Light chicken mole

The Mexican celebration dish: chicken coated in a complex mole sauce (chillies, spices and a hint of cocoa), in a simplified, lighter version. Deeply aromatic, it is a sauce like no other.

Preparation: 20 min  |  Cooking: 35 min  |  Servings: 4  |  Difficulty: Medium

Calculated per serving from Anses Ciqual 2025 values for each ingredient, based on the quantities listed. Household measures (spoonfuls, items) use average weights. 414 kcal · 40 g protein · 18 g carbohydrate · 20 g fat

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs
• 2 tins of chopped tomatoes
• 2 onions
• 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa
• 1 tbsp spices (chilli, cumin, cinnamon)
• 2 tbsp almonds
• 1 tortilla (to thicken)

Method

1. Brown the chicken and set aside.
2. Blend the tomatoes, onions, almonds, cocoa, spices and tortilla.
3. Simmer this mole sauce until reduced.
4. Simmer the chicken in the sauce for 25 minutes.

Nutritional benefits

Chicken provides lean protein, while the mole sauce (tomatoes, almonds, cocoa, spices) brings antioxidants and a unique flavour. A small amount of unsweetened cocoa adds depth and polyphenols without making the dish sweet. A complex, original Mexican sauce, lightened, and naturally gluten-free and lactose-free.

Variations and substitutions

• With turkey (traditional mole).
• Hotter or milder depending on the chillies.
• Topped with sesame seeds.
• Served with rice.

Storage and making ahead

The mole sauce keeps for 4 days and freezes well: the flavour improves with time. A great batch cooking dish.

💡 Good to know

Cocoa is only a background note in mole: it adds depth, not sweetness. Use it sparingly.

See also

Discover more high-protein recipes · healthy & balanced recipes · gluten-free recipes · dairy-free recipes.

Ingredients in this recipe: chicken thighs · tomatoes · onions · unsweetened cocoa · chilli.

You might also like these recipes: Salmon, avocado and edamame poke bowl · Rice, tuna and sweetcorn salad · Chicken, quinoa and avocado salad.