Slow Cooker Chicken Mole

Mole is a beloved Mexican dish known for its rich, complex flavors. Traditionally, it requires hours of preparation and hard-to-find ingredients. But we’ve simplified it for home cooks, making it easy to enjoy this classic sauce without the hassle.

Our recipe uses accessible ingredients like chili powder, cocoa powder, and SunButter. These create a deep, flavorful sauce that pairs perfectly with tender chicken. The slow cooker does the heavy lifting, infusing the dish with rich flavors while you go about your day.

This dish is also versatile, fitting into Whole30, Paleo, and nut-free diets. If you’re new to making mole, don’t worry—this recipe is approachable and beginner-friendly. Let’s dive in and create a meal that’s both delicious and effortless!

Introduction to Slow Cooker Chicken Mole

The Red Iguana in Salt Lake City introduced me to the wonders of mole sauce. This traditional Mexican dish combines chili, chocolate, and spices for a flavor that’s both rich and complex. It was love at first bite.

Traditionally, making mole sauce is a labor of love. It requires over 20 ingredients and hours of preparation. Many recipes even call for days of simmering to achieve the perfect blend of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors.

Our version simplifies the process without sacrificing taste. Using pantry staples like cocoa powder and chili powder, we’ve created a dish that’s easy to prepare. SunButter replaces peanut butter, making it nut-free and allergy-friendly.

The slow cooker does the heavy lifting, melding the flavors effortlessly. This means you can enjoy a delicious meal with minimal effort. It’s perfect for busy families or anyone craving a taste of Mexico.

Whether you’re new to mole sauce or a longtime fan, this recipe is approachable and delicious. Let’s dive into the world of Mexican chocolate and spices to create a dish that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Chicken Mole

Crafting a flavorful mole sauce starts with the right ingredients. This dish combines savory, sweet, and spicy elements for a truly unique taste. Below, we’ve outlined the core components and their measurements to help you get started.

Cocoa powder and chocolate play a key role in balancing the heat from the chili powder. They add depth and richness to the sauce, making it irresistible. SunButter, a nut-free alternative, ensures the dish is allergy-friendly while maintaining its creamy texture.

Here’s a detailed list of the ingredients and their substitutes:

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, adding a jalapeño is a great option. Raisins can also be included for a touch of sweetness. These optional add-ins allow you to customize the dish to your taste.

With these ingredients, you’re ready to create a mole sauce that’s both flavorful and easy to prepare. Let’s move on to the next step and get cooking!

Preparing Your Slow Cooker Chicken Mole

Creating a rich and flavorful mole sauce is easier than you think with the right steps. Start by heating avocado oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions, minced garlic, and chopped jalapeño. Sauté for 6-8 minutes until softened and fragrant. This step builds a deep flavor base for your sauce.

Next, transfer the sautéed mixture to a blender. Add chili powder, cumin, cocoa powder, and tomato paste. Blend until smooth for a silky texture. If you prefer a rustic sauce, skip the blending step and keep the mixture chunky.

In a separate bowl, whisk SunButter into chicken broth until fully combined. This creates a creamy, nut-free base for your sauce. Stir in the blended or sautéed mixture and mix well. The result is a rich, flavorful sauce ready for the slow cooker.

Layer chicken pieces in the bottom of your slow cooker. Pour half of the sauce over the chicken, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Reserve the remaining sauce for later. This layering technique ensures the chicken absorbs the flavors as it cooks.

For a quicker option, you can adapt this recipe for the stovetop. Simmer the sauce and chicken in a large pot for 30-40 minutes until the chicken is tender. Either way, you’ll end up with a delicious meal that’s full of flavor.

• Sauté onions, garlic, and jalapeño in avocado oil for a flavorful base.
• Blend sauce ingredients for a smooth texture or keep it rustic.
• Whisk SunButter into broth for a creamy, nut-free sauce.
• Layer chicken and sauce in the slow cooker for even cooking.
• Adapt for the stovetop for a quicker meal option.

Cooking Your Slow Cooker Chicken Mole

The magic happens when the ingredients meld together over time. Set your cooker to low and let it work its magic for 4-5 hours. This ensures the meat becomes tender and absorbs all the rich flavors of the sauce.

Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the chicken. Use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces. Mix the shredded chicken with the reserved sauce for an even distribution of flavor.

If your sauce is too thin, don’t worry. Simmer it on the stovetop for 10-15 minutes to thicken. Alternatively, you can use an arrowroot slurry for a quick fix. Just mix 1 tablespoon of arrowroot powder with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the sauce.

This dish is freezer-friendly, making it perfect for meal prep. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw and reheat.

Here’s a quick comparison of cooking methods:

Both methods deliver delicious results, so choose the one that fits your schedule. Whether you’re using a cooker or the stovetop, this dish is sure to impress.

Serving and Enjoying Your Slow Cooker Chicken Mole

Ready to serve your flavorful creation? Let’s explore the best ways to enjoy this dish! Pair it with cilantro-lime rice or cauliflower rice for a hearty meal. Add diced avocado and a squeeze of lime for a fresh, zesty touch.

For a fun twist, serve it in tortillas as tacos or layer it into enchiladas. Top with fresh cilantro and crumbled queso fresco for extra flavor. If you’re looking for low-carb options, try zucchini noodles or lettuce wraps instead.

Got leftovers? Reheat them for a quick meal or get creative with mole nachos. Simply layer tortilla chips with shredded meat, sauce, and cheese for a crowd-pleasing snack. Don’t forget to tag #SunkissedKitchen when you share your creations!

For a printable version of this recipe, click the print recipe button below. Enjoy every bite of this delicious dish!