Copycat Costco Chicken Bake Recipe

If you're a fan of Costco's famous Chicken Bake, you're in for a treat! This delicious, cheesy, and savory dish has become a favorite for many, and today we're going to show you how to make it at home. With our step-by-step guide, you'll be able to recreate that crispy, golden crust filled with tender chicken, bacon, and gooey cheese—right in your kitchen. Stick around and discover how easy it is to master this recipe, and learn some tips, variations, and presentation ideas to elevate your homemade Chicken Bake. Ready to get started? Let’s dive in!

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What is a Copycat Costco Chicken Bake?

A Copycat Costco Chicken Bake is a homemade version of the popular Chicken Bake sold at Costco's food court. This delicious hand-held meal is made by wrapping tender chicken breast, crispy bacon, and a blend of cheeses inside pizza dough, then baking it to golden perfection. The combination of flavors and textures, with creamy Caesar dressing and a hint of garlic, makes this dish irresistible. It's a filling meal that can be enjoyed as a quick lunch, dinner, or even a snack. Whether you're trying to recreate the Costco experience at home or looking for a fun new recipe, this Copycat Costco Chicken Bake will hit the spot.

Ingredients List for Copycat Costco Chicken Bake

Before you begin, make sure you have all the ingredients on hand. Here's what you'll need to make a batch of Copycat Costco Chicken Bakes:

• Pizza Dough – You can use store-bought pizza dough or make your own. This is the base of the Chicken Bake, giving it that crispy exterior.
• Chicken Breast – Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best. You'll want to cook and dice them into bite-sized pieces.
• Bacon – Crispy bacon adds a smoky flavor to the Chicken Bake. Cook the bacon and crumble it into small pieces.
• Mozzarella Cheese – Shredded mozzarella cheese melts perfectly inside the Chicken Bake, giving it that gooey, cheesy center.
• Parmesan Cheese – A sprinkle of grated Parmesan enhances the cheesy flavor and adds a nice salty kick.
• Caesar Dressing – A key ingredient in the original Costco Chicken Bake, Caesar dressing adds creaminess and a tangy flavor.
• Olive Oil – For brushing the outside of the dough to help it crisp up in the oven.
• Garlic Powder – Adds a subtle garlic flavor to the dough.
• Salt and Pepper – To season the chicken and balance the flavors in the dish.

Ingredient List for Chicken Bake Variations

Want to mix things up or customize your Chicken Bake? Here are a few optional ingredients you can use for substitutions or variations:

• Ranch Dressing – Swap out the Caesar dressing for ranch if you prefer a different creamy flavor.
• Spinach – Add a handful of fresh spinach for a pop of color and added nutrition.
• BBQ Sauce – For a smoky twist, replace the Caesar dressing with BBQ sauce, and add some grilled onions for an extra layer of flavor.
• Pepperoni or Ham – For a meatier option, throw in some pepperoni or ham along with the chicken and bacon.
• Cheddar Cheese – Instead of mozzarella, try using shredded cheddar for a sharper cheese flavor.
• Buffalo Sauce – Drizzle some buffalo sauce inside the Chicken Bake for a spicy kick.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes – These add a sweet, tangy burst of flavor to the filling.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about making a Copycat Costco Chicken Bake at home is that you can customize it to your taste. Here are some substitutions and variations you can try:

1. Vegetarian Version – If you're not a fan of meat, you can easily make a vegetarian version by swapping out the chicken and bacon for veggies. Roasted bell peppers, mushrooms, or even zucchini would make great alternatives.
2. Gluten-Free Option – If you're avoiding gluten, use a gluten-free pizza dough and make sure your Caesar dressing is gluten-free as well.
3. Low-Carb Chicken Bake – For a low-carb version, you can swap out the pizza dough for a low-carb tortilla or even use a sheet of puff pastry.
4. Spicy Chicken Bake – Add some heat by mixing in diced jalapeños, chili flakes, or hot sauce with your chicken and cheese.
5. Pesto Chicken Bake – Replace the Caesar dressing with a layer of pesto for a fresh, herby twist on this classic recipe.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let's walk through how to make your Copycat Costco Chicken Bake. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you along the way:

1. Preheat Your Oven – Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure the Chicken Bake cooks evenly and gets that perfect golden brown crust.
2. Cook the Chicken and Bacon – In a skillet, cook your chicken breasts with a little salt and pepper until they're no longer pink in the center. Remove the chicken from the pan and dice it into bite-sized pieces. In the same skillet, cook your bacon until crispy, then crumble it into small bits.
3. Prepare the Pizza Dough – Roll out your pizza dough into rectangular shapes, roughly 6x12 inches. The dough should be thin enough to wrap around the filling but not so thin that it tears.
4. Assemble the Filling – In the center of each dough rectangle, layer some Caesar dressing, diced chicken, crumbled bacon, shredded mozzarella, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
5. Fold and Seal the Dough – Fold the edges of the dough over the filling, pressing them together to seal. You want to make sure the filling is completely enclosed so it doesn't leak out during baking.
6. Brush with Olive Oil – Once the Chicken Bakes are sealed, place them on a lined baking sheet. Brush the tops with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder for extra flavor.
7. Bake – Pop the Chicken Bakes into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and crispy.
8. Cool and Serve – Once they're out of the oven, let the Chicken Bakes cool for a few minutes before serving.

