Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Mexico with this incredibly rich and soul-warming Crockpot Mexican Chicken Mole. Imagine tender, succulent chicken bathed in a complex, velvety sauce that blends ancient Aztec traditions with modern slow-cooking convenience. This isn't just a recipe; it's a flavor adventure that promises to revolutionize your weeknight dinner routine with minimal effort and maximum deliciousness!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken thighs
- 1 cup mole sauce
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Chop the onion and mince the garlic. Set them aside for later use.
- In a large bowl, combine the mole sauce, cumin, salt, pepper, and chicken broth. Mix well until the ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Place the chicken thighs in the bottom of the crockpot. Ensure they are spread out evenly to allow for even cooking.
- Next, add the chopped onion and minced garlic over the chicken thighs. This will infuse the chicken with flavor as it cooks.
- Pour the mole sauce mixture over the chicken and vegetables in the crockpot, ensuring that the chicken is well-coated.
- Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6 hours. This slow cooking process will help tenderize the chicken and meld the flavors together.
- After 6 hours, check the chicken for doneness. It should be tender and easily shredded with a fork. If it needs more time, you can cook it for an additional hour.
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. You can return the shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir it into the sauce for added flavor.
- Serve the Mexican chicken mole warm, garnished with fresh cilantro or avocado if desired. It pairs well with rice, tortillas, or a fresh salad.
Tips
- Choose the right chicken: Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs work best for this recipe as they remain incredibly juicy and flavorful during slow cooking.
- Layer for maximum flavor: Always place your seasonings and aromatics (like onions and garlic) directly on the chicken to help infuse the meat with deep, rich flavors.
- Don't rush the cooking: The 6-hour slow cook is crucial for breaking down the chicken and melding the complex mole sauce flavors. Patience is key!
- Check liquid levels: If the sauce seems too thick during cooking, add a little extra chicken broth to maintain moisture.
- Make ahead and meal prep: This dish tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to prepare it in advance for quick, delicious meals throughout the week.
- Customize your garnishes: Fresh cilantro, sliced avocado, or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds can elevate the dish's presentation and add extra layers of flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 180mg
