Name: Holy Mole Enchilada Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1½ cup holy mole sauce; 8 large flour tortillas; 2 chicken breasts; 30 oz pinto beans; 8 oz cheese; To serve:; Sesame seeds; avocado; fresh cilantro; radish; red or green onion; cotija cheese

Indulge in the rich and complex flavors of these holy mole enchiladas. With every bite, you'll experience a harmonious blend of spices, tender chicken, and creamy beans, all wrapped in soft flour tortillas and baked to perfection. Served with fresh toppings like avocado, radish, and cotija cheese, this dish is a true celebration of Mexican cuisine.

Photos of Holy Mole Enchilada Recipe

One ingredient you might need to look for is holy mole sauce, a rich and flavorful Mexican sauce made with a blend of spices, chocolate, and chili peppers. You can typically find it in the international or Hispanic foods section of your supermarket. Additionally, cotija cheese and radish might be less common in some households, but they add wonderful texture and flavor to the dish.

Ingredients For Holy Mole Enchilada Recipe

holy mole sauce: A traditional Mexican sauce with a rich, complex flavor made from a blend of spices, chocolate, and chili peppers.

flour tortillas: Soft, large tortillas that serve as the base for wrapping the enchilada filling.

chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are cooked and shredded for the filling.

pinto beans: Creamy beans that add texture and protein to the enchilada filling.

cheese: A mix of cheeses to provide a gooey, melted texture inside the enchiladas.

sesame seeds: Nutty seeds used as a garnish to add a bit of crunch and flavor.

avocado: Creamy fruit that adds a fresh, rich texture when served as a topping.

fresh cilantro: An aromatic herb that provides a burst of fresh flavor as a garnish.

radish: Crunchy and slightly spicy, these thinly sliced vegetables add a refreshing contrast.

red or green onion: Sharp and flavorful, these onions add a bit of bite to the dish.

cotija cheese: A crumbly, salty Mexican cheese that adds a distinctive flavor as a topping.

One reader, Fonzie Carney says:

This holy mole enchilada recipe is absolutely divine! The rich, flavorful mole sauce perfectly complements the tender chicken and creamy beans. Topped with fresh avocado, cilantro, and cotija cheese, it's a feast for the senses. Easy to make and incredibly satisfying—definitely a new favorite in our household!

Fonzie Carney

Key Techniques for Making Holy Mole Enchilada Recipe

How to shred chicken: Cook the chicken breasts until fully cooked, then use two forks to pull the meat apart into shreds. How to spread sauce: Use a spoon to evenly distribute the mole sauce over the surface of the tortillas and the baking dish. How to roll enchiladas: Place the filling in the center of the tortilla, fold the sides over the filling, and then roll it up tightly. How to garnish: Add toppings like sesame seeds, avocado, fresh cilantro, radish, red or green onion, and cotija cheese to the baked enchiladas before serving.

How To Make Holy Mole Enchilada

Another one of Holy Mole’s Mexican favorites is their enchilada and lucky for you, we’re able to spruce up our own version of the classic dish. Enjoy!

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Total: 40 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1½cupholy mole sauce
8largeflour tortillas
2chicken breastsbaked, shredded (or your preferred filling)
30ozpinto beansor black beans, rinsed and drained
8ozcheeseshredded

To serve:

sesame seedstoasted
avocadosliced
fresh cilantrochopped
radishsliced
red or green onionsliced
cotija cheesecrumbled

Instructions

Heat oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
Pour 1/3 cup mole into the bottom of the baking dish, and spread it around evenly with a spoon to cover the entire surface. Set aside.
Place a tortilla flat on a plate, and spoon a heaping tablespoon of mole into the center of the tortilla. Spread it around evenly with a spoon. Then add ¼ cup of shredded cheese in a line down the center of the tortilla, topped with a spoonful of beans and handful of shredded chicken. Roll up the enchilada, and place it in the prepared baking dish, seam side down. Repeat with the remaining tortillas, cheese, beans and chicken. Then pour the remaining sauce down the center of the pan of enchiladas, and use a spoon to spread it around evenly.
Bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, until the enchiladas are heated through and the tortillas are a bit crispy. Remove from the oven, garnish with tons of toppings.
Then serve warm, and enjoy! Or cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Calories: 741.28kcal
Fat: 19.57g
Saturated Fat: 7.65g
Trans Fat: 0.39g
Monounsaturated Fat: 6.63g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.01g
Carbohydrates: 97.14g
Fiber: 18.02g
Sugar: 3.97g
Protein: 43.61g
Cholesterol: 56.76mg
Sodium: 678.31mg
Calcium: 417.72mg
Potassium: 1692.09mg
Iron: 7.83mg
Vitamin A: 93.07µg
Vitamin C: 7.34mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Holy Mole Enchilada Recipe

To ensure your enchiladas are evenly cooked and the tortillas don't get soggy, lightly toast each tortilla in a dry skillet for about 30 seconds on each side before assembling. This adds a slight crispness and helps them hold up better during baking.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Enchiladas

Prepare the filling: Cook and shred the chicken breasts ahead of time and store them in the fridge.

