Cowboy’s Delight Casserole: A Hearty, Flavorful Dish for Any Occasion

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1‑inch pieces
• 4 slices thick‑cut smoked bacon, chopped
• 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced (about 1 cup)
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• ½ red onion, thinly sliced

Custard & Sauce

• 6 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon chipotle chili powder

Seasonings & Garnish

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Searing the Protein & Bacon

1. Render the Bacon. In a large oven‑safe skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crisp, about 5‑6 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper‑towel‑lined plate, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.
2. Sear the Chicken. Increase the heat to medium‑high. Add a drizzle of olive oil if the bacon fat is low, then add the seasoned chicken pieces in a single layer. Sear without moving for 3‑4 minutes per side until golden brown. This step creates a flavorful crust and locks in juices.
3. Combine Veggies. Reduce heat to medium, add the diced sweet potato, bell pepper, and red onion to the skillet. Stir and sauté for 4‑5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften and pick up the browned bits from the pan.

Assembling the Casserole

1. Layer the Base. Sprinkle the cooked bacon back into the skillet, distributing it evenly. Then pour the egg‑custard over the chicken and vegetables, allowing it to seep into every nook.
2. Add Cheese. Evenly scatter the shredded sharp cheddar over the top. The cheese will melt into a golden crust as the casserole bakes.
3. Bake. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 20‑25 minutes, or until the custard is set (a gentle jiggle in the center) and the cheese is bubbling and lightly browned. If you prefer a deeper crust, broil for the final 2 minutes—watch closely to avoid burning.