Best electric skillet for frying chicken: Elite Gourmet 12in Extra Deep skillet—ideal heat and depth for crisp chicken.
I was tired of uneven pans and oily splatters that ruined weeknight dinners. A deep electric skillet that holds oil, keeps a steady temp, and fits on the counter solved that. It gave me crisp, golden chicken without a fryer or fuss. If you fry at home, the right electric skillet makes the task safe, fast, and repeatable.
Elite Gourmet 12in Extra Deep Skillet
The Elite Gourmet 12in extra deep skillet gives you space for a family batch. The 7.5 quart depth holds oil and chicken pieces with room to turn. The nonstick finish speeds clean up and keeps breading intact.
Temperature control is simple and steady for frying. The tempered glass lid vents steam and keeps oil from popping too far. This skillet is compact yet roomy for a home cook who loves fried chicken.
Pros:
- Deep well fits multiple chicken pieces with oil.
- Adjustable thermostat for stable frying temps.
- Nonstick surface reduces breading loss and sticking.
- Glass vented lid cuts splatter and keeps crispness.
- Dishwasher-safe parts ease clean up after frying.
Cons:
- Plastic housing can feel lightweight at high heat.
- Nonstick may wear with metal utensils over time.
- 7.5 qt is great for dinners but not for big gatherings.
My Recommendation
I recommend this Elite Gourmet 12in for cooks who want a reliable, deep skillet for daily frying. I like its room and stable heat for breaded thighs and wings. It is a top pick when you want the best electric skillet for frying chicken at home without a bulky fryer.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Small families | Room for 4–6 pieces and quick heat. |
| Countertop cooks | Compact footprint, easy storage. |
| Beginner fryers | Simple controls and spill-reducing lid. |
Elite Gourmet 16×13 Extra Deep Skillet
The Elite Gourmet 16×13 extra deep model is for cooks who need more space. Its 10.5 quart capacity handles large batches and whole chickens. The easy-pour spout keeps oil transfer neat when draining.
The nonstick surface and vented lid make frying tidy and fast. The wide surface spreads heat for more even browning. It works well when I make large family-style fried chicken dinners.
Pros:
- Large 10.5 qt capacity for big batches.
- Easy pour spout for safe oil removal.
- Wide cooking area for even crisping.
- Tempered glass lid to reduce splatter.
- Adjustable thermostat for precise frying temps.
Cons:
- Bulky to store in small kitchens.
- Heavier when full of oil and chicken.
- Surface may need gentle care to avoid scratches.
My Recommendation
If you feed a crowd, this Elite Gourmet 16×13 is a go-to. I use it when I want to fry a whole lot in one go. It competes hard for the best electric skillet for frying chicken when size matters most.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Large families | Cook more pieces at once. |
| Party cooks | Handle big batches without crowding. |
| Meal preppers | Fry then store multiple meals. |
Presto 16in Foldaway Skillet
The Presto 16in foldaway skillet shines for storage and large cooks. It folds flat for tight cabinets. The full 16-inch surface gives room for wings and drumsticks without crowding.
I like its hinge design for easy storage after a long fry session. The glass cover keeps oil in and steam down. For people who need space and neat storage, it is strong and simple.
Pros:
- Large 16-inch surface for big batches.
- Foldaway legs make storage easy.
- Removable control probe for oven-safe use.
- Even heat across the whole surface.
- Tempered glass cover for splatter control.
Cons:
- Not as deep as some dedicated fryers.
- Fold mechanism needs care when hot.
- Edges can be a bit shallow for high oil volumes.
My Recommendation
I favor the Presto 16in when I need space and neat storage. It is a top pick for those who want a large flat surface and easy put-away. I often reach for it when I want one of the best electric skillet for frying chicken that also stores well.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Small kitchens | Folds for tight storage space. |
| Large batches | Wide surface fits many pieces. |
| Flexible cooks | Use on counter or in oven with probe removed. |
bella 12×12 Copper Electric Skillet
The bella 12×12 copper skillet blends style and function. The cool touch handles keep hands safe while frying. The removable probe makes it easy to clean and to control temp precisely.
I use it for small to mid-size batches when I want crisp skin and low oil use. The nonstick finish helps breaded pieces release easily. It heats fast and stays steady for long fries.
Pros:
- Cool touch handles for safer handling.
- Removable probe for easy cleaning and oven use.
- Nonstick surface preserves breading during turns.
- Stylish copper look for a modern kitchen.
- Compact 12×12 fits smaller counters well.
Cons:
- Smaller capacity for larger dinners.
