Apricot chicken with pumpkin pesto mash

Method

• Step 1
  Place the apricot in a small heatproof bowl and cover with boiling water. Set aside for 10 minutes to soak. Drain.
• Step 2
  Cook the pumpkin and potato in a saucepan of boiling water for 10 minutes or until soft.
• Step 3
  Meanwhile, melt the butter in a non-stick frying pan over medium heat. Add the shallot and cook, stirring, for 1 minute or until soft. Add the spinach and cook, stirring, for 2 minutes or until the spinach wilts. Add the apricot to the spinach mixture and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper.
• Step 4
  Use a small sharp knife to cut a horizontal slit in the thickest part of each chicken breast to create a pocket. Divide the apricot mixture evenly among pockets. Season with salt and pepper.
• Step 5
  Spray a large non-stick frying pan with olive oil spray to grease. Heat over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 3 minutes each side or until cooked through. Thickly slice.
• Step 6
  Drain the pumpkin mixture and return to the pan. Place over medium heat and stir to remove excess moisture. Mash until smooth. Stir in the pesto. Season with salt and pepper.
• Step 7
  Divide the mash among serving plates. Top with the chicken. Serve with spinach.