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Best Oil For Frying Chicken In Cast Iron (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for a way to make the crispiest chicken with a cast iron skillet, then you’ve come to the right place. But before you start frying your chicken, there are a few factors you should consider to make sure you choose the best oil for the job.

First, consider the smoke point of the oil. This is the temperature at which the oil begins to smoke and break down. If your oil reaches its smoke point, it can produce harmful fumes and reduce the flavor of your food. Look for an oil with a high smoke point, such as peanut or canola oil.

Next, consider the flavor profile of the oil. Different oils can add different flavors to your fried chicken. For example, coconut oil can add a subtle sweetness, while olive oil can add a slight bitterness. Choose an oil that complements the flavor of your chicken and your personal preferences.

Still not sure which oil to use for your cast iron fried chicken? Ask yourself: Do you prefer a light, crispy coating or a thick, crunchy crust? Do you want to add a subtle flavor to your chicken, or let the seasoning shine through? By considering these questions, you’ll be able to pick the perfect oil for your next batch of fried chicken in your cast iron skillet.

10 Best Oil For Frying Chicken In Cast Iron

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
Cooking on any stovetop, in the oven or over a fire. Perfect for searing, sautéing and frying.
2
Ideal for healthy cooking, baking, and high-heat frying due to its naturally retained antioxidants and non-GMO ingredients.
3
Ideal for cooking meals that require high heat and even distribution, with a deep design for ample cooking space.
4
It is an ideal healthy cooking oil for grilling and frying with a high smoke point and contains omega-3 & 6.
5
Ideal for frying, baking, sautéing, making vinaigrette and marinades, as a general cooking oil or as a pan coating.
6
The product is ideal for cooking a variety of meals both indoors and outdoors on different cooktops and ovens.
7
Ideal for cooking and frying due to its high smoke point and neutral flavor.
8
Ideal for Deep cooking on a stove or in the oven, with pre-seasoned cast iron for even heat distribution.
9
This product is ideal for cooking, cast iron seasoning, skin, hair, and DIY beauty recipes.
10
Ideal for high-heat cooking, deep frying, and baking due to its light and subtle flavor.
Cooking on any stovetop, in the oven or over a fire. Perfect for searing, sautéing and frying.
Ideal for healthy cooking, baking, and high-heat frying due to its naturally retained antioxidants and non-GMO ingredients.
Ideal for cooking meals that require high heat and even distribution, with a deep design for ample cooking space.
It is an ideal healthy cooking oil for grilling and frying with a high smoke point and contains omega-3 & 6.
Ideal for frying, baking, sautéing, making vinaigrette and marinades, as a general cooking oil or as a pan coating.
The product is ideal for cooking a variety of meals both indoors and outdoors on different cooktops and ovens.
Ideal for cooking and frying due to its high smoke point and neutral flavor.
Ideal for Deep cooking on a stove or in the oven, with pre-seasoned cast iron for even heat distribution.
This product is ideal for cooking, cast iron seasoning, skin, hair, and DIY beauty recipes.
Ideal for high-heat cooking, deep frying, and baking due to its light and subtle flavor.

1. Usa-Made, Pre-Seasoned Finex Iron Skillet.

Introducing the ultimate kitchen tool that will last you a lifetime – the Cookware Done Right. This cookware is versatile and perfect for a variety of cooking methods such as searing steaks, pan-frying eggs, roasting veggies, baking bread, and more. It is an indispensable kitchen tool that will make cooking a breeze.

The Cookware Done Right is designed to work on all cooktops including gas, electric, and induction ranges, and it is also suitable for grill and open flame cooking. It is oven safe and can be used every day for all your cooking needs.

With its speed cool handle, made of 300 series stainless steel and hand-polished to a high luster, the handles stay cool longer, cool off quicker, and provide a comfortable grip. Inspired by vintage wood stove door handles, they bring a high-end fit and finish to a time-honored design.

The ultra-polished surface of the Cookware Done Right has a satin-smooth, easy-release cooking surface that is free of chemical coatings. It is pre-seasoned and ready to use right out of the box.

