Discover the key tips and tricks for achieving deliciously juicy cast iron fried chicken every time.

Fried chicken is a comfort food that never goes out of style, and there’s no better way to make it than in a cast iron skillet. The crispy, golden-brown exterior and juicy, flavorful meat that results from this cooking method are unmatched. In this article, we will walk you through the steps to making the best cast iron fried chicken you’ve ever tasted – from selecting the right pieces of chicken to achieving perfectly seasoned and crunchy skin.

Southern fried chicken is one of our favorite dishes to have for lunch or dinner. It is relatively quick and easy but for years every time I made fried chicken, the breadding would come on soft and soggy. It took me years to finally master the art of frying chicken. The biggest secret is using a cast iron skillet and the type of oil you use, I prefer using lard. So if you need an easy way to achieve deliciously crispy fried chicken check out the fried chicken recipe below.

Homemade fried chicken being dipped in ketchup.

This post may contain affiliate links. This means I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. Read my disclosure policy here.

Why You’ll Love This Fried Chicken Recipe

This fried chicken recipe requires very few ingredients but gives you a delicious crispy golden breading.
You can customize this recipe by adding any additional seasonings or by adding cornmeal to the batter mix.
This recipe is great for a simple weeknight dinner, for a special occasion, or for a large crowd.

Equipment

Cast iron skillet
2 small bowls – one will be for the batter and one will be for the eggs.
Tongs
Whisk or fork
Wire rack or paper towels – for draining excess grease from the chicken.

Ingredients

1 pound chicken breast
3/4 cup all purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 eggs
1/2 cup lard (for frying) – You can substitute for any frying oil you prefer.

How to Make Cast Iron Fried Chicken Breast

Cast iron frying is a classic cooking method that produces deliciously crispy fried chicken. Here’s how to make the best cast iron fried chicken:

1. Start by preparing your chicken. Cut the chicken breast however you prefer. I enjoy thinner chicken strips so I cut my chicken breast into 4 strips.

Chicken breast cut into four strips on a cutting board.

2. Heat your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and add the lard. It should be enough to cover the bottom of the skillet.

3. While waiting for the oil to warm up start making the egg wash and the batter. In a small bowl crack two eggs and whisk with a fork or whisk until they are thoroughly combined. In a separate bowl add the flour, salt, and pepper. Whisk with a fork or whisk until thoroughly combined.

Raw chicken on a cutting board, egg wash in a bowl, and batter in a bowl.

4. Once the oil is hot, take a piece of chicken dip it in the egg mixture coating it in the egg. Then remove from the egg wash bowl and place it in the batter bowl. Coat both sides of the chicken thoroughly in the batter. If you want an extra thick breadding dip it back in the egg and again in the flour.

5. Carefully place the battered chicken into the skillet of hot lard. Cook for 5 – 7 minutes on each side.

6. Use tongs to flip the chicken pieces halfway through cooking to ensure even browning. Depending on how thick the chicken is you may need to increase or decrease the cook time.

Fried chicken in a cast iron skillet frying.

7. Once cooked through, remove the fried chicken from the skillet and let it rest on a wire rack or paper towels to drain any excess oil.

Fried chicken on a cutting board cooling after being fried.

How To Store Leftover Fried Chicken

Any leftover fried chicken should be stored in an airtight container and placed in the refrigerator. If kept in an airtight container and in the refrigerator it will keep for 3 to 4 days.

FAQ’s

Is a cast iron pan good for frying chicken?

Yes, a cast iron pan is great for frying chicken. Cast iron pans are known for their ability to distribute heat evenly, which is crucial when frying chicken. This ensures that the chicken cooks consistently and prevents any hot spots that could lead to unevenly cooked pieces.

How to fry chicken in a cast iron skillet without burning it?

You can achieve perfectly fried chicken by preheating your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat for several minutes. This will ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and doesn’t stick to the pan. It’s crucial to maintain a consistent frying temperature of around 350-375°F while cooking the chicken. Use a thermometer to check the temperature of the oil and adjust the heat as needed.

Is it ok to fry in cast iron?

Frying in cast iron is not only okay but is recommended. Cast iron skillets are incredibly versatile and durable, making them perfect for frying all types of foods.

When using a cast iron skillet what is the best type of oil to use for frying chicken?

When it comes to frying chicken in a cast iron skillet, the type of oil you use can make a big difference in the flavor and texture of your chicken. I prefer using lard or coconut oil for the best results. Other common oils used are vegetable oil, peanut oil, and even canola oil.

In conclusion, mastering the art of cast iron fried chicken is a delicious and rewarding endeavor that can elevate your cooking skills to new heights. By following these tips and techniques, you can achieve crispy, juicy chicken every time. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, using a cast iron skillet to fry chicken is a fantastic way to create mouthwatering meals that will impress your family and friends. So grab your skillet, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy some of the best fried chicken you’ve ever tasted!

If you try this recipe share a picture on Instagram and tag me I love seeing what you create! I would greatly appreciate it if you would leave a recipe rating or a written review below. I love hearing your feedback!

Shop Post

Save Post For Later