Easy Air Fryer Shish Tawook (Turkish Chicken Kebabs)
Experience the sheer indulgence of preparing this easy Air Fryer Shish Tawook at home tonight. Treat yourself and your loved ones to this easy-to-mastered recipe, spotlighting succulent chicken skewers marinated to perfection. This culinary gem seamlessly marries the authentic Turkish flavor profile with the contemporary convenience of air frying. You don’t need to slave over open flame grilling these bad boys in the middle of the summer. If you live in Texas, you know what I mean! This is good news, right? Let’s get cooking!
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Let’s continue with more tantalizing Mediterranean cuisines! After savoring the goodness of juicy air fryer ground lamb and beef Kofta Kebabs, flavor-packed chicken Shawarma, and the delectable Sous Vide Pork Tenderloin Souvlaki, I couldn’t resist sharing more Mediterranean delights with you. Today, let’s delve into the world of Shish Tawook. (AKA Chicken Skewers) I’ve got a treat for you – an easy, tried-and-tested air fryer version using my special marinade. I’ve tinkered and tasted countless times to bring you the most irresistible flavors.
Alright, my foodie friends, gather your ingredients, skewers, and trusty air fryer; I will meet you back in the kitchen!
Recipe Snapshot
EASE: Simple steps make this recipe suitable for all levels of cooking expertise.
PROS: Succulent, flavor-packed chicken; convenient air frying; adaptable presentation; great for gatherings.
CONS: Marination time required; skewer size adjustment may be needed.
WOULD I MAKE THIS AGAIN? Absolutely! Especially when we have a pool party at home.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Easy to master:
The recipe contains traditional Turkish cuisine flavors, is easy to follow, and doesn’t require extensive cooking skills. You spend less time in the kitchen with the streamlined marinating and air-frying process. Allowing you to savor an authentic taste of the Mediterranean right at home.
Modern Convenience:
Merge traditional flavors with the modern convenience of air frying technology. This air-frying method offers a modern spin on the classic open-flame cooking, reducing oil usage while ensuring ease and speed in preparation, all without sacrificing the authentic charred taste and grilled texture for which this dish is known.
Versatile Enjoyment:
The marinated chicken skewers can be enjoyed in various ways, from classic pita wrap to rice platters, or presented on Mezze platters, allowing you to customize and showcase your Middle Eastern masterpiece to your guests in an impressive way.
What is a Shish Tawook?
Shish Tawook is a beloved Middle Eastern dish featuring Chicken chunks that are marinated and threaded on skewers. Its name originates from the Turkish words “şiş,” meaning skewer, and “Tavuk,” meaning chicken. The chicken cubes are traditionally marinated with a mixture of yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, and various spices, resulting in a flavorful and juicy texture. People grill these skewers over an open flame and serve them with pita bread, condiments, and grilled veggies, allowing for a customizable and satisfying meal.
What does Shish Tawook taste like?
My Shish Tawook recipe features tender chicken breast infused with a blend of yogurt, lemon, and warm spices, resulting in a tangy, slightly zesty, and well-seasoned taste. I cooked these skewers in an air fryer instead of on a grill to simplify and speed up the cooking process, enhancing the smokiness and caramelized notes contributing to its savory flavor profile.
Why should you make this recipe with an air fryer instead of a grill?
Accessible Cooking Method:
Only some have easy access to a grill, limiting the opportunity to prepare dishes like Shish Tawook at home. An air fryer offers a convenient solution, making it possible to achieve the same delicious results indoors. This accessibility ensures that anyone can enjoy the flavors of grilled chicken skewers year-round without being dependent on weather or equipment availability.
Efficiency and Convenience:
Air fryers cook quicker than grilling, making it ideal for people with busy schedules. You can achieve the same delicious results without monitoring an open flame, freeing you up to prepare other dishes and save time.
Controlled Cooking Environment:
Air fryers offer precise temperature and cooking time settings, ensuring consistent and evenly cooked chicken skewers. This control reduces the risk of overcooking or undercooking your food, producing juicier and more flavorful results.
What is the difference between Shish Tawook and Chicken Shawarma?
Shish Tawook:
- Chicken Type: Uses cubed chicken breast.
- Marination: Features warm Middle Eastern spices like ground ginger, cardamom, smoked paprika, and Aleppo pepper for flavor-packed delight.
