Fijian-style Spiced Chicken with Coconut Mole

Ingredients

In this Fijian adaptation, the traditional Mexican mole is transformed into a coconut-based sauce infused with Fijian flavors such as ginger, turmeric, and tropical fruits. The spiced chicken is marinated with Fijian spices and cooked using Fijian cooking techniques, resulting in a unique fusion dish that combines the best of both cuisines. We alse have the original recipe for Mole coloradito, so you can check it out.

• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
• 2 tablespoons Fijian curry powder 2 tablespoons Fijian curry powder
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon cumin 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon coriander 1 teaspoon coriander
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red chili, finely chopped 1 red chili, finely chopped
• 1 cup coconut milk 1 cup coconut milk
• 1 cup chicken broth 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• Juice of 1 lime Juice of 1 lime
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Steamed rice, for serving Steamed rice, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 420 kcal / 1760 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 28g, 18g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 8g, 3g
• Protein: 35g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a bowl, combine the Fijian curry powder, ground ginger, ground turmeric, paprika, cumin, coriander, and salt. Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken thighs and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. 2.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken thighs and cook until browned on both sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. 3.
   In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and red chili. Sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
4. 4.
   Pour in the coconut milk, chicken broth, tomato paste, brown sugar, and lime juice. Stir well to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. 5.
   Return the chicken thighs to the skillet, cover, and let them simmer in the coconut mole sauce for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
6. 6.
   Serve the Fijian-style Spiced Chicken with Coconut Mole over steamed rice. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Fijian curry powder — Use a store-bought Fijian curry powder or make your own by combining ground turmeric, cumin, coriander, and other spices commonly used in Fijian cuisine.
• Coconut milk — Use full-fat coconut milk for a rich and creamy sauce. Shake the can well before opening to ensure the coconut cream and water are well mixed.
• Tomato paste — If you prefer a sweeter mole sauce, you can substitute tomato paste with tomato sauce or puree.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra burst of flavor, marinate the chicken overnight in the spice blend.
• Adjust the spiciness by adding more or less red chili according to your preference.
• If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can blend the coconut mole using a blender or immersion blender before adding the chicken back to the skillet.
• Serve the dish with a side of fresh tropical fruits, such as pineapple or mango, to enhance the Fijian experience.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Serving advice

Serve the Fijian-style Spiced Chicken with Coconut Mole over a bed of steamed rice. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro for a pop of color and freshness.

Presentation advice

Arrange the chicken thighs on a platter, spoon the coconut mole sauce over them, and sprinkle with chopped fresh cilantro. Serve with a side of steamed rice in a separate bowl for an appealing presentation.