Best Oil to Fry Chicken – Top 4 Picks for Crunchy Results
The best oil to fry chicken is the one that keeps your chicken crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and free from burnt flavors. The ideal oil should have a high smoke point (400°F–520°F), a clean or neutral taste, and the ability to handle both deep frying and pan frying. Options like avocado oil (520°F) and sunflower oil (440°F) are excellent for deep frying, while olive oil (375°F) adds rich flavor for pan-fried chicken.
Best Oil to Fry Chicken: Boost Crispiness & Maintain Flavor
Here is the list of the best oils to Fry Chicken in 2025
- Healthy Harvest Sunflower Oil
- chosen food avocado oil
- Bertolli Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- Colavita Extra Virgin Olive Oil
4 Best Oil to Fry Chicken
1. Healthy Harvest Sunflower Oil: Non-GMO Crisp & Neutral Flavor – (Editor’s Pick for Best Healthy Harvest Sunflower Oil)
If you want fried chicken that stays crispy without burning, Healthy Harvest NON GMO Sunflower Oil is a solid choice. With a smoke point of around 450°F, it handles deep frying easily. The oil is non-GMO, refined for stability, and has a neutral flavor that won’t overpower your spices or marinades. Plus, it retains vitamin E and antioxidants, making it slightly healthier than regular frying oils. Its 1-gallon size also makes it great for repeated use in family kitchens.
Key Features:
- Smoke Point: ~450°F
- Type: Non-GMO, refined sunflower oil
- Flavor: Neutral, lets spices stand out
- Size: 1 gallon (128 fl oz)
| Pros | Cons |
| High smoke point, safe for deep frying | Higher in polyunsaturated fats |
| Neutral taste for seasoning-focused dishes | |
| Vitamin E & antioxidants |
2. Chosen Food Avocado Oil: 100% Pure Oil High Heat & Healthy Fats – (Best Avocado Oil For Cooking)
For those who want both health benefits and frying power, Chosen Foods Avocado Oil is a top pick. With a smoke point of 500°F, it’s one of the most heat-stable oils you can buy. It’s packed with monounsaturated fats that support heart health while giving your fried chicken a crispy, golden crust. Its mild, buttery taste works well with breaded coatings and marinades without overpowering the meat. The only drawback is the price, but for premium results, it’s worth it.
Key Features:
- Smoke Point: 500°F
- Type: Cold-pressed, pure avocado oil
- Flavor: Mild, buttery notes
- Size: 16.9 fl oz
3. Bertolli Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Rich Flavor & Golden Finish – (Best Extra Virgin Olive Oil)
If you prefer a distinct flavor boost, Bertolli Extra Virgin Olive Oil is a great option for pan-frying chicken. With a smoke point of around 375°F, Extra Virgin Olive Oil not ideal for deep frying, but perfect for shallow frying where you want that signature Mediterranean taste. Best extra virgin olive oil adds a rich, robust flavor that enhances breaded chicken or sautéed recipes. Plus, it contains antioxidants and healthy fats, making it a healthier option than most refined oils.
Key Features:
- Smoke Point: ~375°F
- Type: Extra virgin, cold-pressed
- Flavor: Rich Mediterranean taste
- Size: 51 fl oz bottle
| Pros | Cons |
| Adds unique olive oil flavor to fried chicken | Lower smoke point, not best for deep frying |
| Source of antioxidants & healthy fats | |
| Trusted global brand |
4. Colavita Extra Virgin Olive Oil: 68 Oz Cold Pressed, Perfect for roasting and Baking – (Best Extra Virgin Olive Oil Colavita)
Colavita Premium Selection Extra Virgin Olive Oil is a first cold-pressed blend with a delicate, mild flavor balanced between fruitiness and spice. It comes in large sizes (like 68 oz) which makes it fairly good value. However, EVOO generally has a lower smoke point compared to refined oils, meaning it’s better for sautéing, roasting, dressings or drizzling rather than intense deep frying. According to the brand, it’s considered ideal for roasting, baking, dressings, and marinades.
Key Features:
- Type: Extra Virgin Olive Oil, First Cold Pressed
- Size: 68 oz (large family-size bottle)
- Smoke Point: ~375°F (190°C)
- Flavor: Fruity, slightly peppery
- Best For: Pan frying, shallow frying, sautéing
| Pros: | |
| Rich flavor enhances fried chicken taste | Not the best choice for deep frying at high heat |
| Cold-pressed — retains antioxidants and nutrients | The flavor may be too strong for those who prefer neutral taste |
| Large bottle (68 oz) offers better value | Pricier compared to vegetable or canola oils |
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Oil to Fry Chicken
Smoke Point – Look for oils 400°F or higher for deep frying. Lower smoke points (like EVOO) are better for pan frying.
Flavor – Neutral oils (sunflower, avocado) let your seasoning shine. Olive oil adds richness.
Health Benefits – Oils high in monounsaturated fats (avocado, olive) are healthier than those high in polyunsaturated fats.
Cost & Availability – Avocado oil is premium but pricey, while sunflower oil is affordable and reliable.
Conclusion
The best oil for frying chicken depends on your needs: Sunflower oil offers a high smoke point for crispy results, Avocado oil is great for health-conscious frying with a mild taste, and Olive oil adds a rich flavor for shallow frying. Choose based on heat tolerance, flavor, and health benefits.
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