- Distinguishing Flavor Profile: Choosing warmer spices helps contribute to an exceptionally rich and smoky flavor profile.
- Cooking Style: Typically grilled over an open flame, but in my recipe, I chose to use an Air Fryer for convenience reasons. Either cooking method could highlight the bold and delightful smokiness of flavor.
- Presentation: Often served as skewers on top of a bed of yellow rice or dips such as Hummus or Baba Ganoush, showcasing the distinct marinated chunks of chicken.
Chicken Shawarma:
- Chicken Type: This recipe utilizes whole chicken thighs, uncut.
- Marination: Showcases a vibrant taste due to turmeric and sweet paprika, focusing on the enhanced flavor from cooking with stacks of onions and tomatoes.
- Flavor Profile: Provides intense and well-seasoned flavors from traditional Middle Eastern spices.
- Cooking Style: Enhances the taste by vertically stacking layers of chicken thighs, tomatoes, and onion, air-fried or grilled on a rotisserie, creating tender layers of chicken that are infused with subtle sweetness from both vegetables.
- Presentation: We sliced or shaved off chicken thighs in smaller pieces and then wrapped them in pita bread with vegetables and sauces.
Ingredients that you’ll need to make this recipe:
These ingredients work harmoniously to create the perfect balance of flavors, from the tanginess of lemon and yogurt to the warmth of spices, resulting in a well-marinated and deeply flavorful Shish Tawook dish.
Main ingredients:
Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast: Base Protein for the dish, and you can use chicken thighs if preferred.
Marinade ingredients:
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Adds moisture and richness to the marinade, enhancing the chicken’s tenderness and imparting a subtle fruity flavor.
- Plain Greek Yogurt: Acts as a natural tenderizer, resulting in juicy and succulent chicken. It also introduces a creamy texture to the marinade.
- Lemon juice and zest: Infuse the chicken with a bright and tangy flavor, complementing the richness of the yogurt.
- Tomato paste: Contributes a depth of umami flavor and a hint of sweetness to balance the tanginess of the lemon.
- Minced Garlic: Lends a potent and savory essence to the marinade
- Dried Parsley: Ads herbal freshness to the marinade, providing a light and aromatic note.
- Dried Oregano: Infuses a mild earthiness and a hint of bitterness, contributing to the overall flavor complexity.
- Garlic Powder: Imparts a savory and pungent taste, enhancing the depth of the marinade.
- Onion Powder: Offers a subtle sweetness and savory undertone.
- Ground Cumin: Provides a warm and nutty taste, adding depth and richness to the marinade.
- Smoked Paprika: Introduces a smoky and slightly sweet flavor, enhancing the overall aroma and visual appeal.
- Aleppo Pepper: Brings a gentle heat and fruity flavor to the dish, contributing to a well-balanced spiciness. It is commonly used in Mediterranean cuisines.
- Ground Coriander: Adds a citrusy and slightly sweet note, complementing the other spices.
- Ground Cardamom: Imparts a unique and aromatic flavor, offering a hint of floral and citrus-like taste.
- Ground Ginger: Infuses warmth and a subtle spiciness.
- Ground Cinnamon: Provides a touch of sweetness and warmth, balancing the savory elements.
- Ground Nutmeg: Adds a warm and slightly sweet flavor, enhancing the overall complexity.
- Ground Cloves: Contributes a strong and spicy taste, providing depth and warmth.
- Sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the savory and tangy elements in the marinade.
- Sea Salt and Ground Black Pepper: Enhances overall flavor and seasoning.
Recipe Substitutions and Variations:
Meat Substitutions:
Instead of chicken breast, you can use skinless chicken thighs or chicken tenderloin for a different flavor and texture experience.
Ditch the Skewers:
No worries if your air fryer can’t handle long wooden skewers or you don’t have time to grab some at the store. Lay the marinated cubes on a baking sheet or line your air fryer basket with foil and let them cook. The dish will taste the same even if you miss that classic Middle Eastern skewer look.
How to make these flavorful Turkish-style chicken kebabs skewers?
Step One – Craft the Shish Tawook Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine Olive oil, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, zest, and all the spices. Give it a good whisk until everything is nicely mixed together.