Use pre-made sauce: Buy a high-quality holy mole sauce to save time on preparation.

Pre-shredded cheese: Purchase pre-shredded cheese to eliminate the need for grating.

Assemble in batches: Lay out all tortillas and fill them assembly-line style to speed up the process.

Pre-cooked beans: Use canned pinto beans to avoid soaking and cooking them from scratch.

Garnish efficiently: Prepare all toppings like avocado, cilantro, and radish in advance.

Substitute Ingredients For Holy Mole Enchilada Recipe

holy mole sauce - Substitute with enchilada sauce: Enchilada sauce provides a similar rich and complex flavor profile, though it may lack the chocolate undertones of mole.
large flour tortillas - Substitute with corn tortillas: Corn tortillas offer a more traditional and slightly healthier option, adding a distinct flavor and texture.
chicken breasts - Substitute with turkey breasts: Turkey breasts provide a similar texture and protein content, making them a suitable alternative.
pinto beans - Substitute with black beans: Black beans have a similar texture and nutritional profile, offering a slightly different but complementary flavor.
cheese - Substitute with vegan cheese: Vegan cheese is a good alternative for those who are lactose intolerant or following a plant-based diet.
sesame seeds - Substitute with pumpkin seeds: Pumpkin seeds offer a similar crunch and nutty flavor, adding a unique twist to the dish.
avocado - Substitute with guacamole: Guacamole provides a creamy texture and rich flavor, making it a suitable alternative.
fresh cilantro - Substitute with parsley: Parsley offers a fresh and slightly peppery flavor, making it a good substitute for cilantro.
radish - Substitute with jicama: Jicama provides a similar crunch and mild flavor, adding a refreshing element to the dish.
red or green onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder and slightly sweeter flavor, making them a good alternative to onions.
cotija cheese - Substitute with feta cheese: Feta cheese has a similar crumbly texture and salty flavor, making it a suitable substitute.

How to Beautifully Present Holy Mole Enchiladas

Serve smaller portion sizes: Create elegant, bite-sized portions of the enchiladas to ensure each guest gets a perfect taste without overwhelming their palate.
Use decoration: Garnish each plate with a sprinkle of sesame seeds, a few slices of radish, and a sprig of fresh cilantro to add color and texture.
Layer flavors: Place a thin slice of avocado on top of each enchilada to add a creamy contrast to the rich holy mole sauce.
Highlight ingredients: Crumble some cotija cheese over the enchiladas to provide a salty, tangy finish that complements the other flavors.
Add height: Stack the enchiladas slightly off-center and at an angle to create visual interest and elevate the presentation.
Use elegant plating: Serve the enchiladas on a large, white plate to make the colors pop and give a clean, sophisticated look.
Incorporate fresh elements: Add a few thin slices of red or green onion for a fresh, crisp bite that contrasts with the warm, soft enchiladas.
Drizzle sauce artistically: Use a squeeze bottle to drizzle extra holy mole sauce in a decorative pattern around the plate, enhancing both flavor and presentation.

Essential Tools for Making Enchiladas

Oven: Used to bake the enchiladas at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until they are heated through and the tortillas are crispy.
9×13-inch baking dish: This dish is used to hold the enchiladas while they bake in the oven.
Cooking spray: Used to lightly grease the baking dish to prevent the enchiladas from sticking.
Spoon: Essential for spreading the mole sauce evenly on the tortillas and in the baking dish.
Plate: Provides a flat surface to assemble each enchilada before placing it in the baking dish.
Measuring cups: Used to measure the mole sauce, cheese, and beans accurately.
Shredding tool: Used to shred the cheese and chicken for the enchilada filling.
Knife: Useful for slicing garnishes like avocado, radish, and onions.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for cutting and preparing garnishes.
Mixing bowl: Optional, but can be used to mix the shredded chicken and beans together before filling the tortillas.
Tongs: Handy for placing the rolled enchiladas into the baking dish without unrolling them.
Aluminum foil: Optional, for covering the enchiladas if you plan to refrigerate or freeze them.

