Easy Şiş Tavuk Recipe – How to Make Turkish Chicken Skewers

Nothing beats the aroma of juicy, marinated chicken sizzling over a hot grill. In Turkey, this dish is a staple among street foods, offering a satisfying meal that combines rich flavors with simple ingredients. The secret lies in the marinade, which infuses the chicken with deep, smoky goodness.

Served with fresh flatbreads and flavorful sides, this dish brings the true essence of Turkish cuisine right into your kitchen. This step-by-step recipe, complete with photo suggestions, will guide you in recreating this Turkish favorite effortlessly at home.f you love Turkish cuisine, you might also enjoy learning how to make Turkish Meatballs (Köfte).”

Essential Ingredients for Turkish Chicken Skewers (Şiş Tavuk)

Chicken Preparation: Choosing the Best Cut

• Use 4 chicken legs, deboned for easy grilling, with the skin optional based on your preference.If you enjoy different Turkish dishes, check out how to make Turkish Kofta for more savory options.”
• Cut the meat into large chunks to keep it juicy and flavorful.
• Grate 1 medium onion, ensuring the juice is extracted for a deeper taste.
• Mix 2 tbsp thick yogurt with 1 tbsp tomato paste or a combination of ½ tbsp tomato and ½ tbsp pepper paste for a rich marinade.
• Squeeze the juice of 1 lemon to enhance the tenderness of the chicken.
• Crush 2–3 garlic cloves and blend them into the marinade for extra depth.
• Add 1 tsp each of paprika, pul biber, chili flakes, black pepper, cumin, and thyme for authentic Turkish flavors.
• Season with salt to taste, ensuring a balanced seasoning.
• Drizzle 2 tbsp vegetable oil to keep the chicken moist and prevent sticking.
• Let the mixture rest to absorb the flavors before skewering and grilling.

Ingredient	Quantity	Purpose
Chicken legs (deboned)	4	Juicy and flavorful skewers
Medium onion (grated, juice extracted)	1	Adds deep flavor
Thick yogurt	2 tbsp	Tenderizes the chicken
Tomato paste	1 tbsp	Enhances richness
Lemon juice	1	Adds tanginess
Garlic cloves (crushed)	2-3	Extra depth of flavor
Paprika	1 tsp	Mild heat and color
Pul biber	1 tsp	Authentic Turkish spice
Chili flakes	1 tsp	Adds heat
Black pepper	1 tsp	Balanced seasoning
Cumin	1 tsp	Warm, earthy spice
Thyme	1 tsp	Herbal aroma
Salt	To taste	Enhances overall taste
Vegetable oil	2 tbsp	Prevents sticking and adds moisture

Flatbreads: A Perfect Side for Skewers

• Mix ½ cup warm water and ½ cup warm milk to activate the yeast.
• Add 10g fresh yeast or 1 tsp dry yeast for a perfect rise.
• Stir in 1 tsp sugar to help the yeast activate faster.
• Sprinkle 1 tsp salt for balanced flavor in the dough.
• Gradually add ~3 cups all-purpose flour to create a soft texture.
• Pour 1 tbsp olive oil for extra elasticity and flavor.
• Knead the dough until smooth, then let it rest to rise.
• Cook on a hot pan until golden and serve warm.

Flavorful Garnishes to Complement Your Meal

• Add chopped lettuce for a crisp and refreshing bite.
• Serve 2 grilled red sweet peppers to enhance the smoky flavor.
• Place grilled tomatoes cut into wedges for a juicy and tangy touch.
• Include pickled cabbage to bring a hint of acidity and crunch.
• Pair with bulgur pilaf for a traditional and hearty side.
• Keep it optional, allowing everyone to customize their plate.

How to Prepare the Best Chicken for Skewers

When making chicken shish kebab, selecting the right cut is key to getting the best texture and flavor. In one video, I used chicken breast, but you need to be careful not to overcook it, or it can turn dry. For this recipe, I prefer chicken legs since they stay juicy even when cooked longer. In the market, you might find the leg with some bone intact, which works well for grilling like a steak, but for skewers, it’s best to cut and take out the bone part to ensure even cooking. Whether you fry or grill your kebabs, the right choice of chicken makes all the difference.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Turkish Chicken Skewers

Homemade Flatbreads: Easy Preparation Guide

1. In a large bowl, mix onion juice, yogurt, tomato paste, lemon, and garlic with spices and salt for deep flavor.
2. Drizzle vegetable oil and stir well to combine, ensuring a smooth and rich marinade.
3. Add chicken chunks and make sure they are fully coated before you cover and marinate them.
4. Let it rest for at least 30 minutes or overnight for the best results in flavor and tenderness.

