Chicken mole is a classic Mexican dish that’s bursting with flavor.
It’s made with a variety of spices and is usually served over rice.
But there are so many other delicious dishes you can serve to complete the meal!
Here, we’ve rounded up 15 of the best side dishes to accompany your chicken mole.
From crisp veggies to cheesy casseroles, these sides will take your dinner to the next level.
Whether you’re looking for a light and healthy option or something more indulgent, there’s a perfect complement to your chicken mole out there!
Get ready to create an unforgettable feast that everyone will love.
Why These Side Dishes Goes Well With Chicken Mole– By Chef Natalie
To save you time, and to make your decision easy, I have built a nice chart on why these side dishes go well with Chicken Mole!
| Side Dish | Why it goes well with Chicken Mole |
|---|---|
| Mexican Street Corn | Adds a sweet and smoky flavor that complements the rich and savory mole sauce |
| Refried Beans | Provides a creamy and comforting side dish that pairs well with the mole |
| Roasted Vegetables | Offers a roasted and caramelized flavor that balances the richness of the mole |
| Spanish Rice | Provides a flavorful and aromatic rice dish that complements the mole |
| Cornbread | Adds a sweet and crumbly element that can be enjoyed with the mole sauce |
| Sweet Potatoes | Provides a sweet and earthy component that complements the savory mole |
| Grilled Zucchini | Offers a light and refreshing vegetable option that pairs well with the mole |
| Sautéed Kale | Adds a nutritious and slightly bitter green component to the mole dish |
| Guacamole | Provides a creamy and tangy element that contrasts with the richness of the mole |
| Cilantro Lime Rice | Adds a zesty and herbaceous rice dish that complements the mole flavors |
| Mexican Coleslaw | Offers a crunchy and refreshing side dish that balances the flavors of the mole |
| Baked Beans | Provides a hearty and flavorful addition that complements the mole sauce |
| Black Beans | Adds a protein-rich side dish that pairs well with the mole and other flavors |
| Quesadillas | Offers a cheesy and satisfying option that can be enjoyed alongside the mole |
| Cheese Enchiladas | Provides a rich and cheesy dish that complements the flavors of the mole |
1. Mexican Street Corn
The perfect accompaniment to a plate of chicken mole is Mexican Street Corn.
This easy side dish takes minutes to prepare and adds a delicious kick of flavor to any meal.
Start by prepping your ingredients: corn on the cob, mayonnaise, cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime juice.
Grill or boil the corn until it’s tender, then let it cool before cutting off the cob.
In a small bowl, mix together the mayo, cheese, chili powder and lime juice until combined.
Spoon this mixture over the corn and sprinkle with more cheese if desired.
Serve warm or cold for a tasty side dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
2. Refried Beans
For a savory side to pair with chicken mole, you can’t go wrong with refried beans.
The dish combines creamy, mashed pinto beans with spices and aromatics that bring out the flavor of the mole.
It’s like a party in your mouth!
Here’s what you need:
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Beans:
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1 lb dried pinto beans
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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Spices and aromatics:
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½ teaspoon chili powder
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1 teaspoon cumin
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¼ teaspoon ground coriander seed
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1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried oregano)
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Salt and pepper to taste
To prepare your refried beans, start by soaking the pinto beans overnight. In the morning, drain them and rinse them thoroughly.
Place them in a large pot with enough water to cover them.
Bring the water to a boil then reduce it to medium heat and let cook for one hour.
Once they are soft, strain off the excess liquid then mash until creamy.
Heat up some olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat then add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
Add mashed beans followed by spices and herbs.
Stir together until all is combined then season with salt and pepper as desired.
Serve warm alongside your chicken mole for an unbeatable combination of flavors!
3. Roasted Vegetables
To compliment the chicken mole, refried beans offer a savory and filling option.
The warmth of the beans pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of the mole.
Refried beans can either be served alongside or blended into the sauce, depending on taste preference.
For a lighter, more healthful accompaniment, roasted vegetables are a great choice.
Carrots, bell peppers, onions and sweet potatoes are all excellent options for roasting in the oven with some olive oil, garlic and salt.
The vegetables become tender as they roast and will bring an additional layer of flavor to the dish while still allowing the mole to shine through.
Adding a side salad is another way to round out your meal without detracting from it.
A simple green salad dressed with olive oil and balsamic vinegar is perfect for this dish as it won’t overpower it but still provides a crunchy contrast to its richness.
Combined with refried beans and roasted vegetables, you have a delicious dinner that’s sure to please any crowd!
4. Spanish Rice
Spanish Rice is a delicious accompaniment to Chicken Mole.
It’s a simple dish featuring long-grain white rice and diced vegetables, all cooked together in one pot.
Here’s how to prepare it:
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Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
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Add 1 chopped onion, 1 chopped bell pepper, and salt and pepper to taste. Cook until the vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes.
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Stir in 2 cups of long-grain white rice; cook for about 3 minutes until lightly toasted. Then add 2 cups of chicken broth and 1 cup of tomato sauce and bring the mixture to a boil.
