Imagine sinking your teeth into perfectly crispy fried chicken, the kind that makes your taste buds sing. But achieving that restaurant-quality crunch at home can feel like a culinary quest, especially when you’re staring at a wall of electric skillets. Do you really need a fancy one? Which features actually matter for getting that golden-brown perfection without the greasy mess?
Choosing the right electric skillet for frying chicken can be a real headache. You want juicy, tender chicken, but you also need that satisfying crunch. The wrong skillet can leave you with soggy skin, uneven cooking, or a smoky kitchen. It’s frustrating when you’re just trying to make a delicious meal for your family.
But what if we told you there’s a simple way to cut through the confusion? This guide will break down exactly what to look for in an electric skillet for frying chicken. We’ll help you discover the key features that make a difference, so you can finally achieve that amazing fried chicken every single time. Get ready to say goodbye to kitchen stress and hello to deliciousness!
Our Top 5 Electric Skillet For Frying Chicken Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Electric Skillet For Frying Chicken Detailed Reviews
1. Elite Gourmet EG-6203# Extra Deep 16″x13″x3.2″ (10.5Qt.) Scratch Resistant
Rating: 8.9/10
The Elite Gourmet EG-6203# Extra Deep Electric Skillet is a game-changer for busy kitchens. Its large size and versatile features make cooking for a crowd a breeze. This skillet is designed for convenience and durability, promising to simplify your meal prep.
What We Like:
- The extra deep, family-sized 10.5-quart capacity is perfect for cooking meals for 6 to 8 people.
- Its marbleized honeycomb non-stick surface is super durable and won’t crack or peel, making food release easy.
- Cooking is a worry-free experience thanks to the scratch-resistant surface.
- The M-shaped heating element provides rapid and even heat, preventing hot spots and burnt food.
- You can easily control the temperature from 200-400°F with the trigger-release control probe.
- The clear, tempered glass lid with a vented design locks in flavors and moisture.
- An integrated easy-pour spout helps you drain off extra juices neatly.
- Clean-up is a snap because the skillet is dishwasher safe and fully immersible once the temperature control is removed.
- The thick cast aluminum body with a black lacquer finish resists rust and warping.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the non-stick is durable, it’s always good practice to use non-metal utensils to prolong its life.
- The black lacquer finish, while attractive, could potentially show fingerprints more easily than lighter finishes.
This electric skillet offers a fantastic combination of size, performance, and ease of use. It’s an excellent tool for creating delicious meals with minimal fuss.
2. Presto 06852 16-Inch Electric Skillet with Glass Cover
Rating: 9.3/10
The Presto 06852 16-Inch Electric Skillet with Glass Cover is a super versatile kitchen tool. It can do so many things! You can roast, fry, grill, stew, bake, and even make casseroles. This makes it great for any meal, from breakfast to dinner, and it’s also perfect when you have guests over.
What We Like:
- It’s a multi-tasker: You can cook a huge variety of dishes with it.
- It’s big: The 16-inch pan has high sides, so you can cook and serve a lot of food.
- Easy cleanup: The ceramic nonstick surface, inside and out, makes cleaning a breeze. Plus, it’s PFAS free!
- Temperature control: The Control Master heat control keeps your food at the perfect temperature automatically.
- Durable: The heavy cast aluminum base is strong and won’t warp.
- Versatile serving: It doubles as a buffet server, keeping food warm.
- Safe to handle: The tempered glass cover has a stay-cool handle.
- Easy to clean thoroughly: You can take off the heat control and immerse the whole skillet in water.
What Could Be Improved:
- It’s electric: You need a power outlet to use it, so it’s not as portable as a stovetop pan.
- Counter space: Being 16 inches, it takes up a good amount of space on your counter.
Overall, the Presto 16-Inch Electric Skillet is a fantastic addition to any kitchen. It simplifies cooking and entertaining with its many features and large capacity.
3. Elite Gourmet EG6201 Extra Deep 12″x12″x3.2″ (7.5Qt.) Scratch Resistant Dishwasher Safe
Rating: 8.8/10
Meet the Elite Gourmet EG6201 Extra Deep Electric Skillet, a kitchen powerhouse designed to make meal prep a breeze. This large, 12″x12″ skillet boasts an extra-deep design, perfect for cooking family-sized meals. Its non-stick surface and dishwasher-safe feature make cleanup simple, while the adjustable temperature control ensures perfectly cooked food every time.
