Authentic Lebanese Chicken Kabobs
AUTHENTIC Lebanese Chicken Kabobs is a easy Lebanese recipe that serves 4. 450 calories per serving. Recipe by Feelgoodfoodie on YouTube.
Prep: 4 hrs 20 min | Cook: 20 min | Total: 4 hrs 55 min
Cost: $16.39 total, $4.10 per serving
Ingredients
- 2 pounds Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast (cut into 1‑1.5 inch cubes)
- 0.5 cup Whole Milk Yogurt (plain, unsweetened)
- 0.25 cup Lemon Juice (freshly squeezed)
- 0.25 cup Olive Oil (extra‑virgin)
- 1.5 tablespoons Tomato Paste (canned)
- 6 cloves Garlic Cloves (minced)
- 1 teaspoon Paprika (sweet paprika)
- 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon
- 0.5 teaspoon Ground Ginger
- 0.5 teaspoon Dried Oregano
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 0.25 teaspoon Black Pepper (freshly ground)
- 8 Skewers (bamboo, pre‑soaked 30 min or metal)
- 4 Pita Bread (warmed before serving (optional))
Instructions
Cut the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts on a cutting board and cut into uniform 1‑1.5 inch cubes.
Time: PT10M
Prepare the Marinade
In a mixing bowl combine yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, tomato paste, paprika, cinnamon, ginger, oregano, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth.
Time: PT5M
Marinate the Chicken
Add the chicken cubes to the bowl of sauce, toss to coat thoroughly, then transfer to a larger container if needed.
Time: PT5M
Refrigerate to Marinate
Place the covered container in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
Time: PT4H
Preheat the Grill Pan
Heat a grill pan over medium‑high heat until very hot, about 5 minutes.
Time: PT5M
Temperature: 400°F
Thread Chicken onto Skewers
Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto skewers, optionally alternating with onion wedges for extra flavor.
Time: PT5M
Grill the Skewers
Place the skewers on the hot grill pan. Grill 5‑8 minutes per side, turning once, until the chicken is nicely charred and the internal temperature reaches 160‑165°F.
Time: PT14M
Temperature: 400°F
Rest and Serve
Remove the skewers, let the chicken rest 2‑3 minutes, then serve on warm pita with generous garlic sauce, pickles, and any desired veggies.
Time: PT5M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 450
- Protein
- 35 g
- Carbohydrates
- 5 g
- Fat
- 25 g
- Fiber
- 1 g
Dietary info: Gluten‑Free (if served without pita), High‑Protein, Low‑Carb
Allergens: Milk (yogurt), Garlic
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast: Chicken thighs, Turkey breast
- Instead of Whole Milk Yogurt: Greek yogurt (full‑fat), Kefir
- Instead of Lemon Juice: Bottled lemon juice
- Instead of Olive Oil: Vegetable oil, Canola oil
- Instead of Tomato Paste: Ketchup, Red pepper paste
- Instead of Garlic Cloves: Garlic powder (1 tsp)
- Instead of Paprika: Smoked paprika
- Instead of Ground Cinnamon: Allspice
- Instead of Ground Ginger: Ground ginger powder
- Instead of Dried Oregano: Italian seasoning
- Instead of Salt: Sea salt
- Instead of Black Pepper: White pepper
- Instead of Skewers: Metal skewers
- Instead of Pita Bread: Flatbread, Naan
Equipment Needed
- Cutting Board
- Chef's Knife
- Measuring Cup
- Mixing Bowl
- Whisk or Fork
- Plastic Wrap or Lid
- Refrigerator
- Skewers
- Grill Pan
- Tongs
- Instant‑Read Meat Thermometer
- Serving Plate
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Cut the chicken into uniform cubes
- Fully coat chicken with the yogurt‑based marinade
- Marinate for at least 4 hours in the refrigerator
- Thread chicken onto skewers with spacing
- Grill until internal temperature reaches 160‑165°F
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use whole‑milk yogurt rather than Greek yogurt; the lower fat content and lactic acid tenderize the meat better.
- Add a tiny pinch of sugar to the marinade to balance the lemon’s acidity.
- Let the grilled chicken rest a few minutes before slicing; this redistributes the juices.