Storing and Freezing Instructions for Enchiladas

Once the enchiladas have cooled to room temperature, wrap the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This will help prevent any excess moisture from seeping into the enchiladas and making them soggy.
If you have any leftover enchiladas, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
For longer storage, you can freeze the enchiladas for up to 3 months. To do this, wrap the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Label the dish with the date and contents so you can easily identify it later.
When you're ready to enjoy the frozen enchiladas, remove them from the freezer and let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, remove the plastic wrap and foil, and bake the enchiladas in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 20-25 minutes or until heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
If you want to freeze individual portions of the enchiladas, simply wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Place the wrapped enchiladas in a freezer-safe container or bag, and label it with the date and contents. To reheat, remove the desired number of enchiladas from the freezer, unwrap them, and microwave for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.

The Best Ways to Reheat Leftover Enchiladas

To reheat leftover holy mole enchiladas in the oven, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the enchiladas in an oven-safe dish and cover them with foil. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until they are heated through. For a crispier top, remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking.
Microwaving is another quick and easy option. Place the enchiladas on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. This will help prevent them from drying out. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until they are heated through. The exact time will depend on the power of your microwave and the number of enchiladas you are reheating.
For a crispy texture, you can also reheat the enchiladas in a skillet. Heat a small amount of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Place the enchiladas in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are heated through and slightly crispy.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat your enchiladas. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the enchiladas in the basket and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until they are heated through and crispy.
Regardless of the method you choose, be sure to check the internal temperature of the enchiladas to ensure they have reached a safe temperature of 165°F (74°C). If the enchiladas are dry, you can add a small amount of mole sauce or chicken broth before reheating to help moisten them.

Interesting Fact About Holy Mole Enchiladas

A random fact about this recipe is that mole sauce is a traditional Mexican sauce made from a blend of ingredients including chocolate, chili peppers, and various spices, giving it a unique and rich flavor profile.

Is Making Holy Mole Enchiladas at Home Cost-Effective?

The holy mole enchilada recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. Using chicken breasts, pinto beans, and cheese as primary ingredients keeps the cost manageable. The toppings like avocado, fresh cilantro, and cotija cheese add a fresh touch without breaking the bank. Overall, this recipe scores an 8 out of 10 in terms of cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20-$25 USD, making it a budget-friendly yet delicious option.

Is This Enchilada Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

The holy mole enchilada recipe is a delicious and flavorful dish, but it may not be the healthiest option due to a few factors:

The recipe uses flour tortillas, which are high in refined carbohydrates and low in fiber
Cheese is a significant component, adding saturated fat and calories to the dish
The mole sauce, while rich in flavor, may contain added sugars and unhealthy fats depending on its preparation

However, the recipe does include some nutritious ingredients, such as:

Chicken breast, a lean protein source
Pinto beans, which provide fiber, protein, and various vitamins and minerals
Avocado and fresh vegetables as toppings, offering healthy fats, fiber, and micronutrients

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Swap flour tortillas for whole wheat or corn tortillas to increase fiber content and reduce refined carbohydrates
Use low-fat cheese or reduce the amount of cheese used to minimize saturated fat and calories
Prepare the mole sauce using healthy ingredients, such as unsweetened cocoa powder, and limit the use of added sugars and unhealthy fats
Increase the proportion of vegetables in the dish by adding sautéed bell peppers, onions, or zucchini to the filling
Serve the enchiladas with a side salad or extra vegetables to boost the overall nutrient content of the meal
Opt for Greek yogurt instead of sour cream as a topping to reduce fat and increase protein

By making these adjustments, you can enjoy the flavors of holy mole enchiladas while promoting a more balanced and nutritious meal.

Editor's Opinion on This Holy Mole Enchilada Recipe

This holy mole enchilada recipe is a delightful fusion of rich flavors and textures. The mole sauce adds a deep, complex taste that complements the tender chicken and creamy pinto beans perfectly. The use of flour tortillas ensures a soft, yet slightly crispy finish after baking. Topping with fresh avocado, cilantro, radish, and cotija cheese not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a refreshing contrast to the savory enchiladas. Overall, it's a well-balanced dish that's both comforting and sophisticated, ideal for a hearty meal or a special occasion.

Enhance Your Holy Mole Enchilada Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mexican Street Corn Salad: Imagine a vibrant corn salad bursting with flavors of lime, cilantro, and a hint of chili powder. This side dish brings a refreshing crunch and a zesty kick that perfectly complements the rich and savory holy mole enchiladas.

Cilantro Lime Rice: A fragrant bowl of rice infused with the zest of lime and the freshness of cilantro. This side dish adds a light and aromatic touch, balancing the deep flavors of the enchiladas with its citrusy brightness.

Black Bean and Mango Salad: A colorful medley of black beans, juicy mango, and crisp bell peppers. This salad offers a delightful contrast of textures and a sweet-savory harmony that dances on your palate, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Spicy Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Roasted sweet potatoes with a spicy twist, featuring a blend of cumin, paprika, and a touch of cayenne pepper. These caramelized bites provide a warm and earthy complement to the enchiladas, adding a layer of comfort and spice.

