Fried chicken is one of America's most beloved dishes, and for good reason. There's nothing quite like the crispy skin and juicy meat that can be achieved with deep frying.
But having the best skillet for frying your chicken is the first step.
That's why we've rounded up the top picks for the best choice in skillets for frying chicken, so you can get great results every time.
Tips For the Best Skillet for Frying Chicken
A large cast-iron skillet is a popular choice for frying chicken, as they retain heat well and can give the chicken a nice sear. However, they can be heavy and difficult to clean.
A stainless steel skillet and stainless steel pans are a worthy alternative, as they are lighter and easier to clean.
Non-stick skillets are also an option, but you'll want to be careful not to overheat the pan, as high temperatures can damage the nonstick coating.
Whatever type of skillet you choose, make sure it has a tight-fitting lid, as this will help to keep the heat in and prevent splatters.
And finally, always make sure to use a cooking thermometer to ensure that the oil is at the correct temperature before adding the chicken pieces.
With these tips in mind, you'll be on your way to perfect fried chicken in no time!
Best Skillets For Frying Chicken
Here's the scoop on the best skillets for frying chicken!
1. BrylaneHome
If you love to cook, then you know that a large cast iron skillet is the way to go. It heats evenly and can withstand high temperatures, making it ideal for cooking all sorts of food.
And this frying pan from BrylaneHome is the perfect addition to your kitchen.
It's durable and gets better with age, and it's pre-seasoned so your chicken cooks with little oil.
Plus, it fortifies your food with iron, making it even healthier for you. So don't wait any longer—this fryer is the best option for delicious fried chicken!
2. Cuisinel Cast Iron Skillet with Lid
Looking for a top-quality cast iron skillet that comes complete with a heat-resistant silicone handle holder and tempered glass lid?
Look no further than the Cast Iron Skillet with Lid! Ideal for cooking up a variety of dishes, this skillet features a non-slip handle cover to keep your hand safe while cooking or serving.
Silicone grips can still get hot, so always use an oven mitt or towel when handling cast iron.
Plus, the included tempered glass lid is perfect for keeping an eye on your food as it cooks. Order now and start whipping up the best crispy chicken to ever meet your dinner table!
3. YIIFEEO
Looking for a stone pan that looks and feels like the real thing? Then the YIIFEEO pan is a great choice for you!
This innovative cookware is designed to imitate the shape and texture of marble, while still being a 100% PFOA, PTFE, lead, and cadmium-free non-stick pan.
Additionally, the granite material used in this pan contains the required minerals and trace elements that the human body needs.
This is perfect for a healthy chicken recipe. The YIIFEEO pan is also made of durable heavy-duty die-cast aluminum and comes with an ergonomic Bakelite handle, making it comfortable to use.
4. Lodge w/ Glass Lid
Looking for a versatile, durable, and easy-to-use cookware option that will last you a lifetime? Lodge has you covered with their seasoned cast iron pans and tempered glass lids.
Made in the USA, Lodge skillets have superior heat retention making them a good quality tool to have on hand.
Lodge seasons its cookware with 100% vegetable oil, so there are no synthetic coatings or chemicals to worry about.
The more you use your iron skillet, the better its seasoning will get. Plus, the sturdy tempered glass lid is safer than normal glass and allows you to keep an eye on your cooking.
5. EOXHOME 8
Are you looking for the best pan for deep frying? Look no further than the EOXHOME 8!
This exceptional pan is made from cast aluminum for enhanced durability. It features a granite nonstick coating that is ultra scratch resistant and a lower-maintenance option than other kinds of pans.
This frying pan is suitable for use on gas, electric, and induction stovetops.
Plus, it comes with a high-strength tempered glass lid that allows you to see your food as it cooks. So why wait? Get the EOXHOME 8 today for the best results on your fried chicken!
6. Lodge 3
Looking for good choices for a heavy cast iron pan? Lodge 3 is your perfect choice.
This three-inch pan with a 10.25” diameter is large enough to cook for a crowd but still fits easily in the oven or on the stovetop.
