Dive into the rich and complex flavors of a traditional Mexican dish with this easy slow cooker chicken mole. Combining sweet, spicy, and savory elements, this recipe simplifies the process using a slow cooker, making it perfect for busy days when you still want a delicious and hearty meal.
Photos of Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Mole Recipe
When gathering ingredients for this recipe, you might need to hunt for some items that aren’t typically found in a standard pantry. These include golden raisins, currants, ancho chile powder, and slivered almonds. Most supermarkets will carry these in the international or baking aisle.
Ingredients For Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Mole Recipe
Onion: Adds a base of rich, savory flavor to the sauce.
Golden raisins: Provides a subtle sweetness and depth to the dish.
Currants: Adds a touch of tartness and complexity.
Garlic: Enhances the overall flavor with a pungent, aromatic note.
Ancho chile powder: Brings a mild, smoky heat to the mole.
Sesame seeds: Adds a nutty flavor and slight crunch.
Ground cumin: Provides warm, earthy undertones.
Ground cinnamon: Adds a sweet and spicy warmth.
Cocoa powder: Gives a deep, rich chocolate flavor that’s essential to mole.
Hot pepper sauce: Adds a kick of heat to the dish.
Tomatoes: Contributes a fresh, tangy base for the sauce.
Tomato sauce: Enhances the sauce with a concentrated tomato flavor.
Chicken broth: Adds a savory depth and helps to thin the sauce.
Boneless chicken breast halves: Becomes tender and absorbs the mole’s flavors during cooking.
Slivered almonds: Adds a final touch of nutty crunch as a garnish.
One reader, Candis Gracia says:
This easy slow cooker chicken mole recipe is fantastic! The flavors are rich and complex, and the chicken turns out incredibly tender. It's a perfect dish for a cozy dinner, and the slivered almonds add a delightful crunch. Highly recommend!
Key Techniques for Crafting the Perfect Slow Cooker Chicken Mole
How to chop onions: Finely chop the onion to ensure it blends well into the sauce. How to mince garlic: Mince the garlic cloves to release their flavor evenly throughout the dish. How to shred chicken: Once the chicken is tender, use two forks to pull the meat apart into shreds before stirring it back into the mole.
How To Make Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Mole
For this slow cooker chicken mole dish, the chicken develops into a tender and juicy meat flavored with a mole sauce that combines sweet and savory taste.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1cuponion,chopped
- ⅓cupgolden raisins
- ⅓cupcurrants
- 2clovesgarlic,minced
- 1½tspancho chile powder
- 2tbspsesame seeds,toasted
- ¾tspground cumin
- ¾tspground cinnamon
- 5tspcocoa powder
- ¼tsphot pepper sauce,or to taste
- 14.5oztomatoes,diced
- 1cuptomato sauce
- 1cupchicken broth
- 3lbsboneless chicken breast halves,skinless
- ¼cupslivered almonds,for garnish
Instructions
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Place the onion, raisins, currants, garlic, chile powder, sesame seeds, cumin, cinnamon, cocoa powder, hot sauce, tomatoes, tomato sauce, and chicken broth into a slow cooker; stir to mix.
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Add the chicken breasts, and stir to cover with sauce.
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Cover and cook on Low 6 hours, then increase heat to High, and continue cooking until the chicken is tender, about 3 hours more.
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Once the chicken is tender, remove, shred, and stir it back into the mole. Serve sprinkled with slivered almonds.
Nutrition
- Calories: 402.08kcal
- Fat: 19.43g
- Saturated Fat: 5.06g
- Trans Fat: 0.18g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 8.29g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.46g
- Carbohydrates: 18.49g
- Fiber: 3.51g
- Sugar: 11.61g
- Protein: 39.20g
- Cholesterol: 109.76mg
- Sodium: 319.19mg
- Calcium: 81.76mg
- Potassium: 816.24mg
- Iron: 2.96mg
- Vitamin A: 77.36µg
- Vitamin C: 11.57mg
One Simple Technique to Elevate Your Slow Cooker Chicken Mole
For a richer flavor, toast the sesame seeds and slivered almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat until they are golden brown and fragrant before adding them to the slow cooker. This will enhance the nutty notes in your mole sauce.
Time-Saving Tips for Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Mole
Prep ingredients ahead: Chop the onion, mince the garlic, and measure out the spices the night before to save time in the morning.
Use pre-cooked chicken: If you're in a rush, use pre-cooked chicken breasts and reduce the cooking time by half.
Blend the sauce: Use a blender to quickly mix the tomatoes, tomato sauce, and chicken broth with the spices for a smoother mole.
Instant pot option: Use an Instant Pot instead of a slow cooker to cut the cooking time significantly.
