Get ready to spice up your taste buds with these 18 mouthwatering spicy chicken mole recipes! Mole, a traditional Mexican sauce, is known for its rich, complex flavor profile and bold spices. When paired with juicy chicken, it’s a match made in heaven. From classic Oaxacan-style moles to creamy peanut butter twists and even vegan options, there’s something for everyone on this list.
In the following pages, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through Mexico’s diverse regions and explore the different types of mole that each has to offer. Whether you’re in the mood for something smoky and spicy or sweet and tangy, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. So grab your apron, get ready to cook up some deliciousness, and let’s dive into the world of spicy chicken moles!
Classic Oaxacan Chicken Mole
Classic Oaxacan Chicken Mole Recipe
Experience the rich flavors of Mexico’s Oaxaca region with this traditional chicken mole recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1/2 cup raisins
– 1/4 cup almonds
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, raisins, almonds, sesame seeds, cinnamon, allspice, cayenne pepper, and salt. Cook for 2 minutes.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in chocolate chips and cook until melted.
5. Add chicken broth and tomato paste. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce thickens.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Mole
This recipe is a twist on traditional Mexican mole, with the convenience of a slow cooker. Rich and flavorful, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup mole sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine chicken, mole sauce, diced tomatoes, onion, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Serve hot with rice, tortillas, or roasted vegetables.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Creamy Peanut Butter Chicken Mole
Elevate your meal game with this rich and creamy peanut butter chicken mole recipe, perfect for a special occasion or cozy night in. This bold and aromatic dish combines the deep flavors of Mexico with the comfort of creamy peanut butter.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 1/4 cup mole paste (available at most Mexican grocery stores)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a blender or food processor, combine peanut butter, mole paste, heavy cream, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush with olive oil.
4. Spoon the peanut butter-mole mixture evenly over the chicken breasts.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chocolate Chipotle Chicken Mole
This recipe combines the smoky heat of chipotle peppers with the richness of chocolate to create a unique and savory chicken mole sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
4. Stir in chipotle peppers, chocolate chips, and flour. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Vegan Mushroom Mole with Plant-Based Chicken
Elevate your mealtime with this rich and flavorful vegan mole sauce paired with plant-based chicken. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 package plant-based chicken (such as Beyond Meat or Gardein)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 cup vegan mole paste (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook plant-based chicken according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, mole paste, and vegetable broth. Stir to combine.
5. Simmer sauce for 10-15 minutes or until thickened slightly.
6. Serve plant-based chicken with the rich and flavorful mushroom mole sauce.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken Mole Verde
This recipe combines the classic Mexican flavors of mole sauce with the convenience of cooking chicken breast in an Instant Pot. The result is a tender, juicy, and intensely flavorful dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mole verde sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chicken breasts, mole verde sauce, chicken broth, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 10 minutes at high pressure.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes total, including natural pressure release
Smoky Chipotle Chicken Mole Poblano
A rich and flavorful Mexican dish that combines the smokiness of chipotles with the comfort of chicken mole.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup Mexican chocolate tablets (Ibarra or similar), grated
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a blender or food processor, combine chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, melted butter, chocolate tablets, flour, cinnamon, cumin, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
3. Place the chicken in a large bowl and pour the mole mixture over it. Toss to coat evenly.
4. Transfer the chicken to a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Serve with: Steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or warm tortillas.
Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Chicken Mole
Elevate your meal with this unique fusion of sweet and spicy flavors, perfectly balanced to tantalize your taste buds. This recipe combines the juicy sweetness of pineapple with a bold and zesty chicken mole.
Ingredients:
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a blender, combine pineapple, honey, soy sauce, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Blend until smooth.
3. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 5 minutes per side or until cooked through.
4. Brush the pineapple-mole mixture evenly onto the cooked chicken.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the glaze is caramelized.
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Coconut Milk Chicken Mole
This recipe combines the bold flavors of traditional Mexican mole with the creamy richness of coconut milk, resulting in a dish that’s both familiar and innovative. Perfect for adventurous eaters looking to spice up their dinner routine.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp grated fresh ginger
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 2 tbsp dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, ginger, cumin, and smoked paprika (if using). Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add chicken and cook until browned on both sides, about 6-8 minutes.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together coconut milk and chocolate chips until smooth.
6. Pour the coconut milk mixture over the chicken and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Almond and Sesame Chicken Mole
Elevate your chicken game with this unique Almond and Sesame Chicken Mole recipe, blending the rich flavors of Mexico with the nutty taste of almonds and sesame seeds.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp almond butter
– 1 tbsp sesame oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup raisins
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– Mole sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together almond butter, sesame oil, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add garlic, raisins, and cilantro (if using), stirring until well combined.
