Irresistible Chicken Mole: A Flavorful Culinary Delight

Name: Chicken Mole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups fresh tomatoes, chopped (or 1 can); 2 tbsp unsweetened cacao powder; 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Recipe By:

Daniel Lawson

Posted:

December 9, 2025

Updated:

December 9, 2025

0 Shares

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

There’s something magical about the aroma of chicken mole wafting through your kitchen. It’s rich, complex, and downright irresistible, inviting you to dive into a world of flavors that dance across your palate. Picture this: tender chicken simmered in a velvety sauce made from chocolate, spices, and a hint of heat. The combination is nothing short of culinary alchemy, transforming your average weeknight dinner into an unforgettable feast.

I remember the first time I tried chicken mole at my Aunt Clara’s house. She served it during a family gathering, and everyone was hooked after just one bite—probably because she ladled on extra sauce like it was liquid gold! It quickly became our go-to dish for celebrations. Now, every time I whip up this recipe, it brings back those warm memories and fills my heart with joy.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This chicken mole is surprisingly easy to prepare while delivering rich flavors that will impress your guests

The vibrant colors and textures make it visually stunning on any dinner table
Perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners, it’s versatile enough to serve over rice or with tortillas for a full experience

My friends still rave about my chicken mole—the secret ingredient? A dash of love (and maybe some secret spices).

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: I prefer thighs for their juiciness, but breasts work too if you like leaner meat.
Cacao Powder: Look for unsweetened cacao powder; it gives the mole its signature depth without overpowering sweetness.
Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes bring brightness to the sauce; feel free to use canned if fresh aren’t available.

Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness when caramelized; yellow onions are an excellent choice here.
Garlic: Use fresh cloves for maximum flavor; roasted garlic can add a lovely twist if you’re feeling adventurous.
Chicken Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to control the salt levels in your dish.

Cilantro: Fresh cilantro not only garnishes but brings a refreshing contrast to the rich sauce.
Spices (Cumin, Oregano): These spices add warmth; feel free to experiment with more heat if you like things spicy.
Olive Oil: A drizzle helps sauté the vegetables and adds richness to the final dish.

Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning—don’t skip these!

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 diced onions and minced garlic, stirring until they turn golden brown and fragrant.

Add Tomatoes and Spices: Toss in chopped tomatoes along with cumin and oregano. Cook until the tomatoes break down and create a rich base—about 5 minutes should do!

Add Chicken Thighs & Liquid Gold: Nestle the chicken thighs into the pot alongside cacao powder and chicken broth. Cover and bring everything to a gentle simmer.

Simmer Away!: Let your chicken simmer for about 30-40 minutes until it’s incredibly tender. You’ll know it’s ready when you can pull apart the meat with forks easily.

Blend It All Together!: Carefully remove the chicken from the pot (don’t burn yourself!). Use an immersion blender to puree the sauce until smooth or transfer it in batches to a regular blender.

Finish It Off!: Return shredded chicken to the blended sauce and stir well. Season with salt and pepper as needed before letting it simmer another 10 minutes on low heat.

And there you have it! Your homemade chicken mole is ready to be served over rice or wrapped in tortillas. Enjoy every mouthful of this delightful culinary creation that’s sure to leave your taste buds dancing!

You Must Know

Chicken mole is a rich and complex dish that marries spicy, sweet, and savory flavors
Pair it with fragrant rice for a delightful culinary experience
The vibrant colors and aromas make it a feast for both the eyes and the palate

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken with spices, then sauté until golden brown before simmering in mole sauce for optimal flavor.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap chicken thighs for breasts or add veggies like bell peppers for extra color and nutrients.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover chicken mole in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove to maintain its deliciousness.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For perfect chicken mole, ensure you roast your spices beforehand; this enhances their flavors dramatically
Remember to taste as you go; adjusting sweetness or heat can elevate the dish
Lastly, don’t rush the simmering process; let those flavors marry beautifully

Cooking chicken mole always transports me back to family gatherings where laughter mingled with the mouthwatering aroma wafting through the house.

FAQs

FAQ

What is chicken mole made of?

Chicken mole consists of chicken cooked with a rich sauce made from chocolate, chili peppers, and spices.

Can I make chicken mole ahead of time?

Yes, preparing chicken mole a day in advance enhances its flavors as they meld overnight.

What should I serve with chicken mole?

Serve chicken mole with rice or tortillas to soak up that irresistible sauce.

0 Shares