Delicious & Healthy Chicken Mole Recipe: A Weight Watchers Friendly Mexican Classic

Embark on a culinary journey with this incredible Chicken Mole recipe, a dish that tantalizes the taste buds with its rich, complex flavors and vibrant history. Featuring tender, succulent chicken bathed in a deeply aromatic mole sauce, this recipe is a testament to the art of Mexican cuisine. The magic of mole lies in its intricate blend of ingredients: the warmth of cocoa, the subtle heat and fruity notes of various chilies, and the creamy texture from nuts, all simmered together in a savory broth. The result is a truly unforgettable meal, promising a symphony of flavors in every bite, making every moment of preparation worthwhile.

While convenience often leads to store-bought options, this recipe champions the homemade approach to mole sauce. Crafting your own sauce allows for complete control over the ingredients, ensuring a fresher, more authentic, and ultimately more flavorful outcome. This particular rendition is also thoughtfully designed to be Weight Watchers-friendly, offering a healthful interpretation of a beloved classic. It retains all the robust flavors and comforting essence of traditional Mexican mole, proving that healthy eating doesn’t mean compromising on taste. Prepare to impress yourself and your loved ones with this guilt-free, intensely satisfying dish.

Why You Should Try This Chicken Mole Recipe

Chicken Mole is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. Here are compelling reasons why this recipe deserves a spot in your kitchen:

1. Cultural Significance and Authentic Flavor: Mole, particularly Mole Poblano, holds immense cultural significance in Mexico, recognized as a culinary heritage. This ancient recipe is a flavorful encapsulation of Mexico’s rich history and vibrant traditions. By trying mole, you’re not just savoring a dish; you’re delving into centuries of culinary artistry and experiencing a true taste of Mexican heritage. The unique combination of chilies, spices, and chocolate creates a flavor profile that is truly unparalleled and deeply authentic.
2. Healthy, Flavorful, and Weight Watchers Friendly: We all welcome delicious chicken recipes, especially those that prioritize health without sacrificing taste. This particular recipe utilizes lean chicken breasts and a homemade mole sauce to deliver an incredibly flavorful meal that aligns perfectly with a healthy lifestyle. For those following Weight Watchers, this dish is a fantastic option, offering immense satisfaction for a modest point value. The harmonious blend of savory chicken with the rich, slightly sweet, and subtly spicy Aztec chocolate-infused sauce is simply exquisite, proving that healthy can indeed be delicious.
3. Rewarding Effort for an Unforgettable Dish: While some recipes are quick weeknight fixes, this Chicken Mole requires a bit more dedication and time. However, the effort invested is profoundly rewarded with a dish that is deeply complex, incredibly satisfying, and truly spectacular. The process of toasting spices, rehydrating chilies, and simmering the sauce builds layers of flavor that simply cannot be rushed. Believe us, the rich, velvety texture and profound taste of this homemade mole will make every step of its preparation feel entirely worth it. It’s a perfect project for a weekend, promising a culinary masterpiece that will impress.

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 6
Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with mole sauce (approximately 350 g.)

5 WW Points Per Serving. This recipe is an excellent choice for a satisfying and healthy meal. You can view the full recipe details on the WW App here. (WW login required.)

Chicken Mole Ingredients: Crafting Your Authentic Sauce

At first glance, the ingredients list for this Mexican-inspired dish might appear extensive, but don’t let that deter you! Many of these items are accessible pantry staples that you likely already have on hand, or they are easily found at most grocery stores. The beauty of mole lies in how these seemingly simple components come together to create a profoundly complex and harmonious flavor profile. Each ingredient plays a vital role in building the layers of taste that make mole so unique and beloved.

For the Mole (Spices and Aromatics): This blend of spices is the soul of the mole, contributing to its signature warmth and depth.

• 1 cinnamon stick: Adds a sweet, aromatic warmth that balances the savory and spicy notes.
• 4 allspice berries: Offer a complex flavor reminiscent of cloves, nutmeg, and cinnamon, enhancing the overall spice blend.
• 4 cloves: Provide a strong, pungent aroma and a deep, sweet-spicy taste.
• 1/2 teaspoon dill seeds: Introduce a unique, slightly tangy and earthy note, contributing to the mole’s complexity.
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin: A quintessential Mexican spice, adding a warm, earthy, and slightly pungent flavor.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Provides a robust, peppery, and slightly bitter herbaceous flavor, essential for Mexican dishes.
• A pinch of grated nutmeg: Offers a subtle, warm, and sweet aroma, deepening the spice profile without overpowering it.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Fundamental for seasoning and enhancing all other flavors.