Choosing the Best Skewers for Grilling

1. In a small bowl, dissolve yeast and sugar in warm water and milk mixture to activate it.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and olive oil, then gradually add the liquid, stirring until a dough forms.
3. Knead until soft and elastic, then divide into 10 balls and let them rest for a few minutes.
4. Roll each into a thin circle with a rolling pin, ensuring even thickness for perfect texture.
5. Heat a nonstick pan and cook each flatbread for 1 minute per side, then cover with a kitchen towel to keep them soft.

How to Assemble Chicken Skewers for Even Cooking

The best skewers depend on the type of kebab you want to make. I have a special gift from my mom—a set of metal skewers from Germany. They have a different style, featuring round and flat parts that help stick the chicken and prevent it from turning while cooking. If using wooden handles, they allow you to walk easily around the grill. But if you choose wooden skewers, be sure to soak them for at least half an hour to avoid them burning. These can be harder to thread the pieces, but they still work, especially for minced meat dishes like Adana and Urfa kebab, which are best made with traditional metal skewers.

Grilling the Perfect Chicken Skewers

1. Thread the chicken pieces onto skewers, making sure to leave small gaps so the heat spreads evenly while cooking.If you’re into grilling, try making Lahmacun next!”
2. Optionally, you can prepare separate skewers just for vegetables, adding extra flavor and variety to your meal.
3. This method ensures that both the chicken and vegetables cook perfectly while staying juicy and tender.

Best Way to Cook The Chicken Shish Kebab

For the best taste, cooking chicken shish on a BBQ or grill outside gives it that delicious chard flavor. But if you’re cooking inside, a cast iron griddle is a perfect choice. It helps to cook the meat evenly and adds a slightly harshly chart flavor, bringing out a smoky richness.Want to learn more about authentic Turkish dishes? Check out this Ultimate Guide to Homemade Turkish Kofta.”

How to Prepare the Best Chicken for Skewers

For the best taste, you can use a barbecue or a grill to cook the skewers until they are golden and fully cooked. If you prefer indoor cooking, a pre-heated cast iron griddle works great for adding deep flavor. Make sure to keep turning them occasionally so they cook evenly and stay juicy.

Serving Suggestions for Chicken Shish Kebab

For the best experience, serve the chicken skewers while they are still hot. They pair wonderfully with flatbreads, allowing you to wrap them up for an easy bite. A side of bulgur pilaf adds a hearty touch, while pickled red cabbage brings a tangy contrast. Fresh lettuce and grilled vegetables complete the dish, making it a balanced and delicious meal.You could also enjoy them with a side of Bulgur Pilaf or Turkish Börek.”

How to Make Bulgur Pilaf (Bulgur Pilavı) with Vermicelli

Ingredients:

• 3-4 tablespoons of olive oil add richness and keep the chicken juicy.
• Melt 1 tablespoon butter for extra flavor and a silky texture.
• Use 2 cups bulgur wheat to serve as a delicious side dish.
• Toast 1/4 cup vermicelli pasta in butter for a nutty aroma.
• Pour 4 cups hot water to cook the bulgur to the perfect texture.
• Add salt to balance the flavors and bring out the natural taste.
• Make sure to taste the bulgur before serving for perfect seasoning.
• These ingredients create a well-rounded meal alongside the chicken skewers.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Bulgur Pilaf

prepare the ingredients:

 To start, heat a large pan over medium heat until it’s warm enough. Then, add a generous amount of olive oil and a bit of butter to enhance the richness of the dish. Let the ingredients blend smoothly before moving to the next step.

Brown the vermicelli: 

To make the pilaf rich and tasty, heat a pan and sauté the vermicelli pasta until it turns golden brown. This step gives the dish a nutty flavor, making it even more delicious alongside the skewers.

Add the bulgur:

 Once the vermicelli is nicely browned, it’s time to add the bulgur wheat to the pan. Let it sauté for about 3-4 minutes, making sure to keep stirring occasionally so the grains evenly toast. This step helps the bulgur fully absorbs the deep, nutty flavors, making it the perfect side dish to complement your Homemade Chicken Skewers / Şiş Tavuk.

Add water and season:

Once the bulgur and vermicelli are nicely toasted, it’s time to pour in the hot water. This step helps everything cook evenly and soak up all the flavors. Next, season the mixture with salt to enhance the taste. Give it a good stir to make sure the ingredients combine well, allowing the grains to absorb the liquid properly.

Cook the pilaf:

Once everything is well mixed, cover the pan and let it cook on low heat so the bulgur can slowly absorb the water and turn tender. Be patient, as this process takes around 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend perfectly.

