Chicken Mole is a rich and flavorful dish with roots in Mexican cuisine, known for its complex flavors created by blending diverse ingredients like chocolate, spices, and chilies. It's a wonderful way to explore the depths of Mexican gastronomy and bring some warmth to your home cooking. This slow cooker version simplifies the traditionally labor-intensive process, making it accessible even for weeknight dinners.
Slow Cooker Chicken Mole pairs beautifully with classic sides such as Mexican rice, warm tortillas, refried beans, and a fresh cucumber or jicama salad to balance the richness. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of queso fresco adds a delightful creaminess, while a side of guacamole can provide a refreshing contrast.
Ingredients
2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 large onion, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons chili powder
2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
2 tablespoons peanut butter
1/4 cup raisins
1 (4 oz) can chopped green chilies
2 cups chicken broth
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Directions
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the chili powder, cocoa powder, cumin, cinnamon, ground cloves, allspice, and salt, cooking for an additional 2 minutes to toast the spices.
- Transfer the onion and spice mixture to the slow cooker. Add the chicken thighs, diced tomatoes, peanut butter, raisins, chopped green chilies, and chicken broth.
- Stir to combine all the ingredients. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, until the chicken is tender and the flavors have melded together beautifully.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken thighs from the slow cooker and use two forks to shred the meat. Return the shredded chicken to the sauce and stir to coat well.
- Serve the Chicken Mole over rice or with warm tortillas, garnished with sesame seeds and fresh cilantro if desired.
Variations & Tips
For a spicier mole, consider adding a chopped chipotle pepper in adobo sauce. If you prefer a smoother sauce, blend the sauce from the slow cooker before returning the shredded chicken. You can also use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs, though thighs tend to stay juicier and more flavorful in the slow cooker.