High Protein Pesto Chicken Pocket
This Pesto Chicken Pocket is a delicious, high-protein meal designed to support muscle growth, gut health, and energy levels. It’s packed with lean protein, healthy fats, and fibre-rich ingredients, making it a balanced and satisfying option for any meal.
Pesto chicken pocket
Serves: 1
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
- 200g chicken mince
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon pesto
- ½ - 1 cup mozzarella cheese (approximately 75g)
- ½ cup baby spinach (approximately 50g)
- 3 tablespoons sundried tomatoes (approximately 30g)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (approximately 50g)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (fan-forced).
- In a bowl, mix the ground chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- On a sheet of baking paper, flatten the chicken into a rectangle shape.
- Spread pesto on one side, then layer with sundried tomatoes, baby spinach, and mozzarella cheese.
- Fold the chicken over the filling and press the edges to seal.
- Coat the outside with breadcrumbs, pressing them gently to stick.
- Place on a lined baking tray and bake (or air fry) for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and fully cooked.
- Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Health Benefits of This Recipe
High in Protein for Muscle Maintenance
This meal provides 58g of protein per serving, supporting muscle strength, metabolism, and satiety. Protein is essential for hormonal balance and tissue repair, making it a key nutrient for women at all stages of life.
Gut Health Support
Ingredients like baby spinach and sundried tomatoes provide fibre and antioxidants that support gut microbiome health, digestion, and nutrient absorption. A healthy gut plays a key role in immunity, metabolism, and energy levels.
Healthy Fats for Hormonal Balance
Pesto and mozzarella contain essential fats that support hormonal function, brain health, and skin elasticity. These fats also help with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K.
Supports Bone Strength
Mozzarella is a rich source of calcium, which is essential for bone density and reducing the risk of osteoporosis. This is especially important for women in perimenopause and menopause, when bone loss tends to accelerate.
Boosts Energy and Reduces Fatigue
This recipe contains iron, magnesium, and B vitamins, which help to combat fatigue, support red blood cell production, and promote overall vitality. Nutrient deficiencies can contribute to low energy levels, so incorporating iron-rich foods like spinach can help.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Paprika and sundried tomatoes contain powerful antioxidants that help reduce inflammation in the body. Chronic inflammation is linked to hormonal imbalances, digestive issues, and metabolic slowdowns, so incorporating anti-inflammatory foods is beneficial for long-term health.
Macronutrients (Per Serving)
Calories: 520 kcal
Protein: 58g
Fats: 26g
Carbohydrates: 44g