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Chicken Mole
Chicken

Chicken Mole

Prep20 min
Cook30 min
Total50 min
Serves4
Chicken Mole
Rich Chicken Mole

I still remember the first time I tried Chicken Mole - the complex flavors and rich sauce had me hooked. As a home cook, I wanted to recreate this dish in my own kitchen, using low-carb keto ingredients and techniques. After some trial and error, I'm excited to share my version of Chicken Mole, made with real food and flavor.

This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to add some excitement to their weeknight dinners or special occasions. The best part? It's surprisingly easy to make, and the end result is well worth the effort. So, let's get started!

One of the things I love about Chicken Mole is the way the flavors come together. The combination of chocolate, spices, and nuts creates a deep, rich sauce that's both familiar and exotic. And the best part? It's made with ingredients you can easily find in most grocery stores.

In this recipe, we'll be using chicken thighs, which are perfect for slow-cooking and absorbing all the flavors of the mole sauce. We'll also be using a variety of spices, including cumin, coriander, and cinnamon, to give the dish its signature flavor. And of course, no Chicken Mole would be complete without a sprinkle of dark chocolate on top.

So, if you're ready to try something new and exciting, keep reading. This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to add some flavor and excitement to their meal routine.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion
  • The flavors are complex and exciting, with a deep, rich sauce
  • The dish is surprisingly easy to make, with a short prep time and simple ingredients
  • The chicken is tender and juicy, with a crispy exterior and a fall-apart texture
  • The recipe is low-carb and keto-friendly, making it perfect for those with dietary restrictions
  • The mole sauce can be made ahead of time, making it a great option for meal prep

Why This Recipe Works

The key to a great Chicken Mole is in the layers of flavor. By using a combination of spices, chocolate, and nuts, we create a rich and complex sauce that's both deep and nuanced. The slow-cooking process helps to break down the connective tissues in the chicken, making it tender and fall-apart.

Another important aspect of this recipe is the use of fat-forward browning. By searing the chicken in butter and then finishing it in the oven, we create a crispy exterior and a juicy interior. And of course, the mole sauce adds an extra layer of flavor and moisture to the dish.

The type of chocolate used in this recipe is also important. We're using dark chocolate, which has a deeper, richer flavor than milk chocolate. This helps to balance out the sweetness of the spices and the acidity of the tomatoes, creating a sauce that's both balanced and complex.

Ingredients You’ll Need

When it comes to the ingredients for this recipe, there are a few key players to look out for. First, we have the chicken thighs, which provide the protein and texture for the dish. Next, we have the spices, including cumin, coriander, and cinnamon, which give the mole sauce its signature flavor. Finally, we have the chocolate, which adds a deep, rich flavor to the sauce.

When shopping for these ingredients, be sure to look for high-quality spices and chocolate. The better the quality of the ingredients, the better the final dish will taste.

  • 2 lbs (900g) chicken thighs, bonelessLook for chicken thighs with a good balance of meat and fat, as this will help to keep the dish moist and flavorful. You can also use chicken breast or a combination of breast and thighs if you prefer.
  • 2 tbsp (30g) unsalted butterUse high-quality, European-style butter for the best flavor. You can also use ghee or coconut oil if you prefer.
  • 1 large onion, dicedLook for a sweet onion, such as Vidalia or Maui, for the best flavor. You can also use shallots or scallions if you prefer.
  • 3 cloves garlic, mincedUse fresh garlic for the best flavor. You can also use garlic powder or garlic salt if you prefer.
  • 1 tsp (5g) ground cuminLook for high-quality cumin that is fresh and fragrant. You can also use cumin seeds if you prefer.
  • 1 tsp (5g) ground corianderUse high-quality coriander that is fresh and fragrant. You can also use coriander seeds if you prefer.
  • 1/2 tsp (2g) ground cinnamonLook for high-quality cinnamon that is fresh and fragrant. You can also use cinnamon sticks if you prefer.
  • 1/4 tsp (1g) cayenne pepperUse high-quality cayenne pepper that is fresh and fragrant. You can also use red pepper flakes if you prefer.
  • 1/2 cup (120g) dark chocolate chipsLook for high-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa solids. You can also use milk chocolate or white chocolate if you prefer.
  • 1/4 cup (60g) chopped fresh cilantroUse fresh cilantro for the best flavor. You can also use parsley or basil if you prefer.
  • 2 tbsp (30g) chopped pecansLook for fresh pecans that are fragrant and flavorful. You can also use walnuts or almonds if you prefer.
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) chicken brothUse low-sodium chicken broth for the best flavor. You can also use beef broth or vegetable broth if you prefer.
  • 1/2 tsp (2g) saltUse high-quality salt that is fresh and fragrant. You can also use sea salt or kosher salt if you prefer.
Ingredients for Chicken Mole

Equipment You’ll Need

Large heavy skillet or Dutch ovenSharp chef's knifeInstant-read thermometerCutting boardMeasuring cups and spoonsWooden spoon or spatula

How to Make Chicken Mole

  1. 1
    Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).
  2. 2
    In a large bowl, whisk together the cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper.
  3. 3
    Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and toss to coat with the spice mixture.
  4. 4
    Heat the butter in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs and sear until browned on both sides, about 5-7 minutes per side.
  5. 5
    Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  6. 6
    Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
  7. 7
    Add the dark chocolate chips to the skillet and cook, stirring constantly, until melted and smooth.
  8. 8
    Add the chicken broth, salt, and chopped cilantro to the skillet. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
  9. 9
    Return the chicken thighs to the skillet and spoon some of the mole sauce over the top of each thigh.
  10. 10
    Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake, covered, for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 F (74 C).
  11. 11
    Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
  12. 12
    Serve the chicken thighs with the mole sauce spooned over the top and garnished with chopped pecans.