Cover the skillet and reduce the heat so that the mixture simmers gently for 20 minutes, or until all of the liquid has been absorbed by the rice.
Serve hot with Chicken Mole as an easy but satisfying side dish your family will love!
5. Cornbread
Transitioning from the Spanish Rice, Cornbread is the perfect accompaniment to chicken mole.
This Southern-style bread is sure to add a delightful touch to your meal.
The sweetness and slight crunch of cornbread will balance the deep flavors of mole and make for an unforgettable dinner.
Cornbread is incredibly easy to make, so even novice cooks can feel confident in making it.
All you need are basic pantry staples like white flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt mixed with milk and eggs.
Once mixed together you’ll have a thick batter that you can bake in a skillet or muffin tin until golden brown on top.
A slice of cornbread served alongside chicken mole creates an amazing combination of flavors and textures.
The slightly sweet cornmeal pairs perfectly with the savory sauce, creating an irresistible meal that’s sure to become a favorite for years to come.
Enjoy!
6. Sweet Potatoes
Baked sweet potatoes are the perfect accompaniment to chicken mole.
With their slightly sweet taste and creamy texture, they bring out the savory flavors of the mole.
You can easily prepare baked sweet potatoes for your meal in just a few simple steps.
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
Begin by scrubbing each potato with a vegetable brush and then drying them off with a paper towel.
Prick each potato multiple times with a fork and rub each one with olive oil before adding any desired seasonings such as salt, pepper, or garlic powder.
Place the potatoes on a rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 45 minutes or until they are tender.
The best part about serving baked sweet potatoes is that you can top them off however you like! Try adding fresh herbs, butter, sour cream, grated cheese, or even some chili flakes for an extra kick of flavor.
Serve as-is or mash them up into a smooth puree – either way they’ll be sure to please everyone at your dinner table!
7. Grilled Zucchini
While sweet potatoes have a comforting and familiar flavor profile, adding grilled zucchini to the plate further brings out the deliciousness of a chicken mole dinner.
The crunchy texture of the zucchini compliments the softness of the sweet potatoes, while its mild flavor balances out the boldness of the mole.
Grilling also adds an extra layer of smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with Mexican cuisine.
The key to grilling zucchini is to slice it into thin discs and use high heat so that it can brown without getting too soft or mushy.
A little olive oil helps them cook quickly and evenly and adds a pleasant nuttiness to the dish.
To keep things simple, season with salt and pepper or add some herbs like oregano or thyme for an extra kick.
Serving these two vegetables alongside chicken mole makes for a colorful and vibrant presentation that will surely impress your guests!
The combination of flavors is sure to tantalize taste buds and leave everyone wanting more.
With a few well-chosen sides, you can take this classic Mexican dish up a notch on flavor.
8. Sautéed Kale
Forget the ordinary side dishes – this sautéed kale is a must-have accompaniment to your chicken mole!
Its vibrant green hue and crispy texture bring brightness to the plate, while its subtle nutty flavor pairs perfectly with the complex spices of the mole.
With just a few simple ingredients, you can quickly whip up this delicious dish.
Start by prepping your kale – pick out any stems and tear into bite-sized pieces.
Heat a large skillet over medium heat, then add some oil or butter to coat the pan.
Toss in your kale and give it a good stir until it’s all lightly coated with fat.
Add some garlic for extra flavor, then cook for about 5 minutes or until lightly browned, stirring occasionally.
Once cooked, sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste and serve alongside your chicken mole.
Enjoy!
9. Guacamole
Guacamole is an essential accompaniment to any chicken mole dish.
The luscious creaminess of the avocado pairs wonderfully with the slightly spicy and complex flavors of the mole sauce.
The best way to make guacamole is with ripe avocados, freshly squeezed lime juice, finely diced onion, and cilantro.
Mix everything together in a bowl until it’s well combined and creamy.
You can also add tomatoes and jalapeños for some extra kick if you’d like! This guacamole recipe is sure to be a hit at your dinner table when served alongside your chicken mole dish!
It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and adds a delicious layer of texture that no other accompaniment can match.
Not to mention, it’s also healthy and nutritious too!
10. Cilantro Lime Rice
Cilantro Lime Rice is a perfect accompaniment to chicken mole.
The fragrant combination of jasmine rice with freshly squeezed lime juice and cilantro adds zesty flavor to the dish.
The texture is light and fluffy, creating a pleasing contrast to the rich mole sauce.
The versatility of this side dish means it can pair with a variety of mains and flavors.
Its bright citrus notes cut through the spiciness of traditional Mexican sauces, while its hint of herbaceousness compliments earthy dishes like mole.
Plus, it couldn’t be simpler to make – just prepare the rice as normal and add freshly chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice before serving.
A bowl full of Cilantro Lime Rice makes for an inviting presentation at any dinner table, offering color, texture and flavor in one simple side dish. Plus, it’s sure to please even picky eaters!
11. Mexican Coleslaw
Nothing beats the indulgent, complex flavor of chicken mole – it’s a classic Mexican dish that everyone loves.
