Mole Poblano Chicken is a classic Mexican dish known for its complex, rich, and smoky flavor profile. Traditionally served during Mexican Independence Day celebrations and special occasions, mole poblano sauce combines a variety of ingredients including chili peppers, chocolate, spices, and nuts to create a deeply layered sauce that is both spicy and subtly sweet.

FULL RECIPE

Ingredients

1.For the Mole Poblano Sauce:

• 4 dried ancho chiles, stemmed and seeded
• 4 dried pasilla chiles, stemmed and seeded
• 2 dried mulato chiles, stemmed and seeded
• 2 dried chipotle chiles, stemmed and seeded
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup almonds, toasted
• 1/4 cup sesame seeds, toasted (plus extra for garnish)
• 1 corn tortilla, torn into pieces
• 2 tablespoons raisins
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon anise seeds (optional)
• 1 ounce Mexican chocolate or bittersweet chocolate, chopped
• 2 cups chicken broth
• Salt to taste

2.For the Chicken:

• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken drumsticks
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

3.For Serving:

• Cooked white rice or warm corn tortillas

Directions

1. Toast the dried chiles in a dry skillet over medium heat for 1-2 minutes on each side until fragrant but not burnt. Transfer them to a bowl and cover with hot water; soak for 20 minutes until softened. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the soaked chiles, almonds, sesame seeds, tortilla pieces, raisins, cinnamon, cloves, and anise seeds to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently.
4. Transfer the mixture to a blender, add the chicken broth, and blend until smooth. Pour the sauce back into the skillet and simmer over low heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Stir in the chopped chocolate and salt to taste; continue to simmer until the chocolate melts and the sauce thickens slightly. Adjust seasoning if needed.
6. Meanwhile, season the chicken thighs and drumsticks with salt and pepper. Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken on all sides until golden, about 5-7 minutes.
7. Reduce heat to low, pour the mole sauce over the chicken, cover, and simmer for 30-40 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
8. Serve the mole poblano chicken over cooked white rice or with warm corn tortillas. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds if desired.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 460
• Total Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Cholesterol: 145mg
• Sodium: 480mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 18g
• Dietary Fiber: 5g
• Sugars: 6g
• Protein: 38g

Historical Significance of Mole Poblano

Mole Poblano is often regarded as the national dish of Mexico, with roots tracing back to Puebla in the colonial era. It is said to have been created by nuns in a convent who combined indigenous ingredients with Spanish influences, resulting in the rich, complex sauce celebrated today. Traditionally prepared for special occasions like Mexican Independence Day and weddings, mole poblano embodies the cultural fusion and culinary ingenuity that defines Mexican cuisine. Its preparation is labor-intensive, which adds to its reverence and status as a dish made for celebration.

Complex Flavor Profile

The hallmark of mole poblano is its intricate flavor profile, balancing smoky, spicy, sweet, and earthy notes. The dried chiles provide varying heat levels and smoky undertones, while the addition of Mexican chocolate adds a subtle sweetness and richness without overpowering the dish. Aromatic spices like cinnamon, cloves, and anise deepen the flavor, and ingredients such as almonds and sesame seeds contribute nuttiness and texture. This layered complexity makes mole poblano unlike any other sauce, with every bite offering a unique and memorable taste experience.

Nutritional Aspects and Health Benefits

While mole poblano is a rich sauce, it also contains many nutrient-dense ingredients. Chili peppers are high in vitamins A and C, antioxidants, and capsaicin, which can help boost metabolism and support immune health. Nuts and seeds add healthy fats and protein, contributing to satiety and heart health. The chicken provides lean protein, making the dish balanced despite its indulgent sauce. However, due to the use of chocolate and oil, mole poblano is calorie-dense and best enjoyed as part of a balanced diet and special occasion rather than everyday meals.

Variations Across Mexico

Though Puebla is the birthplace of mole poblano, different regions in Mexico have their own versions of mole, each with unique twists on the classic recipe. Some versions include additional types of chiles, fruit such as plantains or prunes, or even different nuts and seeds. The quantity of chocolate and spices can vary, producing milder or spicier interpretations. Certain families have secret mole recipes passed down through generations, reflecting regional preferences and personal touches. Exploring these variations offers a fascinating insight into the diversity of Mexican culinary traditions.

Pairing Suggestions

Mole poblano chicken pairs exceptionally well with simple sides that allow the sauce to shine. White rice is the most common accompaniment, providing a neutral base that soaks up the sauce’s richness. Warm corn tortillas offer a traditional way to scoop up the chicken and mole. For added texture and freshness, a simple side salad with crisp greens and citrus vinaigrette can balance the dish’s richness. Refried beans or black beans can also be served alongside for extra protein and fiber, completing a hearty, satisfying meal.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Serving mole poblano chicken beautifully can elevate the dining experience. Garnishing with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds visual appeal and a nutty crunch. Plating with a small mound of fluffy white rice or alongside warm tortillas gives a traditional touch. Consider adding a wedge of lime or fresh cilantro for a burst of color and brightness. When hosting, serve mole in a large, shallow bowl or clay dish to showcase the rich sauce and tender chicken pieces, inviting guests to savor every bite.

Storage and Reheating Advice

Mole poblano chicken stores well and often tastes even better the next day as flavors meld further. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm the chicken and sauce over low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and maintain moisture. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can dry out the chicken. For longer storage, mole sauce without chicken can be frozen for up to three months; thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Proper storage preserves the sauce’s complex flavors and texture.

Ingredient Substitutions and Adaptations

While authentic mole poblano uses specific chiles and Mexican chocolate, adaptations can be made depending on availability. For chiles, dried ancho, pasilla, mulato, and chipotle are preferred, but a combination of available mild to medium dried chiles can work. If Mexican chocolate is not accessible, bittersweet or semi-sweet chocolate with a touch of cinnamon can substitute, but avoid sweetened milk chocolate. Almonds can be replaced with other nuts like peanuts or cashews, and sesame seeds can be omitted if needed, though these changes will alter the final flavor.

Cooking Techniques for Success

Mastering mole poblano requires patience and attention to detail. Toasting the dried chiles just right is crucial—they should be fragrant but not burnt to avoid bitterness. Blending the sauce smoothly ensures a velvety texture, and simmering it allows the flavors to meld and deepen. Browning the chicken before simmering in the sauce adds caramelized flavor and helps seal in juices. Balancing the seasoning by tasting throughout cooking is key, adjusting salt, sweetness, or heat as needed. These techniques ensure an authentic, restaurant-quality mole poblano.

Conclusion

Mole Poblano Chicken is a culinary masterpiece that represents the richness of Mexican gastronomy, blending indigenous and Spanish influences into a sauce of unmatched complexity and depth. Its preparation is a celebration of tradition, culture, and flavor, creating a dish that’s both indulgent and meaningful. While it requires effort and care, the result is a vibrant, smoky, and luscious meal that delights all the senses.