Oh, let me tell you about my absolute love for Chicken Mole! This dish is the epitome of comfort food for me. Every time I make it, I’m reminded of the first time I tried it at a small Mexican restaurant with my family. We were on a quest to find the perfect mole, and when I took that first bite—oh boy, it was like fireworks in my mouth! The rich, complex flavors of chocolate, spices, and tender chicken came together in a way that made my taste buds dance.
What I adore most about Chicken Mole is its versatility. It’s perfect for cozy family dinners, yet it feels special enough to serve at elegant gatherings. Plus, it’s a dish that tells a story with every ingredient, evoking traditional Mexican culinary history. So let’s dive in and create this delightful recipe; I promise it’s worth every minute!
What’s in Chicken Mole?
Chicken: The star of the dish! I prefer using bone-in, skin-on chicken for flavor, but feel free to swap it out for boneless cuts if you’re looking for something lighter.
Mole Sauce: A blend of chilies, spices, and chocolate that’s the heart of this dish. You can either make it from scratch or use a store-bought variety if you’re short on time—just make sure to pick a high-quality one!
Onions: They add a sweet and savory depth to the sauce. I often use yellow onions, but white or red will work beautifully too.
Garlic: No dish is complete without garlic! It adds an aromatic punch that complements the rich flavors of mole.
Tomatoes: Freshness in the form of tomatoes brings a lovely acidity to balance out the richness.
Chicken Broth: Using a good quality broth enhances the flavor tremendously. I usually go for low-sodium chicken broth so I can control the saltiness.
Cilantro: This refreshing herb adds a burst of color and brightness at the end. You can add more or less based on your personal preference!
Is Chicken Mole Good for You?
Absolutely! While Chicken Mole is certainly a hearty dish, it also comes with some nutritional benefits, especially if you choose health-conscious ingredients:
Chicken: A great source of protein, which is essential for muscle building and repair. Opt for skinless chicken if you’re aiming for a leaner meal.
Dark Chocolate: Used in moderation, dark chocolate can be a delightful and healthy addition, packed with antioxidants. Just be sure to use a high-quality chocolate with a cocoa content of at least 70%.
Spices: The spices used in mole, such as cumin, cinnamon, and chili powder, offer various health benefits and can even boost metabolism.
However, be mindful of portions, especially with mole sauce, as it can be rich and calorie-dense. Enjoy it in moderation as part of a balanced diet, and feel free to add a side of veggies or a light salad for a refreshing contrast!
Ingredients
– 4 chicken thighs and drumsticks (about 2-3 lbs total)
– 2 cups mole sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 large onion, diced
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 fresh tomatoes, diced
– 1 cup chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
– Fresh cilantro for garnish
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for sautéing
This recipe typically serves about 4 people.
How to Make Chicken Mole?
1. Start by seasoning your chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
2. Heat a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add a splash of olive oil and brown the chicken on all sides—this should take about 6-8 minutes. Once browned, remove the chicken and set it aside.
3. In the same pot, add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes and let them cook down for about 2-3 minutes.
5. Pour in the mole sauce and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring it to a gentle simmer.
6. Return the chicken to the pot, submerging it in the sauce. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
7. Once done, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
8. Serve the Chicken Mole hot, garnished with fresh cilantro. It’s fantastic over rice or with warm tortillas on the side!
Spice Up Your Chicken Mole
– For a little kick, consider adding some chipotle peppers in adobo to the mole sauce. It adds a smoky flavor that’s simply irresistible.
– If you are feeling adventurous, try adding a splash of orange juice or zest to the sauce for a bright, citrusy note.
– Want to make it vegetarian? Substitute the chicken with roasted vegetables or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead!
This Chicken Mole dish has a special place in my heart and my home. I hope you give it a try and create some wonderful memories of your own. Don’t forget to share your experience; I love hearing how fellow foodies interpret and enjoy these recipes! Happy cooking!