Serve:

Once the water is fully absorbed and the bulgur becomes soft, it’s time to take the pilaf off the heat. Carefully remove the lid and gently fluff it with a fork to keep the grains light and airy. This delicious and fragrant dish pairs beautifully as a side dish with many Turkish meals, bringing out the rich flavors of your Şiş Tavuk for a complete, satisfying meal.

How to Make Bulgur Pilaf (Bulgur Pilavı) with Vermicelli

For the Chicken:

• Use chicken legs, deboned for easy grilling.
• Keeping the skin is optional but adds flavor.
• Cut into large chunks for juicy skewers.
• Grate a medium onion and squeeze out the juice.
• Mix 2 tbsp of thick yogurt for tenderness.
• Add 1 tbsp tomato paste or ½ tomato + ½ pepper paste.
• Squeeze fresh lemon for a tangy kick.
• Crush 2-3 garlic cloves for extra taste.
• Use 1 tsp paprika and pul biber for heat.
• Sprinkle chili flakes, cumin, and black pepper for depth.
• Add thyme and salt to taste for seasoning.
• Drizzle 2 tbsp vegetable oil for moisture.
• Let the chicken absorb the marinade for at least an hour.
• Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers evenly.
• Grill until golden and enjoy with fresh sides.

For the Flatbreads:

• Mix warm water and warm milk in a bowl.
• Add fresh yeast or dry yeast and let it dissolve.
• Stir in sugar and salt for flavor.
• Gradually add all-purpose flour to form a dough.
• Pour in olive oil to keep the dough soft.
• Knead the dough for about 10 g of effort.
• Let it rest for ½ cups of time until it rises.
• Divide the dough into more portions for even flatbreads.
• Roll each portion into thin rounds, about 3 cups wide.
• Cook on a hot pan until golden brown and puffy.

Garnishes:

• Add chopped lettuce for a fresh and crisp texture.
• Serve with grilled red sweet peppers to bring a smoky flavor.
• Place grilled tomatoes cut into wedges for a juicy and tangy touch.
• Include pickled cabbage for a zesty contrast to the skewers.
• A side of bulgur pilaf makes the meal heartier and more traditional.
• Keep it optional so guests can choose their favorite garnishes.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Bulgur Pilaf

Preparing the Marinade

1. In a large bowl, mix onion juice, yogurt, tomato paste, lemon juice, garlic, spices, and salt until smooth.
2. Drizzle vegetable oil over the mixture and stir well to combine all the flavors.
3. Add chicken chunks to the marinade, ensuring they are evenly coated, then cover the bowl.
4. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or leave it overnight for the best results.

Making the Flatbreads

1. In a small bowl, dissolve yeast and sugar in warm water and milk to activate it properly.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and olive oil, then gradually add the liquid mixture, stirring to form dough.
3. Knead the dough until it becomes soft and elastic, then divide it into 10 balls and let them rest for a few minutes.
4. Roll each ball into a thin circle using a rolling pin to shape them evenly.
5. Heat a nonstick pan and cook each flatbread for 1 minute on each side until lightly golden.
6. Cover them with a kitchen towel to keep them soft and warm until serving.

Assembling the Chicken Pieces To Skewers

1. Thread the chicken pieces onto skewers, making sure to leave small gaps between them for even cooking.
2. If you want extra flavor, prepare separate skewers with vegetables like peppers and onions.
3. Make sure the chicken is evenly spaced so each piece gets that perfect char.
4. Optionally, brush the skewers with oil or marinade before grilling for a juicy texture.
5. Rotate the skewers frequently over the heat to ensure even cooking and a delicious smoky taste.

Best Way to Cook The Chicken Shish Kebab

1. Using a cast iron griddle is a perfect choice to cook chicken skewers inside, as it creates a harshly charred flavor. However, for an authentic taste, grilling outside on a BBQ is the best way to achieve that chard flavor in your shish.

Cooking the Skewers

1. For the best flavor, use a pre-heated cast iron griddle or a barbecue grill. Both methods help to cook the skewers evenly, locking in their juices.
2. Turn the chicken occasionally until it becomes golden and fully cooked. The smoky aroma enhances the flavor, making every bite irresistible.
3. Serve the hot skewers with flatbreads, bulgur pilaf, pickled red cabbage, lettuce, and grilled vegetables to create a well-balanced, authentic meal.

Video

Expert Tips for Perfecting Your Chicken Shish Kebab

Wooden skewers: 

Before grilling, soak the skewers in water for at least 30 minutes. This step helps prevent them from burning while cooking.

