The aroma wafting through your kitchen as you prepare chicken mole is like a warm hug on a chilly day. Imagine tender chicken coated in a rich, velvety sauce, bursting with flavors that dance on your taste buds—sweet, spicy, and utterly irresistible. This dish doesn’t just fill your stomach; it fills your heart with memories of gatherings, laughter, and the comfort of home-cooked meals.
I remember the first time I tried chicken mole at my abuela’s house. She served it with a side of fluffy rice and homemade tortillas, and I was instantly hooked. It felt like a celebration every time we gathered around the table, especially during family fiestas. Now, each bite of this dish transports me back to those cherished moments. So grab your apron and get ready for an epic flavor adventure that’s perfect for any occasion!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This chicken mole recipe is simple enough for weeknight dinners yet impressive enough for special occasions
- The complex flavors develop beautifully while you cook, making it a one-pot wonder
- Its visually stunning appearance will leave everyone at the table in awe
- Versatile enough to serve over rice or in tacos, it’s sure to please any crowd
I once made this dish for friends who were skeptical about trying new foods. Their faces lit up with delight after the first bite!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: I recommend thighs for their juiciness and flavor; they hold up beautifully in the sauce.
Fresh Garlic: Use firm cloves for the best flavor; don’t be shy—more garlic equals more yum!
Onion: A medium yellow onion works well here; it adds sweetness when sautéed.
Canned Tomatoes: Opt for fire-roasted tomatoes to amplify the smoky flavor profile of your mole.
Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: Dark chocolate adds depth; don’t skip this ingredient—it’s key to authentic mole!
Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce: These little guys bring heat and smokiness; adjust according to your spice tolerance.
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth; it allows you better control over saltiness while enhancing flavor.
Ground Cumin and Cinnamon: These spices add warmth and complexity; they’re essential for that classic mole taste.
Olive Oil: For sautéing vegetables; feel free to use any oil you prefer but keep it simple.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Sauté the Aromatics: Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and minced garlic until they turn translucent and fragrant.
Add the Chicken: Toss in your chicken thighs and sear them until golden brown on both sides. Don’t worry if they stick a little; that’s flavor building right there!
Create the Sauce: Stir in canned tomatoes, chipotle peppers, cocoa powder, cumin, cinnamon, and chicken broth. Let everything simmer together while stirring occasionally—this is where the magic happens!
Simmer Until Tender: Cover the pot and reduce heat to low. Allow the chicken to simmer gently for about 30-40 minutes or until tender enough to shred easily.
Final Touches: Once cooked through, shred the chicken right in the pot using two forks. Stir everything together until well combined—be prepared for irresistible aromas filling your kitchen!
Serve Up Your Creation: Ladle generous portions over fluffy rice or into warm tortillas. Garnish with fresh cilantro or sliced avocados if you’re feeling fancy.
Now you’re all set to enjoy this delightful chicken mole! It’s a comforting hug from your kitchen that brings everyone together around one table—happy eating!
You Must Know
- This chicken mole recipe is a fiesta of flavors; it’s not just about the taste, but also a journey of spices that dance on your palate
- The complex aromas will have everyone gathering around the kitchen, making it a perfect dish for family gatherings or cozy dinners
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Sear the chicken first to lock in moisture, then simmer it in the mole sauce for maximum flavor absorption.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap dark chocolate for cocoa powder or add nuts for crunch; get creative with your mole!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days; reheat gently on low heat.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For a deeper flavor, let your mole simmer longer; patience is key!
- Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving
- A pinch of cinnamon can elevate the sauce beautifully
Sharing this dish takes me back to family gatherings where laughter filled the air, and every bite sparked joy among friends.
FAQ
What makes chicken mole unique?
Chicken mole combines chocolate with spices for a rich, complex flavor profile.
Can I make chicken mole ahead of time?
Yes, chicken mole tastes even better when made a day in advance!
What side dishes go well with chicken mole?
Serve chicken mole with rice or warm tortillas for a complete meal.
Chicken Mole
Indulge in the rich, comforting flavors of chicken mole, a dish that combines tender chicken with a velvety sauce bursting with sweet and spicy notes. This recipe captures the essence of traditional family gatherings, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and festive occasions. With aromatic spices and an easy cooking method, each bite is a delicious journey that will leave your taste buds dancing.
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 14.5 oz canned fire-roasted tomatoes
- 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and minced garlic; cook until translucent.
- Add Chicken: Toss in chicken thighs and sear until golden brown on both sides.
- Create the Sauce: Stir in canned tomatoes, chipotle peppers, cocoa powder, cumin, cinnamon, and chicken broth. Simmer while stirring occasionally.
- Simmer Until Tender: Cover the pot and reduce heat to low. Let simmer for 30-40 minutes until chicken is tender and easy to shred.
- Final Touches: Shred the chicken in the pot using two forks and stir to combine.
- Serve: Ladle over fluffy rice or into warm tortillas garnished with fresh cilantro or sliced avocados.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
