If you love juicy grilled chicken packed with bold Mediterranean flavors, Shish Tawook is a recipe you need to try. This popular Middle Eastern dish features tender chicken marinated in a flavorful blend of yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, and warm spices, then grilled on skewers until perfectly golden and smoky.
The marinade is the secret behind this dish. It not only infuses the chicken with incredible flavor but also tenderizes it, ensuring every bite is moist and juicy.
Whether served in warm pita bread, alongside rice, or with fresh salads and garlic sauce, Shish Tawook is a simple yet unforgettable meal.
What is Shish Tawook?
Shish Tawook is a traditional Middle Eastern grilled chicken skewer dish.
The name comes from Turkish:
- Shish means skewer
- Tawook means chicken
The dish became popular across the Middle East during the time of the Ottoman Empire, which influenced many regional cuisines including Lebanese cuisine.
Today, Shish Tawook is a staple in Lebanese restaurants and homes, often served as part of a mezze spread or wrapped in pita bread with garlic sauce.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Shish Tawook recipe is a favorite because:
- The marinade makes the chicken extra juicy and tender
- It uses simple pantry ingredients
- Perfect for grilling season
- Great for meal prep or family dinners
- Delicious in wraps, bowls, salads, or sandwiches
It’s one of those dishes that tastes like restaurant-quality food but is surprisingly easy to make at home.
Ingredients
To make authentic Shish Tawook, you’ll need:
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into large cubes
- 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
Optional:
- Onion chunks for skewers
- Pita bread for serving
- Lebanese garlic sauce (toum)
How to Make Shish Tawook
1. Prepare the marinade
In a large bowl, combine:
- Yogurt
- Lemon juice
- Olive oil
- Garlic
- Tomato paste
- Paprika
- Cinnamon
- Oregano
- Ginger
- Salt and pepper
Whisk everything together until smooth and creamy.
2. Marinate the chicken
Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and mix until well coated.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but preferably overnight for maximum flavor.
The yogurt and lemon juice will help tenderize the chicken, making it incredibly juicy.
3. Skewer the chicken
Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers. If you like, add pieces of onion between the chicken for extra flavor.
If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30–45 minutes beforehand to prevent burning.
4. Grill the chicken
Preheat the grill to medium heat.
Grill the skewers for 5–8 minutes per side, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
5. Serve
Serve the Shish Tawook hot with:
- Warm pita bread
- Fresh lettuce
- Pickles
- Lebanese garlic sauce
This combination creates one of the most iconic Middle Eastern sandwiches.
Tips for the Best Shish Tawook
Marinate longer for better flavor
At least 4 hours is essential, but overnight is ideal.
Use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt
Regular yogurt contains more moisture, helping keep the chicken juicy.
Don’t overcrowd the skewers
Leave small spaces between pieces so they cook evenly.
Cover with pita after grilling
Placing pita bread over the chicken traps the steam and keeps the meat tender.
What to Serve with Shish Tawook
Shish Tawook pairs beautifully with many Middle Eastern dishes.
Classic sides
- Lebanese rice with vermicelli
- Bulgur pilaf
- Grilled vegetables
Fresh salads
- Fattoush
- Tabbouleh
- Mediterranean cucumber salad
Sauces
- Toum (Lebanese garlic sauce)
- Hummus
- Tahini sauce
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does Shish Tawook last in the fridge?
Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
Can I make the marinade ahead of time?
Yes, the marinade can be prepared up to 3 days in advance.
Can I cook Shish Tawook without a grill?
Absolutely. You can cook it on:
- A grill pan
- A skillet
- In the oven
Why is yogurt used in the marinade?
Yogurt helps tenderize the chicken while adding richness and flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Authentic Shish Tawook recipe is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create incredible flavor. The yogurt marinade ensures the chicken stays juicy, while the garlic, lemon, and spices add layers of warmth and brightness.
Serve it wrapped in pita bread with garlic sauce or alongside rice and salad for a complete Middle Eastern meal.
Once you try homemade Shish Tawook, it will quickly become one of your favorite grilled chicken recipes.