Some dishes are more than just meals—they’re a celebration of tradition, flavor, and the joy of bringing people together around the table. Easy Chicken with Mock Mole Sauce is one such dish. This recipe is a simplified yet deeply flavorful take on the classic Mexican mole, combining tender chicken with a rich, complex sauce made from pantry staples. Imagine succulent chicken smothered in a velvety sauce that blends the warmth of spices, the sweetness of chocolate, and the tang of tomatoes. It’s a dish that feels like a warm embrace, whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner, a festive gathering, or just a cozy night in.

The first time I made this dish, it was for a family dinner. I wanted something that would introduce my loved ones to the flavors of Mexican cuisine without the complexity of a traditional mole. As the chicken simmered in the mock mole sauce, the aroma of spices, chocolate, and tomatoes filled the kitchen, and my family couldn’t stop asking, “What’s cooking? It smells amazing!” When I finally served the dish, everyone gathered around the table, eager to dig in. “This is incredible!” my brother exclaimed, reaching for another piece of chicken. Since then, Easy Chicken with Mock Mole Sauce has become a cherished recipe in my household.

The first time I served this dish to friends, it was at a casual dinner party. One of my friends, who’s known for her love of bold flavors, had brought her famous spicy chili, and I was a little nervous to present my mock mole. But as soon as I placed the platter on the table, the tender chicken and rich sauce started drawing everyone in. “What’s in this sauce?” a friend asked, eyeing the dish curiously. “A little bit of magic and a lot of flavor,” I replied, smiling. When everyone took their first bite, the room went quiet. Then came the murmurs of approval. “This is amazing!” someone said, reaching for another serving. Even my spice-loving friend nodded in approval. “You’ve got to give me this recipe,” she said with a smile. That day, Easy Chicken with Mock Mole Sauce became a dinner party favorite, and it’s been a staple at every gathering since.

Why This Easy Chicken with Mock Mole Sauce?

Selling Points:

• Comforting and Flavorful: The combination of tender chicken and rich, complex sauce makes this dish a comfort food classic.
• Simple Ingredients: With easy-to-find ingredients, this recipe is perfect for home cooks of all levels.
• Versatile: Perfect for weeknight dinners, festive gatherings, or any occasion that calls for a special meal.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level or add your favorite ingredients to make it your own.

What You Need for Easy Chicken with Mock Mole Sauce

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 tbsp peanut butter (or almond butter for a nut-free option)
• 1 tbsp chili powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
• Cooked rice or warm tortillas, for serving

How to Make Easy Chicken with Mock Mole Sauce

1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts or thighs with salt and pepper on both sides.
2. Brown the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the chicken and set aside.
3. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Make the Sauce: Stir in the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, cocoa powder, peanut butter, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring to combine.
5. Cook the Chicken: Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce. Cover and simmer on low heat for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
6. Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired, and serve with cooked rice or warm tortillas.

Tips for the Perfect Mock Mole Sauce

• Use Quality Cocoa Powder: Unsweetened cocoa powder is key to achieving the deep, rich flavor of mole.
• Adjust Spice Level: Add more or less cayenne pepper to suit your taste.
• Simmer Gently: Let the sauce simmer slowly to allow the flavors to meld together.
• Shred the Chicken: For a different texture, shred the cooked chicken and mix it into the sauce.

Substitutions and Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Use tofu or portobello mushrooms in place of chicken.
• Nut-Free: Substitute peanut butter with tahini or sunflower seed butter.
• Extra Spice: Add a chopped chipotle pepper in adobo sauce for a smoky kick.
• Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk for a richer sauce.

Make a Healthier Version

• Lean Protein: Use chicken breasts instead of thighs for a lower-fat option.
• Low-Sodium Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt intake.
• Extra Veggies: Add diced zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach to the sauce for added nutrition.

Closing for Easy Chicken with Mock Mole Sauce

This Easy Chicken with Mock Mole Sauce is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of tradition, flavor, and the joy of sharing something special with loved ones. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a festive gathering, this dish is sure to impress. Don’t forget to let us know how your mock mole turns out, and consider checking out some of our other recipes for more culinary inspiration. Happy cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions for Easy Chicken with Mock Mole Sauce

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce a day in advance and reheat gently before serving.

Can I freeze this dish?
Absolutely! Freeze the cooked chicken and sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Can I use a different protein?
Yes, try using pork, beef, or even tofu for a variation.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.

Can I add other flavors?
Yes, try adding garlic, thyme, or oregano to the sauce for extra depth.

How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes, brown the chicken first, then cook on low for 6-8 hours in the slow cooker.

What’s the best way to serve this dish?
Serve with rice, warm tortillas, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I make this vegan?
Yes, use plant-based chicken substitutes and vegetable broth for a meat-free version.

This Easy Chicken with Mock Mole Sauce is a testament to the magic of simple, wholesome ingredients coming together to create something truly special. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is a must-try. So, gather your ingredients, heat up your skillet, and get ready to enjoy a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Happy cooking!

Easy Chicken with Mock Mole Sauce

Recipe by Aisha DevCourse: All Recipes

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes

• 1 cup chicken broth

• 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder

• 2 tbsp peanut butter (or almond butter for a nut-free option)

• 1 tbsp chili powder

• 1 tsp ground cumin

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 1/2 tsp cinnamon

• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)

• Cooked rice or warm tortillas, for serving

Directions

• Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts or thighs with salt and pepper on both sides.
• Brown the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the chicken and set aside.
• Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
• Make the Sauce: Stir in the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, cocoa powder, peanut butter, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring to combine.
• Cook the Chicken: Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce. Cover and simmer on low heat for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
• Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired, and serve with cooked rice or warm tortillas.