The aroma of rich chocolate mingles with spices in the air, creating a comforting hug of flavors that is simply irresistible. When you think about cozy family dinners or festive gatherings, a Chicken Mole Recipe should pop into your mind faster
Imagine sitting around the table with loved ones, laughter echoing as they dip into a bowl of luscious mole sauce draped over perfectly cooked chicken. This dish is not just food; it’s a celebration of flavors and memories that warms your heart just as much as it fills your belly.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Chicken Mole Recipe offers a delightful combination of ease and flavor that makes it perfect for any occasion
- The complex yet balanced flavor profile ensures that every bite is exciting and satisfying
- Visually stunning with its deep brown sauce, it’s sure to impress at dinner parties
- Versatile enough to serve with rice, tortillas, or even on its own!
One time at a family gathering, my cousin tried to claim he didn’t like mole until he tasted this version—now he wants it at every holiday!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: They stay juicier than breasts while absorbing the mole’s rich flavors beautifully.
- Onions: Sweet onions work best; they add depth when sautéed until caramelized.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are essential for that aromatic kick.
- Cocoa Powder: Use unsweetened cocoa powder to give the mole its characteristic richness.
- Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce: They provide heat and smokiness; adjust according to your spice preference.
- Tomatoes: Canned tomatoes add tanginess; fresh tomatoes can be used if in season.
- Chicken Broth: A low-sodium option helps control salt levels without compromising taste.
- Spices (Cumin, Cinnamon): These spices create that quintessential warm flavor profile characteristic of mole sauce.
- Pumpkin Seeds (Pepitas): Toasted seeds add texture and nutty flavor; don’t skip them!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by chopping onions and garlic while gathering all other ingredients on your countertop for easy access during cooking.
Sauté Aromatics: Heat some oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onions and garlic; cook until fragrant and golden brown—about 5-7 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen smells like heaven!
Cook the Chicken: Season those chicken thighs with salt and pepper before adding them to the pan. Brown them on both sides for about 4-5 minutes each; don’t worry about cooking through yet!
Blend the Mole Sauce: In a blender, combine cocoa powder, chipotle peppers, canned tomatoes, chicken broth, cumin, cinnamon, and toasted pumpkin seeds. Blend until smooth—this is where the magic happens!
Combine Everything: Pour the blended mole sauce over the browned chicken in your pan. Cover and simmer on low heat for 30-35 minutes until the chicken is tender and fully cooked through—a true feast for the senses!
Serve It Up: Once done cooking, plate your chicken generously draped in mole sauce over steamed rice or tortillas. Top with chopped cilantro if you’re feeling fancy!
Now you have an incredible Chicken Mole Recipe perfect for any occasion—get ready for applause from family or friends who will surely want seconds!
You Must Know
- This Chicken Mole Recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and aromas, bringing comfort and warmth to any meal
- The deep, rich sauce has a complex taste that will impress your guests, while the preparation process will fill your kitchen with irresistible scents
- Enjoy the flexibility of serving it over rice or with tortillas
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the chicken in a hot pan for flavor, then simmer it gently in mole sauce. This method locks in juices and ensures an even cook.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out traditional ingredients like dark chocolate for cocoa powder or add nuts for extra texture. Personalizing enhances both flavor and presentation.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if necessary to maintain moisture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality chili powder for a flavorful mole
- Ensure your chicken is at room temperature before cooking—this helps it cook evenly
- A splash of vinegar can brighten up the dish; just a little goes a long way!
Sharing this recipe always brings back fond memories of my family gatherings, where laughter and delicious food filled the air—it’s truly what makes cooking worthwhile!
FAQ
Can I use boneless chicken for this Chicken Mole Recipe?
Yes, boneless chicken works well but adjust cooking time for tenderness.
What type of chocolate should I use in the mole?
Use dark chocolate or unsweetened cocoa powder for authentic flavor and richness.
How do I make Chicken Mole spicier?
Add more chili peppers or include spicy seasonings based on your heat preference.
Delicious Chicken Mole Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in this mouthwatering Chicken Mole, a perfect blend of rich chocolate and spices, ideal for family gatherings or cozy dinners.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ cup toasted pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prep your ingredients by chopping the onion and garlic.
- In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onions and garlic until golden brown (about 5-7 minutes).
- Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Brown them for about 4-5 minutes on each side.
- Blend cocoa powder, chipotle peppers, tomatoes, chicken broth, cumin, cinnamon, and pumpkin seeds until smooth.
- Pour the mole sauce over the chicken. Cover and simmer on low heat for 30-35 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
- Serve hot over steamed rice or with tortillas.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
