Shish Tawook (Chicken Kabobs) on the BBQ
If you want juicy chicken kabobs with real flavour and proper char, this Shish Tawook recipe delivers every time. It uses a simple yogurt marinade with garlic, lemon, and warm spices, then finishes hot and fast on the grill.
This version is built for home cooks. It keeps the classic flavour but adjusts the marinade so it cooks clean on BBQ skewers. The result is tender chicken with a light char on the outside and plenty of moisture inside.
What Is Shish Tawook?
Shish Tawook is a Middle Eastern grilled chicken dish, most commonly found in Lebanese cuisine. It uses a yogurt-based marinade with garlic and lemon, then cooks on skewers over high heat.
Unlike shawarma, which cooks on a vertical rotisserie, Shish Tawook cooks directly on the grill. This gives it a cleaner flavour and that signature char you expect from BBQ cooking.
Why This Recipe Works
This version focuses on flavour and grill performance.
- Greek Yogurt tenderizes the chicken and keeps it juicy
- Lemon juice and zest add brightness and balance the spices
- Garlic brings strong, savoury flavour
- Grated onion adds moisture and natural sweetness
- Reduced tomato paste prevents burning on the grill
Most importantly, removing excess marinade before grilling helps the chicken char instead of steam, give them a good shake.
Shish Tawook (Chicken Kabobs)
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, mix the Greek Yogurt, Lemon Juice, Lemon Zest, Olive Oil, Tomato Paste, Grated Onion, Garlic, Paprika, Allspice, Oregano, Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Ground Ginger, Cayenne Pepper, and Kosher Salt until smooth.
- Add the Chicken Thigh pieces and toss well to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for even more flavour.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and lightly wipe off the excess, leaving a thin coating behind. Thread the chicken onto skewers, leaving a little space between pieces for even cooking.
- Preheat the BBQ to medium-high heat, about 425 to 450°F. Lightly oil the grill grates.
- Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 10 to 14 minutes, turning every 2 to 3 minutes, until the chicken is lightly charred and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Remove the kabobs from the grill and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Nutrition
Notes
- Wiping off excess marinade helps the chicken char instead of steam.
- Chicken Thighs stay juicier than Chicken Breast on the grill.
- Leave small gaps between the pieces of chicken so the heat can circulate.
- Serve with pita, rice, toum, or pickled vegetables.
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!If you like Middle Eastern inspired dishes try some of my other recipes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Shish Tawook?
Shish Tawook is a Middle Eastern grilled chicken dish made with a yogurt-based marinade. It typically includes garlic, lemon, and spices, then cooks on skewers over high heat for a juicy interior and lightly charred exterior.
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, but chicken thighs are recommended. Thighs stay juicier and more forgiving on the BBQ, while chicken breast can dry out quickly if overcooked.
How long should I marinate Shish Tawook?
Marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours. For the best flavour and tenderness, marinate overnight (12–24 hours).
Why do I need to wipe off the marinade before grilling?
Wiping off excess marinade helps the chicken char properly instead of steaming. A thin coating gives you better browning and prevents burning from the yogurt and tomato paste.
What temperature should I grill the Shish Tawook (Chicken kabobs)?
Grill Shish Tawook over medium-high heat, about 425–450°F (220–230°C). This allows the chicken to cook quickly while developing a light char.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The outside should have a golden colour with light char.
Can I cook Shish Tawook without a BBQ?
Yes. You can cook it in the oven at 425°F or under the broiler. Place the skewers on a rack or tray and turn them halfway through cooking for even browning.
What do you serve with Shish Tawook (Chicken Kabobs)?
Shish Tawook pairs well with:
- Pita bread and garlic sauce (toum)
- Rice or seasoned basmati
- Pickled vegetables
- Fresh tomatoes and onions
Can I freeze the marinated chicken?
Yes. You can freeze the chicken in the marinade for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before grilling.
Why are my chicken kabobs not charring?
This usually happens when:
- Too much marinade is left on the chicken
- The grill is not hot enough
- The skewers are overcrowded
Use high heat and keep a thin coating of marinade for the best results.
Follow this link to find out why Chicken Thighs are best for grilling.
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