Chicken Mole Recipe Using Doña Maria Sauce

Have you ever considered that your next culinary adventure could involve the rich, deep flavors of Mexican cuisine, specifically the enchanting dish known as Chicken Mole? Utilizing the convenience of Doña Maria mole sauce, this recipe simplifies the traditional cooking process while keeping the authentic taste alive. Here's how you can transform your kitchen into a hub of cultural fusion and taste delight.

Ingredients You'll Need:

• 6 chicken pieces (breasts, thighs, or drumsticks)
• 1 Jar of Doña Maria Mole Sauce
• 2 cups chicken broth or water
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
• Salt to taste
• Sesame seeds, for garnish
• Cilantro, for garnish (optional)

Step by Step Guide:

Preparation of Chicken:

1. Begin by seasoning the chicken pieces with salt.

   🌟 Note: Using skin-on chicken can impart additional richness to the dish.

2. In a large pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the seasoned chicken and sear until golden brown on all sides. This should take approximately 6-8 minutes.

Preparing the Mole Sauce:

1. While the chicken is searing, in another pan, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until they turn translucent and fragrant.
2. Add the entire jar of Doña Maria mole sauce to the pan.
3. Gradually pour in the chicken broth or water, stirring constantly to create a smooth sauce.
4. Simmer the sauce on low heat, allowing it to thicken.

   ⚠️ Note: If the sauce seems too thick, add more broth or water until the desired consistency is achieved.

Combining Chicken and Mole Sauce:

1. Once the chicken is nicely browned, add it into the mole sauce. Ensure the chicken is well coated with the sauce.
2. Cover the pan and let the chicken cook in the mole sauce for about 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through, tender, and the sauce has darkened in color.

   🎶 Note: For the best flavor, let it simmer on low heat to allow the chicken to absorb the flavors.

3. After cooking, taste the sauce and add salt or sugar if necessary. Mole has a complex flavor profile, and balancing it can enhance the taste.

Garnishing and Serving:

1. Transfer the mole chicken to a serving platter or individual plates.
2. Sprinkle sesame seeds over the top for a nutty crunch and to add visual appeal.
3. If desired, garnish with fresh cilantro leaves for a burst of color and freshness.

Accompaniments and Sides:

Enhance your mole experience with traditional Mexican sides:

• Arroz Blanco (White Rice): Serve alongside to soak up the rich mole sauce.
• Frijoles Refritos (Refried Beans): A comforting accompaniment that complements the mole’s depth.
• Corn Tortillas: Essential for authenticity, they can also be used to create tacos de mole.
• Chiles Rellenos: For a more complex meal, stuffed peppers can provide an excellent contrast in texture and flavor.

To wrap up, Chicken Mole with Doña Maria sauce not only brings the rich heritage of Mexican cuisine to your table but does so in a manner that respects the complexity of traditional recipes while embracing modern convenience. The journey from the initial sear of the chicken to the simmering process that allows flavors to meld, culminates in a dish that is as much a feast for the senses as it is a reflection of cultural pride. With each bite, you taste the layers of tradition, innovation, and personal touch that define this iconic dish.

Can I use a different mole sauce?

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Yes, while Doña Maria is known for its authentic taste, you can use other pre-made mole sauces or even homemade mole if preferred.

How long does mole last in the fridge?

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Mole sauce can last in the fridge for up to 5 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

What if my mole sauce is too thick?

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If your sauce becomes too thick, you can thin it out by adding more chicken broth or water, bit by bit, until you reach the desired consistency.