Chicken Mole Nachos are a delightful fusion of rich Mexican mole sauce and classic nachos, perfect for game days, movie nights, or casual gatherings. This dish combines the savory depth of mole with the crunch of tortilla chips and the creaminess of melted cheese, creating a crowd-pleasing appetizer.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

½ (8.25 oz) Dona Maria Mole Paste
1½ cups chicken broth
1 Mexican chocolate tablet
½ cup water
½ bag of tortilla chips
2 cups cooked chicken, diced into 1-inch pieces
2 cups shredded cheese (Monterey Jack, white cheddar, or mozzarella)
¼ red onion, thinly sliced
¼ cup sour cream (optional)
Chopped cilantro (optional)

Directions

To make the mole sauce:

In a stockpot, combine the mole paste and chicken broth.
Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally until the paste dissolves.
Add water and the Mexican chocolate tablet.
Stir until the chocolate melts and the sauce is smooth.

To assemble the nachos:

Preheat the broiler.
Line a large sheet pan with foil and spread half the tortilla chips.
Top with half of the cooked chicken, drizzle with mole sauce, and sprinkle with half of the cheese and red onion slices.
Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients.
Place under the broiler for 7-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Drizzle with sour cream and garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Serve immediately to prevent the chips from becoming soggy.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (based on 4 servings):

Calories: 323 kcal
Carbohydrates: 3g
Protein: 31g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 104mg
Sodium: 741mg
Potassium: 304mg
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 1g
Vitamin A: 497 IU
Vitamin C: 7mg
Calcium: 312mg
Iron: 1mg

The Origins of Mole Sauce

Mole is one of the most iconic sauces in Mexican cuisine. It has a rich history that dates back to pre-Columbian times, with different regions of Mexico claiming their own versions of this flavorful sauce. The word “mole” comes from the Nahuatl word “mulli,” meaning sauce or stew. Mole has evolved over centuries and can vary in flavor and ingredients depending on the region.

One of the most famous types of mole is Mole Poblano, which originates from Puebla, a city in central Mexico. Mole Poblano is a dark, thick sauce made with a mix of dried chilies, spices, herbs, and sometimes chocolate, which gives it a rich, smoky, and slightly sweet flavor. While Mole Poblano is the most well-known, there are many different types of mole, each with its own distinct ingredients and flavor profile, such as Mole Verde (green mole) and Mole Rojo (red mole). The combination of chili peppers, nuts, seeds, and chocolate creates a complex flavor that perfectly complements meats, particularly poultry.

The fusion of mole with nachos in this recipe brings together two distinct elements of Mexican cuisine: a traditional sauce that has stood the test of time and a more contemporary dish made popular in the United States. The result is a flavorful, hearty, and delicious dish that captures the essence of both.

What Makes Chicken Mole Nachos Unique

Chicken Mole Nachos are more than just a regular plate of nachos. This dish introduces a new layer of flavor with the addition of mole sauce, transforming a simple snack into a gourmet experience. The mole sauce adds a depth of flavor to the nachos that can’t be achieved with the typical toppings of salsa and guacamole.

The sauce is rich, earthy, and slightly sweet, with a subtle bitterness from the chocolate and the perfect level of heat from the chilies. It coats the chicken and nacho chips, making them more flavorful and satisfying. The melted cheese, whether it’s Monterey Jack, white cheddar, or mozzarella, balances out the richness of the mole sauce, while the crisp tortilla chips offer a satisfying crunch.

This dish is also highly customizable. You can use your favorite mole variety, experiment with different types of cheese, or even add toppings like sour cream, cilantro, or chopped onions for additional freshness. The chicken can be seasoned with additional spices for extra flavor or grilled for a smoky touch. Whether you keep it traditional or add your own twist, Chicken Mole Nachos can be tailored to suit any palate.