- Copper finish may show wear over time.
- Not as deep as other extra-deep models.
My Recommendation
I recommend the bella 12×12 for cooks who want beauty and function. I pick it when I fry for two or three and want fast heat and easy cleanup. It is one of the best electric skillet for frying chicken if you want a compact, stylish unit that still delivers crisp results.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Couples | Compact size fits two to three servings. |
| Style seekers | Copper finish looks great on counters. |
| Quick cooks | Heats quickly for fast frying sessions. |
Elite Gourmet 12in Ceramic Ceralast Skillet
The Elite Gourmet 12in Ceralast offers PFAS-free ceramic coating. It is a safer choice for cooks who want non-toxic nonstick. The rapid heat up saves time and gets oil to frying temp fast.
The lower-stick surface helps breading stay on. I appreciate the easy clean and the peace of mind about coating materials. It fares well as the best electric skillet for frying chicken for health-minded cooks.
Pros:
- PFAS-free ceramic nonstick for safer cooking.
- Rapid heat up shortens preheat time.
- Dishwasher-safe for easy clean up.
- Compact 12in size fits more counters.
- 1200W power gives steady frying temps.
Cons:
- Ceramic can chip if handled roughly.
- Smaller cooking area for big batches.
- Requires oil to avoid sticking with high-heat breading.
My Recommendation
I recommend the Elite Gourmet Ceralast to cooks who want a non-toxic option. I use it when I want fewer chemicals and easy clean up. It makes a strong case as the best electric skillet for frying chicken for those who care about ceramic coatings.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Health conscious cooks | PFAS-free ceramic coating. |
| Busy cooks | Rapid heat and easy cleanup. |
| Small batch fryers | Good for 2–4 servings. |
Presto 16in Electric Skillet with Lid
The Presto 16in with glass cover is a classic choice. It has a broad cooking surface for many pieces at once. The glass cover keeps splatter down and heat consistent for crisping skin.
I reach for it when I want a dependable, full-size skillet with even heat. It is a durable workhorse for regular frying and crowds. It often shows up on lists as one of the best electric skillet for frying chicken due to its size and simple controls.
Pros:
- Classic full-size 16-inch cooking area.
- Glass cover reduces splatter and loss of heat.
- Simple, durable controls you can trust.
- Even heating for consistent browning.
- Good value for size and features.
Cons:
- Lacks deep walls for very high oil volumes.
- Heavier to move when filled with oil.
- Basic design without modern bells and whistles.
My Recommendation
I recommend the Presto 16in for steady, everyday frying. I use it when I need a simple, reliable surface for wings and legs. It is a solid pick if you want one of the best electric skillet for frying chicken that lasts and performs.
| Best for | Why |
|---|---|
| Frequent fryers | Reliable, even heat for regular use. |
| Value hunters | Good features for the price. |
| Simple cooks | Easy controls and durable design. |
FAQs Of best electric skillet for frying chicken
What temperature should I use to fry chicken in an electric skillet?
Set the skillet to 350°F to 375°F for golden, crispy chicken. I aim for 350°F for large pieces and 375°F for small pieces like wings. Use a thermometer to check oil and meat doneness.
How much oil should I use in an electric skillet for frying?
Use enough oil to cover half to two-thirds of the piece height. I usually pour two to three cups for a 12in skillet. The oil level depends on depth and how many pieces you cook at once.
Can I use an electric skillet to deep fry or only shallow fry?
Most electric skillets are best for shallow to medium-deep frying. Extra-deep models handle near-deep frying for a few pieces. For full deep frying, a dedicated fryer with a basket is safer for large batches.
How do I keep the coating intact when breading chicken?
Pat chicken dry before dredging. Use a light dusting of flour, then egg wash, then panko or crumbs. Fry at steady heat and avoid overcrowding the pan. Turn pieces gently with tongs to keep breading on.
Are ceramic coatings better for health when frying chicken?
Ceramic, PFAS-free coatings reduce exposure to certain chemicals. I choose ceramic if I want nonstick without fluorinated coatings. Still, care for the coating to avoid chips and scrapes which can reduce performance.
Final Verdict: Which Should You Buy?
For most home cooks seeking the best electric skillet for frying chicken, the Elite Gourmet 12in extra deep model balances heat, depth, and price. It fries evenly and keeps splatter down.
If you need larger capacity, choose the Elite 16×13 or Presto 16in models. For a PFAS-free option, the Elite Ceralast is ideal. Each model fits a clear need and delivers crisp, tasty results.
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