Pesto-Stuffed & Serrano-Wrapped Chicken with Creamy Cauliflower Mash
Looking for a quick, healthy, and flavour-packed dinner idea? This pesto-stuffed and Serrano-wrapped chicken breast on creamy cauliflower mash is ready in under 35 minutes and makes the perfect nutrient-rich meal for two. As a Fremantle nutritionist, I love creating recipes that aren’t just delicious but also support hormone balance, blood sugar stability, and overall wellbeing.
This was a recipe that my mum always made us growing up, and it has remained a comforting, nourishing favourite in my kitchen. I’ve given it a little nutritionist twist with cauliflower mash instead of normal mash which you can also definitely use too, but it still has that homely, family feel.
Why This Recipe is Good For You
This dish brings together a beautiful balance of protein, healthy fats, and non-starchy vegetables — all key components of a well-rounded, nourishing meal. Here’s why it’s a standout:
Chicken breast → A lean source of protein to keep you satisfied, repair muscles, and help stabilise blood sugar.
Pesto → Packed with zinc, magnesium, and tryptophan to support mood, hormones, and better sleep.
Serrano ham → Adds natural sodium and depth of flavour, complementing the lean protein.
Cauliflower mash → A lighter alternative to potatoes, rich in fibre and sulforaphane to support gut and liver detox pathways.
Olive oil → Full of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants.
Who This Recipe Supports
This meal is particularly supportive for:
PMS → Cauliflower supports the liver in clearing excess estrogen, which may help with symptoms like bloating, breast tenderness, and mood changes.
PCOS → Using cauliflower instead of starchy carbs makes the dish lower GI, supporting balanced blood sugar levels.
Hypothyroidism → Chicken and seeds provide zinc, magnesium, and protein — essential for thyroid health and reducing inflammation.
Mood & sleep → Seeds and chicken contain tryptophan, which supports serotonin production.
Recipe (Serves 2)
Ingredients:
2 chicken breasts (200g each)
8 slices Serrano ham
4–6 tbsp pumpkin seed pesto
1 large cauliflower, chopped (florets + stalk)
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
Method:
Preheat oven to 180°C. Lay 3 slices of Serrano ham on a baking tray, place chicken breast on top. Slice into the breast to create a cavity (careful not to cut all the way through).
Stuff with 2 heaped tbsp of pesto, fold ham to wrap, then add a 4th slice on top with an extra dollop of pesto. Repeat for second breast.
Roast for 25 minutes until golden and cooked through. Rest for 5 minutes.
While the chicken cooks, boil cauliflower for 12 minutes until soft. Drain, then blend with Dijon, olive oil, and salt until creamy.
Slice the chicken, serve over cauliflower mash, and drizzle with the resting juices.
Final Thoughts
This simple recipe proves that eating well doesn’t have to be complicated. With wholefood ingredients that support hormone balance, blood sugar stability, and thyroid health, it’s a great weeknight option that feels indulgent but is deeply nourishing. And for me, it will always carry the comfort of a family favourite passed down from my mum.
If you’re looking for more wholefood meal ideas or personalised nutrition guidance, working with a Fremantle nutritionist can help you tailor your diet to your health needs and lifestyle.