Shish Tawook Recipe

User Reviews

4.8

82 reviews
Excellent
  • Prep Time

    15 mins

  • Cook Time

    15 mins

  • Marinate

    2 hrs

  • Total Time

    30 mins

  • Servings

    6 servings

  • Calories

    263 kcal

  • Course

    Main Course

  • Cuisine

    Mediterranean

Shish Tawook Recipe

Shish Tawook is grilled or pan-seared marinated chicken breast pieces infused with garlic, lemon juice, yogurt, tomato paste, and spices like paprika, sumac, and thyme. Marinating several hours tenderizes the meat and layers on bright and savory flavors. The chicken is cooked until seared and fully done, keeping juiciness inside while developing a golden exterior. Traditionally served with pita and salad, this dish offers a balance of tender chicken with zesty, aromatic seasonings.

Description

Shish Tawook uses boneless, skinless chicken breast cut into uniform pieces marinated in a mixture of whole milk yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, tomato paste, and spices including paprika, sumac, thyme, and salt. The yogurt-based marinade tenderizes the chicken and infuses it with lemony and savory notes from the garlic and spices. Marinating for at least two hours, up to twelve, deepens the flavors.

The chicken is then cooked either on skewers grilled over medium heat or seared in a pan with olive oil without overcrowding. Pan cooking involves searing each side for 3 to 4 minutes until fully cooked yet still juicy. The method creates a nicely browned surface that holds the flavors. The recipe advises minimal stirring during cooking to allow proper searing.

Shish Tawook is commonly served with pita bread and a fresh salad, making a balanced meal with carbohydrates and vegetables. Leftovers can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator up to four days and reheated gently on the stovetop.

Using fresh lemon juice and garlic is emphasized for the marinade's character. Whole milk yogurt yields the best texture but lower-fat or Greek yogurts can be alternatives. Chicken thighs can substitute for breast meat if preferred.

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Ingredients

Servings
  • 2 lbs chicken breast Bone and skin off
  • 1 cup yogurt whole milk
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • 5 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 1/2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp sumac
  • 1 tsp thyme
  • 1 tsp salt

Instructions

  1. Cut the chicken breast into 1 1/2 inch pieces and place them in a large bowl. 
  2. In another bowl, mix yogurt, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, tomato paste, paprika, sumac and thyme. 
  3. Pour the yogurt mixture over chicken pieces and mix well. Cover with a plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least two hours up to eight hours. 
  4. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmery, place the chicken pieces in the pan but don't over crowd the pan. 
  5. Sear the chicken pieces on one side for 3-4 minutes, then stir and sear the other side until the chicken is fully cooked. 
  6. Serve shish tawook with pita and salad. 

Notes

  • Boneless skinless chicken thighs can be used instead of chicken breast.
  • Marinate the chicken for up to 12 hours for deeper flavor.
  • Use fresh lemons and garlic rather than bottled lemon juice for better taste.
  • Whole milk yogurt provides optimal texture, but low fat or Greek yogurt are acceptable alternatives.
  • To grill, thread chicken onto skewers and cook about 12–15 minutes over medium heat, turning occasionally.
  • Avoid excessive stirring when pan cooking to promote searing.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container refrigerated up to 4 days; reheat over medium-low heat.

Nutrition Information

Show Details
Calories 263kcal (13%) Carbohydrates 3g (1%) Protein 36g (72%) Fat 11g (17%) Saturated Fat 2g (10%) Cholesterol 98mg (33%) Sodium 220mg (9%) Potassium 665mg (14%) Fiber 1g (4%) Sugar 2g (4%) Vitamin A 286IU (6%) Vitamin C 6mg (7%) Calcium 49mg (5%) Iron 1mg (6%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 6servings

Amount Per Serving

Calories 263 kcal

% Daily Value*

Calories 263kcal 13%
Carbohydrates 3g 1%
Protein 36g 72%
Fat 11g 17%
Saturated Fat 2g 10%
Cholesterol 98mg 33%
Sodium 220mg 9%
Potassium 665mg 14%
Fiber 1g 4%
Sugar 2g 4%
Vitamin A 286IU 6%
Vitamin C 6mg 7%
Calcium 49mg 5%
Iron 1mg 6%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

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4.8

82 reviews
Excellent

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