If you’re looking for a dish that captures the essence of Middle Eastern cuisine, look no further than Shish Tawook. This marinated chicken skewers recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with flavor and aroma. The tender, juicy chicken pieces infused with garlic and spices are perfect for grilling or roasting.
Imagine gathering around the grill with family or friends, the tantalizing scent of marinated chicken wafting through the air. Shish Tawook is a crowd-pleaser that adds a festive touch to any gathering. Serve it with warm pita, fresh vegetables, and a side of garlic sauce for an unforgettable feast.
Marinated Chicken: The Heart of Shish Tawook
At the core of Shish Tawook lies the marinated chicken, which is essential for achieving that rich flavor profile. This dish traditionally features chicken breast cubed and marinated in a blend of yogurt, garlic, and spices.
The yogurt not only adds creaminess but also tenderizes the chicken, allowing it to soak up the aromatic spices. When marinated for several hours, the chicken transforms into a juicy and flavorful centerpiece that will impress anyone at your table.
The Art of Skewering
Once the chicken has absorbed the marinade, the next step is skewering. This is where creativity can shine. Threading the marinated chunks onto skewers allows for even cooking on the grill.
Whether using wooden or metal skewers, the spacing between the chicken pieces is important. Leave a little gap to ensure that heat circulates, which helps achieve that coveted charred exterior while keeping the chicken moist inside.
Grilling to Perfection
The grilling phase is where the magic happens. Preheating the grill to medium-high heat creates the ideal environment for cooking.
Cook the skewers for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally. The goal is to achieve a nicely charred finish while ensuring that the chicken is fully cooked. The tantalizing aroma of grilling chicken will surely draw everyone to the outdoor gathering.
Serving Suggestions: More Than Just Chicken
When it comes to serving Shish Tawook, presentation is key. Arrange the skewers on a vibrant platter, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Accompany the chicken with warm pita bread, colorful grilled vegetables such as bell peppers and onions, and a bowl of rich garlic sauce. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds layers of flavor and texture to the meal.
The Perfect Accompaniments
The combination of grilled chicken, pita, and garlic sauce is a classic. The creamy garlic sauce complements the grilled flavors beautifully, offering a delightful dipping experience.
Adding grilled vegetables introduces a healthy aspect, providing a satisfying crunch alongside the tender chicken. Together, these components create a well-rounded and inviting meal that is perfect for sharing.
A Feast for All Occasions
Shish Tawook is more than just a dish; it’s an experience that brings people together. Whether for a casual family dinner or a festive gathering with friends, this platter is sure to impress.
Its vibrant colors and aromatic flavors make it a standout choice for any occasion, evoking the essence of Middle Eastern cuisine in every bite.
Deliciously Marinated Chicken Skewers
Shish Tawook is characterized by its tender chicken, marinated in a blend of yogurt, garlic, and spices, resulting in a dish that’s bursting with flavor. The smoky, grilled finish gives it a delightful texture that pairs beautifully with dips and salads.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken breast, cut into cubes
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Wooden or metal skewers
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine yogurt, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, tomato paste, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the cubed chicken to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight for maximum flavor.
- Skewer the Chicken: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving a little space between each piece.
- Grill: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
- Serve: Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes. Serve the Shish Tawook with pita bread, fresh vegetables, and garlic sauce.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Marinating Time: 2 hours
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 35 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
