If you're looking for a flavorful and filling meal, look no further than a 1 tray (255 g) Chicken Mole Enchilada! This classic Mexican dish features tender chicken smothered in a rich mole sauce and wrapped in a soft corn tortilla. And with only 400 calories per serving, it's a guilt-free indulgence.

But it's not just delicious - it's also packed with nutrients. A single serving of chicken mole enchiladas contains 13 grams of fat, 45 milligrams of cholesterol, 42 grams of carbohydrates, 6 grams of fiber, and 20 grams of protein. Plus, it's loaded with vitamins and minerals like iron, potassium, and calcium.

In this article, we'll explore everything there is to know about chicken mole enchiladas - from their history to how to make them at home, to other ways you can enjoy this flavorful sauce. So grab a fork and get ready to dig in!

Calories and Serving Size

As mentioned above, a serving of chicken mole enchiladas contains 400 calories. But what exactly does that look like in terms of serving size? One tray (255 g) is considered a single serving. Of course, if you're watching your calorie intake, you can always opt to cut the dish in half and save the rest for later. Or you can pair it with a side of veggies or salad to balance out your meal.

Fat and Cholesterol Content

While chicken mole enchiladas are certainly delicious, they do contain a fair amount of fat and cholesterol. A single serving contains 13 grams of fat and 45 milligrams of cholesterol. However, it's important to remember that not all fats are created equal. The fat in this dish comes primarily from the chicken and mole sauce, both of which contain healthy fats like omega-3s. And while cholesterol should be limited in one's diet, the amount in this dish is not excessively high.

Carbohydrates and Fiber

Carbohydrates are an important source of energy for the body, but it's also important to choose carbohydrates that provide fiber. A serving of chicken mole enchiladas contains 42 grams of carbohydrates and 6 grams of fiber. Fiber is essential for digestive health and can also help lower cholesterol levels. And because fiber slows down digestion, it can help you feel fuller for longer.

Protein and Sodium

Protein is important for building and repairing tissue in the body, and a single serving of chicken mole enchiladas contains 20 grams of protein. However, this dish does contain a fair amount of sodium - 980 milligrams per serving. Those watching their sodium intake may want to limit their portion sizes or pair the dish with low-sodium sides.

Vitamins and Minerals

Chicken mole enchiladas are also packed with vitamins and minerals. One serving contains 22% of your recommended daily intake of iron, 16% of your recommended daily intake of calcium, and 12% of your recommended daily intake of potassium. Iron helps transport oxygen around the body, calcium is essential for strong bones and teeth, and potassium helps regulate blood pressure and fluid balance in the body.

Variations of the Dish

While traditional chicken mole enchiladas are delicious on their own, there are plenty of variations you can try to mix things up. For example, you can swap out the chicken for beef or tofu, or add some veggies like peppers or onions. You could also experiment with different types of mole sauce - there are seven main types, each with their own unique blend of ingredients and flavors.

History of Mole

Mole is a rich and complex sauce that has been a staple of Mexican cuisine for centuries. Its roots can be traced back to pre-Columbian times, when indigenous peoples in Mexico would grind up different types of chili peppers and blend them with other ingredients like seeds, nuts, and chocolate. Today, mole comes in many different varieties, each with their own unique blend of ingredients and flavors. Some are sweet, some are spicy, and some are savory - but all are delicious.

How to Make Chicken Mole Enchiladas at Home

While you can certainly purchase pre-made mole sauce at the store, making your own from scratch is an excellent way to experiment with different flavors and tailor the recipe to your taste. Here's a basic recipe for chicken mole enchiladas: 1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook 1 lb. of chicken breast until it's no longer pink. Remove from skillet and let cool. 2. In the same skillet, heat 1 tbsp. of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add 1 chopped onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, and 1 seeded and diced poblano pepper. Cook until the onion is translucent (about 5 minutes).

Alternative Ways to Enjoy Mole Sauce

While chicken mole enchiladas are a classic way to enjoy this flavorful sauce, there are plenty of other dishes you can create with it. Here are a few ideas: - Use it as a marinade for chicken or beef - Drizzle it over grilled veggies or tofu for a vegetarian option

Healthy Tips for Eating Chicken Mole Enchiladas

While chicken mole enchiladas are certainly delicious, it's important to practice moderation and portion control to ensure they're part of a healthy and balanced diet. Here are a few tips to keep in mind: - Consider splitting the dish in half to save some for later, or pairing it with low-calorie sides like veggies or salad - If you're watching your sodium intake, be aware that the dish contains 980 mg per serving - consider pairing it with low-sodium sides to balance out your meal.