Chicken Tawook Bowl Recipe

Quick & Flavorful Chicken Tawook Bowl Recipe for Dinner Magic

Middle Eastern kitchens have perfected their chicken tawook bowl with layers of vibrant flavors that dance across your palate.

Marinated tender chunks tell a story of culinary passion and heritage.

Aromatic spices whisper secrets from Beirut’s bustling street corners.

Crisp vegetables add refreshing crunch beside golden-grilled proteins.

Warm pita bread cradles each delectable bite with comfort.

Fragrant rice creates a welcoming canvas for this delightful meal.

You’ll want to savor every single morsel of this delectable creation.

Ways To Serve Mediterranean Bowl With Chicken Tawook Skewers

  • Vegetarian Mediterranean Bowl: Replace chicken skewers with grilled tofu or tempeh marinated in the same yogurt spice blend for a plant-based protein option.
  • Gluten-Free Version: Swap couscous with quinoa or cauliflower rice to create a celiac-friendly and low-carb alternative that maintains the original flavor profile.
  • Spicy Mediterranean Bowl: Add harissa paste to the marinade and include sliced jalapeños or hot sauce for extra heat and a zesty kick to the traditional recipe.
  • Low-Carb Mediterranean Plate: Substitute grains with mixed salad greens, increase vegetable portions, and use more protein to create a lighter, carbohydrate-conscious meal option.

FAQs

  • What is Chicken Tawook?

Chicken Tawook is a popular Middle Eastern grilled chicken dish originating from Lebanese cuisine, traditionally marinated in yogurt, garlic, and spices, then skewered and grilled until tender and slightly charred.

  • How do I get the best flavor for my chicken?

Marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight, to allow the yogurt and spices to deeply penetrate and tenderize the meat, creating a more flavorful and juicy result.

  • Is this recipe healthy?

Yes, this Mediterranean bowl is packed with lean protein from chicken, probiotics from yogurt, fiber from vegetables, and healthy fats from olive oil, making it a nutritious and balanced meal.

  • Can I make this recipe without a grill?

Absolutely! You can cook the marinated chicken skewers in a grill pan, on a stovetop skillet, or even bake them in the oven at 425°F for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through cooking.

Mediterranean Bowl With Grilled Tawook That’s Full of Color

  • Quick and Easy Weeknight Dinner: Whip up this Mediterranean bowl in under 30 minutes for a stress-free meal that feels like a gourmet experience.
  • Flavor Explosion: Marinate chicken in a blend of aromatic spices that transform ordinary ingredients into a taste adventure, delivering restaurant-quality flavors right at home.
  • Nutritional Powerhouse: Pack your plate with lean protein, fresh vegetables, and wholesome grains that provide a balanced, satisfying meal loaded with vitamins and minerals.
  • Customizable Comfort: Swap ingredients effortlessly to suit dietary preferences or use up what's in your fridge, making this recipe a flexible favorite for everyone at the table.

Mediterranean Bowl with Tawook Skewers Ingredients

Protein:
  • Chicken Tawook: Tender chicken pieces marinated with Mediterranean spices for a flavorful and juicy main protein, best with boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts.
  • Feta Cheese: Creamy and tangy cheese that adds richness and saltiness to the bowl.
Marinade and Sauces:
  • Yogurt, Olive Oil, Lemon Juice: Tenderizing base that helps create a smooth, tangy marinade with Mediterranean flavors.
  • Garlic, Paprika, Cumin, Coriander, Turmeric, Salt, Pepper: Aromatic spices that provide depth and warmth to the chicken marinade.
  • Hummus, Tzatziki Sauce: Creamy condiments that complement the grilled chicken with cool and rich textures.
Vegetables and Grains:
  • Couscous, Quinoa: Light and fluffy grains that serve as a nutritious base for the Mediterranean bowl.
  • Cherry Tomatoes, Cucumber, Red Onion, Olives: Fresh vegetables that add color, crunch, and brightness to the dish.
  • Fresh Parsley: Herb for garnishing that provides a fresh, green finish to the bowl.

Mediterranean Bowl with Chicken Tawook Skewers Assembly Steps

Step 1: Prepare the Zesty Marinade

Whisk together creamy yogurt, golden olive oil, bright lemon juice, crushed garlic, and a blend of aromatic spices.

Create a vibrant marinade by adding:
  • Paprika
  • Cumin
  • Coriander
  • Turmeric
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Completely coat the chicken pieces in this flavor-packed mixture.

Let the chicken soak up the goodness by chilling in the refrigerator for at least an hour, or overnight for maximum taste explosion.

Step 2: Skewer and Sizzle the Chicken

Carefully thread the marinated chicken onto skewers, ensuring even spacing.

Fire up the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.

Grill the skewers, turning occasionally, until the chicken develops a beautiful golden-brown char and cooks through completely.

This should take about 3-4 minutes per side.

Once done, set the sizzling skewers aside to rest.

Step 3: Build Your Flavor-Packed Bowl

Create a delicious foundation by spreading a layer of fluffy couscous or quinoa in each serving bowl.

Artfully arrange the star components:
  • Grilled chicken tawook skewers
  • Juicy cherry tomatoes
  • Crisp cucumber chunks
  • Thinly sliced red onion
  • Briny kalamata olives
  • Crumbled feta cheese
Add generous dollops of:
  • Creamy hummus
  • Cool tzatziki sauce

Step 4: Finish with Fresh Flourish

Sprinkle a handful of freshly chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and herbal freshness.

