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Fried chicken has long been a beloved comfort food enjoyed by many generations. To master the art of making it both crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, selecting the right skillet is crucial. This article will explore the best skillets for frying chicken.

Skillets come in different materials, sizes, and shapes, but not all of them are created equal. When it comes to frying chicken, there are a few critical things to consider. The first is the material of the skillet. Cast iron and stainless steel are popular choices for frying pans, but cast iron is the best option for frying chicken. Cast iron skillets retain heat well and distribute it evenly, ensuring that the chicken cooks evenly and stays crispy.

The second thing to consider is the size of the skillet. You need a skillet that is large enough to accommodate the chicken pieces without overcrowding them. Overcrowding can cause the chicken to steam instead of fry, resulting in soggy skin. A 12-inch skillet is usually the right size for frying chicken.

Lastly, the weight of the skillet is also important. A heavy skillet is more stable on the stovetop and less likely to move around when you’re flipping the chicken. It also retains heat better than a lighter skillet.

Based on our research and testing, we have identified the following skillets as the best for frying chicken:

1. Lodge Cast Iron Skillet – This 12-inch skillet is made of high-quality cast iron and is pre-seasoned, making it ready to use right out of the box. It retains heat well and distributes it evenly, resulting in crispy and juicy chicken.

2. Le Creuset Signature Iron Handle Skillet – This 11.75-inch skillet is made of enameled cast iron and has a smooth surface that prevents sticking. It’s also oven safe up to 500°F, so you can finish cooking the chicken in the oven if needed.

3. All-Clad Stainless Steel Fry Pan – This 12-inch skillet is made of tri-ply stainless steel and has a flat bottom that makes it perfect for frying chicken. It’s also dishwasher safe, making cleanup a breeze.

In conclusion, a cast iron skillet that is 12 inches in size and has a heavy weight is the best option for frying chicken. The Lodge Cast Iron Skillet, Le Creuset Signature Iron Handle Skillet, and All-Clad Stainless Steel Fry Pan are all excellent choices that will help you achieve the perfect fried chicken.

Best Skillets for Frying Chicken

As avid home cooks, we know that there’s nothing quite like a perfectly fried chicken. The key to achieving that crispy, golden brown exterior and juicy, tender interior is using the right skillet. We’ve done the research and tested out various options to bring you our top picks for the best skillets for frying chicken. From traditional cast iron to modern non-stick options, we’ve got you covered. Here’s our list:

• Lodge Cast Iron Skillet
• T-fal E93808 Professional Total Nonstick Fry Pan
• All-Clad Stainless Steel Fry Pan with Lid
• Calphalon Classic Nonstick Fry Pan
• Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Stainless Steel Skillet.

Lodge Cast Iron Covered Chicken Fryer

If you’re looking for a skillet that can handle frying chicken like a pro, the Lodge Cast Iron Covered Chicken Fryer is a great option to consider.

Pros

• The cast iron construction ensures that heat is distributed evenly, so your chicken comes out crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.
• The skillet is deep enough to fry chicken without making a mess, and the lid helps to lock in moisture and flavor.
• The skillet is preseasoned, so it’s ready to use right out of the box.

Cons

• The skillet is heavy, which can make it difficult to handle, especially when it’s full of hot oil.
• The skillet requires some maintenance and care to keep it in good condition, including seasoning it regularly and avoiding harsh cleaning methods.
• The skillet is not dishwasher safe, so you’ll need to wash it by hand.

We’ve used the Lodge Cast Iron Covered Chicken Fryer to fry chicken, and we were impressed with the results. The chicken came out perfectly cooked and had a nice crispy exterior. The skillet is also versatile enough to be used for other cooking tasks, such as roasting potatoes or baking cornbread.

One thing to keep in mind is that the skillet is heavy, which can make it difficult to handle, especially when it’s full of hot oil. However, the two handles make it easier to lift and move around. We also found that the skillet requires some maintenance and care to keep it in good condition. You’ll need to season it regularly and avoid harsh cleaning methods to prevent rusting and other damage.

Overall, we think the Lodge Cast Iron Covered Chicken Fryer is a great investment for anyone who loves to fry chicken and wants a skillet that will last for years.

Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Enameled Cast Iron 12-Inch Chicken Fryer with Cover

If you are looking for a versatile skillet that can handle frying chicken and much more, the Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Enameled Cast Iron 12-Inch Chicken Fryer with Cover is a great option to consider.

