Turkish Comfort: Chicken Shish and Rice Pilaf Recipes by Özlem Warren

Cookbook author Özlem Warren shares two classic Turkish recipes that bring authentic flavors to your kitchen.

Chicken Shish (Tavuk Şiş)

Ingredients

• 500g boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp plain yogurt
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp sweet paprika
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• Salt and black pepper
• Wooden or metal skewers

Method

1. Combine olive oil, yogurt, tomato paste, paprika, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
2. Marinate the chicken pieces in the mixture for at least 30 minutes (overnight for best results).
3. Thread the chicken onto skewers.
4. Grill over medium-high heat for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through and slightly charred.
5. Serve hot with rice pilaf and grilled vegetables.

Turkish-Style Rice Pilaf (Şehriyeli Pilav)

Ingredients

• 1 cup long-grain rice (e.g., basmati)
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp orzo pasta (şehriye)
• 2 cups hot chicken or vegetable stock
• Salt

Method

1. Rinse rice in cold water until water runs clear, then soak in cold water for 15 minutes. Drain.
2. Melt butter in a saucepan, add orzo, and stir over medium heat until golden.
3. Add drained rice, stir for 1 minute to coat grains.
4. Pour in hot stock, add salt, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–20 minutes until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
5. Remove from heat, let stand covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.

“These recipes are perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering. The yogurt marinade makes the chicken incredibly tender, and the orzo adds a lovely texture to the rice,” says Warren.

Serve the chicken shish alongside the rice pilaf with fresh salad and lemon wedges.