Skewered chicken with toum

Skewered chicken with toum features marinated chicken thighs grilled to perfection, served with a creamy garlic sauce. This simple, flavourful dish is perfect for any gathering.

12 Nov 2025
Cook time 22 min
Prep time 85 min

Ingredients:

4 chicken thighs
1/4 cup olive oil
2 garlic cloves
1 tsp salt
1 tbsp lemon juice

Skewered chicken with toum is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines tender, marinated chicken thighs with a creamy and tangy garlic sauce known as toum. This Middle Eastern-inspired recipe is perfect for grilling and guarantees a crowd-pleasing meal that is both simple to prepare and packed with flavor.

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Chicken:
- In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and lemon juice.
- Add the chicken pieces to the bowl, ensuring they are well-coated with the marinade.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 2 hours, to allow the flavors to meld.

2. Prepare the Skewers:
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning.
- Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a small gap between each piece to ensure even cooking.

3. Preheat the Grill or Pan:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Alternatively, you can use a grill pan on the stovetop over medium-high heat.

4. Cook the Chicken:
- Brush the grill grates or grill pan lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Place the chicken skewers on the grill and cook for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).

5. Serve:
- Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a couple of minutes.
- Serve the skewered chicken with a side of toum (a creamy garlic sauce), and garnish with lemon wedges and fresh herbs if desired.

With just a few ingredients and some simple preparation, skewered chicken with toum is a fantastic way to enjoy a flavorful and savory meal. The tender, marinated chicken pairs beautifully with the bold garlic toum, making it an ideal choice for grilling season or any time you want to impress your guests with a delicious homemade dish.

Skewered chicken with toum FAQ:

What is the best cooking time for skewered chicken?

Cook the chicken skewers for about 6-8 minutes on each side on a preheated grill. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) to guarantee they are fully cooked.

Can I substitute chicken thighs with other cuts?

Yes, you can use chicken breast or chicken tenders as substitutes for thighs. However, thighs provide more flavor and moisture, so adjust cooking times accordingly to avoid drying out the meat.

How do I store leftover skewered chicken?

Store leftover chicken skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the grill to avoid overcooking.

What are good side dishes to serve with skewered chicken and toum?

Pair the skewered chicken with a fresh salad, pita bread, or rice. Grilled vegetables also complement the dish well.

Can toum be made in advance?

Yes, toum can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just be sure to mix well before serving.

Tips:

- For best results, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to fully infuse.

- Use fresh, high-quality olive oil and lemon juice to enhance the overall taste of the dish.

- Make sure to soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.

- Adjust the amount of garlic in the toum to your personal taste. If you prefer a milder garlic flavor, use only one clove.

Nutrition per serving

6 Servings
Calories 150kcal
Protein 11g
Carbohydrates 0.62g
Fiber 0.03g
Sugar 0.07g
Fat 22g

Skewered chicken with toum