Troubleshooting
Chicken turns out dry.
Do not over‑cook; grill only until internal temperature hits 160‑165°F and remove immediately. Marinating for the full 4‑8 hours also helps retain moisture.
Flavor is bland.
Increase marinating time to overnight and double the garlic or add a pinch of sugar to balance acidity.
Chicken sticks to the grill pan.
Make sure the pan is properly pre‑heated and lightly brushed with oil. Use metal skewers or a non‑stick grill pan.
Uneven cooking.
Cut chicken pieces to uniform size and avoid crowding the pan; turn only once per side.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store cooked chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze cooked chicken in freezer‑safe bags for up to 2 months; thaw in refrigerator before reheating.
Room temperature: Do not leave at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance for deeper flavor.
- Skewer the chicken after marinating and keep the skewers covered in the fridge; grill when ready.
- Prepare garlic sauce (toum) a day ahead; it keeps well refrigerated.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of Shish Tawook in Lebanese cuisine?
Shish Tawook is a classic Lebanese street‑food staple, traditionally grilled on skewers over charcoal. It reflects the Levant’s love for marinated meat, yogurt, and aromatic spices, and is often served at family gatherings, picnics, and festive occasions.
What are the traditional regional variations of Shish Tawook across the Levant?
In Syria and Jordan, the same marinated chicken may be called "Shish Taouk" and is sometimes spiced with sumac or served with tahini sauce. In Turkey, a similar dish called "Tavuk Şiş" uses a slightly different spice blend and is often served with flatbread and grilled vegetables.
How is authentic Shish Tawook traditionally served in Lebanon?
Authentic Lebanese Shish Tawook is served hot off the grill on a warm pita or flatbread, topped with garlic sauce (toum), pickles, fresh tomatoes, and sometimes a sprinkle of sumac. It’s commonly accompanied by a side of fattoush or tabbouleh salad.
During which celebrations or occasions is Shish Tawook commonly prepared in Lebanese culture?
Shish Tawook appears at family barbecues, Ramadan iftars, Eid feasts, and casual weekend gatherings. Its quick grilling makes it ideal for both everyday meals and special celebrations.
What makes Shish Tawook special or unique in Lebanese cuisine?
The use of yogurt in the marinade provides a tangy tenderness that sets it apart from other grilled meats. Combined with lemon juice and warm spices like cinnamon and paprika, it delivers a balance of bright acidity and deep flavor that is uniquely Lebanese.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Shish Tawook at home?
Common errors include over‑cooking the chicken, not marinating long enough, and using too thick pieces that cook unevenly. Also, failing to pre‑heat the grill pan can cause sticking and loss of the characteristic char marks.
Why does this Shish Tawook recipe use yogurt and lemon juice instead of a simple oil‑only marinade?
Yogurt’s lactic acid gently breaks down protein fibers, keeping the chicken juicy, while lemon juice adds brightness. Together they create a tender, flavorful bite that oil alone cannot achieve.
Can I make Shish Tawook ahead of time and how should I store it before cooking?
Yes. After cutting and marinating, keep the chicken covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. For longer storage, freeze the marinated chicken in airtight bags; thaw overnight in the fridge before grilling.
What texture and appearance should I look for to know my Shish Tawook is perfectly cooked?
The chicken should have a golden‑brown char on the outside, juices should run clear, and an instant‑read thermometer should read 160‑165°F. The interior will be moist and slightly pink‑white, not dry.
What does the YouTube channel Feelgoodfoodie specialize in?
Feelgoodfoodie, hosted by Yumna, focuses on wholesome, nutritious meals that promote health and well‑being, often featuring Mediterranean and Middle‑Eastern flavors with a modern, feel‑good twist.
How does the YouTube channel Feelgoodfoodie's approach to Lebanese cooking differ from other Middle‑Eastern cooking channels?
Feelgoodfoodie emphasizes balanced nutrition, using lean proteins, yogurt‑based marinades, and minimal added fats while still preserving authentic flavors. The channel also provides detailed timing, storage tips, and health‑focused variations that many traditional cooking channels overlook.
Last updated: September 2, 2026