What We Like:
- The marbleized non-stick surface is super durable and won’t crack or peel.
- Cleanup is a snap because it’s dishwasher safe and fully immersible after removing the temperature control.
- The thick cast aluminum body won’t rust or warp, making it a long-lasting kitchen friend.
- Food releases easily, so cooking and cleaning are quick and hassle-free.
- The scratch-resistant surface means you don’t have to worry about damaging it.
- It heats up fast and evenly thanks to the fully-embedded heating element, preventing burnt food.
- The clear glass lid locks in flavor and moisture, and you can see your food cooking.
- Its large size (7.5 quarts) is great for cooking for 6-8 people.
- Safety features like splatter-proof walls and cool-touch handles are included.
- It comes with a 1-year warranty and US-based customer support.
What Could Be Improved:
- The temperature control probe, while precise, might require a bit of a learning curve for some users to find the perfect setting for every dish.
This skillet is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, offering convenience and versatility for all your cooking needs. It simplifies mealtime and makes entertaining a joy.
4. BELLA Electric Skillet and Frying Pan with Glass Lid
Rating: 9.0/10
Get ready for kitchen adventures with the BELLA Electric Skillet and Frying Pan! This copper-colored beauty is your new best friend for whipping up all sorts of meals, from fluffy pancakes in the morning to hearty dinners. Its generous 12×12 inch size is perfect for feeding your family or impressing guests. Plus, it comes with a handy glass lid and cool-touch handles, making cooking safer and simpler.
What We Like:
- Hassle-free cooking for any meal, from breakfast to dinner.
- Versatile for roasting, frying, steaming, and serving buffet-style.
- Super durable, 8 times tougher than regular nonstick, and cooks 30% faster thanks to titanium reinforcement.
- Precise temperature control with an easy-to-use dial on the removable probe.
- Super easy cleanup – it’s fully immersible and dishwasher safe.
- PTFE & PFOA free, making it a healthier and more eco-friendly choice.
- The cool-touch handles keep your hands safe.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the glass lid is great, some users might prefer a heavier-duty lid for certain cooking tasks.
- The copper color, while stylish, might not match all kitchen decors.
This BELLA electric skillet makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. It’s a fantastic addition to any kitchen, offering convenience and great results.
5. Elite Gourmet EG808 8” x 8″ Non-stick Electric Skillet
Rating: 8.9/10
The Elite Gourmet EG808 8” x 8″ Non-stick Electric Skillet is a handy kitchen helper. It cooks food fast and cleans up easily. This skillet is great for making many different meals.
What We Like:
- It locks in flavors and moisture with its clear glass lid.
- The non-stick surface makes food release simple.
- It’s perfectly sized for making pancakes, grilled cheese, and stir-fry.
- Clean-up is a breeze because it’s dishwasher safe (after removing the temperature control).
- The thick aluminum body is strong and won’t rust or warp.
- It’s safety tested and has cool-touch handles and knob.
- It heats up quickly, saving you time.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 600W power might be less powerful than some other electric skillets.
- The 8″ x 8″ size is good for smaller meals but might not be enough for large family gatherings.
This electric skillet makes cooking and cleaning simple. It’s a wonderful gift for anyone who enjoys cooking.
Your Guide to the Perfect Electric Skillet for Frying Chicken
Frying chicken at home can be a delicious adventure. An electric skillet makes it even easier! It’s like a super-powered frying pan that stays at the exact temperature you set. This guide will help you pick the best one for crispy, golden chicken every time.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for an electric skillet, keep these important things in mind.
- Temperature Control: This is the most important part. Look for a skillet with a wide temperature range. You need to go from low for simmering to high for a good, hot fry. A dial or digital display that shows the exact temperature is best.
- Size: How much chicken do you usually cook? Skillets come in different sizes, usually measured in quarts or inches. A 10-inch or 12-inch skillet is good for a family. If you cook for a crowd, get a bigger one.
- Depth: A deeper skillet helps keep oil from splashing out. It also lets you cook bigger pieces of chicken without them sticking out too much.
- Lid: A good lid is important. It helps cook the chicken evenly and keeps the heat in. Some lids have vents to let steam escape.
