There’s something magical about the way familiar flavors can be reimagined to create an entirely new dining experience. Enter the mole chicken wrap-a vibrant twist on the classic chicken wrap that marries the rich, complex notes of customary Mexican mole sauce with tender, juicy chicken, all wrapped up in a soft tortilla. This dish not only tantalizes the taste buds but also tells a story of heritage and innovation, blending ancient ingredients with contemporary convenience. In this article, we’ll explore the origins of mole sauce, the art of crafting the perfect chicken filling, and tips for assembling wraps that turn a simple meal into a flavorful celebration. Whether you’re a seasoned food lover or a curious home cook, get ready to discover how mole chicken wraps reinvent a beloved favourite with bold, unforgettable flavor.
Mole Chicken Wraps: A Flavorful Twist on a Classic Favorite
Mole chicken wraps fuse the rich complexity of traditional Mexican mole sauce with juicy, tender chicken, creating an unforgettable bite that’s bursting with layers of spice, chocolate, and earthy warmth. Originating from the heart of Mexico, mole is a culinary treasure steeped in history, drawing from indigenous ingredients and Spanish influences. These wraps transform that heritage into a convenient, modern delight, perfect for a family dinner or a festive gathering.
Prep and Cook Time
- Planning: 25 minutes
- Cooking: 40 minutes
- Total: 1 hour 5 minutes
Yield
Serves 6 generously filled mole chicken wraps.
Difficulty Level
Medium – Ideal for adventurous home cooks looking to celebrate bold flavors with approachable technique.
Ingredients
- For the Mole Sauce:
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 dried ancho chiles, seeded and soaked
- 2 dried pasilla chiles, seeded and soaked
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds, toasted
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 oz dark Mexican chocolate, chopped
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp brown sugar
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- For the chicken Filling:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp ground coriander
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For the Wraps and Assembly:
- 6 large flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- Fresh cilantro leaves
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
Instructions
- prepare the Mole Sauce: Heat vegetable oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the soaked and drained ancho and pasilla chiles; stir to combine. Toast sesame seeds in a dry skillet until golden, then add to the saucepan along with cinnamon, cumin, and tomato paste. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Pour in chicken broth, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook gently for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Transfer the sauce to a blender, add the chopped dark Mexican chocolate, brown sugar, and blend until smooth.Season with salt and pepper. Return to the saucepan and keep warm over low heat.
- Cook the Chicken: While the mole simmers, rub chicken thighs with olive oil, smoked paprika, coriander, salt, and pepper. In a large skillet over medium-high heat,sear chicken until golden,about 4-5 minutes per side,ensuring an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Remove chicken from heat; allow to rest for 5 minutes before shredding roughly with two forks. Stir shredded chicken into the mole sauce, coating it evenly for a juicy, flavorful filling.
- Assemble the Wraps: Warm tortillas on a dry skillet or in the microwave until pliable. Lay each flat and spoon a generous portion of mole chicken filling down the center.
- top with shredded Monterey Jack cheese, shredded lettuce, sliced avocado, and fresh cilantro leaves.Squeeze lime wedge over the filling for a zesty brightness.
- Fold the bottom edge up over the filling, then fold the sides in, rolling tightly to create a secure wrap.
- Serve: Place wraps seam-side down on a platter.Optionally, drizzle with extra warm mole sauce and garnish with additional sesame seeds and lime wedges.
Tips for Success
- Balance the mole: mole sauce can be intense. Adjust the amount of chocolate and chili based on your heat preference to avoid overpowering the chicken.
- Soak dried chiles thoroughly: This ensures softness and deep flavor without bitterness. Replace with chipotle peppers in adobo for a smoky twist.
- Use chicken thighs: They remain juicy and tender under the rich mole, though chicken breasts work if preferred.
- Make ahead: Mole sauce improves when made a day early. Store in the fridge and gently reheat before assembling wraps.
- Cheese option: For a sharper contrast, swap Monterey Jack for queso fresco or cotija.
