Craving a delicious, healthy, and relatively quick dinner? Look no further! This Lebanese Shish Taouk recipe is your answer. Tender, juicy chicken marinated in a vibrant blend of lemon, garlic, and aromatic spices, then grilled to perfection – it's a flavor explosion that will transport you straight to the bustling souks of Lebanon. This easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight meal, a weekend barbecue, or even a special occasion. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this homemade cooking masterpiece!
Ingredients:
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For the Marinade:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt (full-fat recommended)
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
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For Serving:
- Pita bread
- Tahini sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Salad (e.g., tabbouleh, fattoush)
Instructions:
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, whisk together the yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, paprika, cumin, coriander, turmeric, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Add the chicken cubes and toss to coat thoroughly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful the chicken will be! This is a key step for achieving that tender, juicy texture.
Step 2: Grill the Chicken
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning. Grill the skewers for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and nicely charred. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 3: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the shish taouk immediately with warm pita bread, tahini sauce, and a refreshing salad. The combination of juicy chicken, creamy tahini, and fresh salad is simply irresistible.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Shish Taouk:
- Don't overcrowd the grill: Leave some space between the skewers for even cooking.
- For extra flavor: Add a pinch of saffron to the marinade.
- For a smoky flavor: Grill the chicken over indirect heat for the last few minutes of cooking.
Variations:
- Spice it up: Add more cayenne pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for extra heat.
- Herb it up: Add fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or mint to the marinade for a brighter, fresher taste.
- Make it a platter: Serve the shish taouk with a variety of sides, such as hummus, baba ghanoush, and different types of salads.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on serving size and ingredients used. However, shish taouk is generally a healthy meal, offering lean protein and healthy fats. Consult a nutrition calculator for a precise analysis.
This Lebanese Shish Taouk is a fantastic example of easy recipes that yield delicious results. It's a perfect healthy meal option, quick dinner idea, and a showstopper for any occasion. Enjoy the journey of creating and savoring this flavorful dish!