Step Two – Prep and Slice the Chicken:
Unpack the chicken breasts and give them a quick rinse under cold water. Gently pat them dry using clean paper towels. Slice the chicken lengthwise and then dice it into 1-inch thick cubes. Next, mix the chicken cubes with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place the bowl in the refrigerator. Let the flavors meld together for at least 6 hours or, at best, overnight.
Step Three – Get Those Skewers Ready:
Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to an hour before air frying. Once they are done soaking, take out the marinated chicken from the fridge and thread them onto the skewers. Make sure not to pack them too tightly and leave a little room between each piece for even cooking.
Step Four: Air Frying Your Chicken Skewers:
Option 1: Smart Oven Air Frying (I used Breville Smart Oven Air Fryer Pro)
For this type of air fryer, start by lining a baking sheet with foil for easy cleaning. Place a metal rack on top and give it a quick spritz of cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange your skewers with space between them for even cooking. Cook at 400°F/200°C for about 30 minutes or until the meat reaches an internal temperature of 165°F/74°C.
Option 2: Standard Air Fryer (I used Philips Essential Air Fryer XL, 6.5Qt.)
With a regular air fryer, line the basket with foil for a breeze in cleanup. A spritz of cooking oil prevents sticking. Place your marinated chicken cubes directly in the basket without skewers, ensuring they’re not overcrowded for proper air circulation. For this recipe’s quantity, you should cook in batches. Set your air fryer to 400°F/200°C. Cook for 15 minutes, flip each piece for even browning, then another 10 minutes or until the internal temperature hits 165°F/74°C.
Did you know?
Whether you’re aiming for a skewered presentation or not, you have options. You can trim your skewer to fit the air fryer basket or thread the chicken cubes to the skewers after air frying. Rest assured, the flavor remains equally delightful either way.
Ta-Da! Done cooking! Now you can enjoy these delicious skewers!
What is the best way to serve?
These phenomenal chicken skewers pair perfectly with side dishes like Mediterranean yellow rice, creamy Hummus, smoky Baba Ganoush, tangy Tzatziki sauce, and soft Pita bread. You can lay these chicken skewers on a rustic wooden board to create a charming Middle Eastern-style Mezza platter. Embrace the relaxing summertime vibes with this outdoor delight – a fantastic addition to your backyard soirées or poolside hangouts, ensuring a blast of flavor shared with friends and family.
Here are more delicious Mediterranean recipes you should try:
Tips and tricks for this recipe:
Precision in Preparation:
Slice chicken breasts into consistent one-inch cubes before marinating and threading to ensure even cooking. Also, remember that when treading your chicken onto the skewers, leave some room and avoid over-stacking your meat. This allows optimal heat distribution and results in perfectly cooked skewers.
Be patient in the marination process:
For that tender, bursting-with-flavor result, aim for a marination of at least 6 hours, with overnight being the gold standard. This extra marination time lets the yogurt, lemon juice, and spices weave their charm, allowing flavors to gradually seep and meld into the meat for a flavorful result.
Mastery of the Air frying process:
Remember to give your air fryer basket or tray a quick cooking spray coat to avoid sticking. For toaster oven-style air fryers, I’ve got a trick – place your skewers on a metal rack for all-around airflow, ensuring even cooking and that perfect browning. For checking doneness, rely on an external meat thermometer – chicken’s good to go at 165°F (74°C) internally.
Leftover storage Tips:
By following these tips, you can ensure your leftover Shish Tawook stays delicious and safe to enjoy later.
Refrigeration:
- Place any leftover Shish Tawook in an airtight container.
- Refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking to maintain freshness.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating:
- You can reheat your chicken in a microwave for about 2 minutes.
- If you opt for reheating in an oven, reheat until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. Make sure you cover the chicken skewers with aluminum foil to prevent drying.
Freezing:
- Store your leftovers in an airtight container or freezer Ziploc bags to prevent freezer burn.
- Store in the freezer for up to one month.
- Thaw before reheating.
FAQs about Shish Tawook:
In Conclusion
From casual gatherings to cozy nights, this recipe bridges tradition and modern convenience, inviting you to experience the magic of marinated chicken and a symphony of spices. I hope you enjoy another recipe of mine, and may each bite of this delicious Shish Tawook transport you to the lively food scene in Turkey. So, gather your loved ones, set the table, and let Air Fryer Shish Tawook be the centerpiece of your unforgettable dining experience.
Do you like this recipe?
