Shish Tawook Grilled Chicken: A Culinary Journey to Middle Eastern Flavors

Dive into the rich tapestry of Middle Eastern cuisine with Shish Tawook, a tantalizing grilled chicken dish that embodies the vibrant flavors of the region. This recipe is a fusion of aromatic spices, succulent chicken, and a medley of fresh ingredients. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or seeking to elevate your weeknight dinner, Shish Tawook is a culinary adventure that promises to satisfy your taste buds. Let’s embark on this flavorful journey together.

Ingredients

Meat

• 2 lbs Chicken breast, skinless boneless

Produce

• 1 cup Flat-leaf parsley, fresh
• 4 cloves Garlic
• 1 Green bell pepper, large
• 2 Onions
• 1 tsp Oregano, dried

Canned Goods

• 2 tsp Tomato paste

Condiments

• 1/4 cup Lemon juice

Baking & Spices

• 1/4 tsp Allspice, ground
• 1/4 tsp Black pepper, ground
• 1/8 tsp Cardamom, ground
• 1/4 tsp Cinnamon, ground
• 1 1/2 tsp Salt

Oils & Vinegars

• 1/4 cup Vegetable oil

Dairy

• 3/4 cup Yogurt, plain

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken

• In a large bowl, combine yogurt, lemon juice, vegetable oil, minced garlic, oregano, tomato paste, allspice, black pepper, cardamom, cinnamon, and salt. Mix well to form a smooth marinade.
• Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized cubes and add them to the marinade. Ensure each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld.

2. Prepare the Vegetables

• Dice the green bell pepper and onions into chunks roughly the same size as the marinated chicken. Finely chop the flat-leaf parsley for garnish.

3. Skewer the Ingredients

• Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken, green bell pepper, and onion onto skewers, alternating the ingredients for a colorful presentation.

4. Grill to Perfection

• Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking. The chicken should be golden brown with a slightly charred exterior.

5. Garnish and Serve

• Sprinkle the skewers with freshly chopped parsley and an extra squeeze of lemon juice for a burst of freshness. Serve hot, either on its own or with a side of rice or flatbread.

Cook Notes

• Marinating Time: Don’t rush the marination process. Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 2 hours imparts a depth of flavor and ensures juicy, tender results.
• Skewer Soaking: If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before threading to prevent them from burning on the grill.
• Vegetable Variations: Experiment with different vegetables on the skewers, such as cherry tomatoes or mushrooms, to add variety and color.

Variations

Shish Tawook Salad Bowl

Transform the grilled chicken skewers into a vibrant salad bowl by placing them on a bed of mixed greens and adding your favorite Mediterranean toppings. Drizzle with a tahini dressing for a finishing touch.

Spicy Shish Tawook Wraps

Kick up the heat by adding a spicy twist to the marinade. Include a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for those who enjoy an extra kick. Serve the grilled chicken in wraps with garlic sauce and fresh veggies.

Keto Versions

Grilled Chicken and Avocado Delight

For a keto-friendly option, pair the Shish Tawook skewers with sliced avocado and a side of cauliflower rice. The creamy avocado complements the spiced chicken beautifully.

Cauliflower Tabbouleh

Replace traditional tabbouleh with a low-carb cauliflower version. Combine finely chopped cauliflower, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and parsley for a refreshing side dish.

Low Carb Versions

Zucchini Noodles with Shish Tawook

Swap out regular noodles for zucchini noodles, creating a low-carb alternative that soaks up the flavors of the grilled chicken. Toss with a lemon-infused olive oil for a light and satisfying meal.

Shish Tawook Lettuce Wraps

Skip the carbs altogether by serving the grilled chicken in crisp lettuce wraps. Add a dollop of tzatziki sauce for a burst of creaminess without the extra carbs.

In conclusion, Shish Tawook Grilled Chicken invites you to savor the enchanting flavors of Middle Eastern cuisine. This recipe, with its aromatic marinade and perfectly grilled skewers, is a celebration of spices, freshness, and culinary innovation. Whether you choose the classic version or opt for the keto or low-carb alternatives, Shish Tawook offers a versatile and satisfying dining experience.

So, fire up the grill, thread those skewers, and transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of the Middle East. With each juicy, spiced bite, you’ll discover why Shish Tawook has become a beloved dish around the world. Embrace the flavors, share the joy, and relish in the magic of Shish Tawook Grilled Chicken!