Name: Chicken with Mock Mole Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided; 3 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into large chunks; 1 whole star anise; 1 large onion, finely chopped; 5 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups chicken stock; 1 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed, from about 4 oranges); ½ cup almond butter; ½ cup dry sherry (or substitute with more chicken stock for a non-alcoholic version); 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 2 tablespoons chili powder; 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 bay leaf; 1 (3.5-ounce) bar dark chocolate, chopped; ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon; 2 teaspoons vinegar (such as apple cider vinegar); Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste; Fresh cilantro, parsley, or chopped nuts, for garnish

This Chicken with Mock Mole Sauce is a rich and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in. Tender chicken is simmered in a complex and savory sauce inspired by traditional mole, with hints of chocolate, spice, and citrus. This recipe is surprisingly easy to make and delivers a unique and satisfying flavor experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Unique and Flavorful: The combination of savory, sweet, spicy, and earthy flavors creates a complex and delicious sauce that’s unlike anything you’ve tasted before.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this dish is surprisingly easy to prepare, even for beginner cooks.
Versatile: Serve it with your favorite sides, such as rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread, for a complete and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious Chicken with Mock Mole Sauce:

Olive oil: For searing the chicken and sautéing the vegetables.
Chicken breasts: Cut into large chunks for even cooking.
Star anise: Adds a warm and slightly sweet spice note.
Onion: Finely chopped, for flavor and texture.
Garlic: Minced, for aromatic depth.
Chicken stock: Adds flavor and moisture to the sauce.
Orange juice: Adds a touch of sweetness and acidity.
Almond butter: Adds richness and a nutty flavor.
Dry sherry: Adds depth and complexity to the sauce. You can substitute with more chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version.
Tomato paste: Adds a concentrated tomato flavor.
Chili powder: Adds warmth and a touch of heat.
Unsweetened cocoa powder: Adds a subtle chocolate flavor and depth.
Bay leaf: Adds a subtle aromatic flavor.
Dark chocolate: Chopped, adds a rich chocolate flavor to the sauce.
Cinnamon: Adds warmth and a touch of sweetness.
Vinegar: Adds acidity and balances the richness of the sauce.
Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper: To taste.
Cilantro, parsley, or chopped nuts: For garnish.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

How to Make Chicken with Mock Mole Sauce

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper. Sear the chicken in batches, cooking until golden brown on both sides. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Add the remaining olive oil and star anise to the pot. Cook until fragrant, then add the chopped onion and a pinch of salt. Cook until the onion is softened and slightly golden. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 2 minutes, stirring often.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Carefully pour in the chicken stock, orange juice, almond butter, sherry (or broth), tomato paste, chili powder, cocoa powder, and bay leaf. Stir well to combine.

Step 4: Simmer the Chicken

Return the seared chicken and any accumulated juices to the pot. Cover the pot loosely with a lid and simmer over low heat for 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.

Step 5: Finish the Sauce

Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside. Add the chopped dark chocolate and cinnamon to the sauce. Increase the heat slightly and simmer uncovered for another 15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and the chocolate has melted.

Step 6: Serve

Return the cooked chicken to the sauce and heat through. Garnish with fresh cilantro, parsley, or chopped nuts, and serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Use high-quality chocolate: The better the quality of your dark chocolate, the better the flavor of the sauce.
Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a spicier sauce, add more chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Toast the nuts: If using chopped nuts for garnish, toast them lightly in a dry pan to enhance their flavor and crunch.

How to Serve Chicken with Mock Mole Sauce

With Rice: Serve the Chicken with Mock Mole Sauce over a bed of steamed white or brown rice.
With Mashed Potatoes: The creamy texture of mashed potatoes complements the rich sauce perfectly.
With Crusty Bread: Crusty bread is great for sopping up the delicious sauce.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of nut butter?
Yes, you can use peanut butter, cashew butter, or any other nut butter you prefer.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh. Press the tofu or tempeh to remove excess moisture before cooking.

Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can sear the chicken and sauté the vegetables separately, then transfer them to the slow cooker with the remaining ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

How can I make this dish spicier?
Add more chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.

There you have it! A delicious and unique recipe for Chicken with Mock Mole Sauce that’s perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in. Enjoy!