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Authentic Lebanese

Authentic Lebanese Shish Tawook: Juicy & Flavorful Skewers

Experience the essence of authentic Lebanese cuisine with these juicy chicken skewers, perfect for any gathering.
Prep Time 4 hours
Cook Time 10 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 4 skewers
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Lebanese
Calories: 200

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Marinade
  • 1 pound Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast or Thighs Thighs are juicier, while breasts are leaner.
  • 1 cup Plain Yogurt Greek yogurt can provide a creamier texture.
  • 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice Fresh is best, but bottled can work in a pinch.
  • 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil Opt for neutral oils like canola or sunflower.
  • 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste Tahini can be a delicious alternative.
  • 1 tablespoon Yellow Mustard Substitute with Dijon for an enhanced flavor.
  • 4 cloves Garlic (minced) Freshly minced is superior, though jarred is acceptable.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Amplifies the garlic flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Spices (white pepper, sumac, paprika, red chili powder, black pepper, salt) Adjust based on spice tolerance.

Equipment

  • mixing bowl
  • Grill
  • Skewers

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Authentic Shish Tawook
  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together plain yogurt, lemon juice, vegetable oil, tomato paste, yellow mustard, minced garlic, and selected spices until smooth. Cut chicken into 1-inch cubes and coat in marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
  2. Preheat your grill to a medium heat of about 350ºF (175ºC). If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes.
  3. Thread 5-6 pieces of the marinated chicken onto each skewer, ensuring they are evenly spaced for even cooking.
  4. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 5 minutes on each side, achieving a golden brown exterior and an internal temperature of 165ºF (75ºC).
  5. Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest under aluminum foil for about 10 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1skewerCalories: 200kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 30gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 450mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Serve your shish tawook alongside warm pita bread, homemade toum, and your favorite accompaniments like pickled cucumbers.

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