How Long to Cook Chicken Breast in 350 Oil Fryer: Time and Temperature mode

Hey folks! One question I hear all the time: “How long should I deep fry chicken breast at 350°F?” And I get it—nobody wants dry chicken, and nobody wants it raw either. I’ve deep-fried more chicken breasts in busy kitchens than I can count, and once you lock in the perfect time and temp, it’s smooth sailing. Today I’m laying it all out—from boneless fillets to bone-in beauties—so you can fry with confidence every single time.

Cooking Time Table for Chicken Breast in 350°F Oil Fryer

Chicken TypeCut ThicknessCooking TimeNotes
Boneless chicken breast1 inch6–8 minsFlip halfway for even crisping
Boneless chicken breast1.5 inches8–10 minsCheck internal temp at thickest part
Bone-in chicken breast12–15 minsFry low and slow to cook through

Oil Temperature Guidelines for Fried Chicken Breast

Temp (°F)ResultChef’s Tip
325°FLonger cook, softer crustGood for very thick or bone-in pieces
350°FBalanced crisp and juicy meatMy go-to for boneless breasts—perfect balance
375°FSuper crispy, cooks fastBest for thin cuts or final flash-fry

FAQ – 15 Real Questions About Frying Chicken Breast at 350°F

How long do I fry boneless chicken breast at 350°F?

On my experience, 6 to 8 minutes for a standard 1-inch thick piece does the trick. I flip halfway and always check the inside with a thermometer—165°F is the magic number.

Can I deep fry thick chicken breasts?

Yes, but I always pound them slightly or slice them in half to ensure even cooking. If they’re super thick, you risk overcooking the outside before the center hits temp.

What oil should I use?

I stick with neutral, high smoke point oils like peanut or canola. I’ve used both for years in restaurants—they fry clean and give a golden crust.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

I never guess. I use a meat thermometer and pull them out the second they hit 165°F in the center. If they’re still bubbling fiercely, they’re not ready yet.

Should I marinate chicken before frying?

Definitely. I love buttermilk marinades for 2–4 hours. Adds flavor, keeps it juicy, and helps the breading stick beautifully.

What’s the best breading for fried chicken breast?

From my own tests, I go for flour mixed with cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne. Triple-dip it (flour–egg–flour) for that classic crunch.

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Not for deep frying. I’ve seen disasters happen—steam, oil splatters, undercooked centers. Always thaw fully first for safety and even cooking.

Should I brine my chicken before frying?

Sometimes I do a quick saltwater brine—makes a difference, especially for bone-in cuts. For boneless, a marinade does the job just fine.

How do I prevent the crust from falling off?

Let the breaded chicken rest for 10 minutes before frying. That way, the coating bonds to the meat. I also avoid touching it too much in the fryer.

What do I do if the crust browns too quickly?

Lower the oil temp slightly. I’ve made the mistake of rushing it—dark crust with raw center. Keep it steady at 350°F and monitor with a thermometer.

Can I reuse frying oil?

Yes—if it’s not burnt. I strain it after cooling and store it in a cool, dark place. I usually reuse oil 2–3 times max for chicken.

Should I rest the chicken after frying?

Always. I rest it on a wire rack for 5–7 minutes. That keeps the bottom crispy and lets juices settle. Never skip this step.

How do I keep chicken juicy while deep frying?

I use marinades, watch my oil temp closely, and don’t overcrowd the pot. That combo keeps the inside moist and the crust crackly.

Can I fry chicken breast with the skin on?

Absolutely. I love skin-on cuts—it adds flavor and extra crunch. Just make sure it’s dry before breading, or the oil will spit.

What’s your favorite way to serve fried chicken breast?

I slice it over a spicy slaw or serve it in a brioche bun with pickles and garlic aioli. It’s pure comfort food, NYC-style.