Spicy Chicken Mole Recipe: How To Make It Taste Like Heaven

Are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more? If so, then prepare yourself to master the art of spicy chicken mole, a traditional Mexican dish that is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen repertoire.

What is Mole?

Mole is a complex and flavorful sauce that is typically made with a blend of chiles, spices, nuts, and chocolate. It is a staple in Mexican cuisine and is often used to prepare various dishes, including chicken, pork, and beef.

The Perfect Balance of Spice

In this recipe, we will create a spicy chicken mole that combines the perfect balance of heat and flavor. The chiles provide a kick, while the spices and chocolate add a rich and complex depth that will leave you wanting more.

Ingredients for Spicy Chicken Mole:

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 ancho chiles, seeded and deveined
• 2 guajillo chiles, seeded and deveined
• 2 pasilla chiles, seeded and deveined
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped almonds
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
• 1/4 cup raisins
• 1/4 cup sesame seeds
• 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the chicken breasts on all sides. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the oil and sauté the onion and garlic until softened.

3. Roast the Chiles

Place the ancho, guajillo, and pasilla chiles on a baking sheet and roast in a preheated oven at 350°F for 15 minutes. Remove the chiles from the oven and allow them to cool.

4. Rehydrate the Chiles

Place the roasted chiles in a bowl and cover them with the chicken broth. Allow the chiles to rehydrate for 30 minutes.

5. Puree the Chiles

Transfer the rehydrated chiles and the soaking liquid to a blender and puree until smooth.

6. Create the Mole Sauce

In a large saucepan, combine the chile puree, cocoa powder, cinnamon, cumin, cloves, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15 minutes.

7. Add the Nuts, Seeds, and Raisins

Stir in the almonds, walnuts, raisins, sesame seeds, and pumpkin seeds. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.

8. Return the Chicken

Add the cooked chicken breasts back to the mole sauce and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through.

9. Serve and Savor

Serve the spicy chicken mole over rice or your favorite tortillas. Garnish with fresh cilantro and enjoy the symphony of flavors!

Tips for the Perfect Mole:

• Use a variety of chiles to create a complex flavor profile.
• Don’t be afraid to adjust the spice level to your preference.
• Allow the mole to simmer for a longer period of time to develop a deeper flavor.
• Serve the mole with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, avocado, or shredded cheese.

The Health Benefits of Spicy Chicken Mole:

In addition to being delicious, spicy chicken mole also offers some health benefits:

• Rich in antioxidants: Chiles are packed with antioxidants that can help protect your cells from damage.
• Boosts metabolism: Capsaicin, the compound that gives chiles their heat, can help boost your metabolism.
• May reduce inflammation: Some studies suggest that capsaicin may have anti-inflammatory properties.

Spice Up Your Life with Spicy Chicken Mole

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe for spicy chicken mole is sure to become a favorite. The combination of heat, flavor, and health benefits makes this dish a must-try for anyone who loves Mexican cuisine. So, gather your ingredients, follow the step-by-step guide, and prepare yourself for a culinary adventure that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy!

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: What type of chiles should I use to make spicy chicken mole?
A: For a spicy mole, choose chiles with a higher heat level, such as ancho, guajillo, or pasilla chiles.

Q: Can I make the mole ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the mole up to 3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat the mole over low heat before serving.

Q: What can I serve with spicy chicken mole?
A: Spicy chicken mole pairs well with rice, tortillas, beans, and your favorite Mexican toppings.