COOKER KING 5QT Stainless Steel Saute Pan is my top pick for frying chicken perfectly.
Picture this: Saturday night, a bowl of seasoned flour, cold oil sizzling in a pan, and the smell of golden crust filling your kitchen. You want even heat, a sturdy pan, and a clean flip. The right frying pan solves the common headaches—hot spots, uneven browning, warped bottoms, and oil spills. I’ve tested pans across materials and budgets, and I’ll walk you through which pans truly make fried chicken shine and why.
SENSARTE Nonstick Frying Pan Skillet…
HEALTHY SKILLET – Switzerland ILAG nonstick surface. Free of PFOA, PFOS, lead, cadmium and other toxic materials that can leach into food, safe & healthy. SUPER NONSTICK – The surface…
CAROTE Nonstick Frying Pan Skillet,Non…
Eco-friendly Classic Granite – Non-stick Granite Material, PFOS,PFOA free, our cookware ensures your daily cooking is always safer and healthier. Easy To Clean – Just wipe it with a paper…
BergKoch Splatter Screen for Frying…
PROTECTS FROM HOT SPITTING OIL – Our oil splatter guard shield securely joins to the handles of cookware to protect your hands from painful burns – Forget about hurtful blisters….
SENSARTE 12″ Nonstick Deep Pan
I like the SENSARTE 12″ pan for deep frying and one-pan dinners. The nonstick surface grabs less batter. It heats evenly and the deep walls keep oil where it should be. The lid helps keep oil splatter in check when you’re finishing pieces slowly.
This pan is roomy. You can fit four to six medium thighs without crowding. The helper handle makes lifting easier when it’s full of hot oil. Cleanup is fast thanks to the durable nonstick finish and the wide base resists warping at high heat.
Pros:
- Deep sides reduce oil splatter while frying
- Generous 12″ surface fits multiple chicken pieces
- Nonstick surface helps release breading easily
- Includes lid for safer frying and reducing mess
- Compatible with induction and gas stovetops
Cons:
- Nonstick may wear over years if abused with metal tools
- Not ideal for high-temperature searing beyond oil frying
- Handles can get hot when used on very high heat
My Recommendation
I recommend the SENSARTE 12″ pan for home cooks who fry often but prefer easy clean-up. If you value a one-pan, low-fuss approach, this pan works well. It’s great for weekday fried chicken and family meals. I use it when I want the best frying pan for fried chicken without a lot of maintenance.
It’s best for people who want a safe, nonstick deep pan that minimizes mess. It suits cooks who avoid heavy stainless steel and prefer a lighter pan. If you like to fry in moderate oil temperatures, this is a solid, value-forward choice.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Easy cleanup | Nonstick finish wipes clean quickly after frying |
| Small kitchens | Deep design reduces need for extra tools |
| Beginner fryers | Lid and helper handle make frying safer and easier |
CAROTE 8″ Granite Nonstick Pan
The CAROTE 8″ granite pan is compact and nimble. It heats fast and is light in the hand. I use it for single servings or crisping small pieces like wings. The granite-style coating gives a strong release while still feeling sturdy.
It’s best for quick shallow frying or tossing small batches. The 8″ size limits quantity but improves heat control for small cuts. For cooks who make fried chicken for one or two, this pan is efficient and fast to clean.
Pros:
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- Granite coating resists scratching and sticking
- Quick to heat for fast frying and crisping
- Induction compatible for flexible stovetop use
- Great for wings, nuggets, and single portions
Cons:
- Small size limits family meals
- Not ideal for deep frying large pieces
- Handle can make storage awkward in tight cabinets
My Recommendation
I recommend the CAROTE 8″ pan for solo cooks and small households. If you fry a few pieces at a time, this pan gives quick results and crisp crust. It’s a top choice when space and speed matter. I often reach for it when I want the best frying pan for fried chicken wings or a quick snack.
It suits apartment cooks, students, or anyone cooking for one. The lightweight feel and fast heat-up make it ideal for short frying sessions. If you need a simple, low-cost option for small batches, this is a smart pick.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Single servings | Compact size heats fast for one or two pieces |
| Quick snacks | Fast heat and nonstick make crisping quick |
| Beginner cooks | Easy control and straightforward maintenance |
BergKoch 13″ Splatter Screen
The BergKoch splatter screen is a simple accessory that makes frying less messy. It sits on top of your pan and traps oil droplets while letting steam escape. I use this every time I fry chicken. It keeps countertops and stovetops much cleaner.
It’s lightweight and easy to store. The 13″ diameter covers most large skillets and deep pans. The stainless mesh is dishwasher safe and resists warping. This screen is one of the underrated tools for a clean frying session.
Pros:
- Reduces oil splatter for cleaner cooking
- Large size fits most frying pans and skillets
- Stainless steel mesh resists rust and warping
- Easy to lift and set aside while flipping food
- Dishwasher-safe for quick cleanup
Cons:
- Doesn’t prevent steam from making crust soggy
- Not a substitute for a full lid when simmering
- Mesh can still trap small splashes at extreme angles
My Recommendation
I recommend the BergKoch screen for anyone who fries often. If you love making the best frying pan for fried chicken at home, add this to your toolset. It saves elbow grease and makes the process more pleasant. I keep one near my stove at all times.
