Mole Poblano Chicken Plate

Name: Mole Poblano Chicken Plate
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 chicken breasts; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 6 dried ancho chiles; 2 dried guajillo chiles; 1/4 cup sesame seeds; 1/4 cup almonds; 2 tablespoons raisins; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon cloves; 1/4 cup dark chocolate, chopped; 2 cups chicken broth

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Indulge in the rich flavors of traditional Mexican cuisine with this delicious Mole Poblano Chicken Plate, featuring tender chicken smothered in a luscious mole sauce.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-18T21:02:49.550Z

Mole Poblano is a traditional Mexican sauce made from a blend of chiles, spices, and chocolate. This recipe transforms simple chicken into a flavorful dish that is perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A deep, complex flavor profile that will delight your taste buds
A perfect balance of spicy and sweet, thanks to the mole sauce
An impressive dish that is sure to impress your guests

      

A Taste of Tradition

Mole Poblano is one of Mexico's most celebrated sauces, renowned for its intricate blend of flavors and textures. Originating from Puebla, this sauce represents centuries of culinary tradition, combining indigenous ingredients with influences from Spanish cuisine. Each family may have its own version, passed down through generations, making this dish not just a meal but a celebration of heritage.

The beautiful complexity of Mole Poblano comes from a variety of ingredients, including dried chiles, spices, nuts, and chocolate. This unique combination creates a rich and velvety sauce that elevates any dish, especially tender chicken. The depth of flavor is a testament to the love and care that goes into preparing this traditional recipe.

Cooking Tips for Success

When preparing Mole Poblano, the key is to ensure that your chiles are properly softened before blending. Soaking them in hot water not only enhances their flavor but also aids in achieving a smooth consistency in your sauce. Additionally, don't rush the sautéing process; cooking the onion and garlic until they are perfectly softened will add a sweet undertone to the mole.

Another important tip is to taste your mole sauce as you go. The balance of flavors is crucial, so adjust the sweetness or spiciness according to your preference. If your mole turns out too thick, simply add a little more chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.

Serving Suggestions

Mole Poblano Chicken is best served with traditional accompaniments that complement its rich flavors. Consider pairing it with fragrant Mexican rice and warm corn tortillas for a complete meal. You can also serve it alongside sautéed vegetables or a fresh salad to balance out the richness of the sauce.

For a festive touch, garnish your dish with toasted sesame seeds and chopped fresh cilantro. This not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the flavor profile, making your Mole Poblano Chicken Plate a stunning centerpiece for any gathering.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 chicken breasts
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced

For the Mole Sauce

6 dried ancho chiles
2 dried guajillo chiles
1/4 cup sesame seeds
1/4 cup almonds
2 tablespoons raisins
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon cloves
1/4 cup dark chocolate, chopped
2 cups chicken broth

Gather all ingredients before starting for a smoother cooking experience.

Steps

Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on both sides, about 6-7 minutes per side.

Remove from skillet and set aside.

Make the Mole Sauce

In the same skillet, add chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until softened. In a separate pot, bring water to a boil and soak the dried chiles until softened, about 15 minutes. Remove stems and seeds from the chiles.

Blend the Sauce

In a blender, combine soaked chiles, sautéed onion and garlic, sesame seeds, almonds, raisins, cinnamon, cloves, and chicken broth. Blend until smooth. Return the mixture to the skillet and simmer for 10 minutes.

Combine Chicken and Sauce

Add the chicken back to the skillet with the mole sauce, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.

Serve the Mole Poblano Chicken hot over rice or with tortillas.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, Mole Poblano Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits, making it even more delicious the next day. Just be sure to allow the dish to cool completely before sealing it in the container.

When you're ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat them gently on the stove over low heat. You may need to add a splash of chicken broth to loosen the sauce if it has thickened in the fridge. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating and avoid sticking.

Adapting the Recipe

Mole Poblano is versatile, and you can easily adapt the recipe to suit dietary preferences. For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with hearty vegetables like roasted eggplant or portobello mushrooms. You can also use tofu or tempeh for added protein while still enjoying the rich flavors of mole.

If you're looking for a quicker version, consider using store-bought mole sauce. While homemade is always best, a good quality store-bought option can save you time without sacrificing too much flavor. Just remember to adjust the seasoning of your chicken as needed.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other meats besides chicken?

Yes, you can use turkey or even pork for a different flavor profile.

→ How can I make the mole sauce spicier?

Add additional dried chiles such as chipotle for more heat.

→ Can I prepare the mole sauce in advance?

Absolutely! The mole sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ What can I serve with Mole Poblano Chicken?

It pairs wonderfully with rice, tortillas, or a simple salad.