Name: Classic Chicken Mole
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 70 min
Ingredients: 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on); 4 chicken legs (bone-in, skin-on); Salt; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 cup chicken broth; 2 cups mole sauce; 2 tablespoons sesame seeds (toasted)

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Whenever I think of the rich and flavorful dish known as Classic Chicken Mole, I’m transported back to the cozy gatherings around the dinner table with family. This dish has a way of becoming the centerpiece of any meal, filling the air with an enticing aroma that beckons everyone to sit down and enjoy. I remember the first time I tried it; the deep, complex flavors danced on my palate, and I couldn’t help but smile. It’s not just food; it’s a tradition that brings people together, making it a perfect choice for special occasions or a comforting weeknight dinner.

The magic of Classic Chicken Mole comes not just from the ingredients but also from the love and care put into its preparation. Each layer of flavor builds on the last, creating a dish that feels both hearty and elegant. The combination of spices, the richness of the mole sauce, and the tender chicken work in harmony to create a meal that I often crave. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting, this recipe will guide you through creating a dish that impresses not only your taste buds but also those of your loved ones.

Gather around your stove and let’s dive into the world of Classic Chicken Mole. I promise, it’ll be worth every minute spent in the kitchen when you see the smiles on everyone’s faces, and you’ll have a delicious story to tell.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
1 hr 10 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
60 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
550 kcal

Protein:
35 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
40 g

Tools Used:
12-inch skillet, preferably cast-iron

Why This Classic Chicken Mole Is a Winner

1. Rich Cultural Heritage

The origins of mole date back centuries, representing a fusion of indigenous and colonial influences. Each region in Mexico has its own variation, but the common thread is a deep respect for tradition. Making Classic Chicken Mole isn’t just about cooking; it’s about connecting with a history that has shaped flavors over generations.

2. A Symphony of Flavors

The complexity of flavors in Classic Chicken Mole is what captivates me the most. The blend of spices, including cumin and cinnamon, along with the rich chocolate undertones, creates a taste that’s truly unique. Each bite tells a story, making it a fantastic conversation starter at dinner parties.

3. Versatile Dish

One of my favorite reasons for loving Classic Chicken Mole is its versatility. While it shines as a main dish, it can also blend beautifully with rice or tortillas, allowing for a customizable dining experience. You can even adapt it for different tastes, adding your unique twist while maintaining its essence.

4. Perfect for Gatherings

When I think of hosting, Classic Chicken Mole is often my go-to. It’s a dish that brings everyone together, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The communal experience of sharing a pot of this delicious sauce and chicken makes it perfect for any gathering, be it a birthday or a casual get-together.

5. Family Friendly

Even my pickiest eaters have fallen in love with Classic Chicken Mole. The balanced flavors make it appealing to all ages, and I often find myself making extra to ensure there are leftovers for lunch! It’s a win-win situation in our household.

Shopping List for Classic Chicken Mole

Gathering the right ingredients for Classic Chicken Mole is crucial for achieving that authentic taste. The choice of each component plays an important role in building the deep, rich flavors that make this dish so special. Here’s what you need to create this dish:

4 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on
4 chicken legs, bone-in, skin-on
Salt and pepper
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 cup chicken broth
2 cups mole sauce
2 tablespoons sesame seeds, toasted

Directions for Classic Chicken Mole

Cooking Classic Chicken Mole is not only a culinary journey but also a delightful experience that fills your kitchen with tantalizing aromas. Let’s get started on creating this delicious dish together. Follow these detailed steps for the best results:

