Creating Chocolate Mole Chicken Thighs is straightforward when you follow these steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Sear the Chicken: In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then add them skin-side down to the skillet. Sear for about 5-7 minutes until the skin is golden brown. Flip and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently.

4. Add the Spices: Stir in the chili powder, cumin, oregano, and cinnamon. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

5. Incorporate the Liquid Ingredients: Pour in the chicken broth and crushed tomatoes. Bring to a simmer and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.

6. Blend in the Mole Ingredients: Stir in the almond butter and chopped dark chocolate until fully melted and incorporated into the sauce.

7. Return the Chicken: Place the seared chicken thighs back into the skillet, skin-side up. Ensure they are nestled in the sauce.

8. Bake: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

9. Rest: Remove the skillet from the oven and allow the chicken to rest for about 5 minutes before serving.

10. Garnish and Serve: Top with fresh cilantro, if desired, and serve the chicken thighs with the mole sauce over rice, tortillas, or alongside your favorite sides.