Fried Chicken Takes Way Less Effort With This Affordable Kitchen Gadget

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Whether served with some mashed potatoes and gravy, a plate of crispy French fries, or simply enjoyed on its own, fried chicken is a beloved American classic that never lets you down. Hold that thought, though, at least until the oil starts dripping everywhere and turns your kitchen into a greasy nightmare as you take the chicken out. In such cases, even the simplest fried chicken recipe won't save you from a messy cleanup. Thankfully, there's one cheap kitchen gadget that can make the whole process much easier. Say hello to a spider skimmer.

Despite its creepy-crawly name, a spider skimmer (also known as a spider strainer) has nothing to do with actual spiders. It's only called that as its woven wire basket resembles a spiderweb. The basket is attached to a long handle, usually made from bamboo or metal, which lets you safely reach into a pot of hot oil and keeps your hands away from the heat and splatters. At the same time, the wide, open wires let the excess grease drip straight off the chicken and back into the pot, minimizing drips on your counters.

The beauty of this incredibly handy kitchen tool is also that it supports the chicken from underneath. This means no extra tools, less mess, perfectly intact breading, and wonderfully crispy chicken that never turns soggy. So, if you're looking for the crispiest fried chicken you've ever tasted, it may just be the right time to invest in a spider skimmer.

A spider skimmer is one of those kitchen tools there's simply no excuse not to have. One of the many reasons for this is its price. Basic versions of the gadget can be found for less than $10. This 5.5-inch YFWOOD Spider Strainer Skimmer is a solid choice, and it's priced at just $8.99 on Amazon. With that in mind, don't overlook its size. Your skimmer should fit comfortably inside the pot or Dutch oven. It should also be wide enough to support the chicken pieces. In general, spider skimmers range from about four to nine inches in diameter.

Speaking of size, don't forget about the handle. It should be long enough to keep your hands away from the hot oil. Most spider skimmer handles usually measure between 13 and 15 inches, although longer versions can reach 18 inches. When picking the right skimmer, you'll also want to consider a stainless-steel option. Not only is it durable, but it can also go directly into the dishwasher after you use it. 

Last but not least, this little tool is good for more than just fried chicken. It is, as a matter of fact, very versatile. You can use it to flip and scoop various foods, including doughnuts, dumplings, and even vegetables and hard-boiled eggs. The options are endless.