The Cookware Done Right has a thick base and walls for constant, even heating and heat retention. Its patented octagonal multi-pour design allows for perfect pours and greater cooking control. The functional elegance of this cookware is unparalleled.

Pros

  • Versatile and perfect for a variety of cooking methods
  • Works on all cooktops including gas, electric, and induction ranges
  • Suitable for grill and open flame cooking
  • Oven safe and can be used every day
  • Speed cool handle made of 300 series stainless steel provides a comfortable grip
  • Ultra-polished surface with a satin-smooth, easy-release cooking surface
  • Thick base and walls for constant, even heating and heat retention
  • Patented octagonal multi-pour design allows for perfect pours and greater cooking control
  • Functional elegance is unparalleled

2. Naturally Antioxidant-Rich Sunflower Oil (1 Gallon)

Introducing the Natural Sunflower Oil, a healthy cooking oil that brings the best of nature to your table. This oil is created without the use of any chemicals, hydrogenation or other damaging processing methods, ensuring that you get a non-GMO product that is healthy for your body. The approximate smoke point of this oil is 450 degrees, making it ideal for frying.

This Non-GMO Project Verified Sunflower Oil is farm fresh and traceable to its origin. It is naturally processed using physical refining methods that ensure inherent, natural antioxidants, Omega-3 fatty acids and Vitamin E are retained. With no trans-fats, this oil is perfect for those who want to enjoy flavorful meals without harmful impacts to their heart, blood sugar and overall health. In fact, Sunflower Oil can even help reduce your cholesterol.

In addition to its health benefits, our Non-GMO Sunflower Oil has a longer shelf-life, extended fryer-life and increased flavor stability, due to our superior processing methods. This oil has a slight cloudy appearance because it is not dewaxed. Sunflower wax is rich in vitamin E and natural antioxidants, giving the oil a smooth flavor and healthier profile.

Healthy Harvest is committed to connecting responsible eaters with responsible farmers, with sustainability at the heart of everything they do. This is what they call, 'food with integrity'.

So, bring home the Natural Sunflower Oil today and enjoy the goodness of nature in every meal.

Pros

  • Non-GMO and healthy cooking oil
  • Created without chemicals, hydrogenation or other damaging processing methods
  • Traceable to farm of origin
  • Naturally processed, ensuring inherent, natural antioxidants, Omega-3 fatty acids and Vitamin E are retained
  • No trans-fats and can even help reduce your cholesterol
  • Longer shelf-life, extended fryer-life and increased flavor stability
  • Sunflower wax is rich in vitamin E and natural antioxidants, giving the oil a smooth flavor and healthier profile
  • Committed to sustainability and 'food with integrity'

3. Lodge L10cf3 Cast Iron Covered Deep Skillet, Pre-Seasoned, 5-Quart

Introducing the Lodge Pre-Seasoned 5 Quart Cast Iron Deep Skillet, a versatile and durable kitchen essential for every home cook. This deep skillet comes with a cast iron cover that features self-basting tips, ensuring your food is moist and flavorful. The skillet also has an assist handle for better control when lifting and moving it around the kitchen.

This skillet is made from high-quality cast iron, which provides unparalleled heat retention and even heating. It is pre-seasoned with 100% natural vegetable oil, making it ready to use right out of the box. You can use this skillet to sear, bake, broil, braise, fry, or grill your favorite meals. It's perfect for cooking everything from crispy fried chicken to fluffy pancakes.

The Lodge Pre-Seasoned 5 Quart Cast Iron Deep Skillet is incredibly versatile and can be used in the oven, on the stove, on the grill, or over a campfire. It's great for induction cooktops, making it a great choice for any home cook. With its durable design and high-quality construction, this skillet is sure to be a staple in your kitchen for years to come.

