Shish Tawook

Shish tawook is a popular Middle Eastern dish known for its delicious flavors and tender grilled chicken. It’s a staple in Lebanese cuisine and is loved by food enthusiasts all over the world. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply craving a delicious meal, Shish Tawook, Shish Taouk is a fantastic choice. Its simple yet bold flavors make it an instant crowd-pleaser.

These best chicken recipes to try at home will help you master the art of preparing restaurant-quality chicken dishes right in your own kitchen.

About This Recipe

The name “Shish Tawook” translates to “skewered chicken” in English, and that is exactly how it is prepared. Authentically, marinated skewers are placed over hot coals or a gas flame, allowing the chicken to cook slowly and develop beautiful charred marks. The smoky aroma that fills the air as the chicken cooks is simply irresistible.

The oven method for shish tawook offers a convenient alternative to grilling. It allows you to enjoy the mouthwatering flavors of this dish without the need for an outdoor grill. Plus, the oven ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and retains its moisture.

Shish Tawook Ingredients

Chicken Breast, Cut in Cubes: This is the primary protein in Shish Tawook. Chicken breast is typically, cut into uniform cubes to ensure even cooking and flavor absorption.

Mayonnaise (or Garlic Aioli): Mayonnaise or garlic aioli serves as a base for the marinade. It adds creaminess and helps tenderize the chicken. Garlic aioli, with its garlic flavor, is a popular choice for an extra burst of taste.

Olive Oil: Olive oil not only adds richness to the marinade but also contributes to a pleasant texture in the final dish. It helps keep the chicken moist during grilling.

Garlic: Garlic is a fundamental flavor enhancer in Shish Tawook. It infuses the dish with a distinct and aromatic garlic flavor, enhancing its overall taste.

Ginger: Ginger complements the garlic, adding a hint of warmth and depth to the marinade’s flavor profile. It contributes to the overall complexity of the dish.

Tomato Ketchup: Tomato ketchup adds a touch of sweetness and tanginess to the marinade. It helps balance the flavors and adds a subtle tomato note.

Yogurt | Curd: Adds base and creamy texture. Also helps in balancing the flavours.

Lemon Juice: The acidity of the lemon juice enhances the overall taste. It also helps to tenderize the chicken, making it more succulent and flavorful.

Spices

Oregano (Optional): Oregano is an optional ingredient that can be added for an extra layer of herbaceous flavor. It complements the spices in the marinade, but it’s not always used in every Shish Tawook recipe.

Black Pepper, Crushed: Crushed black pepper adds a mild spicy kick and a pleasant hint of heat to the dish. It contributes to the marinade’s flavor balance.

Paprika: Paprika is a key spice in the marinade, contributing mild smoky flavor. It’s a hallmark of Shish Tawook’s distinctive taste.

Cumin: Cumin is another essential spice that imparts earthy, warm, and slightly nutty notes to the dish. It enhances the depth and complexity of the marinade’s flavor.

Lebanese Shish Tawook Recipe

Shish Tawook is a relatively simple dish to prepare, but its simplicity doesn’t compromise on taste. Succulent chicken pieces are marinated in a delicious blend of yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, and various spices. This is then threaded onto skewers before being grilled to perfection.

The marinade is the key to the incredible taste of Shish Tawook. The yogurt helps to tenderize the chicken, while the garlic and lemon juice infuse it with a zesty tang. A combination of spices such as paprika, cumin, and oregano adds depth and complexity to the dish.

Once the chicken has marinated for a few hours or overnight, it is time to cook it in the oven. Preheat the oven to a high temperature, around 400°F (200°C). Arrange the marinated chicken pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil.

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and let the chicken cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until it is cooked through and the skin is golden brown. You may want to flip the chicken halfway through cooking to ensure even browning and juiciness.

Serving Shish Tawook

Serve shish tawook with a side of fluffy rice, fresh salad, and some lemon wedges. The combination of the tender chicken, flavorful marinade, and the accompaniments creates a truly delightful and satisfying meal.

So, if you’re in the mood for a delectable Middle Eastern dish, give shish tawook in the oven a try. It’s a fantastic option for a tasty and wholesome meal that will surely impress your family and friends. Enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Shish Tawook

To ensure your Shish Tawook turns out as delicious as possible, here are some essential tips to keep in mind:

1. Marination Time: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 2-4 hours, or even overnight, for the flavors to penetrate the meat deeply. The longer the marination, the tastier the end result.

2. Use High-Quality Yogurt: Opt for full-fat, plain yogurt. It contributes to the creamy texture and helps keep the chicken moist during grilling.

3. Uniformly Sized Chicken Pieces: Cutting the chicken into uniform pieces ensures even cooking. This prevents some pieces from drying out while others remain undercooked.

4. Adjust Spice Levels: Customize the spiciness of your Shish Tawook by adjusting the amount of paprika, pepper, or other spices in the marinade to suit your taste.

5. Grill Carefully: Pay close attention when grilling. Overcooking the chicken can result in dry, tough meat. Grill until the chicken is fully cooked but still juicy.

6. Serve with Fresh Accompaniments: Relish Shish Tawook with fresh pita bread, a side of crunchy vegetables, and a zesty garlic sauce. The freshness of these accompaniments complements the flavors of the dish.

Thank you Khadiza of Khadiza’s Kitchen for sharing this delicious recipe as a part of Ramadan special event Joy From Fasting To Feasting – VII.