Lebanese yogurt-marinated chicken skewers
Shish Tawook
Prep Time
2 hr 10 min
Cook Time
12 min
Total Time
2 hr 22 min
Servings
4
8 skewers
Difficulty
Easy
Cost
Moderate
$$
Shish Tawook
Lebanese yogurt-marinated chicken skewers
★4.8(12)
Tender, juicy chicken skewers marinated in a garlicky yogurt-lemon mixture and grilled until golden. The Lebanese answer to chicken kebabs—impossibly flavorful and moist.
130m
Prep Time
12m
Cook Time
142m
Total Time
4
Servings
Easy
Difficulty
Moderate $$
Cost
Sarah Chen
(Updated )
Shish tawook gets its legendary tenderness from a yogurt and lemon marinade that tenderizes while infusing deep flavor. The garlic and warm spices create an irresistible charred aroma on the grill.
Whether you are feeding a hungry family or hosting friends, this main course delivers the kind of satisfaction that keeps people coming back.
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1
Whisk yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, spices, and 1 tsp salt in a bowl.
- 2
Add chicken cubes and toss to coat. Cover and marinate 2-4 hours (or overnight) in the fridge.
- 3
Thread chicken onto skewers, shaking off excess marinade.
- 4
Grill over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes per side until charred and cooked through (165°F).
- 5
Rest 3 minutes, then serve with garlic sauce (toum), pickled turnips, and pita bread.
Serving Suggestions
Ways to Serve This Dish
Serve with a fresh side salad for a balanced meal
Pair with your favorite grain or bread on the side
Garnish with fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation
Substitutions
YogurtCoconut yogurt
Dairy-free option that still tenderizes
Chicken breastChicken thighs
Juicier and harder to overcook
Tips & Storage
Pro Tips
Don't skip the marinating time—at least 2 hours makes a huge difference.
Cut chicken into even pieces for uniform cooking.
Let the protein rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute for maximum tenderness.
Season each component individually rather than seasoning at the end — this builds deeper, more complex flavor throughout.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Label with the date and recipe name.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water to keep moist.
Nutrition Facts
Per serving (110mg) · 4 servings
Calories280
LowModerateHigh
A moderate-calorie serving · based on a 2,000 cal daily diet
Protein38g
Carbohydrates10g
Fat4g
Fiber420mg
Sugar0g
Sodium2g
Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use chicken thighs?
- Yes, thighs are juicier and more forgiving on the grill.
- What is garlic sauce (toum)?
- A Lebanese emulsion of garlic, lemon juice, and oil whipped until fluffy white.
Explore More
About Sarah Chen
Sarah Chen is a professional recipe developer and food editor with over a decade of experience in test kitchens and food media. She trained at the Culinary Institute of America before spending six years developing and testing recipes for national food publications, where she honed her ability to translate restaurant techniques into approachable home cooking. At RecipePool, Sarah leads recipe development, ensuring every dish is tested at least three times for clarity, accuracy, and genuine deliciousness. When she is not in the kitchen, she is browsing farmers markets and collecting vintage cookbooks.
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