Pros

  • Cast iron cover features self-basting tips
  • Assist handle for better control
  • Unparalleled heat retention and even heating
  • Pre-seasoned with 100% natural vegetable oil
  • Can be used to sear, bake, broil, braise, fry, or grill
  • Can be used in the oven, on the stove, on the grill, or over a campfire
  • Great for induction cooktops
  • Durable design and high-quality construction

4. Grill & Fry Healthy With Camelina Oil Duo

Enjoy healthy and delicious fried foods with Healthy High Temperature Frying Oil. This oil has a high smoke point of 475 F which makes it perfect for frying French fries, fish and chips, shrimp tempura, and more. It contains 35% Omega-3 and 7 which makes it a healthy alternative to other frying oils. Moreover, it can withstand up to 14 days of intensive frying without being altered. This versatile oil can also be used for grilling, stir-frying, baking, and making pastries. It can even provide elasticity to gluten-free flours and make unctuous mayo with a stable texture.

Healthy High Temperature Frying Oil is not just a frying oil, it can also be used as a substitute for olive oil and makes a great finishing oil. It is a perfect pairing with root and cruciferous vegetables, fish, and shellfish. The taste of fresh asparagus and herb is ideal for finishing dishes. This oil is 100% Canadian made and unrefined, cold-pressed, vegan, kosher, nut-free, peanut-free, and sesame-free. It is made from the seeds of the Camelina Sativa, commonly known as False Flax or German Sesame. Try Healthy High Temperature Frying Oil today and enjoy healthy and delicious fried foods!

Pros

  • High smoke point of 475 F
  • Contains 35% Omega-3 and 7, making it a healthy alternative to other frying oils
  • Can withstand up to 14 days of intensive frying without being altered
  • Versatile oil that can be used for grilling, stir-frying, baking, and making pastries
  • Provides elasticity to gluten-free flours and makes unctuous mayo with a stable texture
  • 100% Canadian made and unrefined, cold-pressed, vegan, kosher, nut-free, peanut-free, and sesame-free

5. Avo 100% Organic Safflower Oil – Versatile Cooking Essential

AVO’s Safflower Oil is a healthy high heat oil that is perfect for cooking. It is made with minimal processing and without harmful chemicals. The oil is non-GMO and contains natural antioxidants such as Vitamin E. It has the most complete balance of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are the good fats. Research shows that consuming high oleic safflower oil can lower total cholesterol levels, including LDL.

AVO ensures consistent quality in every step of their manufacturing process. They are certified by Non-GMO Project, USDA Organic, OU Kosher, and HACCP-based Good Manufacturing Practices Food Safety Program. For over two decades, AVO has been a market leader in the Retail, Foodservice, and B2B segments. Their vegetable oils and vinegars are produced with the highest USA food grade quality standards.

AVO is committed to reducing the environmental impact of their products and facilities. They are continuously making improvements to their processes to reduce their carbon footprint. Additionally, a portion of each purchase goes towards making donations to families in need and people without a home in their community.

AVO’s Safflower Oil is proudly made in the USA. They understand that 80% of American shoppers prefer to buy goods made in the United States, according to Consumer Reports. AVO’s Safflower Oil is produced, packaged, and inspected in the USA.

AVO offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If for any reason you are not completely satisfied with your purchase, they will provide a full refund. Their mission is to provide a risk-free experience for their customers.

Pros

  • Made with minimal processing and without harmful chemicals
  • Non-GMO and contains natural antioxidants such as Vitamin E
  • Has the most complete balance of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which are the good fats
  • Research shows consuming high oleic safflower oil can lower total cholesterol levels, including LDL
  • Certified by Non-GMO Project, USDA Organic, OU Kosher, and HACCP-based Good Manufacturing Practices Food Safety Program
  • Produced with the highest USA food grade quality standards
  • Committed to reducing the environmental impact of their products and facilities
  • A portion of each purchase goes towards making donations to families in need and people without a home in their community
  • Proudly made in the USA
  • Offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee

6. Versatile 3 Qt Cast Iron Skillet Combo

The Cuisinel multi-purpose pan and lid combo is a versatile cookware set that allows you to use the 3-quart deep pan together with the lid as a dutch oven, deep fryer, or braiser, or use separately to sear up double the amount of burgers or steaks or create an entire meal in the two pans. The cast iron lid can withstand the temperatures of any oven or open fire, making it perfect for camping trips or outdoor cooking.

This cast iron cookware is famous for its precision heat distribution and unrivaled heat retention, ensuring that you get that perfect, succulent sear without losing any heat when cold food hits the pan. Whether you're using the cookware on your kitchen stove, oven, BBQ or even an inconsistent campfire, the lossless heat retention and superior heat distribution makes managing your cooking times effortless. You can use it for frying, baking, grilling, broiling, braising and sautéing meats, vegetables and more!

Crafted to last for generations, Cuisinel sources the highest quality materials in casting their cookware. Each piece is pre-seasoned, making it safer than Teflon or other non-stick materials. Continuous easy-to-follow seasoning will result in a safe, healthy and virtually non-stick pan. After every use, cast iron should be hand washed, dried thoroughly on the stove at medium heat and seasoned with natural oils. It should not be put in the dishwasher or air-dried.

Cast iron cookware notoriously improves with use, lasts a lifetime and can be passed down from generation to generation. Create a lifetime legacy of warm, fond memories with friends and family and imbue those sentiments into this superb cast iron cookware and you'll smile every time you use – and so will anyone that you gift cast iron to!

Each set includes a Care and Use Guide for beginners and professionals alike, so you can be confident in how to care for your new set. Cuisinel Cast Iron guarantees the quality and durability of all its products for a lifetime, so you can be assured that you are making the right choice and there is no risk to you. In addition to Amazon's seamless 30-day money-back guarantee, you can enjoy the lifelong benefits of this exceptional cookware.

Pros

  • Versatile multi-purpose pan and lid combo
  • Precision heat distribution and unrivaled heat retention
  • Safer than Teflon or other non-stick materials
  • Continuous easy-to-follow seasoning
  • High-quality materials and craftsmanship
  • Lasts a lifetime and can be passed down from generation to generation
  • Comes with a Care and Use Guide and a lifetime warranty

Cons

  • – Requires hand washing and seasoning after every use
  • – Not dishwasher safe

7. Amazon Brand – Happy Belly Peanut Oil, 1 Gallon (128 Fl Oz)

Happy Belly Peanut Oil is an excellent choice for cooking and frying. This 128-fluid ounce (1 Gallon) bottle contains about 256 servings per container (serving size of 1 tablespoon), making it an economical option.

This oil has 0g of trans fat per serving, which makes it a healthier option. Happy Belly Peanut Oil has a high smoke point of 450°F, making it ideal for frying chicken, fish, and vegetables. It also adds a distinctive flavor to Asian dishes, roasted vegetables, and salad dressings.

Happy Belly is an Amazon brand, and it comes with a satisfaction guarantee. If you aren't satisfied with the product, you can return it within a year of purchase for a refund. If you have any questions or concerns, you can contact their customer service at 1-877-485-0385.

Pros

  • Economical option with a 128-fluid ounce (1 Gallon) bottle that contains about 256 servings per container
  • 0g of trans fat per serving, which makes it a healthier option
  • High smoke point of 450°F, making it ideal for frying chicken, fish, and vegetables
  • Adds a distinctive flavor to Asian dishes, roasted vegetables, and salad dressings
  • Satisfaction guarantee within a year of purchase

Cons

  • – May not be suitable for individuals with peanut allergies

8. Lodge L8dsk3 Cast Iron Deep Skillet, Pre-Seasoned, 10.25-Inch

The 10-1/4-inch cast-iron deep skillet is an essential kitchen tool for moderate-sized cooking tasks. This versatile skillet is preseasoned with a vegetable oil formula and is ready for immediate use. The cast-iron construction heats slowly and evenly, ensuring evenly cooked meals every time. The skillet is 3 inches deep, making it ideal for cooking a variety of dishes.

The skillet comes equipped with a looped cast-iron side handle and an opposite helper handle, making it easy to move the skillet from stovetop to oven. The skillet is hand wash only, ensuring that it will last for years to come. Whether you're cooking up a family meal or entertaining guests, this skillet is sure to impress.

Pros

  • Versatile size for moderate-sized cooking tasks
  • Preseasoned with vegetable oil formula and ready for immediate use
  • Cast-iron construction heats slowly and evenly
  • Includes looped cast-iron side handle and opposite helper handle for easy maneuvering
  • 3-inch depth ideal for cooking a variety of dishes

Cons

  • – Hand wash only

9. Grapeseed Oil: Cook, Season, And Beautify!

Experience the artisanal excellence of La Tourangelle’s natural oils in your kitchen and home. La Tourangelle’s oils are crafted using the highest quality ingredients, ensuring a premium taste in every bottle. Add a touch of La Tourangelle to any meal and elevate its flavor to new heights.

Grapeseed Oil by La Tourangelle has a mild and easy flavor profile. Its high smoke point makes it perfect for stir-fries and sautés, without overwhelming the other ingredients. It is also a must-have in the pantry for grilling and frying.

La Tourangelle’s oils are incredibly versatile and delicious. Whether you’re a professional chef, novice cook, or foodie, our oils make it easy to create distinctive dishes. Use them for salads, grilled meat, pasta, or even on a cheese plate. Our oils create memorable moments around the table.

La Tourangelle is committed to sustainability and natural products. Our artisan oils are carefully crafted to provide the perfect touch to make a gourmet breakfast, lunch, or dinner. We are dedicated to being the best artisan oil producer and bringing the best oils and flavors from around the world straight to your kitchen.

For La Tourangelle, the kitchen is an art studio. Our range of oils, from Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil to our AvoCoco butter substitute & Pesto Oil, will ignite your culinary creativity and inspire you to create unique and delicious dishes.

Pros

  • Crafted using the highest quality ingredients to ensure premium taste
  • Grapeseed Oil has a high smoke point, making it perfect for stir-fries and sautés
  • Versatile and delicious, suitable for professional chefs, novice cooks, and foodies
  • Committed to sustainability and natural products
  • Range of oils ignites culinary creativity and inspires unique and delicious dishes

10. Delicate And Versatile: Pompeian Grapeseed Oil

Pompeian's Grapeseed Oil is a premium quality cooking oil that is 100% imported from France. It is a light and all-natural oil with a subtle flavor that is perfect for a variety of cooking methods. The oil has a high smoke point of up to 510 degrees, making it ideal for frying, baking, and air frying. This oil is farmer crafted and has been a trusted brand since 1906. Pompeian is committed to quality and has ensured that their Grapeseed Oil is naturally gluten-free and non-allergenic. It is also certified kosher and non-GMO verified by the Non-GMO Project.

If you're looking for a versatile and healthy cooking oil, Pompeian's Grapeseed Oil is an excellent choice. It has a neutral flavor that won't overpower your food, and it's ideal for high-heat cooking methods. This oil is perfect for stir-frying, deep-frying, baking, and air frying. It is also light and easy to use, making it a great option for everyday cooking. The high smoke point means that it won't break down or burn easily, ensuring that your food comes out perfectly every time.

Pompeian's 100% Grapeseed Oil is a great addition to any kitchen. It is a versatile and healthy cooking oil that is perfect for a variety of dishes. Whether you're a professional chef or a home cook, this oil is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. With its subtle flavor and high smoke point, it's the perfect oil for all your cooking needs.

Pros

  • High smoke point of up to 510 degrees
  • Light and subtle flavor
  • Perfect for high-heat cooking methods
  • Naturally gluten-free and non-allergenic
  • Certified kosher and non-GMO verified by the Non-GMO Project

Best Oil For Frying Chicken In Cast Iron FAQs

Can used oil be reused for frying chicken in a cast iron skillet?

Reusing cooking oil is a common practice in many households, especially when deep-frying food. While it may seem like a cost-effective and convenient solution, reusing oil is not always a good idea. When oil is heated repeatedly, it breaks down and produces harmful substances that can be detrimental to our health.

When it comes to frying chicken in a cast iron skillet, it is not advisable to reuse the oil. The high heat used for frying causes the oil to deteriorate, making it less stable and more prone to oxidation. This can lead to the formation of free radicals that can cause inflammation and damage to our cells.

Moreover, reusing oil can also affect the flavor and texture of the food. Over time, the oil can become rancid, imparting an unpleasant taste and odor to the food.

Therefore, it is best to use fresh oil every time you fry chicken or any other food. If you want to save money, you can strain the oil after each use and store it in a cool, dark place for up to a week. However, it is important to discard the oil if it starts to smoke or smell burnt.

How can I prevent the oil from smoking when frying chicken in a cast iron skillet?

One way to prevent oil from smoking when frying chicken in a cast iron skillet is to ensure that the oil is at the right temperature before adding the chicken. The ideal temperature for frying chicken is between 350-375°F. To test the temperature, you can drop a small piece of bread or a pinch of flour into the oil. If it immediately sizzles and floats to the top, the oil is ready. If it sinks to the bottom, the oil is not hot enough. If it turns brown immediately, the oil is too hot.

Another way to prevent oil from smoking is to use an oil with a high smoke point, such as canola, peanut, or vegetable oil. These oils have a higher smoke point than olive oil or butter, which can burn quickly.

It is also important to avoid overcrowding the skillet when frying chicken. Overcrowding can cause the temperature of the oil to drop, resulting in unevenly cooked chicken and smoking oil. Instead, fry the chicken in batches, allowing enough space between each piece.

Finally, use a splatter screen to cover the skillet while frying. This will prevent oil from splattering and smoking, as well as protect your stovetop from grease stains.

How much oil should be used when frying chicken in a cast iron skillet?

The amount of oil needed to fry chicken in a cast iron skillet depends on the size of the skillet and the amount of chicken being cooked. As a general rule, the oil should be deep enough to cover the chicken pieces but not so deep that it overflows when the chicken is added.

A good estimate is to use about 1/2 inch of oil in the skillet. This is enough to create a sizzling sound when the chicken is added, which indicates that it is cooking properly. If the skillet is larger or smaller, adjust the amount of oil accordingly.

It is important to use a high smoke point oil, such as vegetable or canola oil, for frying chicken in a cast iron skillet. This will prevent the oil from burning and imparting a bitter taste to the chicken.

When frying chicken in a cast iron skillet, it is also important to monitor the temperature of the oil to ensure that it stays between 325-350 degrees Fahrenheit. This will help ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and does not become overly greasy.

What temperature should the oil be when frying chicken in a cast iron skillet?

When frying chicken in a cast iron skillet, it is important to make sure that the oil is at the correct temperature. The ideal temperature for frying chicken in a cast iron skillet is between 350°F to 375°F (177°C to 190°C). This temperature range ensures that the chicken is cooked through while maintaining a crispy exterior.

If the oil is too hot, the chicken will cook too quickly on the outside while the inside remains undercooked. On the other hand, if the oil is not hot enough, the chicken will absorb more oil and become soggy rather than crispy.

To ensure that the oil is at the correct temperature, use a thermometer to check the temperature of the oil before adding the chicken. It is also important to monitor the temperature throughout the cooking process and adjust the heat as necessary to maintain the ideal temperature range.

In summary, when frying chicken in a cast iron skillet, aim for an oil temperature between 350°F to 375°F (177°C to 190°C) for the best results.

What type of oil is best for frying chicken in a cast iron skillet?

When it comes to frying chicken in a cast iron skillet, the type of oil you use can make all the difference. You want to choose an oil that has a high smoke point, which means it can be heated to a high temperature without burning or smoking. Some of the best oils for frying chicken in a cast iron skillet include peanut oil, canola oil, and vegetable oil. These oils are all neutral in flavor, which means they won't impart any unwanted flavors onto your chicken. Additionally, they have high smoke points, making them ideal for frying. It's important to note that you should avoid using olive oil or butter for frying, as their low smoke points make them unsuitable for high-heat cooking. Ultimately, the choice of oil comes down to personal preference, but selecting an oil with a high smoke point will help you achieve crispy, golden-brown chicken every time.

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