Lebanese Grilled Chicken Tawook
Introduction
Tender, juicy, and bursting with Mediterranean flavor, Lebanese Grilled Chicken Tawook is a classic dish that’s perfect for family dinners, summer barbecues, or meal prep. Chicken is marinated in a flavorful blend of yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and aromatic spices, then grilled until beautifully charred and incredibly tender. Every bite is packed with bright citrus notes, savory garlic, and warm spices that make this traditional Lebanese favorite unforgettable.
Serve it with warm pita bread, garlic sauce, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
– Juicy, tender chicken with authentic Mediterranean flavors
– Easy marinade made with simple ingredients
– Perfect for grilling, baking, or air frying
– High in protein and family-friendly
– Great for meal prep and leftovers
Ingredients
For the Chicken
– 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1½-inch cubes
For the Marinade
– ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– Juice of 2 lemons
– 5 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
For Serving
– Fresh parsley, chopped
– Lemon wedges
– Warm pita bread
– Garlic sauce (toum)
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, tomato paste, paprika, cumin, coriander, oregano, cinnamon, salt, and black pepper.
2. Add the chicken pieces and toss until evenly coated.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, for the best flavor.
4. Thread the marinated chicken onto soaked skewers.
5. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates.
6. Grill the skewers for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is lightly charred and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
7. Remove from the grill and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with fresh lemon wedges.
Tips
– Chicken thighs stay especially juicy on the grill.
– Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
– This recipe can also be baked at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes or cooked in an air fryer at 380°F (193°C) for 12–15 minutes.
– Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Chicken Tawook with Lebanese garlic sauce (toum), rice pilaf, grilled vegetables, hummus, tabbouleh, fattoush, or cucumber yogurt salad. Wrap the grilled chicken in warm pita bread with lettuce, tomatoes, and pickles for a delicious sandwich.
Conclusion
Lebanese Grilled Chicken Tawook is a flavorful, juicy, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its aromatic marinade, tender grilled chicken, and fresh Mediterranean flavors, this traditional recipe is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table.