- Non-stick Surface: This makes cooking and cleaning much easier. Food won’t stick, and you’ll use less oil.
- Power: More wattage usually means the skillet heats up faster and stays hotter. Look for at least 1200 watts for good frying power.
Important Materials
The materials used in an electric skillet affect how well it cooks and how long it lasts.
- Base Material: Most skillets have an aluminum base. Aluminum heats up quickly and evenly. Some have a cast-iron base, which holds heat very well but can be heavier.
- Cooking Surface: The cooking surface is often coated with a non-stick material like Teflon or ceramic. Ceramic is known for being durable and scratch-resistant.
- Lid Material: Lids are usually made of glass or tempered glass. This lets you see your chicken as it cooks without lifting the lid.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Some things make an electric skillet great, and others can make it less useful.
- Even Heating: A good skillet heats food all over, not just in the middle. This means your chicken cooks the same on all sides. Poorly made skillets can have hot spots.
- Temperature Accuracy: If the skillet’s temperature dial is accurate, you’ll get perfect results. If it’s off, your chicken might burn or not cook through.
- Durability: A well-built skillet will last for many years. Cheaper ones might break or lose their non-stick coating quickly.
- Ease of Cleaning: A good non-stick surface makes cleaning a breeze. If food sticks, it’s a pain to scrub.
User Experience and Use Cases
Using an electric skillet for frying chicken is simple and versatile.
- Frying Chicken: This is the main event! You can pan-fry chicken pieces, chicken wings, or even a whole chicken. The consistent heat is perfect for getting that crispy skin.
- Other Uses: Don’t stop at chicken! You can also use your electric skillet to make pancakes, stir-fries, stews, and more. It’s a great all-around cooking tool.
- Easy Setup: Just plug it in, set the temperature, and start cooking. No need to worry about stovetop burners.
- Portability: Electric skillets are great for small kitchens, dorm rooms, or even taking on camping trips (if you have power).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Electric Skillets for Frying Chicken
Q: What is the best temperature to fry chicken in an electric skillet?
A: For crispy fried chicken, you usually want a temperature between 325°F and 375°F (160°C to 190°C). Always check your specific recipe for the best temperature.
Q: How much oil should I use for frying chicken?
A: It depends on the recipe and the size of your skillet. For pan-frying, you might use about 1/2 inch to 1 inch of oil. For deep-frying, you’ll need more.
Q: Can I use metal utensils in an electric skillet?
A: It’s best to avoid metal utensils, especially if your skillet has a non-stick coating. Use wooden spoons, silicone spatulas, or plastic utensils to protect the surface.
Q: How do I clean my electric skillet?
A: Most electric skillets have a removable base. You can usually wash the skillet insert and lid in warm, soapy water. Always check the manufacturer’s instructions.
Q: Are electric skillets safe for deep frying?
A: Yes, many electric skillets are designed for deep frying. Their consistent temperature control helps prevent oil from getting too hot or too cool.
Q: How long does it take to fry chicken in an electric skillet?
A: Cooking times vary depending on the size and thickness of the chicken pieces and the temperature. It can take anywhere from 10-20 minutes for smaller pieces.
Q: Can I put frozen chicken in an electric skillet?
A: It’s generally not recommended to fry frozen chicken. It can lead to uneven cooking and a less crispy result. Thaw your chicken completely first.
Q: What kind of chicken works best for frying in an electric skillet?
A: Chicken pieces like thighs, drumsticks, and breasts work very well. You can also fry chicken wings.
Q: Do I need to preheat the oil in the electric skillet?
A: Yes, always preheat your oil to the correct temperature before adding the chicken. This is key to getting a crispy crust.
Q: Can I use an electric skillet for low-fat frying?
A: Yes, many electric skillets have good non-stick surfaces that let you use less oil, making them suitable for healthier cooking methods.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Scott Fischer, the voice behind SliceItRight. My passion for food started in my grandmother’s kitchen, where I learned the art of slicing, dicing, and creating delicious meals. Over the years, I’ve explored everything from the perfect kitchen gadgets to mastering culinary techniques, and I’m here to share all of it with you. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced home chef, my goal is to make cooking easier, more enjoyable, and a lot more fun. So, let’s slice it right and cook up something amazing together!