Preheat your oven to 375 degrees. This sets the stage for cooking the chicken evenly once it's browned. A hot oven is key to achieving that perfect finish.
In a gallon-size zip-lock bag, combine white whole wheat flour, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Shake the bag to mix the ingredients thoroughly. This mixture will create a flavorful coating for the chicken.
Take each piece of chicken and dip it one at a time into the slightly beaten egg white, ensuring it’s well-coated. Allow any excess egg white to drip off. This step is crucial for the flour mixture to stick properly.
Next, place the coated chicken into the bag with the flour mixture. Seal the bag and shake it gently to coat the chicken evenly. Remove each piece and set it aside. This will ensure a nice, even coating that’ll crisp up beautifully.
In an oven-safe skillet, add the canola oil and turn the heat to medium. You’ll know it’s ready when a pinch of the flour mixture sizzles upon contact with the oil. Take care not to let the oil reach the smoking point.
Carefully place the coated chicken pieces into the hot oil. Brown each side for about 8 minutes until they're golden brown. This step locks in the flavor and creates that desirable crust.
Once browned, leave the chicken in the skillet and transfer it directly into the preheated oven without covering it. Bake for about 30 minutes. This will ensure the chicken cooks through while maintaining its crispy texture.
After 30 minutes, remove the chicken from the oven. Place it onto paper towels to absorb any excess oil. This is an important step, as it helps keep the chicken crispy.
Enjoy your Southern Fried Chicken hot, paired with your favorite sides. Relish in the delightful crunch and juicy meat!