How to Cook Copycat Costco Chicken Bake: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cooking a Copycat Costco Chicken Bake is simple, and the results are well worth the effort. Here's a more detailed breakdown of each step to ensure you get the perfect Chicken Bake:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

The first step is to preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Make sure your oven is fully heated before you put the Chicken Bakes in, as this will ensure even cooking and a crispy crust.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken and Bacon

While your oven is preheating, cook your chicken and bacon. Season the chicken with a little salt and pepper and cook it in a skillet until done. After the chicken is cooked, dice it into small pieces. Fry the bacon until it’s crispy, then crumble it into bits.

Step 3: Prepare the Dough

Take your pizza dough and roll it out into rectangles. You can aim for a size of about 6x12 inches. The dough should be thin but still able to hold all the fillings.

Step 4: Add the Filling

Now, it’s time to assemble. Spread a layer of Caesar dressing down the center of the dough, leaving space around the edges to fold it up later. Add the cooked chicken, bacon, and shredded cheeses.

Step 5: Fold and Seal

Fold the dough over the filling and pinch the edges to make sure it's sealed tightly. This will keep all the cheesy goodness inside while baking.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Place your Chicken Bakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush them with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder. Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until the dough is golden brown and crispy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overfilling the Dough – It can be tempting to add extra chicken, bacon, and cheese, but too much filling can cause the dough to tear or the filling to leak out during baking.
• Not Sealing the Edges Properly – Be sure to press the dough edges firmly together to avoid leakage. You can even use a little water to help seal the edges if needed.
• Skipping the Olive Oil – Brushing the dough with olive oil before baking helps to achieve a golden, crispy exterior. Don’t skip this step!
• Undercooking the Chicken – Make sure your chicken is fully cooked before adding it to the bake. Since the chicken won’t cook much further inside the dough, any undercooked pieces could result in a rubbery texture.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Once your Copycat Costco Chicken Bakes are out of the oven and slightly cooled, it’s time to serve. Here are some presentation and serving tips to make your homemade Chicken Bakes even more impressive:

• Serve with Dipping Sauces – Offer a side of extra Caesar dressing, ranch, or marinara sauce for dipping.
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs – Sprinkle a little fresh parsley or basil over the top for added color and flavor.
• Slice for Sharing – Cut the Chicken Bakes in half or into smaller pieces for a shareable appetizer or party snack.

How to Serve Copycat Costco Chicken Bake

The Copycat Costco Chicken Bake is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Serve it as a main course with a side salad for a balanced meal, or cut it into smaller portions for an easy-to-eat snack at parties or gatherings. It’s also a great option for meal prep, as it stores well and can be easily reheated for a quick lunch or dinner.

Presentation Ideas for Copycat Costco Chicken Bake

Presentation can make all the difference when serving a meal, even one as casual as a Chicken Bake. Here are a few ideas to make your dish look as good as it tastes:

• Serve on a Wooden Board – Place the Chicken Bakes on a wooden cutting board for a rustic, inviting presentation.
• Garnish with Shredded Parmesan and Parsley – A sprinkle of Parmesan and chopped parsley on top adds a fresh and professional touch.
• Individual Dipping Cups – Serve each Chicken Bake with a small cup of dipping sauce for a personalized touch.

Copycat Costco Chicken Bake Recipe Tips

Here are a few tips to help you perfect your Copycat Costco Chicken Bake:

• Make Ahead – You can assemble the Chicken Bakes ahead of time and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
• Freeze for Later – These Chicken Bakes freeze well. Just assemble, freeze on a baking sheet, and then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to eat, bake them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
• Reheat in the Oven – For the crispiest results when reheating, pop your Chicken Bake back in the oven for 10-12 minutes at 350°F.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use store-bought pizza dough?

A: Yes! Store-bought pizza dough works perfectly for this recipe, but you can also make your own if you prefer.

Q: How do I store leftover Chicken Bakes?

A: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.

Q: Can I freeze the Chicken Bakes?

A: Absolutely. Assemble the Chicken Bakes and freeze them before baking. When you’re ready to eat, bake them straight from the freezer—just add a few extra minutes to the bake time.

Q: Can I make this gluten-free?

A: Yes! Just substitute the pizza dough with a gluten-free version.

Q: Can I use other types of cheese?

A: Definitely. While mozzarella and Parmesan are recommended, feel free to use cheddar, provolone, or your favorite cheese blend.

Conclusion

Making your own Copycat Costco Chicken Bake at home is easier than you might think. With simple ingredients and a straightforward process, you can enjoy this classic food court favorite any time you like. Whether you stick to the original recipe or try one of the many variations, the result is always a crispy, cheesy, and delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. So gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and get ready to impress yourself (and anyone else lucky enough to try it) with this homemade version of Costco’s beloved Chicken Bake!

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