Pros

• The cast iron construction provides superior heat retention and even heat distribution, making it perfect for frying chicken to perfection.
• The porcelain enameled exterior offers durability and creates an ideal cooking surface that does not impart flavors or absorb odors.
• This skillet is extremely versatile and suitable for a variety of cooking methods, including stove, oven, and broiler.

Cons

• This skillet is not dishwasher safe, so it requires some extra effort to clean.
• It is relatively heavy, which can make it difficult to handle for some users.
• The Cardinal Red color may not be to everyone’s taste.

We’ve found that the Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Enameled Cast Iron 12-Inch Chicken Fryer with Cover is a great all-around skillet that can handle a range of cooking tasks with ease. The cast iron construction provides excellent heat retention and distribution, ensuring that your chicken cooks evenly and comes out perfectly crispy.

One of the standout features of this skillet is its porcelain enameled exterior, which not only looks great but also offers excellent durability. Additionally, the porcelain enamel interior is ideal for cooking, as it does not impart any unwanted flavors or odors onto your food.

While this skillet is on the heavier side, we found that the weight actually helps to distribute heat more evenly across the cooking surface. However, if you have any mobility issues, you may find it difficult to handle.

Overall, we highly recommend the Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Enameled Cast Iron 12-Inch Chicken Fryer with Cover to anyone looking for a versatile skillet that can handle frying chicken and much more. The skillet’s extreme versatility, combined with its superior heat retention and even heat distribution, make it a great addition to any kitchen.

MsMk Square Grill Pan with lid, Stay-Cool Handle, Each Ridge Nonstick, Oven Safe Dishwasher Safe Induction Grill pans for Stove Tops, Square Frying Pan, Bacon Pan, Indoor Chicken Skillet, 11-Inch Grey Grill Pan with lid(11 Inch)

If you’re looking for a grill pan that can handle a variety of meals, the MsMk Square Grill Pan with lid is a great option. It’s perfect for indoor cooking and works well on all stove tops, including induction. The ergonomic, stay-cool stainless-steel handle is easy to grip and flip food, while the ridges collect fats for healthier cooking.

Pros

• The non-stick coating is durable and can withstand daily use for up to 20 years.
• The pan is large and spacious, allowing you to cook more food in one go and save time.
• The ridges collect fats from meat, ensuring it doesn’t boil in its own juices and allowing you to collect the juice for sauce.

Cons

• The pan is heavy, making it difficult to toss or stir fry.
• The pan is made in China, which may be a concern for some buyers.
• The pan may scratch smooth surface non-induction stove tops.

This grill pan is perfect for those who want to enjoy chargrilled steaks in the comfort of their kitchen. It allows you to cook a variety of meals while maintaining the full flavor of the food. The limestone non-stick coating is safe to use and is approved by GRE TUV, PFOA FREE, and contains no nickel, lead, or other heavy metals, making it safe for children.

The pan is also oven safe up to 700°F, allowing you to finish off your meal in the oven. Preheat the grill pan before you put any food on it to get a nice searing on the meat’s surface. The pan is also dishwasher safe, making it easy to clean after use.

In conclusion, the MsMk Square Grill Pan with lid is a great option for those who love to cook a variety of meals and want to enjoy chargrilled steaks in the comfort of their kitchen. It’s durable, spacious, and allows for healthier cooking while maintaining the full flavor of the food.

HAWOK Enameled Cast Iron chicken fryer deep Skillet Red…

If you are looking for a versatile skillet that can handle a variety of cooking methods, the HAWOK Enameled Cast Iron skillet might be worth considering.

Pros

• This 12-inch skillet with a lid is perfect for stir-frying, braising, searing, deep-frying, baking, and more.
• It works on all cooking ranges, including gas, electric, ceramic, and induction.
• The skillet is oven-safe and can handle up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit.

Cons

• This skillet is not dishwasher safe, so you will have to hand wash it.
• It is relatively heavy, weighing 14.3 pounds.
• Some users have reported issues with the paint chipping off.

If you are looking for a skillet that can handle a variety of cooking methods, the HAWOK Enameled Cast Iron skillet is a great choice. It is versatile and can be used on all cooking ranges, including induction, and it is oven-safe up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit.

One of the best things about this skillet is its size. With a diameter of 12 inches, it is large enough to cook a variety of dishes, including whole chickens. The skillet comes with a lid, which is great for braising and simmering.

The skillet is also very durable. It is made of cast iron, which is known for its heat retention and even heating. The enamel coating makes it easy to clean, and the stainless steel knob is a nice touch.

