Can You Fry Chicken in Olive Oil? Are you wondering whether you can use olive oil to fry chicken? This common question often leads to confusion due to the variety of opinions and information available online. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll provide you with clear answers and essential tips on frying chicken with olive oil, including deep frying, comparisons with other oils, safety concerns, and more. Can You Fry Chicken in Olive Oil? Yes, you can fry chicken in olive oil, but the type of olive oil you use matters. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) specialists recommend using extra virgin olive oil for frying chicken. However, they do not advise using butter or coconut oil for frying. There’s a common misconception that fried food is inherently unhealthy due to the frying process, but according to USDA specialists, health concerns are more related to the type of oil used rather than the frying process itself. In Spain, for instance, where olive oil is frequently used for frying and cooking, fried food consumption is not associated with heart disease or increased mortality rates.