The Flavor Profile of Chicken Mole Nachos

The key to this dish’s appeal is its unique and layered flavor profile. Here are some of the primary elements that contribute to its distinctive taste:

Richness: The mole sauce, often made with ingredients like chocolate, nuts, and seeds, adds a rich, complex flavor to the dish. The chocolate provides a subtle sweetness, while the chilies and spices offer a deep, earthy flavor.
Smokiness: Many mole recipes include ingredients like smoked chilies or roasted vegetables, which contribute to the sauce’s smoky undertones. This smokiness pairs wonderfully with the other flavors, giving the nachos a savory depth.
Heat: Depending on the type of mole used, the level of heat can vary. Most mole sauces contain dried chilies, such as ancho or pasilla, which bring a mild to moderate heat. The heat level in Chicken Mole Nachos can be adjusted by selecting a spicier mole or adding fresh chili peppers.
Creaminess: The melted cheese creates a creamy texture that contrasts with the crispy tortilla chips. This creaminess helps balance the intense flavors of the mole sauce and the savory chicken.
Crunch: The tortilla chips offer a crunchy base, which is essential for creating a satisfying texture that contrasts with the creamy cheese and rich sauce. The chips also soak up some of the mole sauce, making each bite flavorful.
Freshness: Optional toppings like cilantro, sour cream, and fresh onions provide a refreshing contrast to the heaviness of the mole sauce and cheese, enhancing the overall taste and adding a pop of color.

How to Customize Chicken Mole Nachos

While the base recipe is delicious on its own, Chicken Mole Nachos can be customized to suit different tastes. Here are some ideas for customizing the dish:

Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with roasted vegetables such as sweet potatoes, bell peppers, or zucchini. You can also use beans or tofu as a protein source for a vegetarian or vegan-friendly alternative.
Meat Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of chicken, try substituting it with other proteins such as beef, turkey, or even carnitas (slow-cooked pulled pork). Each type of meat will absorb the mole sauce in its own way, creating a different flavor experience.
Spicy Variations: For those who love spice, consider adding fresh jalapeños or serrano peppers to the nachos, or use a spicier mole sauce like Mole Chipotle, which is made with chipotle peppers for a smokier and hotter flavor.
Cheese Choices: The cheese you choose can greatly affect the flavor of the nachos. For a mild and creamy texture, opt for Monterey Jack or mozzarella. If you prefer something sharper, try white cheddar or a blend of cheeses.
Toppings and Garnishes: Garnish with fresh ingredients such as diced tomatoes, avocado, or guacamole. Pickled red onions can add a tangy element that contrasts with the richness of the mole. A squeeze of lime over the top can brighten the dish and enhance the flavors.

Pairing Drinks with Chicken Mole Nachos

Given the richness of mole sauce, it’s important to pair Chicken Mole Nachos with drinks that complement the dish without overpowering it. Here are some drink ideas that pair well with this dish:

Margarita: A classic margarita, with its tangy lime and refreshing citrus flavors, can balance the richness of the mole sauce and the heat from the chilies. Whether frozen or on the rocks, a margarita is a perfect companion to nachos.
Mexican Beer: A light, crisp Mexican beer, such as Corona, Modelo, or Pacifico, can be the ideal drink to wash down the nachos. The cold beer helps cleanse the palate between bites and enhances the overall Mexican experience.
Agua Fresca: If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, try a refreshing agua fresca made from fruit like watermelon, pineapple, or lime. The sweetness and freshness of the agua fresca provide a nice contrast to the savory and spicy flavors of the mole nachos.
Iced Tea: For a more subtle drink, iced tea with a slice of lemon can provide a refreshing balance to the dish without competing with the bold flavors of the nachos.

Conclusion

Chicken Mole Nachos are a delicious and innovative take on a classic comfort food. By combining the savory, sweet, and spicy flavors of mole sauce with the crunchiness of tortilla chips and the melt-in-your-mouth goodness of cheese, this dish creates a rich, flavorful experience that will delight your taste buds. Whether you’re looking for a fun appetizer for a party, a snack for movie night, or a hearty dish to serve at a family gathering, Chicken Mole Nachos will impress guests and satisfy cravings.

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