There’s something absolutely irresistible about a platter of juicy, flavor-packed Shish Tawook. This beloved Middle Eastern chicken kebab is all about the magic of simple ingredients marinated to perfection, then grilled to smoky, golden glory. Each tender bite is bursting with garlicky tang, a kiss of spice, and a bright lemony punch, making Shish Tawook the star of any mealtime. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a weeknight treat or wowing your friends at a backyard gathering, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser you’ll find yourself craving again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every great Shish Tawook starts with fresh, simple ingredients that work together to deliver incredible flavor. Each one has a special job—whether it’s tenderizing the chicken, adding aroma, or giving that trademark tang—so don’t skip a thing!

Chicken breast: Choose skinless, boneless chicken breast for juicy, tender kebabs that hold up beautifully on skewers.
Plain yogurt: The secret to melt-in-your-mouth texture, yogurt breaks down the chicken and adds lovely creaminess.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic infuses the marinade with unmistakable boldness.
Lemon juice: Brings fresh, citrusy brightness that makes the flavors pop and helps tenderize the meat.
Olive oil: Adds richness and helps keep the chicken juicy over the heat.
Tomato paste: Packs in deep, savory notes and gives the marinade its signature blush.
Smoked paprika: Gives a subtle smoky flavor and gorgeous color.
Ground cumin: A touch of earthy warmth that rounds out the spice mix.
Salt and black pepper: Enhances every other flavor—don’t be shy with seasoning.
Optional: cayenne pepper or chili powder: For those who love a gentle kick, a pinch will wake everything up.

How to Make Shish Tawook

Step 1: Whip Up the Marinade

This is where the magic begins! In a large mixing bowl, combine the yogurt, olive oil, tomato paste, lemon juice, minced garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, pepper, and if you like some heat, a pinch of cayenne. Whisk until smooth, rich, and gorgeously colored. You’ll know it’s right when the scent alone makes your mouth water.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Chop your chicken breast into even, bite-sized cubes. Toss them right into the bowl with your marinade, making sure every piece gets a luscious coating. Cover and let the chicken soak up all those flavors in the fridge for at least two hours. If you can manage overnight, even better—the longer the marinate, the more unforgettable your Shish Tawook will be.

Step 3: Skewer Up

Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto wooden or metal skewers, pressing them close together but not too tight. If you’re using wooden skewers, don’t forget to soak them in water for about 30 minutes first. This simple step keeps them from burning on the grill and helps everything cook evenly.

Step 4: Grill to Perfection

Preheat your grill to medium-high and oil the grates so nothing sticks. Carefully lay the skewers across the grates and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is beautifully golden and cooked through. A bit of char is totally delicious here—it’s what gives authentic Shish Tawook that irresistible flavor.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Resist the urge to dig in immediately! Let the kebabs rest for a few minutes off the grill so their juices settle. This quick pause keeps your Shish Tawook extra moist. Slide the chicken off the skewers onto a platter and get ready for the ultimate taste test.

How to Serve Shish Tawook

Garnishes

Nothing transforms Shish Tawook faster than a generous flurry of fresh garnish. Try chopped parsley, a sprinkle of sumac, thinly sliced onions, or vibrant pickled turnips for extra pop. If you love creamy textures, a drizzle of garlic sauce or tahini is pure perfection.

Side Dishes

The best partners for Shish Tawook are all about balance and freshness. Fluffy Lebanese rice, warm pita, or a simple fattoush salad make for a complete meal. Add some hummus or baba ghanoush to the table for creamy, tangy contrast everyone will love.

Creative Ways to Present

Go beyond tradition and wow your guests by tucking chunks of Shish Tawook inside soft pita wraps with crunchy veggies and garlic sauce, or lay out a colorful board with the skewers, dips, and all your favorite sides for build-your-own fun. The vibrant colors and mouthwatering aroma will pull everyone in.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover Shish Tawook (lucky you!), let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, it’ll stay fresh, moist, and flavorful for up to three days.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked Shish Tawook for longer storage. Just arrange the cooled chicken pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. This simple trick keeps the pieces separate and easy to reheat later. Freeze for up to 2 months for the best texture.

Reheating

To bring your Shish Tawook back to life, reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or pop it in a 350°F oven for a few minutes. If frozen, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. A splash of water or chicken broth in the pan can help revive any moisture lost.

FAQs

Can I make Shish Tawook without a grill?

Absolutely. If you don’t have access to a grill, a grill pan or even your oven’s broiler makes a fantastic backup. You’ll still get those beautiful char marks and loads of flavor.

What’s the best yogurt for this recipe?

Use plain, full-fat yogurt for the creamiest marinade and best flavor. Greek yogurt works too, but may make your marinade a bit thicker. Either way, you can’t go wrong.

Can I substitute chicken thighs for breasts?

Definitely! Chicken thighs will give you a juicier, richer result and are slightly more forgiving if you’re prone to overcooking. Just cut them to the same size.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

For maximum flavor and tenderness, aim for at least 2 hours. If you have time, overnight marinating makes your Shish Tawook truly unforgettable.

Is Shish Tawook spicy?

Traditionally, Shish Tawook is flavorful but mild. If you crave some spice, feel free to add cayenne or chili powder to suit your taste.

Final Thoughts

Shish Tawook is more than a meal—it’s a celebration of bold, bright flavors that bring people together. Once you try it, you’ll find every excuse to make it again and again. Grab your apron, invite a few friends over, and let this beautiful dish steal the show at your next gathering!

Shish Tawook Recipe