4. Coat chicken breasts with the mixture, spreading evenly to coat.
5. Place coated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle mole sauce over the top of each breast.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Quick Stovetop Chicken Mole
A rich and flavorful Mexican-inspired dish that’s ready in just 20 minutes! This recipe combines tender chicken with a savory mole sauce made from simple ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup tomato paste
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken, onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and flour. Cook until chicken is browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add chicken broth, tomato paste, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes or until the sauce has thickened and the chicken is cooked through.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Grilled Chicken Mole Tacos
Elevate your taco game with the rich flavors of Mexico’s iconic mole sauce, paired with juicy grilled chicken and crispy tortillas. This recipe is a perfect blend of spice, sweetness, and smokiness.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup mole paste (store-bought or homemade)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Lime wedges, for serving
– Optional toppings: diced onions, cilantro, sour cream, queso fresco
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together mole paste, olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos by slicing grilled chicken and placing it on a warmed tortilla. Serve with your desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Dark Chocolate and Coffee Chicken Mole
Experience the bold flavors of Mexico with this unique mole sauce featuring dark chocolate and coffee, perfectly paired with tender chicken. This recipe is a must-try for adventurous foodies!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 tsp instant coffee powder
– 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– 1/4 tsp ground cayenne pepper
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, coffee powder, and flour.
3. Dredge chicken breasts in the mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Heat oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until browned.
5. Transfer skillet to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl.
7. Stir together melted chocolate, cumin, cinnamon, cayenne pepper, and salt.
8. Add chicken broth to the mixture and stir until smooth.
9. Serve chicken breasts with the rich and creamy mole sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Gluten-Free Chicken Mole Enchiladas
Rich and flavorful, these gluten-free enchiladas combine tender chicken with a deep, chocolate-based mole sauce and crispy corn tortillas.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup gluten-free mole sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 8 corn tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, avocado, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in mole sauce and bring to a simmer.
5. Dip each tortilla into the mole mixture, coating both sides evenly.
6. Roll tortillas around chicken filling and place seam-side down in a baking dish.
7. Top with shredded cheese and bake for 20-25 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Mango Chicken Mole
Experience the bold flavors of Mexico with this vibrant Spicy Mango Chicken Mole recipe. A sweet and spicy sauce elevates juicy chicken breasts to new heights, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 2 ancho chilies, stemmed and seeded
– 2 garlic cloves
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a blender, puree mango, ancho chilies, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper until smooth.
3. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken breasts and cook for 5 minutes per side or until cooked through.
4. Brush the mango mole sauce on top of the chicken during the last minute of cooking.
5. Serve with chicken broth drizzled on top, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cinnamon and Clove Chicken Mole
Rich and aromatic, this Cinnamon and Clove Chicken Mole is a flavorful twist on the traditional Mexican dish. Perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
– 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add cinnamon, cumin, and cayenne; cook for an additional minute.
4. Add chicken; cook until browned on all sides, about 6-8 minutes per side.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together chocolate chips and chicken broth.
6. Pour sauce over chicken; reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Crispy Chicken Mole Tostadas
Elevate your taco Tuesday with these crispy chicken mole tostadas, featuring tender and juicy chicken smothered in a rich, chocolate-based mole sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 eggs
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Mole sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Tortillas
– Lime wedges, cilantro, and queso fresco (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip chicken breasts in eggs and then coat in breadcrumb mixture.
4. Fry coated chicken in hot oil until crispy and golden brown (about 5-7 minutes). Drain on paper towels.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in foil and baking for 5 minutes.
6. Assemble tostadas by topping fried chicken with mole sauce, a squeeze of lime juice, and your choice of toppings.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ancho Chili and Cocoa Chicken Mole
Experience the bold flavors of Mexico with this decadent chicken mole recipe, featuring ancho chili peppers and dark cocoa powder. This complex sauce is perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 ancho chili peppers, stemmed and seeded
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 cup dark cocoa powder
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roast ancho chilies in the oven for 10-15 minutes, or until fragrant.
3. Blend roasted chilies, oil, onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and cocoa powder into a smooth paste.
4. Add chicken broth, honey, salt, and pepper; blend until well combined.
5. Place chicken breasts in a baking dish and brush with mole sauce.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meal routine with these 18 authentic spicy chicken mole recipes! From classic Oaxacan flavors to creamy and smoky twists, there’s something for everyone. Try making it easy with slow cooker or Instant Pot recipes, or get adventurous with vegan mushroom and plant-based options. Whether you’re in the mood for sweet and spicy pineapple or dark chocolate and coffee, these recipes will take your taste buds on a journey. So why settle for boring when you can have bold? Dive into these mouth-watering mole recipes today!