Copycat Costco Chicken Bake

Love Costco’s famous Chicken Bake? Now you can recreate it at home with this easy, cheesy, and satisfying recipe. It features tender shredded chicken, crispy bacon, gooey melted cheese, and creamy Caesar dressing, all wrapped in golden pizza dough. This homemade version is perfect for a quick meal, meal prep, or a family-friendly dinner.

SAVE THIS!SAVE THIS!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Costco Flavor at Home – No need for a store visit.
• Quick & Easy – Ready in under 40 minutes.
• Cheesy & Savory – The perfect balance of textures and flavors.
• Customizable – Swap ingredients to suit your taste.
• Great for Meal Prep – Stores and reheats well for later.

Essential Tools & Equipment

To achieve the best results, make sure you have the following kitchen tools:

• Baking sheet – Ensures even baking.
• Parchment paper – Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.
• Rolling pin – Helps flatten the pizza dough evenly.
• Mixing bowls – For combining the filling ingredients.
• Brush – For applying olive oil to achieve a golden crust.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 2 large chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup Caesar dressing
• 1 package pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)

Seasonings & Extras

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Step-By-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken and Bacon

• Cook the chicken using your preferred method (baking, boiling, or grilling).
• Once cooked, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
• Cook the bacon until crispy, then crumble into small pieces.

2. Make the Filling

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

3. Assemble the Chicken Bake

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Roll out the pizza dough into a 12×8-inch rectangle on a lightly floured surface.
• Spread the prepared filling evenly down the center of the dough.
• Fold the edges over the filling and seal to form a log shape.

4. Bake

• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the chicken bake seam-side down.
• Brush the top with olive oil to achieve a golden, crispy crust.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the dough is golden brown.

5. Serve & Enjoy

• Let the chicken bake cool for a few minutes before slicing.
• Serve with a side of marinara sauce or a fresh salad.

Recipe Tips & Variations

• Time-Saving Tip: Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker preparation.
• Alternative Fillings: Swap Caesar dressing for ranch dressing or add sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor.
• Healthier Option: Use whole wheat pizza dough, turkey bacon, and Greek yogurt-based Caesar dressing.

Best Ways to Serve Costco Chicken Bake

1. Freshly Baked and Warm

The crispy, golden crust and gooey cheese filling taste best when fresh out of the oven. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing to prevent the cheese from spilling out too quickly.

2. Sliced into Portions

If serving for a crowd or meal prepping, slice the chicken bake into smaller portions for easy sharing.

3. With a Dipping Sauce

A dipping sauce can enhance the flavor even further. Some great options include:

• Marinara sauce – A tangy contrast to the creamy filling.
• Ranch dressing – A classic pairing that complements the Caesar flavors.
• Garlic butter sauce – Adds a rich, buttery touch.
• Honey mustard – A sweet and tangy option.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with an easy recipe like this, small mistakes can impact the final result. Here are some common issues and how to fix them.

1. Overstuffing the Dough

Adding too much filling makes it difficult to seal the chicken bake, leading to leakage during baking. Keep the filling balanced and evenly spread.

2. Not Sealing the Dough Properly

If the dough isn’t tightly sealed, it can open up in the oven. Use a little water or egg wash to help the edges stick together.

3. Skipping the Olive Oil Brushing

Brushing the top with olive oil before baking helps achieve a golden, crispy crust. Skipping this step can result in a dull and dry appearance.

4. Baking at the Wrong Temperature

Baking at too low a temperature can leave the dough undercooked, while too high can burn the outside before the inside is heated through. 375°F (190°C) is the perfect temperature for even cooking.

5. Using Cold Dough

Cold dough is harder to roll out and shape. Let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before rolling to make handling easier.

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Side Dish Recommendations

The Copycat Costco Chicken Bake is a hearty meal on its own, but pairing it with the right side dish can complete the meal. Below are eight great options.

1. Crisp Caesar Salad

A classic Caesar salad complements the flavors of the chicken bake perfectly. The fresh romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and tangy dressing balance the richness of the dish.

2. Garlic Parmesan Fries

Crispy garlic parmesan fries add a salty, crunchy contrast to the creamy filling of the chicken bake. Oven-baked or air-fried options work well.

3. Roasted Vegetables

For a lighter side, roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes provide a great balance of flavors and textures. A drizzle of olive oil and seasoning enhances their natural sweetness.