However, there are a few things to keep in mind if you are considering this skillet. It is heavy, weighing 14.3 pounds, so it might not be the best choice if you have trouble lifting heavy objects. Additionally, it is not dishwasher safe, so you will have to hand wash it. Finally, some users have reported issues with the paint chipping off, so you might want to be careful when cleaning it.

Overall, the HAWOK Enameled Cast Iron skillet is a great choice if you are looking for a versatile skillet that can handle a variety of cooking methods. It is durable, easy to clean, and works on all cooking ranges.

BUNDLEPRO Nonstick Frying Pan

This is a great pan for those who love to cook! We highly recommend it for its non-stick coating and beautiful macaron colors.

Pros

• The non-stick coating makes cooking and cleaning a breeze.
• The macaron colors add a fun and stylish touch to your kitchen decor.
• The ergonomic anti-scalding wooden handle is comfortable to hold and keeps you safe from high temperature burns.

Cons

• The pan is not oven safe.
• It is not dishwasher safe, so you have to hand wash it.
• The spatula that comes with the pan is small and may not be suitable for larger dishes.

We were impressed with the non-stick coating on this pan. It made cooking and cleaning so much easier. The macaron colors were a nice touch and added a fun pop of color to our kitchen. The ergonomic anti-scalding wooden handle was comfortable to hold and kept us safe from high temperature burns.

However, we were disappointed to find out that the pan is not oven safe and cannot be put in the dishwasher. We also found the spatula that comes with the pan to be small and not suitable for larger dishes.

Overall, if you are looking for a non-stick frying pan that is stylish and easy to use, we highly recommend the BUNDLEPRO Nonstick Frying Pan.

Vinchef Nonstick Deep Frying Pan Skillet with Lid, 11in/5Qt Saute Pan, German 3C+ Ceramic Coating Technology, Heat Indicator, Induction Compatible Black – Woodgrain 11 INCH

If you’re in the market for a versatile and durable skillet that can handle all your chicken frying needs, then the Vinchef Nonstick Deep Frying Pan Skillet with Lid is an excellent choice.

Pros

• The Vinchef Saute Pan uses Germany 3C + CERAMIC Reinforced coating technology, which makes it extremely long-lasting and abrasion-resistant, ensuring that it will last for years to come.
• This nonstick skillet is suitable for all stovetops, including gas, electric, induction, halogen, and ceramic, making it incredibly versatile and convenient to use.
• The ergonomic handle is made of bakelite and equipped with a thermal sensor that changes color when the pan reaches the optimum heating level of 300℉, making it easy to know when to start cooking.

Cons

• This skillet is not oven safe, so you’ll need to transfer your chicken to a different dish if you need to finish cooking it in the oven.
• The skillet is not dishwasher safe, so you’ll need to wash it by hand, which can be time-consuming.
• Some users have reported that the skillet is smaller than they expected, so make sure to check the dimensions carefully before purchasing.

Overall, we highly recommend the Vinchef Nonstick Deep Frying Pan Skillet with Lid for anyone looking for a reliable and versatile skillet for frying chicken. Its high-quality construction, nonstick surface, and compatibility with all stovetops make it an excellent investment for any home cook.

This skillet is perfect for cooking all your favorite chicken recipes, from crispy fried chicken to juicy chicken breasts. The Vinchef Saute Pan uses Germany 3C + CERAMIC Reinforced coating technology to provide excellent abrasion resistance and extreme long-lasting durability, so you can be sure that it will last for years to come.

In addition, the skillet’s ergonomic handle is designed for comfort and safety, and the thermal sensor makes it easy to know when the pan is at the optimum heating level. The skillet’s deep pot wall and 11-inch/5-quart size design make it versatile enough to replace most of the pot products in your kitchen.

Overall, the Vinchef Nonstick Deep Frying Pan Skillet with Lid is an excellent investment for anyone looking for a high-quality and versatile skillet for frying chicken. Its durable construction, nonstick surface, and compatibility with all stovetops make it an excellent choice for any home cook.

Farberware Dishwasher Safe Nonstick Jumbo Cooker/Saute Pan with Helper Handle – 6 Quart, Black Black Cooker

If you are looking for a versatile and generously-sized skillet to cook big batches of food, the Farberware Dishwasher Safe Nonstick Jumbo Cooker with Helper Handle is a great option.

Pros

• The heavy-duty aluminum construction heats up quickly and evenly, reducing hot spots that can burn food.
• The top-quality nonstick interior provides effortless food release and fast cleanup.
• The double-riveted handles, including the helper handle, provide a confident grip.

