves garlic (minced), 1 tablespoon each of ground cumin, coriander, and paprika, 1 teaspoon each of salt and black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon turmeric. Toss the chicken pieces in the mixture and refrigerate.
4. How do I prevent the chicken from drying out while grilling?
To keep the chicken juicy, avoid overcrowding the grill and cook it over medium-high heat. Cut the chicken into evenly sized pieces so they cook at the same rate. If the grill is too hot, the outside will burn before the inside cooks. Additionally, basting with a little olive oil or marinade during grilling helps retain moisture.