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Easy Air Fryer Shish Tawook (Turkish Chicken Kebabs)
- Total Time: 7 hours
- Yield: 48oz 1x
Description
Immerse yourself in the exquisite flavors of this quick and easy Air Fryer Shish Tawook tonight. This straightforward recipe guides you through crafting succulent marinated chicken skewers that capture the essence of Turkish cuisine. Combining authentic taste with modern air frying convenience, bring Mediterranean tradition to your dinner table.
Ingredients
3 lbs of Boneless skinless chicken breast
1/2 Cup of Extra Virgin Olive Oil
1/2 Cup of Plain Greek Yogurt
1/4 Cup of Lemon juice (Or Juice of one Lemon)
1 Teaspoon of Lemon Zest (Or Zest from one Lemon – Optional)
2 Tablespoons of Tomato paste
1 Tablespoon of Minced Garlic (2-3 cloves)
1 Tablespoon of Dried Parsley
1 Tablespoon of Dried Oregano
1 Tablespoon of White Sugar
1/2 Tablespoon of Ground Cumin
2 Teaspoons of Sea Salt
1 Teaspoon of Garlic Powder
1 Teaspoon of Onion Powder
1 Teaspoon of Aleppo Pepper (Optional)
1/2 Teaspoon of Ground Black pepper
1/2 Teaspoon of Smoked Paprika
1/2 Teaspoon of Ground Cardamom
1/2 Teaspoon of Ground Ginger
1/4 Teaspoon of Ground Coriander
1/4 Teaspoon of Ground Cinnamon
1/4 Teaspoon of Ground Nutmeg
1/4 Teaspoon of Ground Cloves
Instructions
Step One – Craft the Shish Tawook Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine Olive oil, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, zest, and all the spices. Give it a good whisk until everything is nicely mixed together.
Step Two – Prep and Slice the Chicken:
Unpack the chicken breasts and give them a quick rinse under cold water. Gently pat them dry using clean paper towels. Slice the chicken lengthwise and then dice it into 1-inch thick cubes. Next, mix the chicken cubes with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place the bowl in the refrigerator. Let the flavors meld together for at least 6 hours or, at best, overnight.
Step Three – Get Those Skewers Ready:
Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to an hour before air frying. Once they are done soaking, take out the marinated chicken from the fridge and thread them onto the skewers. Make sure not to pack them too tightly and leave a little room between each piece for even cooking.
Step Four: Air Frying Your Chicken Skewers:
Option 1: Smart Oven Air Frying
For this type of air fryer, start by lining a baking sheet with foil for easy cleaning. Place a metal rack on top and give it a quick spritz of cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange your skewers with space between them for even cooking. Cook at 400°F/200°C for about 30 minutes or until the meat reaches an internal temperature of 165°F/74°C.
Option 2: Standard Air Fryer
With a regular air fryer, line the basket with foil for a breeze in cleanup. A spritz of cooking oil prevents sticking. Place your marinated chicken cubes directly in the basket without skewers, ensuring they’re not overcrowded for proper air circulation. For this recipe’s quantity, you should cook in batches. Set your air fryer to 400°F/200°C. Cook for 15 minutes, flip each piece for even browning, then another 10 minutes or until the internal temperature hits 165°F/74°C.
Notes
Whether you’re aiming for a skewered presentation or not, you have options. You can trim your skewer to fit the air fryer basket or thread the chicken cubes to the skewers after air frying. Rest assured, the flavor remains equally delightful either way.
Slice chicken into uniform 1-inch cubes, leaving space when threading onto skewers for even cooking.
Aim for 6 hours of marination, or better yet, overnight, letting yogurt, lemon juice, and spices work their flavorful wonders.
Give a quick spray to prevent sticking, try a metal rack for toaster oven-style air fryers, and use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
- Prep Time: 390 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Entree
- Method: Air-Frying
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Keywords: Middle Eastern cuisine, Air fryer recipe, Air fryer chicken breast, wraps, sandwiches, rice platter, rice bowl, Entree, Baba Ganoush, entree, Mediterranean dish. Skewers, mezze platter, summer poolside dinner
I just got Breville Oven Air Fryer as a gift and was looking for Turkish recipes to use it with. This sounds great and I want to try it. Do you use air fryer setting or bake setting for this.
I love the Breville Oven. I used the Air Frying setting.