Introduction: The Magic of Shish Tawook
Have you ever taken a bite of grilled chicken so juicy, so flavorful, and so tender that it instantly transports you to another part of the world? That’s what Shish Tawook does. This Lebanese classic is a staple in Middle Eastern kitchens and restaurant menus alike. And the best part? Learning how to make Shish Tawook at home is easier than you think!
If you’re craving something fresh, healthy, and packed with flavor, this recipe is about to become your new favorite.
What Is Shish Tawook?
Before we dive into how to make Shish Tawook, let’s talk about what it is.
Shish Tawook (or shish taouk) is a Lebanese grilled chicken skewer recipe, typically marinated in a heavenly blend of yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, and a mix of aromatic spices. The word “shish” means skewer, while “tawook” refers to chicken. When grilled to perfection, these skewers are smoky, juicy, and bursting with Mediterranean flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• ✅ Super Juicy Chicken thanks to the yogurt-based marinade
• ✅ Full of Flavor with garlic, paprika, and citrusy zing
• ✅ Great for Meal Prep – make it ahead, grill when ready
• ✅ Healthy and Protein-Packed
• ✅ Perfect for BBQs, Wraps, or Rice Bowls
Whether you’re planning a weeknight dinner or a backyard cookout, these chicken skewers never disappoint.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make authentic Shish Tawook, gather the following:
For the Marinade:
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (full-fat preferred)
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tbsp white vinegar
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional but traditional!)
• Salt & pepper to taste
For the Chicken:
• 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
• Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak for 30 minutes)
Step-by-Step: How To Make Shish Tawook
1. Prepare the Marinade
In a large bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, vinegar, garlic, paprika, cumin, cinnamon (if using), salt, and pepper.
✅ Tip: The yogurt tenderizes the chicken, while the lemon and vinegar add tang that balances the richness.
2. Marinate the Chicken
Add the chicken pieces to the bowl. Mix until all pieces are well coated. Cover and marinate in the fridge for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
🕒 The longer you marinate, the deeper the flavor.
3. Skewer the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the marinade and thread onto skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
4. Grill to Perfection
• Grill Method: Preheat your grill to medium-high. Grill the skewers for 10–12 minutes, turning every 2–3 minutes, until slightly charred and fully cooked (internal temp 165°F).
• Oven Method: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Place skewers on a baking rack over a tray. Bake for 20–25 minutes, broiling for the last 2–3 minutes to char.
5. Serve & Enjoy
Serve with garlic sauce (toum), pita bread, tabbouleh, or rice pilaf. These skewers are perfect in wraps or rice bowls, too!
Serving Suggestions: Elevate Your Shish Tawook Game
Pair your juicy chicken skewers with these Mediterranean sides:
• 🥙 Garlic Sauce (Toum) – fluffy, tangy, garlicky magic
• 🥗 Tabbouleh or Fattoush Salad – adds freshness and crunch
• 🍚 Spiced Rice or Couscous – hearty and satisfying
• 🫓 Grilled Flatbread or Pita – wrap it all up!
You can even build a DIY Shish Tawook Platter for guests and let them assemble their own wraps. It’s a crowd-pleaser!
Tips for the Best Shish Tawook Every Time
• Use Chicken Thighs for extra juiciness, though breasts also work well.
• Don’t skip the yogurt – it’s the secret to tender chicken.
• Soak wooden skewers before grilling to prevent burning.
• Rest the chicken for a few minutes after grilling before serving.
Final Thoughts: Bring Lebanon to Your Table
Now that you know how to make Shish Tawook, you’ve unlocked a delicious piece of Middle Eastern cuisine that’s as rewarding to make as it is to eat. It’s quick, family-friendly, and ideal for any occasion—from summer grilling to cozy indoor dinners.
Don’t be surprised if your guests ask for the recipe. Go ahead and share it—better yet, share the love by pinning it, posting your food pics, and tagging your creations!