Can you fry chicken in olive oil, it's a question many folks have while looking for alternative cooking fats. In this comprehensive guide, we walk you through everything you need to know to achieve crispy and delicious fried chicken using our favorite cooking fat.
Can you fry chicken in olive oil?
Yes, you can fry chicken in olive oil. It's a healthier way to enjoy one of your favorite foods without sacrificing taste!
You can both shallow pan fry and deep fry in olive oil. Although, our preferred method is shallow pan frying.
Clearing up the smoke point
Regular olive oil has a smoke point of 390 - 470F while extra virgin has a smoke point of 350 - 430F. The ideal temperature to fry chicken is between 325F and 350F. Therefore, the smoke point isn't an issue. Read more about smoke point here.
Related: Dive deeper into frying with OO in our book, The Olive Oil Enthusiast.
Why olive oil is the best oil for frying chicken
Olive oil lends incredible depth and flavor, while keeping the chicken moist and tender. And mostly importantly, it helps to give the the meat a very clean and crisp crust. Which is the best part!
Benefits of frying chicken in olive oil
There are loads of health benefits when it comes to frying with olive oil. The product can help prevent cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. It's also an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant rich. If that's not enough, researchers have been studying the ways in which EVOO can potentially prevent Alzheimer's Disease.
Frying has often been viewed as an unhealthy way of cooking. However, this is due to the type of cooking fat used. EVOO is a superfood.
Shallow frying
Shallow frying in olive oil is the best way to use the product and cuts down on waste. We use this method when making zucchini fritters and they always come out perfect.
You also don't need to use the biggest pan in the kitchen. A 6 inch or 8 inch pan is usually sufficient for frying chicken. However, if you have a lot of pieces or want to move through them quickly use a 10 inch or 12 inch pan.
Deep frying
Deep frying in olive oil is possible, and the product can be reused if strained and stored properly. Use a pot with higher sides to prevent splattering.
How to fry chicken in olive oil
It's incredibly important to have your ingredients mise en place, ingredients and plates prepped. This way all you have to do is make sure the chicken is well coated and ready to be fried.
Preheat your oven to 200 F or your preferred warm setting. Prep a baking tray with a cooling rack. Alternatively, you can prep plates with paper towels.
Cut the chicken into uniform pieces. Then pat all sides dry to prevent the olive oil from splattering. In a plate with sides mix together your favorite flour seasoning mixture. If preferred, set up a dredge station.
Grab your favorite frying pan and fill it with 1/2 inch of olive oil. Preheat the pan on medium. After a minute or two test the oil is hot by sprinkling in a bit of flour, if it sizzles emphatically you can begin frying. Alternatively, you can use a thermometer.
While the pan is heating, roll the chicken in the flour mixture or go for a full dredge. Once hot gently drop in the chicken in. Be careful not to splatter.
The sides of the chicken should produce small to medium size bubbles. If the bubbles get bigger turn down the heat. Let the chicken fry for a few minutes. Flip and repeat until golden brown.
Remove the fried chicken to the baking tray or plate with paper towel. Keep it warm in the oven. Repeat until all of the chicken is fried to perfection!
Get the full Italian fried chicken recipe.
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Hey, we wrote a book all about our favorite cooking fat. If you want to learn more get your copy today!
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