Flatbreads: 

To keep the flatbreads soft, wrap them in a clean towel after cooking or sprinkle them lightly with a bit of water to maintain freshness.

Marination time:

• For the most flavorful results, let the chicken sit in the marinade overnight—the longer, the better, as it gives the meat a rich taste and tenderness.

Tip	Why
Soak wooden skewers	Prevents burning
Wrap flatbreads in a towel	Keeps them soft
Marinate overnight	Enhances flavor

And there you have it—Şiş Tavuk, a taste of Turkish street food made right at home! With its tender, marinated chicken, warm flatbreads, and vibrant garnishes, this recipe brings together flavors and textures that make for a truly satisfying meal. Whether you’re serving family or treating yourself, this dish is sure to impress and transport you straight to a Turkish grill. Give it a try, enjoy the flavors, and let me know how it turns out. Happy cooking!

Enhancing the Marinade for Maximum Flavor

The key to making authentic Turkish Chicken Skewers (Şiş Tavuk) lies in the marinade. While your recipe covers essential ingredients like yogurt, lemon juice, and spices, extending the marination time to overnight will significantly enhance the depth of flavor and tenderness of the meat. The acidity from the lemon juice and yogurt helps break down the chicken fibers, making it juicier when grilled. For those short on time, vacuum-sealing the marinated chicken or massaging the marinade thoroughly can speed up the absorption process. Additionally, adding a pinch of smoked paprika can help mimic the rich, smoky taste typically achieved with a charcoal grill, especially for those cooking indoors.

Achieving the Perfect Grill Marks Indoors

While grilling over charcoal is the most authentic method, not everyone has access to an outdoor grill. Your article mentions using a cast iron griddle, which is a great alternative, but another way to infuse a smoky flavor is by using a simple stovetop trick. After grilling, placing a small piece of burning charcoal in a foil cup inside a covered pan with the cooked chicken for a few minutes can create that sought-after grilled aroma. Another effective method is to broil the skewers in the oven on high heat for a few minutes, ensuring a lightly charred, restaurant-style finish. These techniques allow home cooks to replicate the street-style Turkish grill experience even in a regular kitchen.

Storing and Reheating for Freshness

For those who love to meal prep or want to save leftovers, proper storage and reheating methods are essential. Cooked chicken skewers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to three days. To prevent drying out, reheating should be done on low heat in a covered pan or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes. Leftover chicken can also be shredded and used in salads, wraps, or grain bowls, making it a versatile meal option. Similarly, flatbreads should be wrapped in a clean towel or lightly dampened before reheating in a microwave or pan to restore their soft texture. By following these simple techniques, readers can enjoy their homemade Şiş Tavuk at its best, even after the initial meal.

Frequently ask question

What is the best cut of chicken for Şiş Tavuk?

The best cut for juicier skewers is deboned chicken legs, as they retain more moisture compared to chicken breasts.

How long should I marinate the chicken for the best flavor?

For optimal taste and tenderness, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but overnight is ideal.

Can I use wooden skewers instead of metal ones?

Yes, but be sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.

What is the key to achieving a smoky flavor without an outdoor grill?

A cast iron griddle works well, and adding a pinch of smoked paprika to the marinade enhances the smokiness. You can also use the stovetop charcoal-smoking trick for an authentic taste.

Can I make Şiş Tavuk in the oven instead of grilling?

Yes, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through. For a charred effect, broil them for the last few minutes.

What sides go best with Turkish chicken skewers?

Traditional accompaniments include flatbreads, bulgur pilaf, grilled vegetables, pickled cabbage, and fresh lettuce.

How can I keep my flatbreads soft after cooking?

Wrap them in a clean kitchen towel or store them in an airtight container. Lightly dampening them before reheating helps retain their softness.

Can I freeze marinated chicken for later use?

Yes, you can freeze the marinated chicken for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before grilling.

What is the difference between pul biber and regular chili flakes?

Pul biber (Turkish red pepper flakes) is milder, slightly sweet, and has an earthy flavor, while regular chili flakes tend to be hotter.

How do I store and reheat leftover Şiş Tavuk?

Store cooked chicken skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a covered pan on low heat or in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 10 minutes.

Conclusion

For a satisfying and authentic Turkish meal, nothing beats the smoky, flavorful goodness of homemade Şiş Tavuk. With a perfectly balanced marinade, tender grilled chicken, and soft flatbreads, this dish captures the essence of Turkish street food right in your own kitchen. Paired with vibrant garnishes and a side of bulgur pilaf, it creates a wholesome and delicious experience for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or simply treating yourself, this recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try, savor the flavors, and bring a taste of Turkey to your table!