I’m so excited to share with you my favorite chicken shish taouk recipe. This Middle Eastern dish has been a staple in our household for years, and for good reason.
The combination of juicy chicken, flavorful spices, and crispy vegetables is a match made in heaven. I love serving this recipe at family gatherings and potlucks because it’s easy to make in large quantities and everyone always raves about it.
But what really sets this recipe apart is the health benefits – the chicken is marinated in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs, making it a nutritious and guilt-free option for any occasion. My kids can’t get enough of it, and I’ve even caught them sneaking into the kitchen to whip up a batch when they think no one is looking!
The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal prep time, making it a perfect addition to your weeknight dinner rotation.
Whether you’re serving it at a special occasion or just need a quick and delicious meal, this chicken shish taouk recipe is sure to be a hit. And let’s not forget about the leftovers – they’re just as tasty reheated the next day, making it a great option for meal prep or packing lunches for school/work.
Chicken Shish Taouk
4.6 from 1976 votes
Chicken shish taouk is a classic Middle Eastern dish featuring marinated chicken skewers grilled to perfection. The marinade combines yogurt, lemon, garlic, and warm spices for a tender and flavorful result.
1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
1 large red onion, cut into chunks
1 bell pepper, cut into chunks
Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes)
For Serving
Warm pita bread
Garlic sauce (toum)
Pickled turnips
Fresh parsley, chopped
👨🍳Directions
1In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, tomato paste, paprika, cumin, coriander, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper until smooth.
2Add the chicken cubes and toss to coat evenly.
3Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for best flavor.
4Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers, alternating with red onion and bell pepper chunks.
5Leave a small space between pieces for even cooking.
6If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning.
7Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (about 400°F).
8Lightly oil the grates.
9Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 12 to 15 minutes, turning every 3 to 4 minutes, until the chicken is charred in spots and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
10Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for 2 to 3 minutes.
11Slide the chicken and vegetables off the skewers onto a serving platter.
12Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately with warm pita, garlic sauce, and pickled turnips.
For extra tenderness, use chicken thighs instead of breasts. Marinate overnight for deeper flavor. You can also bake the skewers in a preheated 425°F oven for 15 to 18 minutes, turning once halfway through.
Watch Video Of How Chicken Shish Taouk Works
This recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just need a quick and delicious meal on a weeknight.
The leftovers are just as tasty reheated the next day, making it a great option for meal prep or packing lunches for school/work.
One of my favorite ways to serve this dish is with some crusty pita bread on the side – just wrap slices around some juicy grilled chicken and serve with your favorite toppings.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Shish Taouk
What is chicken shish taouk?
Chicken shish taouk is a popular Middle Eastern dish made with marinated chicken skewers grilled to perfection. It’s typically served with a side of rice, salad, or pita bread.
How do I marinate the chicken?
The key to making great chicken shish taouk is in the marinade – you’ll want to mix together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs (such as parsley or oregano) to create a flavorful mixture that will soak into the chicken as it cooks.
Can I use different types of meat?
While traditional chicken shish taouk uses chicken breast or thighs, you can also experiment with beef or lamb skewers for a heartier option.
How do I know if the chicken is cooked through?
The best way to ensure that your chicken is cooked through is to use a meat thermometer – insert it into the thickest part of the meat and wait for it to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can also check by cutting into one of the skewers – if it’s white throughout and not pink at all, it’s done.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Sure thing! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance and even assemble the skewers before grilling them. Just be sure to store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.
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