Serve immediately while everything is warm and inviting.

Get ready to transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean!

Mediterranean Bowl Assembly Tips with Chicken Tawook

  • Let chicken soak in yogurt mixture overnight for maximum flavor infusion and tender meat texture.
  • Ensure medium-high heat and rotate skewers to achieve perfect char without burning the chicken.
  • Swap quinoa or couscous with cauliflower rice for low-carb option or add roasted chickpeas for extra protein.
  • Serve chicken skewers warm for best taste, but room temperature works great for picnics or meal prep.
  • Drizzle extra tzatziki or add a spicy harissa for personalized flavor kick and moisture enhancement.

Chicken Tawook Bowl Leftovers

  • Store leftover chicken skewers and bowl components in separate airtight containers within 2 hours of cooking. Keeps fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
  • Place grilled chicken skewers in a sealed container, ensuring they're covered to prevent drying. Consume within 3 days for optimal taste and texture.
  • Warm chicken skewers in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes. Sprinkle a few drops of water to maintain moisture and prevent toughening.
  • Keep fresh vegetables and couscous separately. Reheat couscous in microwave for 30-45 seconds, stirring midway. Add cold vegetables after reheating to maintain crispness.

What Works With Chicken Tawook Skewers

  • Zesty Wine Companion: Crisp Assyrtiko white wine from Greece perfectly complements the herb-marinated chicken, cutting through its richness with bright citrus notes.
  • Mediterranean Herb Infusion: Fresh mint and basil tea balances the grilled chicken's smoky flavor, providing a cooling and aromatic drink experience that echoes the bowl's Mediterranean roots.
  • Flavor-Boosting Sidekick: Lebanese Arak, an anise-flavored spirit, cleanses the palate and enhances the dish's complex spices, offering a traditional Middle Eastern drinking experience.
  • Refreshing Citrus Twist: Homemade lemonade with a hint of mint adds a tangy, sweet element that highlights the chicken's zesty marinade and provides a light, hydrating accompaniment.
Print
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Chicken Tawook Bowl Recipe

Chicken Tawook Bowl Recipe


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4.7 from 30 reviews

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Mediterranean chicken tawook bowl invites palates on a culinary journey through vibrant Lebanese cuisine. Succulent grilled skewers, fresh herbs, and zesty tzatziki create a harmonious blend that transports diners to sun-drenched coastal kitchens.


Ingredients

Scale

Proteins:

  • 1 pound (1 lb) chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1/2 cup hummus
  • 1/2 cup tzatziki sauce

Spices and Seasonings:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Bowl Components:

  • 2 cups cooked couscous or quinoa
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, sliced
  • Wooden or metal skewers
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the vibrant marinade by whisking together tangy yogurt, fragrant olive oil, zesty lemon juice, minced garlic, and a blend of warm spices including paprika, cumin, coriander, turmeric, salt, and pepper.
  2. Thoroughly coat chicken pieces in the marinade, ensuring each morsel is generously covered. Seal and allow flavors to meld in the refrigerator for a minimum of one hour, though overnight marination will yield maximum taste intensity.
  3. Carefully thread marinated chicken onto skewers, creating uniform pieces for even cooking.
  4. Heat grill or grill pan to medium-high temperature, creating ideal conditions for caramelization and char.
  5. Grill chicken skewers, rotating periodically to achieve golden-brown exterior and ensuring internal temperature reaches perfect doneness, approximately 3-4 minutes per side.
  6. While chicken grills, prepare serving bowls by creating a base of fluffy couscous or quinoa.
  7. Artfully arrange grilled chicken skewers atop the grain foundation, surrounding them with vibrant accompaniments: juicy cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumber slices, sharp red onion pieces, briny olives, and crumbled feta cheese.
  8. Enhance the bowl’s complexity by adding dollops of creamy hummus and cooling tzatziki sauce.
  9. Elevate the presentation by generously sprinkling fresh, chopped parsley across the bowl.
  10. Serve immediately, embracing the Mediterranean flavors at warm or room temperature.

Notes

  • Tenderize chicken beforehand by pounding to even thickness, ensuring uniform cooking and quick marination.
  • Experiment with marinade by swapping yogurt for dairy-free alternatives like coconut or almond yogurt to accommodate vegan preferences.
  • Create vegetarian option by replacing chicken with grilled halloumi cheese or marinated tofu cubes for protein-packed alternative.
  • Allow chicken to rest after grilling for 3-5 minutes, helping juices redistribute and maintaining maximum tenderness and flavor.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus marination time)
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 540
  • Sugar: 5 g
  • Sodium: 820 mg
  • Fat: 25 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 53 g
  • Fiber: 7 g
  • Protein: 36 g
  • Cholesterol: 95 mg
Katherine Pierce

Katherine Pierce

Recipe Curator & Food Educator

Expertise

  • Curating diverse recipe collections
  • Educating on global culinary traditions
  • Developing informative food content

Education

Boston University Metropolitan College
Certificate Program in the Culinary Arts
Focus: French and international cuisine techniques, Hands-on culinary training with industry professionals, Food industry insights and operations


Katherine grew up believing every dish has a story. She studied the art of food at Boston University and explored the history behind it. She loves pulling easy recipes from every corner of the world and putting them at your fingertips.
When Katherine’s not writing or testing new flavors, she’s teaching cooking classes, baking colorful mooncakes, or dreaming up new ways to mix old favorites with new twists.

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