Serving Suggestions and Elevating Your Wrap Experience
For a vibrant visual and textural contrast, serve mole chicken wraps alongside a fresh jicama slaw or pickled red onions. Complement the deep flavors by offering a side of Mexican street corn salad or warm black beans. A chilled hibiscus iced tea or a classic margarita couples beautifully with the warm complexity of the mole.
For garnish, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the wraps, scatter chopped cilantro, and present lime wedges to encourage guests to add luminous acidity at their leisure. Using colorful corn tortillas rather of flour can add a rustic appeal and subtle earthiness, further enhancing the presentation.
| Nutrition Per Serving | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mole Chicken Wrap | 480 | 38g | 35g | 18g |
For more inspiration on Mexican sauces and fillings, check our Ultimate Guide to authentic Mexican Sauces. To deepen your knowledge of mole’s cultural meaning, visit Encyclopedia Britannica: Mole Sauce.
Q&A
Q: What exactly are Mole Chicken Wraps?
A: Mole Chicken Wraps are a delicious fusion dish that combines tender chicken smothered in rich, complex mole sauce, all wrapped up in a soft tortilla. Think of it as a handheld fiesta where traditional Mexican flavors meet the convenience of a wrap.
Q: What is mole sauce, and why is it special?
A: Mole is a traditional Mexican sauce known for its deep, layered flavors, often blending ingredients like chili peppers, chocolate, nuts, spices, and sometimes fruit. It’s special because it balances sweet, savory, and spicy notes, creating a unique taste experience that’s both comforting and adventurous.
Q: How does mole transform a classic chicken wrap?
A: Traditional chicken wraps are often straightforward-grilled chicken, lettuce, maybe some salsa. Adding mole elevates the wrap by introducing a complex, velvety sauce that infuses the chicken with smoky, subtly sweet, and spicy flavors. It turns a simple meal into something memorable and deeply flavorful.
Q: What types of mole can be used in these wraps?
A: Mole comes in many varieties-like mole poblano (rich and chocolatey), mole negro (dark and intense), or mole verde (fresh and herbaceous). Each type offers a different vibe for your wrap. Poblano is a popular choice for wraps due to its balanced richness, but feel free to experiment!
Q: Are Mole Chicken Wraps easy to make at home?
A: Absolutely! While authentic mole can be a labor of love with many ingredients, you can also find grate pre-made mole sauces at specialty stores or online. Simply cook your chicken, coat it generously with mole, and wrap it with fresh veggies and warm tortillas. It’s a perfect dish for weeknights or casual gatherings.
Q: What sides pair well with Mole Chicken Wraps?
A: To complement the rich flavors, consider sides like Mexican street corn (elote), black beans, cilantro-lime rice, or a fresh avocado salad. These help balance the hearty mole sauce and create a well-rounded meal.
Q: Can Mole chicken Wraps be customized for different dietary preferences?
A: Yes! Use grilled veggies or tofu with mole for a vegetarian twist, or opt for whole wheat or gluten-free tortillas.The versatility of wraps and mole sauce means you can tailor this dish to suit various tastes and dietary needs.
Q: Why should food lovers give Mole chicken Wraps a try?
A: As they’re a perfect blend of tradition and innovation-offering bold, comforting flavors wrapped up in a familiar format. Mole Chicken Wraps invite you on a culinary adventure that’s easy to enjoy anytime, anywhere, making your everyday meals delightfully remarkable.
The Way Forward
As you savor the rich,vibrant layers of mole sauce mingling with tender chicken,it’s clear that these Mole Chicken wraps are more than just a meal-they’re a celebration of bold flavors and culinary tradition reimagined for today’s palate.Whether you’re seeking a new family favorite or a crowd-pleasing dish for your next gathering, this flavorful twist on a classic favorite invites you to explore the depths of Mexican cuisine one delicious bite at a time. So go ahead, roll up a wrap, and let the complex, smoky sweetness of mole transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary experience.
