Mole Poblano Chicken Plate

Name: Mole Poblano Chicken Plate
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 3 dried ancho chilies; 2 dried guajillo chilies; 1/2 cup almonds; 1/4 cup sesame seeds; 1/4 cup dark chocolate, chopped; 1 onion, chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: World Cuisine Recipes

Mole Poblano Chicken Plate is a rich and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with a complex mole sauce, delivering an authentic taste of Mexican cuisine.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-18T16:19:49.571Z

This Mole Poblano Chicken Plate is not just a meal; it's a celebration of flavors and traditions. The rich, dark mole sauce is made from a blend of spices, chocolate, and chilies, giving it a unique taste that pairs beautifully with succulent chicken. Enjoy it with rice or tortillas for a complete dining experience.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        A deep, rich flavor that showcases authentic Mexican ingredients
Perfectly balanced spice level that can be adjusted to your taste
A dish that brings family and friends together for special occasions

      

The Essence of Mole Poblano

Mole Poblano is often considered the crown jewel of Mexican cuisine, celebrated for its intricate flavors and rich history. This sauce, which dates back to the colonial era, expertly melds various ingredients to create a symphony of taste that is both deep and complex. It symbolizes the culinary heritage of Mexico, making it a must-try for anyone seeking an authentic dining experience.

The unique combination of sweet, savory, and spicy elements in Mole Poblano sets it apart from other sauces. Each ingredient, from the toasted chilies to the dark chocolate, contributes to the overall flavor profile, creating a mouthwatering experience with every bite. This complexity is what makes Mole Poblano a beloved dish, cherished by generations.

A Dish for Every Occasion

Mole Poblano Chicken Plate is not just a meal; it's an experience that brings people together. Perfect for family gatherings, festive celebrations, or casual weeknight dinners, this dish offers a warmth that resonates with everyone at the table. The vibrant colors and aromas are sure to impress your guests, making it a standout choice for any occasion.

Moreover, the versatility of this dish allows you to customize the spice level according to your preferences. Whether you like it mild or with a kick, you can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste. This adaptability ensures that everyone at your table can enjoy the richness of Mole Poblano, fostering a sense of community and shared enjoyment.

Cooking Tips for Success

To achieve the perfect Mole Poblano, it's essential to focus on the quality of your ingredients. Fresh, high-quality chilies and spices will make a noticeable difference in the flavor of your sauce. Additionally, toasting the chilies and nuts before blending enhances their flavors, adding depth to the mole. Take your time with each step to ensure a beautifully balanced sauce.

Lastly, don't rush the simmering process. Allowing the chicken to soak in the mole sauce will help the flavors meld together perfectly, resulting in a more flavorful dish. Patience is key when creating this classic Mexican dish, so savor the process and enjoy the delicious results.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Mole Sauce

3 dried ancho chilies
2 dried guajillo chilies
1/2 cup almonds
1/4 cup sesame seeds
1/4 cup dark chocolate, chopped
1 onion, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt to taste

Prepare all ingredients before starting the cooking process for a smoother experience.

Cooking Steps

Prepare the Mole Sauce

Start by removing the stems and seeds from the dried chilies. In a skillet over medium heat, toast the chilies for about 2 minutes until fragrant. Set aside.

Blend the Sauce

In a blender, combine the toasted chilies, almonds, sesame seeds, dark chocolate, onion, garlic, chicken broth, cinnamon, and cumin. Blend until smooth.

Cook the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.

Remove from the skillet.

Combine Chicken and Mole

In the same skillet, pour in the mole sauce and bring to a simmer. Add the chicken back into the skillet and coat it with the sauce. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Serve

Serve the Mole Poblano Chicken hot, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped cilantro, alongside rice or tortillas.

Enjoy your delicious Mole Poblano Chicken Plate!

Serving Suggestions

Mole Poblano Chicken is traditionally served with rice or warm tortillas, providing a delicious base to soak up the rich sauce. Consider pairing it with a simple side salad or some sautéed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. The freshness of the vegetables can help balance the richness of the mole, creating a delightful contrast on your plate.

For a complete dining experience, consider serving this dish with a light and refreshing beverage. A chilled agua fresca or a crisp Mexican beer can complement the flavors of the mole beautifully, enhancing your meal's overall enjoyment.

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers of your Mole Poblano Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors will continue to develop over time, making it even more delicious upon reheating. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if necessary to maintain moisture.

If you want to enjoy this dish later, you can also freeze the mole sauce separately from the chicken. This allows you to use the sauce in other recipes or pair it with different proteins, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire.

Variations to Try

While Mole Poblano is a classic, feel free to experiment with different ingredients to create your own unique version. For instance, you can substitute chicken with turkey or even vegetables for a vegetarian option. The rich mole sauce pairs well with various proteins, allowing for creativity in the kitchen.

Another interesting variation is to incorporate additional spices or herbs to enhance the flavor profile. Consider adding a hint of chipotle for a smoky kick or fresh herbs like cilantro for an aromatic touch. These small tweaks can elevate your Mole Poblano Chicken Plate and make it truly your own.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a store-bought mole sauce?

Yes, you can use store-bought mole sauce to save time, but homemade offers a richer flavor.

→ How do I store leftover mole sauce?

Store leftover mole sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week or freeze it for longer storage.

→ Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?

Absolutely! This mole sauce pairs well with pork or even roasted vegetables for a vegetarian option.

→ What sides go well with Mole Poblano Chicken?

Traditional sides include rice, tortillas, or a fresh salad to balance the rich flavors of the mole.