The aroma of Chicken Mole wafts through the kitchen like a warm hug on a chilly evening. Picture juicy pieces of chicken enveloped in a rich, velvety sauce that dances between sweet and savory—this dish is an explosion of flavors that can turn any mundane dinner into a fiesta.

Chicken Mole is more than just a meal; it’s a memory-maker. I remember the first time I attempted this delightful dish during a family gathering. Everyone gathered around the table with plates in hand, and the moment they tasted it, their eyes lit up like kids at Christmas. You simply cannot underestimate the power of good food to bring people together!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The Chicken Mole recipe is not only simple to prepare but also bursts with complex flavors that will impress your guests
- The visual appeal makes it stand out on any table
- Plus, it adapts easily to various dietary preferences, ensuring everyone can enjoy a hearty meal
- Best of all, it’s perfect for cozy family dinners or elegant gatherings!
I once served this at my cousin’s wedding reception and received rave reviews from every corner of the room!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: I prefer thighs for their tenderness and flavor; they stay juicy even after cooking.
- Mole Sauce: You can use store-bought or homemade; either way, it’s the star of this dish.
- Onion: Sweet onions work best; they caramelize beautifully and add depth to your sauce.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves boost flavor; don’t skimp here if you love that garlicky aroma!
- Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a pop of color and brightness to balance the rich sauce.
- Lime Juice: A splash at the end brightens everything up; it’s like sunshine in a bottle!
For the Sauce:
- Chili Powder: Choose your preferred level of heat; mild or spicy—it’s entirely up to you.
- Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa powder adds depth; yes, chocolate belongs in savory dishes too!
- Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels while still achieving rich flavor.
- Peanuts or Almonds: Toasted nuts provide texture and nutty richness; you can leave them out if allergies are a concern.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients on the countertop. Chop onions and garlic finely so they can release their aromatic magic quickly while cooking.
Brown the Chicken
In a large skillet over medium heat, add oil and let it shimmer. Add boneless chicken thighs seasoned with salt and pepper until golden brown—about 5-7 minutes per side—creating a lovely crust.
Sauté Onions and Garlic
Once chicken is browned, remove it from the pan. In the same skillet, toss in chopped onions and garlic until fragrant—about 3-4 minutes—until onions become translucent.
Add Mole Sauce
Stir in your mole sauce along with chili powder and cocoa powder into the onion mixture. Allow this heavenly concoction to simmer for about 5 minutes while stirring occasionally—this is when your kitchen starts smelling divine!
Combine Chicken with Sauce
Return browned chicken thighs to the skillet alongside chicken broth. Cover and let everything simmer together for 20-25 minutes until chicken is cooked through and tender.
Garnish & Serve
Once cooked, squeeze fresh lime juice over everything before serving. Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top for color! Enjoy with rice or tortillas—the world is your oyster!
This delightful Chicken Mole recipe will leave everyone asking for seconds—and possibly thirds! Each bite captures layers of flavor that dance on your palate like an unexpected salsa party. So go ahead; create some unforgettable memories around your dinner table with this incredible dish!
You Must Know
- This Chicken Mole Recipe is a delightful blend of rich flavors, making meal prep exciting
- Don’t be surprised if the aromas have your neighbors knocking at your door
- Perfect for special occasions or any day when you want to impress without stress
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the chicken to lock in flavors, then simmer with mole sauce until tender for perfect results.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap chicken for turkey or add vegetables like bell peppers for a unique twist on this classic dish.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to maintain flavor.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use high-quality chocolate and spices for authentic flavor
- Searing the chicken properly adds depth, while letting it simmer enhances tenderness
- Don’t rush; patience will reward you with mouthwatering results!
I still remember the first time I served this Chicken Mole Recipe at a family gathering; my cousin declared it “the best thing since sliced bread.” That moment made all my culinary efforts worthwhile.
FAQ
What makes this Chicken Mole Recipe unique?
This recipe combines rich chocolate and spices, creating a complex flavor profile unlike any other dish.
Can I prepare Chicken Mole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Preparing it a day in advance enhances its flavors as they meld beautifully overnight.
What sides pair well with Chicken Mole?
Serve with rice or warm tortillas to balance the richness of the mole sauce perfectly.

Chicken Mole Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in this easy Chicken Mole recipe, where succulent chicken meets a rich, velvety sauce that harmonizes sweet and savory flavors in every delightful bite.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup mole sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 medium sweet onion, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- ¼ cup toasted peanuts or almonds (optional)
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients. Finely chop onions and garlic.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper; brown for about 5-7 minutes per side until golden.
- Remove chicken from the skillet. Add onions and garlic to the same pan; sauté for 3-4 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in mole sauce, chili powder, and cocoa powder; simmer for 5 minutes.
- Return chicken to the skillet with chicken broth; cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes until tender.
- Before serving, squeeze lime juice over the dish and sprinkle with cilantro. Serve with rice or tortillas.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 120mg