Chicken in a creamy peanut and dried chile sauce, a Mexican take on nut-based sauces. This high protein chicken dish offers rich, savory flavors for an impressive family meal.
Season the chicken thighs with 0.5 tsp salt and black pepper on both sides. Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Sear the chicken for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown, then transfer to a plate (do not cook through).
Add the remaining 1 tbsp oil to the skillet. Toast the peanuts, pasilla chiles, and garlic for 2-3 minutes over medium heat, stirring to prevent burning.
Add the sliced onion and tomato to the skillet, cooking until the onion is softened, about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally for even caramelization.
Transfer the peanuts, chiles, onion, tomato, and garlic to a blender. Pour in 1 cup chicken broth, cinnamon, sugar, and remaining 0.5 tsp salt. Blend until a smooth, thick sauce forms.
Return the chicken to the skillet. Pour the peanut-chile sauce over the chicken. Add the remaining 0.5 cup chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer over medium-low. Cover and cook for 30 minutes, turning the chicken once halfway, until the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce is rich and creamy.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed before serving. Serve hot with rice or warm tortillas as desired.