Double the recipe: Make a larger batch and freeze half for a quick meal later.
Substitute Ingredients For Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Mole Recipe
onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder and sweeter flavor compared to onions, making them a good substitute in mole sauce.
golden raisins - Substitute with dried apricots: Dried apricots provide a similar sweetness and texture to golden raisins.
currants - Substitute with dried cranberries: Dried cranberries offer a similar tartness and chewiness as currants.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used if fresh garlic is unavailable, though it may slightly alter the texture.
ancho chile powder - Substitute with chipotle chile powder: Chipotle chile powder provides a smoky flavor similar to ancho chile powder.
sesame seeds - Substitute with sunflower seeds: Sunflower seeds can mimic the nutty flavor of sesame seeds.
ground cumin - Substitute with ground coriander: Ground coriander has a similar earthy flavor profile to cumin.
ground cinnamon - Substitute with ground allspice: Ground allspice offers a similar warm and sweet flavor as cinnamon.
cocoa powder - Substitute with unsweetened chocolate: Unsweetened chocolate can provide the same depth of flavor as cocoa powder.
hot pepper sauce - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper can add the necessary heat in place of hot pepper sauce.
tomatoes - Substitute with canned diced tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes can be used if fresh tomatoes are not available.
tomato sauce - Substitute with crushed tomatoes: Crushed tomatoes can provide a similar consistency and flavor to tomato sauce.
chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for chicken broth for a different flavor profile.
boneless chicken breast halves - Substitute with boneless chicken thighs: Chicken thighs are juicier and can add more flavor to the dish.
slivered almonds - Substitute with chopped cashews: Chopped cashews can provide a similar crunch and nutty flavor as slivered almonds.
How to Beautifully Present Slow Cooker Chicken Mole
Serve smaller portion sizes: Present the chicken mole in elegant, small portions to highlight the rich flavors. Use a ring mold to shape the shredded chicken into a neat, compact mound.
Use decoration: Garnish the dish with a sprinkle of slivered almonds and a few whole sesame seeds for added texture and visual appeal.
Add color contrast: Place a small dollop of tomato sauce on the side of the plate to add a vibrant red contrast to the dark mole sauce.
Incorporate fresh herbs: Top the dish with a few fresh cilantro leaves to add a pop of green and a fresh aroma.
Use a stylish plate: Serve the chicken mole on a sleek, white plate to make the colors of the dish stand out and give it a modern, sophisticated look.
Create height: Stack the shredded chicken slightly to create height on the plate, making the dish look more dynamic and appealing.
Drizzle sauce artistically: Use a squeeze bottle to drizzle the remaining mole sauce around the plate in an artistic pattern, enhancing the visual presentation.
Add a side element: Include a small side of Mexican rice or black beans to complement the flavors of the chicken mole and add variety to the plate.
Finish with a touch of luxury: Add a few edible gold flakes or a light dusting of cocoa powder on top of the dish for an extra touch of elegance and sophistication.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Chicken Mole in a Slow Cooker
Slow cooker: A countertop electrical cooking appliance used for simmering at a lower temperature than other cooking methods, perfect for making the chicken mole tender and flavorful.
Cutting board: A durable board on which to place the ingredients for cutting, ensuring a clean and safe surface for chopping the onion and garlic.
Chef's knife: A versatile knife used for chopping, slicing, and dicing the onion and garlic efficiently.
Measuring cups: Tools used to measure the volume of liquid or bulk solid cooking ingredients like the chicken broth, tomato sauce, and cocoa powder accurately.
Measuring spoons: Tools used to measure small quantities of ingredients such as ancho chile powder, cumin, cinnamon, and hot pepper sauce.
Mixing spoon: A large spoon used for stirring the ingredients together in the slow cooker to ensure they are well mixed.
Tongs: A tool used to handle the chicken breasts, making it easier to place them into the slow cooker and remove them for shredding.
Shredding forks: Forks used to shred the cooked chicken breasts into smaller pieces before mixing them back into the mole sauce.
Serving spoon: A large spoon used to serve the finished chicken mole, ensuring each portion is well mixed with the sauce and garnished with slivered almonds.
Proper Storage and Freezing Guidelines for Slow Cooker Chicken Mole
Allow the chicken mole to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and affecting the texture of the dish.
For short-term storage, transfer the cooled chicken mole to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors will continue to meld and develop over time, making leftovers even more delicious.
To freeze the chicken mole for longer storage:
- Divide the cooled mixture into portion-sized freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving some headspace for expansion during freezing.
- Label the containers or bags with the date and contents for easy identification.
- Place the containers or bags in the freezer, laying them flat for even freezing and to save space.
- Chicken mole can be frozen for up to 3 months.
To reheat frozen chicken mole:
- Thaw the desired portion in the refrigerator overnight.
- Transfer the thawed chicken mole to a saucepan or microwave-safe dish.
- Heat gently over medium-low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring between each interval, until heated through.
- If the sauce appears too thick after thawing and reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to achieve the desired consistency.
When reheating, be sure to heat the chicken mole thoroughly to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety.
Garnish the reheated chicken mole with fresh slivered almonds and serve over rice, in tacos, or with warm tortillas for a delicious and satisfying meal.
The Best Methods for Reheating Leftover Chicken Mole
Reheat the chicken mole in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature. This method allows the flavors to meld together even more, creating a richer and more complex taste.
If you're short on time, you can reheat individual portions of the chicken mole in the microwave. Place the desired amount in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until heated through.
For a crispy texture, shred the leftover chicken and spread it on a baking sheet. Place the sheet under the broiler for a few minutes, watching closely, until the edges of the chicken become crispy and golden brown. Serve the crispy chicken over the reheated mole sauce.
Transform your leftover chicken mole into a delicious filling for tacos, burritos, or enchiladas. Simply reheat the chicken and sauce together in a pan, then use it to fill your favorite tortillas. Top with fresh cilantro, diced onions, and a squeeze of lime juice for a tasty and easy meal.
Create a chicken mole pizza by spreading the reheated sauce over a pre-baked pizza crust. Top with shredded leftover chicken, sliced red onions, and crumbled queso fresco. Bake the pizza in a preheated oven until the cheese is melted and the crust is crispy.
Fascinating Facts About Chicken Mole You Might Not Know
A traditional Mexican dish, mole is known for its rich and complex flavor, often combining ingredients like chile powder, cocoa powder, and tomatoes. This slow cooker chicken mole recipe simplifies the process, allowing the chicken to absorb the deep flavors over several hours, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish.
Budget-Friendly Slow Cooker Chicken Mole: Is It Economical?
This easy slow cooker chicken mole recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients like onion, garlic, tomatoes, and chicken breasts are common and affordable. The use of golden raisins and currants adds a unique flavor without breaking the bank. The spices such as ancho chile powder, cumin, and cinnamon are pantry staples. Overall Verdict: 8/10. Approximate cost: $20-$25 for a household of 4 people.
Is This Slow Cooker Chicken Mole Recipe Healthy?
This chicken mole recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, it includes nutritious ingredients like onions, garlic, tomatoes, and chicken breast, which is a lean protein source. The use of spices like ancho chile powder, cumin, and cinnamon adds flavor without excessive calories. However, the recipe also contains some less healthy components, such as golden raisins and currants, which are high in sugar, and cocoa powder, which may contribute to the dish's overall calorie count. Additionally, the recipe does not specify the use of low-sodium chicken broth or tomato sauce, which could result in a higher sodium content.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of golden raisins and currants, or replace them with fresh fruit like diced apples or pears for natural sweetness and added fiber
- Use low-sodium chicken broth and tomato sauce to control the dish's salt content
- Increase the amount of vegetables by adding diced bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots to the slow cooker for extra nutrients and fiber
- Serve the chicken mole with a side of quinoa or brown rice instead of white rice for a more nutrient-dense and fiber-rich accompaniment
- Garnish the dish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice for added flavor and brightness without extra calories
Our Editor's Honest Opinion on This Slow Cooker Chicken Mole Recipe
This slow cooker chicken mole recipe is a delightful fusion of rich, complex flavors and ease of preparation. The combination of ancho chile powder, cocoa, and cinnamon creates a deep, aromatic sauce, while the raisins and currants add a subtle sweetness. Cooking the chicken slowly ensures it becomes tender and absorbs the mole's essence. The slivered almonds provide a pleasant crunch, enhancing the dish's texture. This recipe is perfect for those seeking a comforting, flavorful meal with minimal effort.
Enhance Your Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Mole Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Delicious Alternatives to Slow Cooker Chicken Mole
Appetizer and Dessert Ideas to Complement Chicken Mole
Why trust this Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Mole Recipe:
This easy slow cooker chicken mole recipe combines the rich flavors of ancho chile powder, cocoa powder, and cinnamon for an authentic taste. The slow cooking process ensures the chicken becomes tender and absorbs the complex sauce. With simple ingredients like onion, garlic, and tomatoes, this dish is both accessible and delicious. The addition of golden raisins and currants adds a subtle sweetness, while slivered almonds provide a delightful crunch. Trust this recipe for a hassle-free, flavorful meal that brings the essence of traditional mole to your kitchen.
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