Preheat your oven to 400°F. This initial step is crucial as it prepares the environment for the chicken to cook perfectly. Ensuring your oven is at the right temperature means the chicken will roast beautifully, resulting in a crispy skin.
Generously season the chicken thighs and legs with salt and pepper all over. The seasoning enhances the natural flavors of the chicken, ensuring each bite is seasoned well. Don’t be shy; this is your moment to infuse some flavor.
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Preferably, use a cast-iron skillet for even cooking. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the chicken, skin-side down. Allow it to sear until golden, which should take about six minutes. This step is essential for that delicious crust.
Flip the chicken pieces over and continue to cook for another two minutes. This ensures that both sides are nicely browned and deliciously crispy. Once done, transfer the chicken to a clean platter and set it aside.
Discard any excess oil left in the skillet but make sure to leave the browned bits at the bottom. These bits add incredible flavor to your dish! Now, return the skillet to medium heat.
Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up the bits from the bottom with a wooden spoon. This deglazing step is vital as it incorporates all those rich flavors back into the sauce.
Add in the mole sauce and stir to combine it with the broth. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer. The combination of the broth and mole will create a luscious sauce that envelops the chicken.
Now it’s time to nestle the chicken back into the sauce. Lay the chicken pieces in the pan and ladle some sauce over the top. This step ensures the chicken absorbs all those amazing flavors.
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for about 35 minutes. If you notice the sauce is getting too dark, cover it loosely with foil to prevent burning. You want your chicken to be tender and infused with flavor.
Once done, remove the skillet from the oven and spoon more sauce over the chicken. For that finishing touch, plate the chicken and sprinkle liberally with toasted sesame seeds. This adds a nice crunch and enhances the flavor profile.

Things Worth Knowing

Cooking the chicken skin-side down first helps achieve a crispy texture, which contrasts beautifully with the tender meat.
Allow the mole sauce to simmer for at least 30 minutes before using; this helps the flavors meld together for a richer taste.
For a more intense flavor, let the finished Classic Chicken Mole sit for a few hours or even overnight; reheating will deepen the taste.
Experiment with the spices in your mole sauce; adding a touch of cinnamon or a pinch of cloves can create delightful variations.

Tips and Variations

Cooking Classic Chicken Mole is an art, and there are little tips that can enhance your experience and results:

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Just ensure that it’s covered to maintain flavor.
Freezing: You can freeze Classic Chicken Mole for up to two months. Just make sure to allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
Serving Suggestions: Pair this dish with rice or warm tortillas for an authentic experience. It also goes well with a fresh side salad.
Flavor Adjustments: If you prefer a spicier mole, feel free to add in some chili powder or fresh chopped chilis to the sauce.
Shredding the Chicken: For a different texture, consider shredding the chicken after cooking and mixing it back into the sauce for a comforting, saucy dish.

Perfect Matches for Classic Chicken Mole

When serving Classic Chicken Mole, think about what sides will complement its rich flavors. Here are some ideas:

Cilantro Lime Rice: This light and zesty rice dish pairs beautifully with the deep flavors of mole.
Black Beans: A side of seasoned black beans adds a hearty touch and balances the meal.
Fresh Guacamole: The creaminess of guacamole can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich mole.
Salad: A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette offers a crisp texture and bright flavors, perfect alongside the mole.
Occasions: This dish shines at family gatherings, special occasions, or even as a comforting weeknight dinner.
Storage Tips: To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth to the leftover mole to restore its sauce-like consistency.

FAQ

Mole sauce has roots in pre-Columbian Mexico and is a fusion of indigenous and Spanish culinary traditions. It comprises a variety of ingredients, including spices, chili peppers, and chocolate, creating a rich and complex flavor profile. Each region in Mexico has its unique twist on mole sauce, making it a beloved dish across the country and beyond.

Absolutely! You can prepare mole sauce a week in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container until you’re ready to use it. This not only saves time when you’re ready to cook but also allows the flavors to meld and deepen, enhancing the overall taste of your Classic Chicken Mole.

Classic Chicken Mole pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. You can serve it with cilantro lime rice, warm tortillas, or even a fresh salad to balance the richness of the mole. Black beans are also an excellent accompaniment, adding another layer of flavor and texture to your meal.

Yes, you can use different cuts of chicken for Classic Chicken Mole. While thighs and legs are preferred for their flavor and juiciness, you can use breasts or even a whole chicken. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the chicken is cooked through and remains tender.

Conclusion

Classic Chicken Mole is a dish that beautifully marries tradition with flavor, bringing warmth and comfort to any table. Its rich heritage, combined with its delightful complexity, makes it a favorite in countless homes. I encourage you to try this recipe, as it’s not only a meal but also a wonderful experience to share with family and friends.

Every bite of Classic Chicken Mole is a reminder of the love and care that goes into cooking. So, gather your loved ones and enjoy this fantastic dish tonight!