It’s best for home cooks who want cleaner counters and safer frying. Use it with nonstick pans, heavy skillets, or deep sautés. This small investment gives big payoff in cleanup time and kitchen comfort.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Mess control | Catches oil splatter, keeping cooktop cleaner |
| Large pans | 13″ size covers big skillets and saute pans |
| Quick cleanup | Dishwasher-safe and easy to wipe down |
COOKER KING 5QT Stainless Saute Pan
The COOKER KING 5QT tri-ply saute pan is my top pick for frying chicken. The thick, clad base delivers steady, even heat. I find it prevents the hot spots that ruin a crust. The stainless interior tolerates high heat and metal tools without fear.
This pan handles searing, shallow frying, and finishing in the oven up to 500°F. The tall sides and wide surface make it ideal for larger batches or bone-in pieces. It’s dishwasher friendly but I hand wash for best longevity and to keep the finish bright.
Pros:
- Tri-ply clad for even heat and no hot spots
- Oven safe to 500°F for finishing dishes
- Large 5QT capacity fits family-sized batches
- Durable stainless interior handles metal tools
- Hybrid nonstick option improves release for breaded chicken
Cons:
- Heavier than thin pans—may be bulky for some users
- Requires preheating and oil management for best crust
- Price is higher than basic nonstick pans
My Recommendation
I recommend the COOKER KING 5QT pan for cooks who want pro-level control at home. If you seek the best frying pan for fried chicken, this pan gives the heat stability and capacity you need. It’s my go-to for bone-in wings, thighs, and bigger family batches. I rely on it when I want even, repeatable results.
This pan suits serious home cooks, weekend chefs, and anyone who finishes fried chicken in the oven. The tri-ply build and oven-safe nature make it versatile. While heavier, it rewards you with crisp, uniform browning and long-term durability.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Family meals | Large capacity handles multiple pieces at once |
| High-heat searing | Tri-ply clad prevents hot spots and warping |
| Finish-in-oven recipes | Oven safe to 500°F for crisp finishes |
Nordic Ware Oven Crisp Tray Set
The Nordic Ware Oven Crisp tray with rack is a different approach to fried chicken. Instead of stovetop oil, it helps you air-fry or oven-finish breaded chicken for a crispy exterior. The raised rack allows hot air to circulate and excess oil to drip away.
I use this tray when I want a lighter result with less oil. It’s excellent for large batches and works well with oven-baked recipes. The natural aluminum conducts heat quickly and browns pieces evenly across the rack.
Pros:
- Great for oven-baked fried chicken or air-fryer style crisping
- Rack promotes even airflow for uniform browning
- Large surface handles family-sized batches
- Durable natural aluminum for fast, even heat
- Easy cleanup and stable on oven racks
Cons:
- Not a direct substitute for oil-fried texture
- Requires an oven and time for best results
- Can’t sear the same way a skillet can
My Recommendation
I recommend the Nordic Ware tray for cooks who like crispy results with less oil. If you want the best frying pan for fried chicken texture without deep frying, this tray helps you get close. I switch to this when I’m feeding a crowd but want an easier, cleaner method than stovetop frying. It’s also perfect for finishing pieces after a quick pan sear.
This set suits bakers, health-conscious cooks, and anyone who dislikes splatter. Use it for oven-fried wings and large batches that need even browning. It’s a smart companion to your frying pans and helps expand how you make fried chicken at home.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Healthier crisping | Less oil and good airflow for crisp crust |
| Large batches | Wide cooking surface fits many pieces |
| Oven finishing | Great for finishing pan-seared chicken evenly |
FAQs Of best frying pan for fried chicken
What pan material is best for fried chicken?
I prefer heavy stainless or tri-ply clad for even heat and crisp crusts. Cast iron is also excellent for deep frying. Nonstick works if you want less oil splatter and easier cleanup, but it won’t tolerate extreme searing as well as stainless.
Can I fry chicken in a nonstick pan safely?
Yes. Use moderate oil temperatures and avoid overheating. Nonstick pans help prevent sticking and speed cleanup. Replace pans when coating shows wear to avoid performance drop.
Is a splatter screen necessary?
A splatter screen is not required, but it helps. It reduces cleanup and keeps you safer from hot oil. I use one for most stovetop frying sessions to cut down on mess.
Should I finish fried chicken in the oven?
Finishing in the oven helps cook thick pieces through without burning the crust. A pan-safe oven finish ensures juicy interiors and a crispy exterior. I often sear on the stovetop and then finish in the oven for best results.
How much oil should I use for frying chicken?
It depends on method. For shallow frying, use enough oil to cover half the chicken’s depth. For deep frying, fill pan so pieces float but don’t touch the top. Monitor oil temperature for consistent results.
Final Verdict: Which Should You Buy?
For most cooks seeking the best frying pan for fried chicken, the COOKER KING 5QT stainless saute pan combines capacity, even heat, and oven safety. It gives consistent browning for bone-in and boneless pieces.
If you need lighter cleanup or quick snacks, the SENSARTE or CAROTE pans are strong picks. Add a BergKoch splatter screen and the Nordic Ware tray for cleaner frying and oven crisping.