Paired with the perfect side dishes, this delicious meal can be taken to the next level! One great option for serving with chicken mole is Mexican coleslaw.
It’s easy to make, incredibly flavorful and provides a nice crunchy contrast to the rich, creamy mole sauce.
To make Mexican coleslaw you’ll need the following ingredients:
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Shredded Cabbage | 4 cups | Can also use Napa cabbage or broccoli slaw blend. |
| Red Onion | 1/2 cup | Finely diced |
| Carrot | 1/2 cup | Grated or shredded (optional) |
| Lime Juice | 2 tablespoons | Freshly squeezed preferred over bottled juice. |
Simply combine all of these ingredients in a bowl and season with salt and pepper to taste.
For an extra bit of spice, try adding a pinch of cayenne powder or chili flakes!
The slaw can be made ahead of time and kept refrigerated until ready to serve.
Once prepared, top with cilantro leaves for an added touch of freshness.
Serve with freshly cooked chicken mole for a delicious meal that will leave your guests asking for seconds!
12. Baked Beans
Aromatic and delicious, baked beans are an ideal accompaniment to chicken mole.
They bring both texture and flavor to the plate, while adding a hint of smokiness.
Cooked in a sauce of tomato, chili pepper, garlic, onion and spices, this classic side dish is sure to tantalize the taste buds.
In short, it’s simply a perfect pairing for your Mexican-inspired meal.
Baked beans are not only tasty but also incredibly versatile; they can be served as part of a main course or as an appetizer alongside chips or crackers.
Plus, they make for easy leftovers – simply refrigerate for up to five days and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy them again!
All in all, baked beans are an excellent choice for anyone looking for a flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with chicken mole.
13. Black Beans
When it comes to what to serve with chicken mole, you can’t go wrong with black beans.
Not only are they versatile and packed with protein, but they also pair perfectly with the rich and smoky flavors of this Mexican classic.
Plus, they’re easy to make and don’t require a ton of effort or time. Here’s why black beans are the perfect accompaniment for your chicken mole:
- They add a hearty texture that complements the sauce’s smooth creaminess.
- The earthy tones in the beans help bring out the unique complexities of the mole spice blend.
- Black beans provide a great source of fiber, which helps balance out the heavier ingredients in the dish.
- They can be cooked in as little as 20 minutes, so you can quickly get them on the table without having to plan too far ahead.
- Black beans also add a beautiful color contrast to your plate that looks impressive when served.
So there you have it – if you’re looking for an easy side dish to serve alongside your chicken mole, look no further than black beans!
They offer an ideal combination of flavor and nutrition that any guest will love.
14. Quesadillas
Quesadillas are the perfect accompaniment to chicken mole, adding a crunchy, savory texture and flavor to round out the meal.
These Mexican-inspired treats are easy to make at home, with any type of tortilla and filling you like.
To make them extra special, try using a homemade tortilla for the base; it will add an even more authentic flavor.
If you’re looking for something a bit heartier, you can top your quesadillas with refried beans or ground beef before grilling them to perfection.
For an even more indulgent treat, fill your quesadillas with melted cheese and diced jalapeños or onions—the spicy kick will pair perfectly with the rich mole sauce.
No matter what ingredients you choose to use, quesadillas are sure to be a hit when served alongside chicken mole.
They’re easy to make ahead of time and reheat just before serving, so they’re ideal for busy nights when you want a delicious meal without all the fuss.
Enjoy!
15. Cheese Enchiladas
If you are looking to bring some Mexican-style flavor to your meal, cheese enchiladas are the perfect accompaniment to chicken mole.
With just a few simple ingredients, they can be whipped up in no time!
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Flour or corn tortillas
- Shredded cheese
- Enchilada sauce
- Chopped onion (optional)
To get started, preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly grease a baking dish with oil or nonstick spray.
Take two tortillas and spread some cheese in between them before rolling them up like a burrito, then place them in the baking dish.
If you’re feeling adventurous, add some chopped onion to the mixture for an extra layer of flavor!
Once all of your enchiladas are ready, cover them with enchilada sauce and sprinkle some more cheese on top for good measure.
Bake for about 20 minutes until the cheese is melted and lightly golden brown on top. Serve hot and enjoy!
These cheesy enchiladas will add some South-of-the-border flair to your meal while providing a delicious balance of textures and flavors when paired with chicken mole.
Plus, they are so easy to make that anyone can whip up a batch in no time at all – giving you more time to savor the meal with family or friends!
Conclusion
I’m sure everyone will be pleased with these 15 dishes to serve with chicken mole.
You can’t go wrong with the classic Mexican street corn or refried beans for a flavorful side dish.
Roasted vegetables and Spanish rice are great options if you want something slightly more savory.
Cornbread and baked beans add a touch of sweetness, while black beans and quesadillas are sure to please the whole family.
And finally, cheese enchiladas are an easy way to round out the meal.
With these sides, you’ll have a complete dinner that everyone will love.
Serve it up in style, and enjoy your delicious chicken mole!
I guarantee it’ll be one of your favorite meals yet.
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