The lid has special tips to allow condensing liquid to moisten food, making it perfect for slow cooking or braising.
And because it's pre-seasoned and has a natural easy-release finish, Lodge 3 is ready to use right out of the box.
So, no matter how you want to cook up your chicken breasts, Lodge 3 is the best skillet for frying.
7. Vinchef
Looking for a top-quality aluminum pan that will help you create amazing meals? Look no further than the Vinchef!
This fantastic pan features an 11-inch diameter, making it perfect for cooking a variety of dishes.
It has excellent heat distribution ensuring that all pieces of chicken reach the perfect temperature.
Made from top-quality materials, the Vinchef is built to last and will help you create beautiful meals for years to come!
8. T-fal Nonstick Pan
Looking for a durable and reliable nonstick pan? The T-fal pan is perfect for all your cooking needs!
The nonstick coating on both the interior and exterior of the pan ensures even heat distribution.
This nonstick pan's ergonomic, stay-cool handles make it easy to use.
Plus, the T-fal Heat mastery system provides perfect cooking results every time, making this pan a must-have for any kitchen.
9. HexClad 14-inch Pan
If you're looking for a great cooking experience, then you need to check out HexClad's 14-inch pan!
This amazing wok features a patented laser-etched hexagon design and tri-ply construction, making it PFOA-free, oven safe up to 500 degrees, range, and induction cooktop-ready.
Plus, the stay-cool handles provide a premium cooking wok experience.
Made with high-quality materials and a durable nonstick surface that is perfect for searing, this pan is built to last.
And because of the tri-ply construction, it conducts heat evenly, so you can have consistently hot oil to dip chicken into!
So if you want to find the best skillet or pan, especially when it comes to frying chicken, try the HexClad!
10. HexClad 12-inch Pan
As a benchmark of southern cuisine, having the best skillet for frying chicken is a must! So why not get yourself HexClad's 12-inch pan?
This unique pan is made with a patented laser-etched hexagon design and tri-ply construction, making it durable, PFOA-free, and oven safe up to 500 degrees.
You'll love the even heat distribution and stay-cool handles that make cooking a breeze. The HexClad is ready to do some high-heat cooking to sear the chicken to perfection!
11. Cuisinel's Cast Iron Skillet
Looking for a versatile and durable skillet set? Look no further than the Cuisinel's cast iron skillet set!
This set includes a 3-quart deep pan and lid that can be used together as a cast iron dutch oven, deep fryer, or braiser. A deep cast-iron skillet is a great choice for your kitchen.
The cast iron construction ensures even heat distribution and superior heat retention, making it perfect for cooking on any stovetop, oven, or open fire.
Plus, the sleek design is perfect for searing burgers, steaks, or any other type of meat or vegetable.
Whether you're cooking for a large family gathering or a small intimate dinner, this Cuisinel set is sure to make mealtime a breeze!
12. Lodge Cast Iron Deep Skillet
The Lodge Cast Iron Deep Skillet has the best browning and cooking capabilities!
It is perfect for moderate-sized cooking tasks and is preseasoned with a vegetable oil formula, so it's ready to use right away.
Cast-iron construction heats slowly and evenly for delicate foods, but can also reach higher temperatures without damaging its deep pot.
Plus, the looped cast-iron side and helper handles make it easy to transport from stovetop to oven. It’s clear to see that the Lodge Cast Iron deep skillet is a great choice for your fried chicken and other meals.
13. Cucina Pro Electric Skillet
The Cucina Pro is one of the best electric skillets for the modern home cook. It is crafted from polished 18/10 stainless steel, making it both elegant and durable.
The large skillet is easily big enough to cook food for a family of four, and the interior heating element cooks your food quickly and evenly.
This skillet also comes with a temperature probe, giving you total control over the cooking process and helping to ensure that your chicken cooks perfectly every time.
Plus, Cucina's tempered glass lid locks in heat and allows you to see into the skillet as your food is cooking, making it easy to monitor your progress.
14. Ailwyn Nonstick Deep Frying Pan with Lid
The Ailwyn Nonstick Deep Frying Pan is perfect for cooking up a healthy meal with less oil. The German Teflon non-stick coating is free of APEO and PFOA, making it a great choice for a daily healthy meal.
And, the special-designed stylish gradient USA BLUE color of the skillets makes a bold style statement.
The advanced die-casting technology, 4 mm-thick body, and heavy bottom make Ailwyn's deep frying pan extraordinarily durable and anti-warping.
Never worry about the deformation issue of the skillet frying pan after prolonged use.
15. CAROTE Deep Frying Pan with Lid
If you're looking for quality non-stick pans that will make your cooking experience more enjoyable, you need the CAROTE Deep Frying Pan in your kitchen.
This durable pan is made from natural granite materials and is 100% PFOA free, so you can cook without worry of chemicals.
The smooth, non-stick surface ensures that your food will release easily and clean-up will be a breeze. Plus, the flat and expanded bottom heats evenly and quickly, making this pan perfect for those who like to cook with precision.
The higher side walls work as a large bowl to prevent overflowing, so you can cook with confidence. Make mealtime fun again with the CAROTE frying pan.
16. MGKKT Cast Iron Skillet
Looking for a top-quality cast iron skillet that will make your shallow frying more enjoyable? Then check out the MGKKT Cast Iron Skillet!
This superb piece of cookware is made from heavy-duty cast iron, so you can expect excellent heat distribution and retention.
Plus, it comes pre-seasoned with 100% vegetable oil, so you'll enjoy an easy-release, nonstick cooking surface.
The MGKKT skillet is perfect for a variety of cooking tasks, including being an excellent sauté pan!
17. BELLA Electric Skillet
The BELLA electric skillet is a hardworking and durable kitchen appliance that has plenty of room for cooking family meals.
The ceramic non-stick coating is 8 times more durable than the standard on metal pots and cooks food up to 30% faster.
This pan is also reinforced with titanium for outstanding strength and scratch resistance. The cool-touch handles make for easy handling and the fully immersible skillet makes cleanup a breeze.
As a multi-functional unit, the BELLA can roast, fry, sauté, steam, or be used as a buffet server.
18. Circulon Radiance Nonstick Frying Pan
Looking for a versatile and durable frying pan? Look no further than the Circulon Radiance.
This deep fry pan features hard-anodized aluminum construction for long-lasting durability and fast, even heating without hot spots.
It’s PFOA-free, metal utensil safe, and it lasts 10 times longer than normal nonstick pans. Plus, it features a sturdy, dual-riveted stainless steel handle and shatter-resistant glass lid.
Though this pan can’t stand too high of a temperature, if a meal requires medium or medium-high heat, this pan will get the job done! The Circulon Radiance is also dishwasher safe and easy to clean up
19. MSMK 7-inch Nonstick Frying Pan
This 7-inch Frying from MSMK is the perfect kitchen accessory for anyone who loves to cook and worries about chemicals on their cookware.
This durable pan is made with a limestone non-stick coating and is PFOA FREE.
It can withstand oils that have a high smoke point, including peanut oil, canola oil, and grapeseed oil.
And, the ergonomic stainless-steel handle always stays cool while cooking and has a good grip, making it easy to flip food.
The smooth bottom of the pan is designed to avoid scratching up the stovetop and is compatible with all cooktops.
Be sure to use your best oil on the MSMK, since it can stand to hold heat up to 700 degrees Fahrenheit!
20. Jim Beam Cast Iron Skillet
Jim Beam's cast iron skillet is perfect for those who love to grill.
The ridged surface lets you get those perfect grill marks while draining the excess flour mixture and fat, working similar to a wire rack!
The pan is big enough to accommodate a meal for two, and the wood trivet helps you serve your delicious masterpiece. Cast iron is incredibly durable, so you can use this pan for years to come.
Plus, when it’s seasoned and used regularly, it’s fairly nonstick. And because cast iron imparts iron into food, it’s a great way to get an extra boost of this essential nutrient.
So get your Jim Beam Cast Iron Skillet today!
