If you’ve ever wandered through the aisles of Costco, you’ve likely encountered their irresistible Chicken Bake—a deliciously cheesy, hearty snack wrapped in a warm, crispy dough. Whether you’ve been craving that crispy crust or the savory filling, we’ve got you covered with this Copycat Costco Chicken Bake recipe. It’s easy to recreate at home with a few simple ingredients that bring all the flavors you love.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of making this fan-favorite dish, plus answer some frequently asked questions (FAQ) to make sure your homemade chicken bake turns out just as tasty as the one from Costco.
Ingredients for the Copycat Costco Chicken Bake
To make your own Chicken Bake at home, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the dough:
1 package of pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
While homemade pizza dough can be used, store-bought dough makes the process quicker and easier.
For the filling:
2 cups rotisserie chicken (shredded)
The beauty of using rotisserie chicken is that it’s pre-cooked, saving you time and adding flavor.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Mozzarella gives the Chicken Bake that melty, gooey texture that makes it so delicious.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
The sharpness of cheddar pairs perfectly with the creaminess of mozzarella.
1/2 cup Caesar dressing
Caesar dressing adds a creamy texture and a tangy, savory flavor.
1/4 cup cooked bacon crumbles
Bacon crumbles elevate the flavor, adding a smoky, salty punch.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
A hint of garlic powder adds a subtle depth to the filling.
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Fresh parsley will add a pop of color and freshness.
How to Make Copycat Costco Chicken Bake
Now that you’ve gathered all your ingredients, it’s time to assemble and bake your Chicken Bake. Follow the steps below for an easy and delicious homemade version of the Costco classic!
Step 1: Preheat the oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the Chicken Bake will cook evenly and the crust will become perfectly golden brown.
Step 2: Prepare the dough
Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface. Aim for a rectangular shape, about 12 inches by 6 inches. This will give you enough surface area to fold in all your filling ingredients.
Step 3: Prepare the filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded rotisserie chicken, mozzarella, cheddar cheese, Caesar dressing, bacon crumbles, garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything together until well combined.
Step 4: Fill the dough
Spoon the chicken mixture onto the center of the rolled-out dough. Be careful not to overfill it; you want enough room to fold the dough over without it spilling out. Spread the filling evenly to ensure every bite has a good balance of chicken, cheese, and bacon.
Step 5: Fold and seal
Fold the sides of the dough over the filling, then fold the top and bottom of the dough, sealing the edges well. You want to make sure the dough is fully sealed so the filling stays inside while baking. If necessary, use a fork to crimp the edges.
Step 6: Bake
Place the filled dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and crispy.
Step 7: Serve and enjoy!
Once your Chicken Bake is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Slice it into individual servings, and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Tips for the Perfect Chicken Bake
Use rotisserie chicken: For ease and flavor, rotisserie chicken is your best friend. It’s already cooked and seasoned, saving you time in the kitchen.
Adjust the fillings: Feel free to get creative with your filling ingredients. Add some spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or even a touch of ranch dressing if you like.
Crust perfection: If you prefer an even crispier crust, you can brush the dough with a little olive oil or melted butter before baking.
Storage and reheating: Store any leftover Chicken Bake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes to bring back that crispy texture.
Check out: Delicious Baked Salmon Meatballs with Avocado Sauce
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use homemade dough for this recipe?
Yes, you can absolutely use homemade pizza dough for your Chicken Bake. Simply follow your favorite pizza dough recipe, allowing it to rise before rolling it out and filling it. Store-bought dough saves time but homemade dough can elevate the flavor if you prefer.
2. Can I make Chicken Bakes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Chicken Bakes ahead of time. Once you’ve assembled them, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, preheat the oven and bake as directed. You may need to add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
3. Can I freeze the Chicken Bakes?
Yes, Chicken Bakes can be frozen before baking. Once you’ve filled and sealed the dough, place them on a baking sheet and freeze for about an hour. Afterward, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and foil. You can store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook, bake straight from the freezer at 400°F for about 25-30 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
4. What can I substitute for Caesar dressing?
If you’re not a fan of Caesar dressing or want a healthier alternative, you can substitute it with ranch dressing, a light mayo, or even a combination of sour cream and lemon juice for a tangy flavor.
5. Can I make a vegetarian version of the Chicken Bake?
Absolutely! For a vegetarian option, omit the chicken and bacon, and use vegetables such as roasted mushrooms, spinach, and bell peppers. Add some ricotta cheese or extra mozzarella for a hearty filling.
6. Can I add other seasonings?
Feel free to experiment with other seasonings. Italian seasoning, onion powder, or smoked paprika would all be delicious additions to this recipe. Just make sure to adjust the amount of salt accordingly to balance the flavors.
7. How do I know when my Chicken Bake is done?
The Chicken Bake is done when the crust is golden brown and crispy. You can also insert a thermometer into the center; the internal temperature should reach 165°F. The cheese inside should be melted and bubbly.
Conclusion
This Copycat Costco Chicken Bake recipe is the perfect solution when you’re craving that warm, cheesy, and crispy treat. It’s simple to prepare, and you can make it your own by adding or substituting ingredients. Whether you’re feeding the family or hosting a gathering, this homemade version will definitely be a hit. Plus, with the option to freeze or make ahead, you can enjoy this tasty dish whenever the craving strikes!
Now that you know how to make this crowd-pleasing snack, go ahead and try it out at home. We’re sure you’ll love it as much as the original!
Read more: Quick Sticky Chicken Rice Bowl Recipe
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Quick Copycat Costco Chicken Bake Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Copycat Costco Chicken Bake is a homemade version of the popular Costco food court treat! A crispy, golden-brown pizza dough wrap filled with creamy chicken, bacon, melted cheese, and Caesar dressing, this recipe will have you craving that famous Costco snack in the comfort of your own kitchen. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or a delicious snack!
Ingredients
For the Chicken Bake Filling:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 1 cup bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Caesar dressing
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Dough:
- 1 package (13.8 oz) pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Filling:
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, mozzarella cheese, Caesar dressing, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
- Mix everything together until well combined and set aside.
2. Prepare the Dough:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface to about a 12-inch square or rectangle.
- Cut the dough into 4 equal portions.
3. Assemble the Chicken Bake:
- Spoon about ¼ of the chicken filling onto the center of each portion of dough.
- Fold the sides of the dough over the filling, creating a rectangular or cylindrical shape, and seal the edges by pinching them together.
- Place each chicken bake seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake the Chicken Bakes:
- Brush the top of each chicken bake with olive oil for a golden, crispy finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the dough is golden brown and cooked through.
5. Serve:
- Allow the chicken bakes to cool slightly before slicing.
- Serve with extra Caesar dressing for dipping, if desired.
Notes
- Customize the Filling: Feel free to add extra ingredients like spinach, mushrooms, or tomatoes for added flavor and nutrients.
- Frozen Option: These chicken bakes freeze well! After baking, let them cool, then wrap them in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes.
- Make It Spicy: Add hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the filling for a spicy twist.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Cuisine: American, Comfort Food, Copycat Recipes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 32g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
Keywords: Copycat Chicken Bake, Costco Chicken Bake, Chicken Bake Recipe, Easy Chicken Bake, Pizza Dough Chicken Bake