When it comes to frying chicken at home, choosing the right pot or pan is key to getting crisp, golden brown and juicy fried chicken. The type of pot you use can impact how evenly and quickly the chicken cooks, how much oil is absorbed, and how easy it is to fry the chicken safely. With so many options available, from cast iron to stainless steel to electric skillets, it can be tricky to know which one is best for frying chicken. This article will compare the pros and cons of different types of pots and pans for frying chicken at home to help you determine which is the best option.
Cast Iron Skillet
Cast iron skillets have long been a staple for frying foods in the kitchen. When it comes to frying chicken, cast iron offers several benefits:
- Heats evenly – Cast iron heats gradually but evenly, helping prevent hot spots that could lead to burning.
- Retains heat well – Once hot, cast iron maintains its temperature well so the oil doesn’t drop in temperature when chicken is added.
- Can be used on all cooktops – Cast iron works on induction, gas, electric, glass top, and in the oven.
- Nonstick when seasoned – A well-seasoned cast iron pan has a natural nonstick coating, allowing chicken to brown without sticking.
- Can develop fond – The browned bits left behind in cast iron from frying can be used to make a flavorful pan sauce.
On the downside, cast iron is heavy and retains heat so well that temperature regulation can be tricky. The thick metal requires preheating for at least 10 minutes to fully heat the skillet throughout. Cast iron also requires seasoned maintenance and can rust if not properly cared for. Enameled cast iron makes maintenance easier but does not develop the natural nonstick seasoning of traditional cast iron.
Best Cast Iron Skillets for Frying Chicken
- Lodge 10.25 Inch Cast Iron Skillet
- Victoria 12 Inch Cast Iron Skillet
- Le Creuset Signature 10.25 Inch Enameled Cast Iron Skillet
Stainless Steel Skillet
Stainless steel skillets are another good option for frying chicken at home. Benefits of using stainless steel include:
- Heats quickly – Thinner than cast iron so it heats up faster.
- Even heating – Aluminum or copper cores help stainless steel heat evenly.
- Durable and long-lasting – Stainless steel pots and pans can last for many years.
- Compatible with induction – Stainless steel works on all cooktops including induction.
- Easy to clean – Smooth stainless steel surfaces make cleaning up easier.
On the downside, stainless steel does not retain heat as well so the temperature is prone to dropping more when food is added. Stainless steel also requires the use of oil or butter to prevent sticking.
Best Stainless Steel Skillets for Frying Chicken
- Cuisinart 12 Inch MultiClad Pro Stainless Steel Skillet
- All-Clad 12 Inch Stainless Steel Fry Pan
- Tramontina 12 Inch TriPly Clad Stainless Steel Skillet
Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven
While deeper than a typical skillet, an enameled cast iron Dutch oven can also be used for frying chicken. Benefits include:
- Even heating – Cast iron core distributes heat evenly.
- Good heat retention – Retains heat well to maintain oil temperature.
- Enamel coating prevents sticking – So chicken browns without sticking to the pan.
- Versatile – Can be used for braising, stewing, baking and frying.
- Durable – Enamel resists chipping and staining.
The larger size takes longer to preheat fully but also allows cooking larger batches. The tall, straight sides also minimize splattering compared to an open skillet. However, the sides make flipping chicken a bit trickier.
Best Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Ovens for Frying Chicken
- Le Creuset 5.5 Quart Round Dutch Oven
- Lodge 6 Quart Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven
- Staub 5.5 Quart Round Cocotte
Electric Skillet
Electric skillets provide an all-in-one frying station and offer several advantages for frying chicken at home:
- Adjustable temperature – Dial in the ideal frying temperature and the skillet maintains it.
- Constant heat source – Avoids temperature fluctuations from stovetop.
- Built-in thermostat – Prevents oil from overheating.
- Large cooking surface – Allows frying big batches.
- Contained edges – Reduces splatters.
On the downside, electric skillets can heat unevenly creating hot spots. Models without a lid may not retain heat as well. And the nonstick coating requires gentle care to prevent scratching.
Best Electric Skillets for Frying Chicken
- Presto 16-Inch Electric Foldaway Skillet
- Cuisinart Electric Skillet
- Oster DuraCeramic Electric Skillet
Carbon Steel Skillet
Similar to cast iron, carbon steel skillets can also provide excellent results for frying chicken. Benefits include:
- Good heat conduction – Heats evenly and quickly.
- Excellent heat retention – Maintains oil temperature when chicken is added.
- Natural nonstick surface – When properly seasoned, chicken browns without sticking.
- Durable and strong – Resists warping and scratching.
- Inexpensive – More budget-friendly than premium stainless or enameled cast iron.
On the downside, carbon steel requires diligent seasoning and maintenance like cast iron. It also reacts to acidic foods so tomato-based sauces are not ideal to cook in carbon steel.
Best Carbon Steel Skillets for Frying Chicken
- Matfer Bourgeat 11 7/8 Inch Carbon Steel Fry Pan
- De Buyer Mineral B Pro Fry Pan
- Lodge 12 Inch Seasoned Carbon Steel Skillet
Comparison
Here is a quick comparison of some of the key factors when choosing between the different pot and pan options for frying chicken:
| Pot/Pan | Heating | Heat Retention | Nonstick Surface | Ease of Use | Durability |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cast Iron Skillet | Even | Excellent | With seasoning | Heavy, requires seasoning | Very durable |
| Stainless Steel Skillet | Fast, even with core | Moderate | No, requires oil | Easy to use and clean | Very durable |
| Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven | Even | Excellent | Yes | Large capacity, heavy | Very durable |
| Electric Skillet | Adjustable, moderate | Moderate | Yes, nonstick coating | Self-contained, easy | Prone to scratches |
| Carbon Steel Skillet | Fast, even | Excellent | With seasoning | Requires seasoning | Durable |
Conclusion
When it comes to the best pot for frying chicken, a couple options stand out from the pack. For even heating, excellent heat retention, and a slick cooking surface, a well-seasoned cast iron skillet is ideal. Enameled cast iron offers similar benefits but with easier cleanup and maintenance. For a foolproof electric frying station, an electric skillet with adjustable temperature delivers consistent, hands-off frying. Stainless steel is also a solid choice, especially if you want quicker heating and easier cleanup compared to cast iron. Ultimately, the right frying pot or pan depends on your cooking style, preferences, and kitchen needs. Any of these pots and pans can deliver delicious homemade fried chicken with proper technique.