Expert Tips

  • Use high-quality ingredients, including fresh spices and dark chocolate, for the best flavor.
  • Don't overcrowd the skillet when searing the chicken thighs, as this can prevent even browning.
  • Let the chicken rest for at least 10-15 minutes before serving, as this will help the juices to redistribute and the meat to stay moist.
  • Serve the chicken with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, cauliflower rice, or a green salad.
  • Consider making the mole sauce ahead of time and storing it in the fridge or freezer for up to 1 week.
  • Experiment with different types of chocolate or spices to create unique variations on the recipe.
  • Use this recipe as a starting point and add your own favorite ingredients or spices to make it your own.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Not using high-quality ingredients, such as fresh spices and dark chocolate, can result in a lackluster flavor.
  • Overcrowding the skillet when searing the chicken thighs can prevent even browning and lead to a tough or dry texture.
  • Not letting the chicken rest for at least 10-15 minutes before serving can result in a dry or tough texture.
  • Not using enough liquid in the mole sauce can result in a thick or paste-like consistency.
  • Not stirring the mole sauce constantly can result in a grainy or separated texture.
  • Not serving the chicken with a variety of sides can result in a boring or unbalanced meal.

Variations and Substitutions

  • Add diced bell peppers or jalapenos to the skillet with the onion and garlic for extra flavor and heat.
  • Use different types of nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, in place of the pecans for a unique flavor and texture.
  • Add a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk to the mole sauce for a richer and creamier texture.
  • Use ground beef or pork in place of the chicken for a heartier and more robust flavor.
  • Add a sprinkle of grated cheese, such as Parmesan or cheddar, to the top of the chicken before serving for an extra burst of flavor.
  • Serve the chicken with a side of cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a low-carb and paleo-friendly option.
  • Use this recipe as a starting point and add your own favorite ingredients or spices to make it your own.

What to Serve With Chicken Mole

Serve the chicken thighs with the mole sauce spooned over the top and garnished with chopped pecans. Consider serving with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, cauliflower rice, or a green salad.

Some other options for serving include:

Roasted vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts or broccoliCauliflower rice or zucchini noodlesA green salad with a light vinaigretteGrilled or sautéed mushroomsSliced avocado or sour cream

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

The mole sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer for up to 1 week. Simply reheat the sauce over low heat, whisking constantly, until warmed through.

The cooked chicken can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Simply reheat the chicken in the oven or on the stovetop until warmed through.

To freeze the chicken, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place in a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, simply thaw the chicken overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven or on the stovetop until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of chocolate is best for this recipe?

High-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa solids is best for this recipe. You can also use milk chocolate or white chocolate if you prefer.

Can I make the mole sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the mole sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer for up to 1 week. Simply reheat the sauce over low heat, whisking constantly, until warmed through.

What type of nuts are best for this recipe?

Pecans are a good choice for this recipe, but you can also use almonds or walnuts if you prefer.

Can I serve this dish with a variety of sides?

Yes, this dish can be served with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, cauliflower rice, or a green salad.

Is this recipe low-carb and keto-friendly?

Yes, this recipe is low-carb and keto-friendly, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.

Can I use ground beef or pork in place of the chicken?

Yes, you can use ground beef or pork in place of the chicken for a heartier and more robust flavor.

Can I add a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk to the mole sauce?

Yes, you can add a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk to the mole sauce for a richer and creamier texture.

What is the best way to reheat the chicken?

The best way to reheat the chicken is in the oven or on the stovetop until warmed through. You can also reheat the chicken in the microwave, but be careful not to overheat it.

The Full Recipe
Recipe Card
Chicken Mole

Chicken Mole

I'm excited to share my low-carb keto Chicken Mole recipe, made with rich flavors and real food, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion

Prep20 min
Cook30 min
Total50 min
Serves4
Pin Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs (900g) chicken thighs, boneless
  • 2 tbsp (30g) unsalted butter
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp (5g) ground cumin
  • 1 tsp (5g) ground coriander
  • 1/2 tsp (2g) ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp (1g) cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 cup (120g) dark chocolate chips
  • 1/4 cup (60g) chopped fresh cilantro
  • 2 tbsp (30g) chopped pecans
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) chicken broth
  • 1/2 tsp (2g) salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper.
  3. Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and toss to coat with the spice mixture.
  4. Heat the butter in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs and sear until browned on both sides, about 5-7 minutes per side.
  5. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  6. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
  7. Add the dark chocolate chips to the skillet and cook, stirring constantly, until melted and smooth.
  8. Add the chicken broth, salt, and chopped cilantro to the skillet. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
  9. Return the chicken thighs to the skillet and spoon some of the mole sauce over the top of each thigh.
  10. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake, covered, for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 F (74 C).
  11. Remove the skillet from the oven and let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
  12. Serve the chicken thighs with the mole sauce spooned over the top and garnished with chopped pecans.

Nutrition (per serving, approximate)

540Calories
37gProtein
10gCarbs
42gFat