The aroma of spices wafts through the kitchen as you prepare to dive into the delightful world of chicken mole. Picture tender chicken simmering in a rich chocolate-infused sauce that dances on your taste buds like it’s auditioning for a Broadway show. This chicken mole recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and joy to any gathering with friends or family.
As you stir the pot, memories of family gatherings flood back. The laughter, the stories shared over heaping plates of this savory dish—it’s a celebration on a plate. Whether it’s Taco Tuesday or a festive fiesta, this chicken mole will steal the spotlight and leave everyone asking for seconds. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This easy Chicken Mole Recipe combines rich flavors with simplicity for an unforgettable dish
- You can impress guests without spending all day in the kitchen
- Vibrant colors make it visually appealing, perfect for any occasion
- The versatility allows you to serve it with rice, tortillas, or even on its own!
Sharing this dish at my last family reunion spurred endless compliments and requests for the recipe from my Aunt Maria.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless Chicken Thighs: I prefer thighs for their juiciness; they hold up beautifully in the sauce.
- Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness; diced finely for even cooking.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves bring a robust flavor; crush them to release their oils.
- Tomatoes: Use fresh or canned tomatoes; they create a rich base for the sauce.
- Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa adds depth; choose high-quality cocoa for the best flavor.
- Mole Spice Mix: This blend usually includes cumin, chili powder, and cinnamon; it’s essential for authenticity.
- Chicken Broth: Low-sodium broth enhances flavor while keeping salt levels in check.
- Vegetable Oil: For sautéing; use enough to coat your pan without drowning your ingredients.
- Salt and Pepper: Season to taste; these basics elevate all flavors in your dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by washing and chopping your vegetables—diced onions and minced garlic are key players in this show. Set them aside so they’re ready when you need them.
Sauté Onions and Garlic: Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering. Add onions first until they’re translucent—about 5 minutes—and then stir in garlic until fragrant.
Add Tomatoes: Toss in your chopped tomatoes next. Cook until they break down into a chunky sauce—this should take about 8 minutes—stirring occasionally.
Add Chicken Thighs: Nestle your boneless thighs into the tomato mix. Pour in enough chicken broth to cover everything by half an inch—this creates that magical sauce we all crave.
Add Spices: Sprinkle in cocoa powder along with your mole spice mix. Stir well until everything is combined—let those flavors marry together beautifully!
Simmer: Cover your pot and reduce heat to low. Let it simmer gently for about 30-40 minutes until the chicken is tender and infused with flavor—don’t forget to stir occasionally!
Now that you’re officially a Chicken Mole maestro, get ready to impress everyone at dinner! Enjoy every bite of this rich creation that brings together tradition and love right from your kitchen!
You Must Know
- This Chicken Mole Recipe is a delightful journey of flavors that marries spices and chocolate
- The deep, rich aroma will fill your kitchen and have everyone asking for seconds
- Don’t forget to pair it with rice or tortillas for an unforgettable meal experience
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken overnight for maximum flavor absorption. Sear it to lock in juices, then simmer in mole sauce until tender, ensuring every bite is infused with those magical flavors.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap chicken for turkey or tofu if you want a different protein. You can also play with the mole’s heat by adjusting chili peppers or adding more chocolate for sweetness.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover mole chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to keep it moist.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To enhance flavors, toast spices before adding them to the sauce; this releases their essential oils
- Avoid overcooking the chicken to maintain its juicy texture and always taste as you go for perfect seasoning balance
Cooking Chicken Mole takes me back to family gatherings where we’d gather around the table, savoring each bite together while sharing stories and laughter.
FAQ
What is mole sauce made of?
Mole sauce typically includes chilies, spices, chocolate, nuts, and tomatoes blended into a rich sauce.
Can I make Chicken Mole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it a day before and let the flavors meld overnight.
What can I serve with Chicken Mole?
Serve Chicken Mole with rice, tortillas, or even avocado slices for a complete meal experience.
Chicken Mole Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in this easy Chicken Mole recipe, featuring tender chicken simmered in a rich, chocolate-infused sauce that will impress at any gathering.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless chicken thighs
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups tomatoes (fresh or canned)
- 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tbsp mole spice mix (cumin, chili powder, cinnamon)
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prep your ingredients: Wash and chop the onion and garlic.
- Sauté onions in vegetable oil over medium heat until translucent (about 5 minutes). Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add chopped tomatoes; cook until they break down into a chunky sauce (around 8 minutes).
- Nestle in the chicken thighs and pour in the chicken broth to cover by half an inch.
- Stir in cocoa powder and mole spice mix until well combined.
- Cover and simmer on low heat for 30-40 minutes until chicken is tender.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
