Fried Chicken > Can you cook fried chicken in olive oil

Can You Cook Fried Chicken in Olive Oil?

Fried chicken is a delicious, crispy treat that many people love. The big question is: can you safely fry chicken in olive oil? The short answer is yes, you can cook fried chicken in olive oil, but you need to take some precautions.

Can You Cook Fried Chicken in Olive Oil?

Yes, you can cook fried chicken in olive oil. Olive oil can be used to cook fried chicken, though it has a lower smoke point than oils like vegetable, peanut or canola oil. The smoke point refers to the temperature at which an oil starts burning and smoking. For olive oil, this ranges from about 375°F to 405°F depending on the grade.

This makes it suitable for pan frying chicken, but potentially problematic for deep frying at very high temps.

To successfully fry chicken in olive oil, choose a high quality extra virgin or pure olive oil with a higher smoke point. Avoid “light” or diluted types. Use a deep fry thermometer and maintain the oil between 350-375°F to prevent burning. Fry chicken in small batches and allow the oil to come back up to temperature between batches.

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Monitor it closely and discard the oil if it starts smoking or deteriorating. Opt for shallow frying rather than deep frying to better control the temperature. Season the chicken well so less frying time is needed. Here are some tips for successfully frying chicken in olive oil:

• • Choose a high quality, pure olive oil with a higher smoke point. Avoid “light” or diluted varieties which can burn faster.
  • Use a deep fry thermometer and maintain the temperature between 350-375°F. Do not let the oil get so hot that it starts smoking.
  • Fry chicken in small batches to maintain proper oil temperature. Allow the oil to come back up to temperature between batches.
  • Monitor the oil closely and discard and replace it if it starts to smoke or looks overly viscous. The flavor will also deteriorate.
  • Opt for shallow frying or pan frying chicken instead of deep frying. This uses less oil and makes it easier to regulate temperature.
  • Season the chicken well before frying so less time is needed in the oil. Fry until golden brown and 165°F internal temperature.
  • Allow cooked chicken to drain on a wire rack or paper towels before serving.

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While olive oil can be used, other oils like peanut, vegetable or canola oil have higher smoke points above 400°F making them better suited for deep frying. Olive oil does impart delicious flavor to fried chicken. With proper monitoring of temperature, using high quality olive oil, and frying in small batches, you can safely cook up crispy, golden brown fried chicken in olive oil.

Which oil is best for frying chicken?

You’ll get the best results using a high quality extra virgin olive oil, which has the highest smoke point in the range of 405°F. Pure or light olive oil can also work. Stay away from extra virgin varieties labeled “cold pressed” which have a lower smoke point. Check the label for the oil’s smoke point before using.

Can Other Oils Be Used for Frying Chicken?

While olive oil gives chicken delicious flavor, other oils are better suited for deep frying at higher temperatures above 400°F. Good options include:

• • Peanut oil: Refined peanut oil can reach 450°F making it excellent for deep frying. It has a neutral flavor.
  • Vegetable oil: A blend of oils like canola, soybean or corn oil. Look for a high smoke point above 400°F.
  • Canola oil: With a smoke point around 400°F, it’s a healthy oil good for frying.
  • Shortening: Pure vegetable shortening can get over 450°F for crisp fried foods.
  • Lard or tallow: Derived from animal fats, these have very high smoke points.

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No matter what oil you use, proper monitoring of temperature is essential for getting the best results when frying chicken. With some care taken, olive oil can be a tasty choice. Use these tips to cook up crispy, golden brown fried chicken in olive oil.

So, Can you fried chicken in olive oil?

Yes, you can fry chicken in olive oil using a lower frying temperature of around 350°F. Make sure to let the oil come back up to temperature between batches. With proper precautions, frying in olive oil can give chicken a delicious flavor and crisp exterior. The key is monitoring the heat to prevent burning. Use high quality olive oil and fry in small batches for best results when frying chicken directly in olive oil.

FAQs
Can you deep fry chicken in olive oil?

It’s best to avoid deep frying chicken in olive oil since the high temperature can cause it to smoke or burn. Use olive oil for pan or shallow frying at a lower temperature instead.

How long does it take to fry chicken in olive oil?

The frying time in olive oil will depend on the size and thickness of the chicken pieces, but generally takes 12-15 minutes when the oil is heated to 350°F. Test for doneness by piercing the chicken with a fork – the juices should run clear and it will reach an internal temp of 165°F when fully cooked.

What happens if olive oil gets too hot?

When olive oil overheats, it can start to smoke, give off a burnt smell and lose its flavor. The quality of the oil deteriorates through a process called oxidation.

Is it OK to fry in olive oil?

Yes, it is okay to fry chicken in olive oil. Use a high quality extra virgin or pure olive oil and maintain the proper frying temperature. The olive oil will add delicious flavor to the chicken. Monitor the heat closely to prevent burning. Consider other oils for deep frying at very high temps above 375°F.

Is it OK to reuse olive oil after frying?

It’s not recommended to reuse olive oil after frying. The temperature damages the olive oil, causing it to spoil faster. Store unused oil properly in a cool, dark place.

Is it better to fry chicken in olive oil or butter?

Butter has a low smoke point around 350°F, so it can burn quickly. Olive oil is a healthier choice for frying chicken since it’s high in monounsaturated fats and has a higher smoke point. The taste of olive oil also complements chicken nicely. For best results, shallow or pan fry chicken in olive oil instead of butter.

Is olive oil unhealthy to fry with?

No, olive oil is not unhealthy to fry with. It’s a heart-healthy oil high in monounsaturated fats. Just be mindful of temperature to prevent burning. Moderation is key when eating fried foods.

 

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