Nuts and Seeds: These ingredients are crucial for building the mole’s body, richness, and nutty undertones, providing a smooth, velvety texture when blended.

• 12 almonds: Contribute a rich, buttery flavor and help thicken the sauce.
• 2 tablespoons raisins: Add a natural sweetness and a hint of fruity tang, balancing the savory and spicy elements.
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin seeds (pepitas): Offer an earthy, nutty flavor and a slight crunch that disappears into the smooth sauce.

Vegetables: These form the aromatic foundation and provide essential moisture and tang to the sauce.

• 1 bell pepper, chopped (150 g.): Adds sweetness and a fresh, vegetal note to the base.
• 1 white onion, chopped (150 g.): Provides a foundational savory flavor and aromatic depth.
• 4 tablespoons tomato paste (60 g.): Concentrates the tomato flavor, adding umami and a hint of acidity that brightens the sauce.
• 6 guajillo chilies, rehydrated and deseeded: These medium-heat chilies are central to mole, offering a fruity, tangy, and slightly smoky flavor with a mild to medium warmth. Rehydrating them softens them for blending and extracts their full flavor.

Other Ingredients for the Mole: These elements complete the sauce, adding liquid, richness, and desired consistency.

• 2 cups chicken broth (480 ml): Provides the liquid base for simmering and blending, imparting savory chicken flavor.
• 3 tablespoons cocoa powder (16 g): The iconic ingredient in mole, cocoa (or unsweetened chocolate) adds a deep, earthy bitterness and richness that is surprisingly savory, not sweet, and rounds out the spice profile beautifully.
• 1 teaspoon oil: Used for sautéing the aromatics and toasting the spices.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (if needed): A natural thickener, used to adjust the sauce to your preferred consistency if it’s too thin after blending.

For the Chicken: The star protein, prepared to be tender and flavorful.

• 3 chicken breasts (800 g.): Lean, protein-rich chicken breasts are ideal for absorbing the rich mole flavors while keeping the dish healthy.
• 1 teaspoon oil: For searing the chicken to develop a golden-brown crust and lock in moisture.
• 1 cup unsweetened orange juice (240 ml): A secret ingredient that adds a delightful subtle sweetness and acidity, tenderizing the chicken and infusing it with a bright, citrusy note as it simmers.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasoning for the chicken itself, ensuring it is flavorful before being combined with the sauce.
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds (for serving): A garnish that adds a pleasant nutty flavor and a delicate crunch, enhancing the presentation and texture.

Cooking Instructions for Chicken Mole: A Step-by-Step Guide

Making homemade Chicken Mole is a process that builds layers of flavor, resulting in a dish far superior to any store-bought alternative. The steps involve rehydrating chilies, carefully toasting spices and nuts to release their aromas, sautéing vegetables to create a rich base, and then simmering and blending to achieve that perfect velvety mole sauce. The chicken is seasoned, seared to perfection, and gently cooked in orange juice, ensuring it remains tender and juicy before being enveloped in the luxurious mole. Follow these detailed instructions to create a truly delicious and deeply flavorful main course that will become a staple in your healthy recipe repertoire.

1. Soak the chilies: Begin by preparing your guajillo chilies. The night before you plan to cook, place the dried chilies in a bowl and cover them with plenty of hot water. This rehydration process is crucial as it softens them, making them easy to blend and allowing their full flavor to emerge. The next day, drain the chilies, rinse them thoroughly, and carefully remove all seeds and stems. Removing the seeds helps control the heat level and ensures a smooth sauce.
2. Toast the spices and nuts: Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Add the cinnamon stick, allspice berries, cloves, dill seeds, ground cumin, dried oregano, almonds, and pumpkin seeds to the hot skillet. Toast them gently, stirring frequently, for 2-3 minutes until they become fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn them, as this can make the spices bitter. Toasting enhances their natural oils and deepens their flavors. Remove from the heat immediately and set aside.
3. Sauté the veggies and build the mole base: In the same skillet (no need to clean it thoroughly), add 1 teaspoon of oil. Sauté the chopped onion and bell pepper over medium heat until they are softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. This step creates an aromatic base for the mole. Once softened, return the rehydrated guajillo chilies and the toasted nuts and seeds to the skillet. Stir in the tomato paste, raisins, cocoa powder, a pinch of freshly grated nutmeg, and season generously with salt and pepper. Stir well to combine all these wonderful flavors.
4. Sear the chicken: While the mole base is simmering, prepare your chicken. Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt and pepper. Heat 1 teaspoon of oil in a separate skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and sear them for 3-4 minutes per side until they are golden brown. This searing step locks in moisture and develops a delicious crust, adding another layer of flavor to the dish.
5. Cook the chicken in juice: After searing, reduce the heat to medium. Pour the unsweetened orange juice into the skillet with the chicken breasts. Continue to cook, turning the chicken occasionally, until the orange juice has almost completely evaporated and the chicken is cooked through and tender. The orange juice not only adds a subtle, bright sweetness but also helps to tenderize the chicken, making it incredibly juicy.
6. Simmer the mole sauce: Return your attention to the mole mixture. Add the chicken broth to the skillet with the vegetables, spices, and nuts. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for at least 20-30 minutes, or until the liquid has reduced by at least half. This simmering time is crucial for allowing all the flavors to meld and deepen, creating a more cohesive and complex sauce.
7. Blend and thicken the sauce: Once the mole mixture has simmered and reduced, carefully remove the cinnamon stick – its flavor has already been fully infused. Transfer the remaining ingredients from the skillet to a blender. Blend until the sauce is completely smooth and silky. If you prefer a very fine sauce, you can pass it through a fine-mesh sieve, though it’s often not necessary. If, after blending, the mole sauce appears too thin for your liking, dissolve 1 tablespoon of cornstarch in a small amount of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this slurry into the blended mole sauce over low heat and cook for a few more minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency.
8. Combine the chicken and mole: Finally, add the rich, blended mole sauce to the skillet containing the cooked chicken breasts. Spoon the sauce generously over the chicken, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Cook for an additional few minutes over low heat, allowing the chicken to absorb the flavors of the mole and for the entire dish to heat through. Serve immediately, garnished with toasted sesame seeds.

Serving Suggestions for Chicken Mole

Once your delectable Chicken Mole is ready, the presentation and accompanying sides can elevate the dining experience even further. Serve this rich and flavorful dish with fresh, vibrant garnishes that cut through its richness and add a textural contrast. A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds not only adds a beautiful visual appeal but also a delicate nutty crunch. Freshly sliced radishes provide a crisp, peppery bite, while quick pickled red onions offer a tangy, acidic counterpoint that perfectly complements the savory mole. For a complete meal, consider serving your Chicken Mole with fluffy white or brown rice, warm corn or flour tortillas for scooping up every last drop of sauce, or a side of steamed vegetables like zucchini or green beans. A wedge of lime on the side allows guests to add a burst of fresh citrus, brightening the complex flavors of the mole.

Variations and Substitutions to Customize Your Mole

Mole is a highly adaptable dish, and while this recipe offers a delicious and healthy foundation, feel free to experiment with these variations and substitutions to tailor it to your personal taste and dietary needs:

1. Adjust the Heat Level: The beauty of homemade mole is the ability to control its spiciness. Guajillo chilies provide a mild to medium heat with fruity notes. For a milder mole, you can use fewer chilies or choose milder varieties like Ancho chilies, which contribute an earthy, smoky flavor. If you prefer more heat, consider adding a deseeded Arbol chili or a touch of chipotle in adobo for a smoky kick. Many traditional moles use a blend of various chilies (e.g., Ancho, Pasilla, Mulato) to create a nuanced flavor profile, so feel free to mix and match for a balanced and unique taste.
2. Experiment with Nuts and Seeds: While peanuts and pumpkin seeds are commonly found in traditional mole recipes, this recipe uses almonds for their delightful buttery flavor and smooth texture. If you have them on hand, walnuts, pecans, or even a mix of different nuts can also work beautifully. Each nut type will subtly alter the flavor and richness of the sauce, offering an opportunity for creative culinary exploration. Just be sure to toast them lightly to bring out their best flavor.
3. Modulate Sweetness: Many authentic mole recipes incorporate sweet elements like piloncillo (unrefined cane sugar), plantains, or even a small piece of Mexican chocolate (which often contains sugar) to balance the bitterness of the cocoa and the heat of the chilies. If you find your mole sauce needs a touch more sweetness to balance the complex flavors, you can certainly add a small amount. For a healthier, Weight Watchers-friendly option, a pinch of a light sweetener like Splenda or stevia can be used to achieve the desired balance without adding extra calories or points. Start with a small amount and taste as you go.
4. Explore Different Liquids for Depth: While chicken broth provides a solid savory foundation for this mole, some traditional recipes occasionally include other liquids to add even more depth and character. A splash of beer (dark lager or stout) can introduce malty notes, or a tablespoon of strong brewed coffee can deepen the earthiness of the cocoa. While not included in this healthy version, knowing these options can inspire future experiments if you’re looking to explore the full spectrum of mole flavors. Always consider how these additions will impact the overall flavor profile.

Essential Tips and Tricks for Perfect Chicken Mole

Crafting a truly exceptional Chicken Mole involves attention to detail and a willingness to embrace the process. Here are some invaluable tips and tricks to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time, especially if you’re new to making mole:

1. Moderation with Potent Spices: If this is your first time delving into the world of mole, exercise caution and add strong spices like cloves and nutmeg in moderation. These ingredients, while essential for depth, can quickly overpower the delicate balance of the dish if used too generously. It’s always easier to add a little more than to try and salvage an overly spiced sauce. Taste as you go and adjust incrementally to achieve your preferred flavor harmony.
2. Focus on the Essential Ingredients: Don’t let the seemingly long list of ingredients intimidate you. While every component contributes to the richness, the true heart and soul of mole lie in the chilies and cocoa. Ensure you source good quality guajillo chilies and unsweetened cocoa powder, as these will define the fundamental flavor profile of your mole. Mastering these core flavors will make a significant difference.
3. Achieve Your Preferred Texture: The texture of mole sauce is a matter of personal preference. Some enjoy a more rustic mole with a slight chewiness from the nuts and chilies, while others, like us, prefer it incredibly smooth and velvety. For a silky texture, blend the sauce thoroughly until no discernible pieces remain. If necessary, you can even pass it through a fine-mesh sieve to catch any lingering bits, ensuring a restaurant-quality smooth finish.
4. Balance the Flavors Thoughtfully: Mole is a symphony of contrasting flavors: sweet, savory, spicy, earthy, and sometimes a hint of bitter. It’s crucial to taste your sauce at various stages of cooking and adjust accordingly. If it’s too spicy, a touch more cocoa or a bit of sweetener can help. If it lacks vibrancy, a squeeze of lime or a pinch more salt might be all it needs. Continuously tasting and adjusting is the key to a perfectly balanced mole.
5. Properly Cook the Chicken: For tender, juicy chicken that truly shines in the mole sauce, ensure you sear the chicken breasts well to create a beautiful golden-brown crust. This initial searing locks in the juices. Then, cooking it gently in the orange juice helps to keep it moist and infuse it with a subtle sweetness before it even meets the mole. Overcooked chicken can be dry, so pay attention to cooking times.
6. Storage and Make-Ahead Benefits: Mole sauce is a fantastic candidate for making ahead. In fact, many culinary experts argue that mole often tastes even better the next day, after the flavors have had ample time to meld and deepen. You can prepare the mole sauce entirely, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, or freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce and cook your fresh chicken to combine. Leftovers of the combined dish also store well in the fridge for 2-3 days, making it an excellent meal prep option.

Making Chicken Mole at home is not just cooking; it’s a rewarding endeavor that offers a rich taste of Mexican heritage and culinary artistry. With careful preparation, a little patience, and these helpful tips, you can confidently create this intensely flavorful and satisfying dish that honors tradition while seamlessly fitting into a healthy, balanced lifestyle. Enjoy the process and the incredible results!