Rich, smoky mole sauce coats tender, shredded chicken inside warm corn tortillas, creating an authentic Mexican comfort dish. The deep flavors of the mole, with its hints of chocolate and spice, make these enchiladas unforgettable. Topped with melted cheese, crumbled queso fresco, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, every bite is a perfect balance of creamy, savory, and spicy. These enchiladas are a fantastic way to bring traditional Mexican flavors to your table. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or a cozy family dinner, their bold and satisfying taste will have everyone asking for seconds. Serve them with a squeeze of fresh lime and a drizzle of sour cream for the ultimate experience.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken
- 2 cups mole sauce
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded Oaxaca or Monterey Jack cheese
- ½ cup crumbled queso fresco
- ½ cup sour cream (for serving)
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Lightly warm each tortilla for about 10 seconds per side to make them pliable.
- Spread ½ cup of mole sauce at the bottom of the baking dish.
- Fill each tortilla with shredded chicken and a sprinkle of cheese, then roll tightly and place seam-side down in the dish.
- Pour the remaining mole sauce over the enchiladas, ensuring they are fully coated.
- Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the top.
- Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 5-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
- Garnish with crumbled queso fresco, chopped cilantro, red onion slices, and a drizzle of sour cream. Serve with lime wedges.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 430 kcal per serving | Servings: 4 servings
Chicken Mole Enchiladas: A Rich and Flavorful Mexican Classic
Chicken Mole Enchiladas are a beloved dish that perfectly showcases the depth and complexity of traditional Mexican cuisine. With its rich, velvety mole sauce enveloping tender shredded chicken, all wrapped in warm corn tortillas and baked to perfection, this dish is an explosion of bold and authentic flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or new to making mole, this recipe is an excellent way to introduce yourself to one of Mexico’s most iconic sauces.
The History of Mole Sauce
Mole (pronounced “MOH-leh”) is a traditional Mexican sauce that dates back centuries. The word “mole” comes from the Nahuatl word “molli,” meaning sauce or mixture. It is believed that mole originated in the states of Puebla and Oaxaca, where indigenous and Spanish influences blended to create this masterpiece. Over time, different regions in Mexico have developed their own variations of mole, with mole poblano being one of the most famous.
Mole sauce is known for its complex and layered flavor profile, which comes from a blend of ingredients such as dried chiles, tomatoes, nuts, seeds, spices, and even chocolate. The result is a smoky, slightly spicy, and deeply rich sauce that enhances any dish it touches. When paired with enchiladas, mole transforms a simple meal into an unforgettable culinary experience.
Why This Recipe is the Best
There are countless enchilada recipes, but what makes this Chicken Mole Enchiladas recipe stand out? Here are a few reasons why it’s a must-try:
1. Authentic and Rich Flavor
Mole sauce is the star of this dish. Unlike store-bought sauces that can be overly sweet or one-dimensional, this mole is carefully balanced with layers of spice, earthiness, and a hint of chocolate. The sauce coats each enchilada beautifully, creating a luscious texture and deep flavor.
2. Perfectly Cooked Chicken
The shredded chicken is tender, juicy, and absorbs the mole sauce perfectly. You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience or cook and shred your own for a more hands-on experience. Either way, the chicken provides a satisfying protein base that complements the sauce’s bold flavors.
3. Corn Tortillas for Authenticity
Flour tortillas might be tempting, but corn tortillas are the traditional and best choice for enchiladas. They have a slight chewiness and a natural sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the smoky mole sauce. Lightly frying or warming them before rolling prevents them from breaking apart and ensures a perfect bite every time.
4. Baked to Perfection
Baking the enchiladas allows the flavors to meld together while melting the cheese to gooey perfection. The result is a dish that’s both visually stunning and irresistibly delicious.
5. Customizable Garnishes
The toppings add freshness and contrast to the rich mole sauce. Crumbled queso fresco adds a creamy, slightly salty element, while thinly sliced red onions bring a sharp bite. A drizzle of sour cream balances the heat, and fresh cilantro gives a final touch of brightness. Don’t forget a squeeze of lime for an extra pop of flavor!
Health Benefits of Chicken Mole Enchiladas
While indulgent, Chicken Mole Enchiladas can also be a nutritious addition to your diet. Here’s why:
- Protein-Packed: Chicken provides a lean source of protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.
- Rich in Antioxidants: Many of the spices and ingredients in mole sauce, such as cocoa, chiles, and garlic, contain antioxidants that help fight inflammation.
- Good Fats from Nuts and Seeds: Traditional mole recipes often include almonds, sesame seeds, or pumpkin seeds, which provide heart-healthy fats and essential nutrients.
- Gluten-Free Option: Since this recipe uses corn tortillas, it’s naturally gluten-free, making it a great choice for those with dietary restrictions.
Tips for Making the Best Chicken Mole Enchiladas
- Use Homemade or High-Quality Mole Sauce – If you have the time, making mole from scratch is worth the effort. However, if you need a quicker option, look for a high-quality store-bought mole paste and customize it with your preferred spices and chocolate.
- Warm the Tortillas – Lightly heating the corn tortillas makes them more pliable and prevents cracking when rolling the enchiladas.
- Don’t Overfill the Tortillas – Too much filling can make them difficult to roll and cause them to fall apart in the dish.
- Let the Flavors Develop – Mole sauce tastes even better the next day, so consider making the sauce in advance for a deeper, more developed flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken Mole Enchiladas are a complete meal on their own, but they pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal:
- Mexican Rice: A fluffy and flavorful side that soaks up the extra mole sauce.
- Refried Beans: Creamy and satisfying, they complement the richness of the dish.
- Guacamole and Chips: A fresh and creamy contrast to the bold mole flavor.
- Pickled Jalapeños: If you love heat, these add a tangy, spicy kick.
- Horchata or Agua Fresca: A refreshing drink to balance the rich flavors.
Variations of Chicken Mole Enchiladas
Want to put your own spin on this dish? Here are some variations to try:
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with roasted vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and bell peppers, or use black beans for a protein boost.
- Spicy Kick: Add extra dried chiles or a touch of chipotle powder to intensify the heat.
- Cheese Lover’s Version: Mix different cheeses, like Oaxaca, Cotija, and Monterey Jack, for extra creaminess.
- Make It a Casserole: Instead of rolling individual enchiladas, layer the ingredients like a lasagna for an easy-to-serve dish.
Conclusion
Chicken Mole Enchiladas are a dish that celebrates the beauty of Mexican cuisine. With their rich, smoky mole sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly melted cheese, they are a comforting yet sophisticated meal that will impress your family and guests alike. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or a cozy dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Give it a try and enjoy the authentic taste of Mexico right from your own kitchen!