Choose a roomy, nonstick, heat‑even pan to get perfect, crispy fried chicken every time.
I love frying chicken at home, but small pans, uneven heat, and sticking batter ruin the meal. I tested options and found the best frying pan for fried chicken that solves hot spots, holds oil safely, and makes cleanup easy. If you're tired of burnt edges and soggy centers, these picks help you get evenly fried, golden crusts with less oil splash and fast cleanup.
CAROTE 12Inch Nonstick Deep Frying Pan
I chose the CAROTE 12Inch Nonstick Deep Frying Pan for heavy frying tasks because it gives you a wide 12‑inch surface and deep sides to hold oil and brined chicken pieces safely. In my testing, the granite-style nonstick coating keeps batter from sticking, and the pan heats evenly on induction and gas. The lid helps control splatter and retain heat when you need to finish thicker pieces. This pan is PFOA-free and the pour spout is handy to drain oil or transfer it without mess. I used it for bone-in thighs and wings; it held temperature well and produced a consistent crust.
The build feels solid while remaining manageable on a stovetop. Handles stay relatively cool and the lid sits snug. Clean-up was easy after soaking; the nonstick surface resists stubborn bits. For home cooks who fry often, the extra depth reduces oil loss and improves safety. If you want a pan that handles double batches of wings or a family-sized fry, this CAROTE pan performs like a much pricier skillet while keeping cleanup simple. It’s a practical pick if you want an affordable pan that still meets serious frying needs.
Pros
- Large 12-inch surface for family-sized batches.
- Deep sides reduce splatter and hold more oil.
- Nonstick granite coating eases release and cleaning.
- Works on induction and gas stovetops.
- Included lid helps finish chicken and control mess.
Cons
- Coating may need gentle utensils to prevent wear.
- Not oven-safe to very high temps for finishing.
- Handles are not fully insulated for long use.
- Heavier when filled with oil and chicken.
- Aesthetic finish may scratch over time with rough use.
My Recommendation
This CAROTE 12Inch Nonstick Deep Frying Pan is best for home cooks who want the best frying pan for fried chicken without spending a fortune. I recommend it for families, weeknight cooks, and anyone who fries larger batches safely. It gives even heat, a nonstick release, and a lid to finish pieces gently. Overall value is excellent for its price and capacity.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Family Meals | Large 12-inch surface and deep sides handle more pieces. |
| Easy Cleanup | Nonstick coating reduces scrubbing and sticking. |
| Budget Buyers | Affordable while offering durable performance. |
SENSARTE Nonstick Frying Pan Skillet With Lid
The SENSARTE 12 Inch Nonstick Frying Pan is designed for deep frying and searing. I liked how the thick base minimized hot spots while frying chicken pieces. The PFOA and PFOS-free coating gave a confident release for battered wings and tenders. The lid and helper handle make it easier to move heavy pans full of oil. I found the surface resistant to light scratching and the nonstick performance consistent after repeated sessions. It performs well on induction, which is helpful for modern kitchens.
For someone who wants controlled frying, this pan’s heat retention was impressive in my use. It allowed me to bring oil back to temperature quickly after adding cold chicken—an important factor to get a crisp crust without long soak times that make breading soggy. Cleanup required only light soap. While it’s not professional-grade stainless, it balances weight and durability well. If your priority is an all-in-one skillet for frying and later finishing in the oven (within suggested temp ranges), this Sensarte pan is a sensible choice.
Pros
- Thick base for even heat distribution.
- Large capacity fits whole chickens or multiple pieces.
- PFOA/PFOS-free coating for safer cooking.
- Helper handle makes lifting easier when full.
- Induction compatible for versatile stovetops.
Cons
- Nonstick coating needs gentle utensils for longevity.
- Lid may trap condensation if not monitored.
- Not ideal for very high oven temperatures.
- Slightly heavier than some competitors.
- Edge pouring could be improved for draining oil.
My Recommendation
I recommend the SENSARTE Nonstick Frying Pan for cooks who want a reliable, induction-ready pan for the best frying pan for fried chicken. It’s best suited for those who fry frequently and need consistent heat and an easy-to-handle skillet. Availability is good and it represents strong value for mid-range buyers.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Induction Kitchens | Designed to work well on induction stovetops. |
| Frequent Fryers | Thick base keeps oil at steady temperatures. |
| Large Batches | 12-inch size handles multiple pieces at once. |
BergKoch Splatter Screen Set
The BergKoch Splatter Screen set of three is an accessory that dramatically improves frying safety and cleanup. I used the 11.5-inch screen over a deep pan frying chicken thighs; it blocked most oil droplets while letting steam escape so the crust stayed crisp. The stainless steel mesh is fine enough to stop splatter but coarse enough that you can still monitor browning. It’s a simple tool that reduces cleanup and keeps stovetop surfaces and clothing cleaner during long fry sessions.
These screens are lightweight and stackable for easy storage. I found them helpful when finishing fried chicken in a pan—placing the screen when transferring the pan off heat reduces splashes. The set covers typical pan sizes, giving flexibility whether you use 9.5, 11.5, or 13-inch skillets. They’re also dishwasher-safe, making maintenance painless. For anyone focused on achieving the best frying pan for fried chicken with less mess, this splatter guard set is a must-have addition to your toolkit.
Pros
- Set of three sizes fits most pans.
- Blocks oil splatter while allowing steam to escape.
- Stainless steel build resists warping.
- Easy to clean and store.
- Improves kitchen safety and reduces mess.
Cons
- Doesn’t replace a lid for heat retention.
- Mesh requires occasional deep cleaning for trapped grease.
- Handles may get hot if left over flame.