Tropical Fruit Salsa: A refreshing salsa made with a mix of pineapple, mango, and red onion, tossed with a hint of jalapeño and lime juice. This vibrant side dish brings a burst of tropical flavors that brighten up the meal and offer a delightful contrast to the rich mole sauce.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Holy Mole Enchiladas

Chicken Tinga Tacos: Dive into the rich flavors of chicken tinga tacos! These tacos feature shredded chicken simmered in a smoky, spicy tomato sauce, served on warm corn tortillas and topped with fresh cilantro, onions, and a squeeze of lime. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a festive gathering.

Poblano Pepper Quesadillas: Indulge in the cheesy goodness of poblano pepper quesadillas. These quesadillas are filled with roasted poblano peppers, melted cheese, and a hint of spice. Serve them with a side of guacamole and sour cream for a delightful meal.

Beef Barbacoa Burritos: Experience the bold flavors of beef barbacoa burritos. Slow-cooked beef is shredded and wrapped in a flour tortilla with rice, beans, and a medley of fresh vegetables. Top it off with a drizzle of sour cream and a sprinkle of cotija cheese.

Vegetarian Black Bean Enchiladas: Savor the hearty and wholesome taste of vegetarian black bean enchiladas. These enchiladas are stuffed with seasoned black beans, corn, and bell peppers, then smothered in a rich enchilada sauce and baked to perfection. Garnish with avocado slices and fresh cilantro.

Shrimp Fajitas: Treat yourself to the sizzling sensation of shrimp fajitas. Juicy shrimp are cooked with colorful bell peppers and onions, seasoned with a blend of spices. Serve with warm tortillas, salsa, and a dollop of sour cream for a mouthwatering meal.

Appetizer and Dessert Ideas to Serve with Enchiladas

Appetizers:

Stuffed Jalapeños: Kick off your meal with these spicy jalapeños stuffed with a creamy cheese blend and crispy bacon. The heat of the jalapeños is perfectly balanced by the richness of the cheese and the savory crunch of the bacon. Serve these with a side of cool ranch dip to add a refreshing contrast.

Mini Quesadillas: Delight your guests with these bite-sized quesadillas filled with a mix of melted cheese, sautéed onions, and bell peppers. These quesadillas are perfect for dipping into fresh salsa or guacamole. The crispy tortilla exterior gives way to a gooey, flavorful center that will leave everyone wanting more.

Desserts:

Churros with Chocolate Sauce: Churros with Chocolate Sauce: Delight your taste buds with crispy churros dusted in cinnamon sugar, paired with a rich, velvety chocolate sauce. The contrast between the crunchy exterior and the soft, doughy interior of the churros makes for a heavenly bite. Dip each piece into the warm chocolate sauce for an indulgent experience that complements the savory flavors of your holy mole enchiladas perfectly.

Tres Leches Cake: Tres Leches Cake: Indulge in a moist and airy Tres Leches Cake, soaked in a trio of milks—evaporated, condensed, and heavy cream. This Latin American classic is topped with a light, fluffy whipped cream and garnished with fresh fruits like strawberries or mango slices. The cake's unique texture and sweet, creamy flavor make it an ideal dessert to follow your holy mole enchiladas, offering a refreshing and satisfying end to your meal.

Why trust this Holy Mole Enchilada Recipe:

This holy mole enchilada recipe is a must-try for any Mexican food lover. The rich and flavorful holy mole sauce perfectly complements the tender chicken and creamy pinto beans. Topped with fresh ingredients like avocado, cilantro, and cotija cheese, these enchiladas offer an authentic and satisfying dining experience. Plus, the recipe is straightforward and easy to follow, ensuring delicious results every time. Trust in the quality and taste of this dish to elevate your next meal.

Share your thoughts on this Holy Mole Enchilada Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know how it turned out for you!

FAQ:

How do I make the holy mole sauce?

You can either buy pre-made holy mole sauce from the store or make it from scratch if you have a good recipe. Making it from scratch usually involves ingredients like dried chiles, chocolate, nuts, and spices blended together.

Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?

Absolutely! Corn tortillas can be a great alternative if you prefer them or need a gluten-free option. Just make sure to warm them up a bit before rolling to prevent cracking.

What type of cheese works best for this recipe?

I usually go with a good melting cheese like Monterey Jack or cheddar. You can also mix in some queso fresco or cotija for extra flavor.

Can I use a different type of beans?

Yes, you can substitute pinto beans with black beans, kidney beans, or even refried beans if you prefer. It all depends on your taste and what you have on hand.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?

You can cover and refrigerate the enchiladas for up to 3 days. To reheat, just pop them in the oven at 350 degrees F until warmed through. If you want to freeze them, they can last up to 3 months. Just thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating.