Mole Poblano Chicken Plate

Name: Mole Poblano Chicken Plate
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 dried ancho chilies; 2 dried guajillo chilies; 1 tablespoon sesame seeds; 1/4 cup almonds; 1/4 cup raisins; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon cloves; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 tablespoon tomato paste; Salt to taste; 4 chicken thighs, skinless; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Cooked rice; Chopped fresh cilantro; Lime wedges

Highlighted under: Exotic Recipes Made Easy

Mole Poblano Chicken Plate is a delightful fusion of rich flavors and vibrant colors, perfect for any festive occasion.

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2025-12-18T19:25:48.614Z

The Mole Poblano Chicken Plate is a beloved dish from Mexican cuisine that showcases the complexity and depth of flavors found in traditional mole sauce. This dish is not only a feast for the senses but also a tribute to the rich culinary heritage of Mexico.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors.
A beautiful presentation that impresses at any gathering.
A comforting dish that warms the soul.

      

A Flavorful Tradition

Mole Poblano is not just a dish; it's a celebration of Mexican culinary heritage. Originating from the Puebla region, this sauce combines various ingredients, including dried chilies, nuts, and spices, to create a complex and deeply flavorful experience. The mix of sweet and savory components in the mole elevates the chicken, making it a beloved choice for family gatherings and festive occasions.

This dish showcases the art of balancing flavors, where each ingredient plays a vital role. The dried ancho and guajillo chilies provide depth with their smoky and slightly sweet profiles, while the almonds and sesame seeds add nuttiness and texture. The inclusion of raisins introduces a hint of sweetness that complements the spices, making it a standout dish that warms the heart and pleases the palate.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or celebrating a special holiday, the Mole Poblano Chicken Plate is versatile enough to suit any occasion. Its stunning presentation, with vibrant colors and rich textures, makes it a feast for the eyes as well as the stomach. Guests will be impressed not just by the look of the dish but by the depth of flavor that comes with every bite.

Pair this dish with a light side of rice and fresh cilantro for a refreshing contrast. Lime wedges add the perfect zing, enhancing the overall flavor profile. This beautiful assembly not only showcases your culinary skills but also creates a memorable dining experience that your friends and family will rave about long after the meal is over.

Cooking Tips for Success

Ingredients

For the Mole Sauce

2 dried ancho chilies
2 dried guajillo chilies
1 tablespoon sesame seeds
1/4 cup almonds
1/4 cup raisins
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon cloves
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 cups chicken broth
1 tablespoon tomato paste
Salt to taste

For the Chicken

4 chicken thighs, skinless
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving

Cooked rice
Chopped fresh cilantro
Lime wedges

Make sure to have everything prepped before you start cooking!

Instructions

Prepare the Mole Sauce

Remove stems and seeds from the dried chilies and soak them in hot water for 15 minutes. Drain and place in a blender with the sesame seeds, almonds, raisins, cinnamon, and cloves. Blend until smooth, adding chicken broth as needed.

Cook the Chicken

Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sear the chicken on both sides until browned. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Combine and Simmer

In the same skillet, add the mole sauce and tomato paste. Return the chicken to the pan, cover, and let simmer for 30 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and cooked through.

Serve

Serve the chicken on a plate with mole sauce over the top, accompanied by rice and garnished with cilantro and lime wedges.

Enjoy your delicious Mole Poblano Chicken Plate!

Serving Suggestions

When serving Mole Poblano Chicken, consider garnishing with a sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro and a few lime wedges. The cilantro adds a fresh herbaceous note, while the lime provides a zesty kick that brightens the dish. Together, these elements not only enhance the visual appeal but also elevate the flavor profile, making each bite a delightful surprise.

You might also want to serve this dish with warm tortillas or a side of black beans to round out the meal. The tortillas can be used to scoop up the chicken and mole, creating a fun and interactive dining experience. This versatility allows everyone to enjoy the dish in their own unique way.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, storing them is easy! Place the chicken and mole sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be stored for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld together, making the dish even more delicious upon reheating. Just be sure to reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.

For longer storage, you can freeze the mole sauce separately from the chicken. This allows you to enjoy a taste of Mole Poblano any time you crave it. Just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, and you’ll have a quick, comforting meal ready in no time!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the mole sauce in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the mole sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Is this dish spicy?

The mole sauce has a mild to medium spice level, but you can adjust the heat by adding more chilies.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

It's traditionally served with rice, but you can also pair it with tortillas or a fresh salad.

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

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