Copycat Costco Chicken Bake

Recreate the iconic Copycat Costco Chicken Bake at home with this easy recipe! This delicious dish combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy cheeses wrapped in golden dough. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a fun family gathering. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, this chicken bake will surely become a new favorite in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Copycat Costco Chicken Bake

This dish is not just tasty; it also offers many benefits for home cooks.

• Quick to Prepare: This recipe takes just 40 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of chicken, bacon, and cheeses creates a mouthwatering taste that everyone will love.
• Versatile Meal Option: Serve it as a main dish or pair it with a salad for a complete meal.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this cheesy delight, making it an excellent choice for family dinners.
• Easily Customizable: Swap out ingredients like the Caesar dressing for ranch or use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for even more convenience.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to make things easier.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Rolling pin
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Large mixing bowl
• Skillet

Importance of Each Tool

• Rolling pin: A rolling pin helps you evenly flatten the pizza dough, ensuring a perfect wrap around your filling.
• Baking sheet: Using a baking sheet lined with parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
• Large mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to mix all the filling ingredients without spilling.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Bake Filling

• 2 large chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
• 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup Caesar dressing

For the Dough

• 1 package pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Copycat Costco Chicken Bake

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Bacon

• Cook the chicken breasts by grilling, baking, or sautéing until fully cooked. Shred using two forks.
• Cook the bacon in a skillet until crispy, then crumble it into small pieces.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

• In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and Caesar dressing.
• Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Mix well to combine.

Step 3: Assemble the Chicken Bake

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle (about 12×8 inches).
• Spread the chicken and bacon mixture evenly over the center of the dough, leaving a border around the edges.
• Carefully fold the sides of the dough over the filling. Then fold the ends to seal it into a rectangle or log shape.

Step 4: Bake

• Place the chicken bake seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Brush the top with olive oil for a golden, crispy finish.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the dough is golden brown and the cheese inside is melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Serve

• Let the chicken bake cool for a few minutes before slicing.
• Serve as a main dish or with a side salad for a complete meal.

How to Serve Copycat Costco Chicken Bake

The Copycat Costco Chicken Bake is a delicious treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a casual gathering, these serving suggestions will enhance your meal experience.

With a Fresh Salad

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with Caesar dressing complements the savory chicken bake.
• Greek Salad: A mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta adds a refreshing twist.
• Pasta Salad: A light pasta salad brings an Italian flair and balances the richness of the chicken bake.

As a Snack or Appetizer

• Cut into Bite-Sized Pieces: Slice the chicken bake into smaller pieces for easy snacking at parties.
• Serve with Dipping Sauces: Offer ranch or marinara sauce on the side for added flavor.

With Dips

• Creamy Ranch Dip: A cool ranch dip pairs well with the warm, cheesy chicken bake.
• Guacamole: The creamy avocado dip adds a unique taste and texture to each bite.

How to Perfect Copycat Costco Chicken Bake

Perfecting your Copycat Costco Chicken Bake can elevate this dish even further. Here are some tips to ensure your bake turns out perfectly every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and quality cheeses make a noticeable difference in flavor.
• Don’t Overstuff the Dough: Keep the filling moderate to avoid leaks during baking.
• Preheat the Oven: Ensure your oven is fully preheated to help achieve that golden crust.
• Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to add herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor.
• Let It Rest Before Slicing: Allowing the chicken bake to sit for a few minutes helps set the filling and makes slicing easier.

Best Side Dishes for Copycat Costco Chicken Bake

Pairing side dishes with your Copycat Costco Chicken Bake can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options that complement its flavors perfectly.

1. Garlic Bread: Crunchy and buttery, garlic bread is perfect for sopping up any extra sauce.
2. Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans add a healthy touch to your plate.
3. Coleslaw: The crunchiness and tanginess of coleslaw provide a nice contrast to the rich chicken bake.
4. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf can soak up flavors from the chicken bake and round out your meal.
5. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes offer comfort alongside the savory flavors of the bake.
6. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad brings freshness and nutrients, balancing out the dish’s richness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Copycat Costco Chicken Bake, there are a few common mistakes that can be easily avoided.

• Skipping the Seasoning: Many forget to season their filling. Always add salt, pepper, and herbs for flavor.
• Overstuffing the Dough: Avoid adding too much filling. This can lead to a messy bake. Stick to the recommended amounts for best results.
• Not Preheating the Oven: Failing to preheat can result in uneven cooking. Make sure your oven is at 375°F (190°C) before baking.
• Using Cold Dough: Cold dough can be hard to work with. Let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before rolling it out.
• Neglecting to Seal Properly: If not sealed well, the filling may leak out during baking. Ensure all edges are tightly folded and sealed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover chicken bake in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Instructions

• Wrap the chicken bake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Instructions

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken bake on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place slices on a microwave-safe plate and cover. Heat in 30-second intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat slices in a skillet over medium heat, covering with a lid until warmed through, about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Copycat Costco Chicken Bake?

The Copycat Costco Chicken Bake is a homemade version of the popular dish sold at Costco food courts, featuring chicken, bacon, cheese, and Caesar dressing in dough.

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Yes! Using rotisserie chicken can save you time and add extra flavor to your Copycat Costco Chicken Bake.

How can I customize my Copycat Costco Chicken Bake?

Feel free to add your favorite veggies or swap out cheeses based on your preference. You could also use different dressings like ranch!

How long does it take to make this recipe?

The total time for making the Copycat Costco Chicken Bake is approximately 40 minutes, including prep and cook time.

Final Thoughts

The Copycat Costco Chicken Bake is not only delicious but also versatile. It’s perfect for quick dinners or get-togethers with family and friends. You can easily customize it with different fillings or sauces, making it suitable for various tastes. Give this recipe a try and enjoy recreating a beloved Costco classic at home!