How do you pan fry chicken?

Pan frying chicken involves cooking it in a skillet with a small amount of oil over medium-high heat. The key is to sear the chicken skin-side down first to create a crispy crust, then flip it and cook until fully cooked through. Even cooking is important for both flavor and food safety.

How long does it take chicken to cook in a frying pan?

Cooking time depends on the cut of chicken and the thickness of the pieces. Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs typically take 12-15 minutes. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts cook much faster, usually 4-5 minutes per side. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

What is pan-frying chicken mean?

Pan-frying means cooking food in a skillet with a small amount of oil over medium-high heat. It's a quick and easy cooking method that creates a delicious crispy exterior.

Should you flour chicken before pan-frying?

You can flour chicken before pan-frying for extra crispiness. Dredge the chicken in seasoned flour, shaking off any excess, before placing it in the hot skillet. This creates a light, crispy coating.

Is it better to pan-fry chicken in butter or oil?

Butter adds great flavor, but it has a low smoke point. Oil is better for high-heat cooking. A combination of butter and oil gives you the best of both worlds: flavor and a higher smoke point.

Pan Fried Chicken: Easy & Delicious Weeknight Meal ( 20 minutes )

Name: Pan Fried Chicken: Easy & Delicious Weeknight Meal
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 4-6 thighs); 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/4 tsp paprika; 1/4 tsp garlic powder; 1/4 tsp onion powder; 2 tbsp olive oil

Description

This Pan-Fried Chicken recipe is crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and packed with flavor! Perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner. Serve it with your favorite sides for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale

1.5 lbs bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 4–6 thighs)
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp paprika
1/4 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp onion powder
2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken: Pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Season: Mix salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Rub evenly over the chicken.
Heat the Skillet: Heat olive oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium heat.
Sear the Chicken: Place chicken thighs skin-side down and cook for 7-8 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
Flip & Cook: Turn the chicken and cook for another 7-8 minutes. Cover and reduce heat, cooking for an additional 5 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Rest & Serve: Transfer to a plate and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Chicken Variations: Use boneless thighs or chicken breasts, adjusting the cooking time.
Oil Alternatives: Swap olive oil for vegetable, canola, or avocado oil.
Spices: Experiment with cayenne, thyme, or oregano for extra flavor.

Storage: Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven at 350°F (175°C).

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dinner, Main Course
Method: Pan-Fried
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 piece (varies based on portioning)
Calories: 250
Sugar: 0g
Sodium: 450mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 1g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: pan fried chicken, crispy chicken thighs, quick chicken dinner, easy chicken recipe, skillet chicken