3-Ingredient Pesto Fried Chicken

Crispy fried chicken thighs coated in breadcrumbs and basil pesto, creating a delicious Italian-inspired twist on classic fried chicken. Perfect for a quick and flavorful dinner.

4 servings
22 min

Ingredients

  • 2 cups vegetable oil
  • 1 cup plain fine breadcrumbs
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • to taste kosher salt and pepper
  • ¼ cup basil pesto
  • 1 piece deep-fry thermometer

Cooking Instructions

  1. 1.

    Pour oil into a large heavy skillet fitted with thermometer to come 1/2" up sides. Heat over medium-high until thermometer registers 350°F. Place breadcrumbs in a shallow dish or rimmed baking sheet.

    10 min

  2. 2.

    Season chicken all over with salt and pepper on a rimmed baking sheet. Spread 1/4 cup pesto all over chicken. Dip chicken into breadcrumbs, turning to coat and pressing with your fingertips to adhere.

    5 min

  3. 3.

    Carefully add chicken to hot oil, then reduce heat to medium. Fry 4 minutes, then flip and continue to fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 2 minutes more. Transfer to a wire rack.

    6 min

  4. 4.

    Serve chicken with pesto alongside for dipping.

    1 min