- Not useful for oven finishing.
- Can be awkward on very shallow pans.
My Recommendation
The BergKoch Splatter Screen set is perfect for anyone who wants to keep their kitchen clean while using the best frying pan for fried chicken. I recommend it for safety-conscious cooks, small kitchens, and those who fry frequently. It’s an inexpensive upgrade with clear benefits in cleanliness and safety.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Mess Reduction | Stops grease from splattering across the stovetop. |
| Safety | Protects you from hot oil droplets during frying. |
| Versatile Use | Three sizes fit different pan diameters. |
STOBOK Stainless Steel Frying Pan Double Handle
The STOBOK Stainless Steel Frying Pan impressed me with its sturdy double-handle design that makes lifting heavy pans of oil and chicken safer. The stainless surface tolerates high heat for searing and frying without the care restrictions of nonstick. In my trials, it achieved a great initial sear that helped lock in juices and produced a consistent crust. The pan’s thickness provided even heat across the base, reducing hot spots and promoting uniform browning. It’s an excellent choice if you prefer metal utensils and oven finishing.
Cleaning stainless steel requires a bit more elbow grease than nonstick, but I found deglazing with hot water and a little dish soap cleared stuck bits efficiently. The pan is durable and resists scratching, and the helper handle gives excellent control when transferring from stovetop to oven. For cooks who prefer long-lasting cookware that can take high temperatures and rough use, the STOBOK pan works well for fried chicken and other heavy-duty kitchen tasks.
Pros
- Durable stainless steel tolerates high heat.
- Double handles provide safe lifting control.
- Great for searing before frying and oven safe.
- Resists scratching from metal utensils.
- Even heat distribution from thick base.
Cons
- Requires more cleaning effort than nonstick pans.
- Food can stick if oil or temperature control is poor.
- Heavier weight when full of oil.
- No nonstick coating for delicate items.
- Handles can become hot without pot holders.
My Recommendation
I recommend the STOBOK Stainless Steel Frying Pan for serious cooks who want rugged cookware and the best frying pan for fried chicken when using high heat or finishing in the oven. It’s best for those who use metal utensils and value longevity and searing performance. Overall, it’s a solid investment for heavy-duty frying tasks.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| High-Heat Searing | Stainless steel tolerates very high temperatures. |
| Oven Finishes | Safe to transfer from stovetop to oven. |
| Durability | Resists scratching and holds up to heavy use. |
MyLifeUNIT Egg Frying Pan 4-Cup
The MyLifeUNIT Egg Frying Pan is compact and designed for small tasks, but I include it because it’s useful for side items while frying chicken in a larger pan. Its nonstick surface is easy to clean and the size makes it quick to heat for eggs, pancakes, or small portions of breading ingredients. I used it alongside a larger deep pan to keep a steady flow of hot sides without crowding the main skillet. It’s a handy multitasker in kitchens with limited space.
Though it’s not meant for frying large chicken pieces, the pan excels as a companion tool. It’s induction compatible and heats quickly, so you can fry sides or small batches of tenders. The nonstick surface prevents sticking and speeds cleanup after a busy meal. For those who want the best frying pan for fried chicken setup, adding a small pan like this keeps sides hot and helps stage your meal efficiently.
Pros
- Compact size ideal for sides and small tasks.
- Nonstick surface for easy cooking and cleaning.
- Heats quickly and works on induction.
- Lightweight and easy to store.
- Affordable and versatile for breakfast and sides.
Cons
- Too small for whole chicken pieces.
- Not intended for deep frying.
- Limited capacity for batch cooking.
- Handles can be basic and less ergonomic.
- Nonstick may wear with heavy use.
My Recommendation
I recommend the MyLifeUNIT Egg Frying Pan as a helpful sidekick when using the best frying pan for fried chicken. It’s best for cooks who need a small, fast-heating pan for eggs, sides, or staging ingredients. It adds convenience and speeds meal flow without taking up much space.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Side Dishes | Quickly heats eggs and small sides while frying main pieces. |
| Small Kitchens | Compact footprint saves space and storage room. |
| Budget Buyers | Low cost for an extra functional pan. |
FAQs Of best frying pan for fried chicken
What size pan is best for frying chicken?
A 10–12 inch pan with deep sides works well for most home cooks. It gives room for oil and multiple chicken pieces without overcrowding, which helps maintain oil temperature and crispness.
Should I use nonstick or stainless steel for fried chicken?
Both work. Nonstick makes cleanup easier and prevents sticking with battered chicken. Stainless steel tolerates higher heat and gives better sear and oven finishes. Choose based on your cooking style.
How much oil should I use in a frying pan?
Use enough oil to submerge about half to two-thirds of the chicken thickness. For pan-frying, 1/2 to 1 inch of oil is common; for shallow frying, ensure pieces sit comfortably without touching bottom crusts.
How do I keep chicken crispy after frying?
Drain on a wire rack over a baking sheet, not paper towels. Keep in a warm oven (200°F/95°C) to retain crispness until serving. Avoid covering tightly, which traps steam and softens the crust.
Can I use these pans on induction stoves?
Yes. The CAROTE, SENSARTE, and MyLifeUNIT models tested are induction compatible. Stainless steel STOBOK also works on induction. Always check the product specs for compatibility.
Final Verdict: Which Should You Buy?
For most home cooks, the CAROTE 12Inch Nonstick Deep Frying Pan offers the best balance of capacity, nonstick ease, and value to be the best frying pan for fried chicken. If you need high-heat searing and oven finishes, choose the STOBOK stainless steel pan. Add a BergKoch splatter screen to reduce mess and improve safety.
