From comfort food to picnic fare or Sunday dinner, chicken is one of the most versatile types of meat. Often enjoyed fried in olive or canola oil, a simple change of oil can alter the taste of your fried-chicken recipe. Peanut oil is high in healthy fats, such as unsaturated and monosaturated fats, in addition to antioxidants, phytosterols, and vitamin E, which are all good for heart health. Peanut oil has been touted for its surprising health benefits; the "American Journal of Clinical Nutrition" cited peanut oil in 1999 for helping to cut the chance of cardiovascular disease by 21 percent. Cooking chicken in peanut oil lends a new and interesting flavor and a healthy twist to an old favorite.

Pour enough peanut oil into a skillet to cover the bottom completely and preheat the oil to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Use a thermometer to check the temperature.

Season or dredge the chicken to your desire and place it into the skillet.

Allow the chicken to cook for 15 to 20 minutes flipping it over after 10 minutes to help it cook evenly on both sides.

Check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer to ensure that it has reached 165 degrees Fahrenheit and that the juices run clear before removing it from the pan with tongs.

Set the chicken on a paper towel lined plate to allow it to cool and the juices to settle before eating it.