Powerful Pan Not Just for Chicken, This is one sturdy pan--be ready for a bit of heavy lifting if you're going from stove to oven, because it takes two hands. I knew I wanted a cast iron skillet for frying and other things, and knew I wanted it to be a heavyweight (because that's how good cast iron skillets should be), and decided on this one because I liked the looks and the pouring lip, and Cuisinart tends to be reliable. It has a sorta high price tag, but from what my grandmother told me, a good cast-iron skillet will last forever, so I dove in. And so far, it's been more than worth it. Not just for chicken frying, though the straight tall sides make it great for frying (I've tried a couple things, chicken, hushpuppies, and zucchini and all have come out nice an hot and crisp), but also for making things from browning a ton of onions, to simmering a sauce, to making a big curry for about 10 people. It's just a workhorse of a pan, and the ability to drop it in the oven (using both hands, don't forget) to finish off a dish is very helpful. Oh, and it does look great (I have red) on the stove, too, which is a bonus. Overall, I'd suggest this pan to anyone, whether they want to use it to fry chicken or not. It's an investment that you'll be using for many years.
Workhorse is Right - And She's Built to Last Too, I picked up one of these babies about a year ago and the previous reviewer is right - she's a workhorse. I make big stews and meat/rice dishes in this and its great. Sautée the chicken for Arroz Con Pollo and then throw in the chicken stock and rice and toss the chicken back in and simmer for 40 minutes - perfection. Very even distribution of heat - it takes a few minutes to heat up - but its nice and DEEEEEEEP. You can really fill it with food. It practically acts as a second Dutch oven. Want some amazing roasted root vegetables? Skin 'em, chop 'em, and throw them in this baby in the oven at 300 degrees (with that nice heavy cover on) for 1 hour. Absolutely delicious. Sweet and rich and flavorful. The heavy iron nature of the cover and pan ensure the inside turns into a sauna and stays that way. You almost have to be careful not to overcook food with the top on. Once this baby warms up, turn the heat down to medium low and let her do the rest. Its like a mini-stove all to itself. But you better workout. This sucker tips the scales at close to 35-40 pounds with the cover on, I'm guessing. Its ROBUST. I'll die before this thing does.
Extremely versatile and suitable for variety of cooking methods: stove, oven and broiler safe.Strong, durable finish in rich colors complement any kitchen décor: perfect for serving and entertaining.Cast Iron construction provides superior heat retention and even heat distribution.Dishwasher safe for convenient maintenance and easy clean up.Porcelain enameled exterior offers durability creating an ideal cooking surface that does not impart flavors or absorb odors. Cast iron improves its solid reputation with Cuisinart Chef's Classic Enameled Cast Iron Cookware! Cast iron is recognized as one of the best materials for cooking because of its ability to retain heat and provide even heat distribution. This type of cookware is widely used for almost any recipe from roasts to desserts and performs well with a variety of cooking methods from searing to simmering. Many pan styles are available for cooking soups, sauces, casseroles, grills quiches, breads, and etc. These versatile pieces yield great results whether it's on the stove or in the broiler or oven. They can go to table and double as elegant serving pieces! Savor the Good Life right at home, with family and friends. Cuisinart makes it absolutely delicious.