Cons

• The pan is not dishwasher safe, despite its name.
• The nonstick coating may wear off over time with frequent use.
• The pan is not induction compatible.

We recently purchased the Farberware Dishwasher Safe Nonstick Jumbo Cooker and have been impressed with its performance. The pan is large enough to cook one-pan meals or generous side dishes, making it a convenient addition to our cookware collection. The heavy-duty aluminum construction heats up quickly and evenly, reducing hot spots that can burn food. The top-quality nonstick interior provides effortless food release and fast cleanup, making it easy to cook anything from red potatoes and onions to meatballs in mushroom sauce.

The double-riveted handles, including the helper handle, provide a confident grip, making it easy to move the pan from the stovetop to the oven. The included shatter-resistant glass lid is also a plus, allowing us to monitor the cooking process without having to lift the lid.

However, we were disappointed to find out that the pan is not dishwasher safe, despite its name. The nonstick coating may also wear off over time with frequent use, so we recommend using plastic or wooden utensils to prolong its lifespan. Additionally, the pan is not induction compatible, which may be a dealbreaker for some users.

Overall, we highly recommend the Farberware Dishwasher Safe Nonstick Jumbo Cooker with Helper Handle for its versatility, generous size, and easy cleanup. It complements other Farberware cookware and is a great addition to any kitchen.

SENSARTE Nonstick Frying Pan

If you’re looking for a versatile and high-quality skillet for frying chicken, the SENSARTE Nonstick Frying Pan is a great option.

Pros

• The pan’s plasma titanium particles fused to the surface make it super hard and durable, ensuring it won’t stick, chip, or flake even after 89,000 machine wear tests.
• The Swiss-imported, 100% non-toxic, and SGS-approved diamond coating makes it healthy and safe for you and your family.
• With a 12″ diameter, 3.2″ depth, and 5 Qt capacity, this skillet is perfect for a variety of cooking options such as sautéing, stir-frying, searing, boiling, simmering, blanching, braising, deep-frying, and stewing.

Cons

• This skillet is not oven safe, so be sure to plan accordingly when cooking.
• Although it’s easy to clean, the non-stick surface may not last as long if you put it in the dishwasher.
• The pan’s weight may be a bit heavy for some users.

The SENSARTE Nonstick Frying Pan is a versatile and durable skillet that can handle all your frying needs. The pan’s plasma titanium particles fused to the surface make it super hard and durable, ensuring it won’t stick, chip, or flake even after 89,000 machine wear tests. Additionally, the Swiss-imported, 100% non-toxic, and SGS-approved diamond coating makes it healthy and safe for you and your family. With a 12″ diameter, 3.2″ depth, and 5 Qt capacity, this skillet is perfect for a variety of cooking options such as sautéing, stir-frying, searing, boiling, simmering, blanching, braising, deep-frying, and stewing.

One downside to this skillet is that it’s not oven safe, so be sure to plan accordingly when cooking. Additionally, while it’s easy to clean, the non-stick surface may not last as long if you put it in the dishwasher. Finally, the pan’s weight may be a bit heavy for some users.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality and versatile skillet for frying chicken, the SENSARTE Nonstick Frying Pan is a great choice.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best skillet for frying chicken, there are a few key features to consider. We’ve put together a list of important factors to help you make an informed decision.

Material

The type of material used to make the skillet can affect how evenly the heat is distributed. Cast iron and stainless steel are popular choices for skillets as they can handle high temperatures and distribute heat evenly. Non-stick skillets are also an option, but they may not get as hot and can be prone to scratching.

Size

The size of the skillet you choose will depend on how much chicken you plan on frying at once. A 10-12 inch skillet is usually sufficient for most home cooks, but if you plan on cooking for a larger group, you may want to consider a larger skillet.

Depth

The depth of the skillet is also important to consider. A deeper skillet can hold more oil, which can be helpful for frying chicken. However, a shallower skillet may be easier to maneuver and clean.

Handle

The handle of the skillet should be sturdy and heat-resistant. Look for a skillet with a handle that is securely attached to the pan and won’t come loose. A handle that stays cool to the touch is also a plus.

Maintenance

Consider how easy the skillet is to clean and maintain. Some skillets require seasoning to maintain their non-stick properties, while others can be washed with soap and water. Make sure you choose a skillet that fits your maintenance preferences.

In summary, when choosing a skillet for frying chicken, consider the material, size, depth, handle, and maintenance requirements. By taking these factors into account, you can choose a skillet that will help you achieve perfectly fried chicken every time.