21. Cuisinart 12-inch Deep Fry Pan
Looking for a top-quality skillet that will help you achieve professional results? Look no further than Cuisinart's deep frying pan!
This skillet features a hard anodized exterior and unsurpassed heat distribution for even cooking.
And the Quantanium non-stick coating ensures easy release and cleanup.
Plus, Cuisinart's pan has cool-grip handles that stay cool on the stovetop and provide a safe, solid grip.
22. Ayesha Curry
Are you looking for an easy-to-clean and effective way of cooking? Why not try Ayesha Curry's Deep Skillet?
The diamond textured surface and long-lasting nonstick make it perfect for browning and releasing food.
Additionally, the aluminum construction ensures fast and even heating on all stovetops (except induction) due to internal temperature.
Finally, the oven-safe design allows you to cook at up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit meaning you can cook oils with a high smoking point.
So get your hands on the deep skillet from Ayesha Curry today and make your fried chicken with whatever seasoning you wish!
23. SENSARTE Deep Frying Pan
If you're looking for a top-quality, non-stick frying pan, look no further than the Sensarte! This Swiss-made pan features a granite stone coating that is SGS-approved and PFOA-free, making it a safe and healthy option for cooking.
The pan is also suitable for all types of cooktops, including induction, and the die-cast aluminum core heats up quickly and evenly.
Plus, the versatile design with a pour spout and stay-cool handle makes it perfect for a variety of cooking needs.
So when you're cooking on medium heat with an inch of oil, the Sensarte Deep Frying Pan is a perfect choice!
24. CAROTE Nonstick Skillet
Looking for an eco-friendly and healthy way to cook? How about checking out CAROTE's Nonstick Skillet?
This pan is made of a nonstick granite material that is 100% free of PFOS and PFOA. This makes it a safer and healthier option.
The extended bottom design also helps the pan heat up faster than traditional models, so you can spend less time cooking and more time enjoying your meal.
And because less oil is needed for the CAROTE, you can reduce your unnecessary fat intake and avoid a smoky kitchen.
25. Carbon Steel Wok
From pan-frying and deep-frying to boiling and steaming, the Carbon Steel Wok is the perfect pan for cooking a variety of meals.
It can also be used on all types of stoves, including induction stoves, electric stoves, and gas ranges.
Made of high-quality carbon steel, this Wok is built to last and heats up evenly and quickly – so you can make the best food, whether it calls for tablespoons of salt or a dash of paprika!
Tips For Buying A Skillet
Now that we did all this cooking and have plenty of excess oil, it’s important you know how to properly dispose of it!
Remember, after you heat oil, NEVER pour it down the sink. It will cause you tons of costly problems in the future, as well as harm the environment!
Instead, let the oil cool to room temperature to avoid burns. Then, depending on the pan you use, find the right way to dispose of it!
If it is light like a baking sheet, you could probably sop it up with paper towels that can be thrown out. If you’re using iron pots, pour them into a resealable plastic bag.
You could also freeze your oil and use it again to preserve money and the environment!
Making Fried Chicken
For fried chicken you are going to need a variety of ingredients. This might include olive oil, onion powder, black pepper, garlic powder, and tablespoons salt.
You should sear chicken in the oil or some vegetable shortening if you prefer.
You should let the chicken cook until you can cut into it and the juices are gone. Cook half of the chicken until it starts to get crispy then flip.
If you want to cook it in the oven you need to set it to 400 degrees f, you can use a large cast-iron skillet.
Worthy alternatives for pans and skillets include steak, breakfast, and even desert.
Getting The Perfect skillet For You
There are a variety of pans and skillets to choose from, especially when it comes to making fried chicken.
But how can you be sure you are getting the best pan for you, here are some things to note from this article:
- Pre-seasoned pans allow for food to not stick and easy cleaning
- Cast Iron Skillets are the ideal pan, as they are the best at retaining heat,
- and having a cool-touch handle is a plus, saving you from burning your hands while cooking.
That is the scoop on the best pots and best skillets for frying chicken! We hope that this list helps you with your cooking needs and finding the right pan for you.
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