4. Creamy Tomato Soup

A warm bowl of tomato soup pairs well with the cheesy, doughy texture of the chicken bake. The acidity in the soup cuts through the richness of the filling.

5. Coleslaw

A light and refreshing coleslaw adds a crunchy texture and tangy flavor that balances the heaviness of the chicken bake. A vinegar-based slaw works particularly well.

6. Sweet Potato Fries

For a slightly sweet contrast, sweet potato fries provide a different flavor profile while still offering a crispy side.

7. Pickles or Giardiniera

For an acidic bite, pickles or Italian giardiniera (pickled vegetables) offer a sharp contrast to the creamy filling of the chicken bake.

8. Steamed Green Beans

A simple side of steamed green beans with a bit of butter and garlic adds freshness to the meal without overpowering the main dish.

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The Copycat Costco Chicken Bake is delicious on its own, but serving it with the right side dishes and avoiding common mistakes ensures a perfect meal. Whether paired with a light salad, crispy fries, or a warm bowl of soup, this homemade version is sure to become a favorite.

Making a Copycat Costco Chicken Bake at home is simple, but a few extra tips can help you perfect the recipe. Below, you’ll find the best ways to store and reheat leftovers, as well as answers to common questions about the dish.

Tips for the Best Chicken Bake

1. Use Fresh Ingredients

For the best flavor, use freshly cooked chicken, high-quality Caesar dressing, and fresh cheese. Pre-shredded cheese can contain anti-caking agents that affect how well it melts.

2. Adjust the Filling to Your Taste

While the classic Costco Chicken Bake features chicken, bacon, cheese, and Caesar dressing, you can easily modify the ingredients:

• Add sautéed mushrooms or onions for extra flavor.
• Use ranch dressing instead of Caesar for a different taste.
• Swap mozzarella for provolone or cheddar for a sharper flavor.

3. Roll the Dough Evenly

Uneven dough can lead to some parts baking faster than others. Roll it to an even thickness to ensure a consistent texture.

4. Avoid a Soggy Bottom

Overloading the filling or using too much dressing can make the bottom of the chicken bake soggy. Keep the balance right by using just enough dressing to coat the filling without excess moisture.

5. Let It Cool Before Slicing

Cutting into the chicken bake immediately after baking can cause the filling to spill out. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing for cleaner cuts.

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How to Store and Reheat Costco Chicken Bake

Refrigeration

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To prevent the crust from getting too soft, place a paper towel inside the container to absorb moisture.

Freezing

• Wrap each chicken bake in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.
• To thaw, transfer to the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating Methods

Oven (Best Method)

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the chicken bake on a baking sheet and cover it loosely with foil.
• Heat for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

Air Fryer (Quick and Crispy)

• Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the chicken bake in the basket and heat for 5-7 minutes.

Microwave (Fastest Method)

• Place a chicken bake slice on a microwave-safe plate.
• Cover with a damp paper towel to prevent dryness.
• Heat for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken Instead?

Yes, rotisserie chicken works well and saves time. Simply shred the meat and mix it with the other ingredients.

2. What Can I Use Instead of Pizza Dough?

If you don’t have pizza dough, you can use:

• Crescent roll dough for a lighter, flakier texture.
• Puff pastry for a crispy, buttery crust.
• Homemade bread dough if you prefer a softer bite.

3. Can I Make This Ahead of Time?

Yes. Assemble the chicken bake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

4. How Do I Keep the Dough from Getting Too Hard?

To prevent a tough crust:

• Don’t overbake—stick to the 20-25 minute baking time.
• Brush the dough with olive oil before baking to help retain moisture.

5. Can I Make a Healthier Version?

Yes. Try these modifications:

• Use whole wheat pizza dough instead of white dough.
• Replace bacon with turkey bacon for a leaner option.
• Use a Greek yogurt-based Caesar dressing for a lighter alternative.
• Swap regular cheese for reduced-fat cheese to cut down on calories.

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Conclusion

This homemade Copycat Costco Chicken Bake is an easy and delicious way to enjoy the food court favorite at home. With a cheesy, crispy, and flavorful filling, it’s perfect for a quick meal, meal prep, or even a party dish.

By following the tips above, you can make sure your chicken bake turns out perfect every time. Whether you enjoy it fresh, store leftovers for later, or customize it with different ingredients, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite.