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3-Ingredient Pesto Fried Chicken

This clever pesto fried chicken reimagines a classic comfort food staple with a vibrant, herbaceous twist. By using basil pesto as both a flavour enhancer and a binding agent, the chicken stays incredibly succulent while the breadcrumbs form a perfectly golden, seasoned crust. It is a brilliant way to achieve deep, savoury Mediterranean notes with minimal preparation and just a handful of fridge essentials.

As a high-protein main course, this dish is ideal for a quick midweek dinner or a nutritious post-workout meal. The combination of juicy chicken thighs and the aromatic punch of garlic and basil creates a satisfying depth of flavour without the need for a long list of spices. Serve it alongside a crisp green salad or roasted vine tomatoes for a complete, balanced meal.

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Ingredients for 3-Ingredient Pesto Fried Chicken

  • Vegetable oil (for frying

  • about 220g )

  • 110g plain fine breadcrumbs

  • 450g boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 4 large)

  • Kosher salt, freshly ground pepper

  • 1/4 cup basil pesto, plus more for serving

  • A deep-fry thermometer

Pour oil into a large heavy skillet fitted with thermometer to come 1/2" up sides. Heat over medium-high until thermometer registers 177°C. Place breadcrumbs in a shallow dish or rimmed baking sheet.

Season chicken all over with salt and pepper on a rimmed baking sheet. Spread 60ml pesto all over chicken. Dip chicken into breadcrumbs, turning to coat and pressing with your fingertips to adhere.

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.

Serve chicken with pesto alongside for dipping.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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