Introduction to Lebanese Chicken Tawook with Garlic Toum
Welcome to my kitchen, where the aroma of Lebanese Chicken Tawook with Garlic Toum fills the air! If you’re like me, juggling a busy schedule, you know how precious time can be. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a quick solution for those hectic weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Imagine tender, marinated chicken skewers paired with a creamy garlic sauce that will impress your loved ones. Trust me, this recipe will become a favorite in your home, bringing joy to your dinner table!
Why You’ll Love This Lebanese Chicken Tawook with Garlic Toum
This Lebanese Chicken Tawook with Garlic Toum is a game-changer for busy moms and professionals alike. It’s quick to prepare, taking just 30 minutes from start to finish. The flavors are vibrant and satisfying, making it a hit with both kids and adults. Plus, the creamy garlic toum adds a delightful twist that elevates the dish. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up a restaurant-quality meal at home!
Ingredients for Lebanese Chicken Tawook with Garlic Toum
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this mouthwatering Lebanese Chicken Tawook with Garlic Toum. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Chicken breast: The star of the dish! Tender and juicy, it absorbs the marinade beautifully.
- Olive oil: Adds richness and helps keep the chicken moist while grilling.
- Lemon juice: Brightens the flavors and tenderizes the chicken, giving it a zesty kick.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is essential for that bold, aromatic flavor in both the marinade and the toum.
- Ground cumin: This warm spice adds depth and a hint of earthiness to the dish.
- Paprika: A touch of sweetness and color, paprika enhances the overall appeal of the chicken.
- Salt and black pepper: Basic seasonings that elevate the flavors, making every bite delicious.
- Plain yogurt: Optional, but it can add creaminess to the marinade, making the chicken even more tender.
- Garlic toum: This creamy garlic sauce is a must-have! It’s the perfect accompaniment that takes the dish to the next level.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Feel free to get creative with your ingredients! You can substitute chicken thighs for a richer flavor or use Greek yogurt instead of plain yogurt for a tangy twist. The possibilities are endless!
How to Make Lebanese Chicken Tawook with Garlic Toum
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the steps to create this delightful Lebanese Chicken Tawook with Garlic Toum. I promise, it’s easier than you think!
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Start by mixing the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. This marinade is the heart of the dish, infusing the chicken with flavor. The aroma will make your mouth water!
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Add the chicken cubes to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover the bowl and let it sit for at least one hour. If you have time, marinating overnight is even better! This allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, making the chicken incredibly tender.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. A hot grill is essential for achieving those beautiful grill marks and a juicy interior. If you’re using a grill pan, heat it on the stove until it’s nice and hot.
Step 4: Skewer the Chicken
Once the chicken is marinated, it’s time to skewer it. Thread the chicken cubes onto skewers, leaving a little space between each piece. This helps them cook evenly. If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning.
Step 5: Grill the Chicken
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes. Turn them occasionally to ensure even cooking. You’ll know they’re done when the chicken is no longer pink in the center and has a lovely char. The sizzling sound is music to my ears!
Step 6: Serve with Garlic Toum
Once grilled to perfection, remove the skewers from the grill. Serve your Lebanese Chicken Tawook with a generous side of garlic toum. This creamy garlic sauce is the perfect companion, adding a burst of flavor to each bite. Enjoy your culinary creation!
Tips for Success
- Marinate the chicken overnight for maximum flavor and tenderness.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F for safety.
- Don’t overcrowd the grill; give each skewer space for even cooking.
- Experiment with different spices in the marinade for a unique twist.
- Serve the garlic toum chilled for a refreshing contrast to the warm chicken.
Equipment Needed
- Grill: A traditional outdoor grill works best, but a grill pan or stovetop grill can do the trick.
- Skewers: Use metal skewers for durability or soak wooden ones in water to prevent burning.
- Mixing bowl: A large bowl for marinating the chicken.
- Meat thermometer: Optional, but great for ensuring perfectly cooked chicken.
Variations of Lebanese Chicken Tawook with Garlic Toum
- Spicy Tawook: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick that will awaken your taste buds.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with firm tofu or marinated portobello mushrooms for a delicious plant-based version.
- Herb-Infused: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro into the marinade for a fresh, vibrant flavor.
- Yogurt Marinade: Use Greek yogurt instead of plain yogurt for a creamier texture and tangy flavor that complements the chicken beautifully.
- Grilled Veggies: Add bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes to the skewers for a colorful and nutritious addition.
Serving Suggestions for Lebanese Chicken Tawook with Garlic Toum
- Pair with warm pita bread for a delightful wrap experience.
- Serve alongside a fresh tabbouleh salad for a refreshing crunch.
- Complement with a side of roasted vegetables for added nutrition.
- Enjoy with a chilled glass of mint lemonade for a refreshing drink.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or lemon wedges for a vibrant presentation.
FAQs about Lebanese Chicken Tawook with Garlic Toum
Can I make Lebanese Chicken Tawook with Garlic Toum ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken a day in advance. Just keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to grill. This not only saves time but also enhances the flavors!
What can I serve with Lebanese Chicken Tawook?
This dish pairs wonderfully with warm pita bread, fresh salads, or roasted vegetables. You can also serve it with rice or couscous for a heartier meal.
Is garlic toum difficult to make?
Not at all! Garlic toum is simple to prepare. Just blend garlic, oil, and a bit of lemon juice until creamy. It’s a fantastic addition that elevates the chicken’s flavor!
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs are a great alternative. They’re juicier and add a richer flavor to the dish. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as they may take a bit longer to cook through.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken tawook in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven or on the grill to maintain its juiciness.
Final Thoughts
Cooking Lebanese Chicken Tawook with Garlic Toum is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating memories around the dinner table. The joy of grilling tender chicken skewers, paired with that creamy garlic toum, brings a burst of flavor that delights everyone. Whether you’re sharing it with family or enjoying a quiet night in, this dish has a way of making any occasion special. I hope this recipe becomes a cherished part of your culinary adventures, bringing warmth and happiness to your home. Happy cooking, and may your kitchen always be filled with love and laughter!
Print
Lebanese Chicken Tawook with Garlic Toum: Discover the Secret!
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious Lebanese dish featuring marinated chicken skewers served with a creamy garlic sauce known as toum.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken breast, cut into cubes
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup plain yogurt
- 1 cup garlic toum (garlic sauce)
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Add chicken cubes to the marinade and let it sit for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers.
- Grill the skewers for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through.
- Serve the chicken tawook with garlic toum on the side.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
- Serve with pita bread and fresh vegetables.
- Adjust the garlic in the toum according to your taste preference.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Lebanese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
