Copycat Costco Chicken Bake

Recreate the iconic Copycat Costco Chicken Bake at home with this easy recipe! This cheesy, creamy chicken bake is perfect for quick meals or family dinners. It features tender chicken, crispy bacon, and gooey cheese wrapped in soft dough. You can enjoy this delightful dish on busy weeknights or serve it at gatherings. With its delicious flavors and comforting texture, it’s bound to become a favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 40 minutes, making it ideal for busy days.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its delicious combination of flavors, everyone will love this chicken bake.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with your favorite cheeses or dressings!
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make several and freeze for later—just reheat when you’re ready to eat!
• Comfort Food: Warm, cheesy goodness that feels like a hug in every bite.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your essential tools to make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Rolling pin
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowl
• Skillet

Importance of Each Tool

• Rolling pin: Helps you roll out the pizza dough evenly for the perfect shape.
• Baking sheet: Provides a stable surface for baking your chicken bake without mess.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining all your filling ingredients thoroughly.

Ingredients

For the 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

1. Cook the chicken breasts by grilling, baking, or sautéing until fully cooked.
2. Shred the chicken using two forks once it’s cool enough to handle.
3. Cook the bacon in a skillet until crispy. Then crumble it into small pieces.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and Caesar dressing.
2. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
3. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Chicken Bake

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

Step 4: Bake

1. Place the chicken bake seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. Brush the top with olive oil for a golden finish.
3. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cheese is melted.

Step 5: Serve

1. Let cool for a few minutes before slicing into portions.
2. Serve as a main dish or alongside a fresh side salad for a complete meal.

Enjoy your homemade Copycat Costco Chicken Bake, packed with flavor and comfort!

How to Serve Copycat Costco Chicken Bake

Serving your Copycat Costco Chicken Bake is a delightful experience. This dish is not only satisfying but also versatile, allowing for various accompaniments that enhance its flavor. Here are some creative ways to serve this delicious meal.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic choice that complements the Caesar dressing in the chicken bake.
• Mixed Green Salad: Toss together seasonal greens with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.

Add Some Crunch

• Potato Chips: Serve alongside crispy potato chips for an added crunch and salty bite.
• Veggie Sticks: Carrot, cucumber, and bell pepper sticks provide a healthy, crunchy side.

Dip it Right

• Ranch Dressing: A creamy dip that pairs well with the savory flavors of the chicken bake.
• Buffalo Sauce: For those who enjoy heat, offering buffalo sauce adds a spicy kick.

Make it a Meal

• Serve with Garlic Bread: Complement the dish with slices of warm garlic bread for extra flavor and heartiness.
• Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can balance the richness of the chicken bake nicely.

How to Perfect Copycat Costco Chicken Bake

To achieve the best results with your Copycat Costco Chicken Bake, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your dish turns out as delicious as possible.

• Bold Ingredients: Use high-quality ingredients like fresh chicken and real cheese for superior taste.
• Bold Seasoning: Don’t be shy with seasoning; proper seasoning elevates the flavors significantly.
• Bold Dough Technique: Roll out the dough evenly to prevent tearing and ensure even cooking.
• Bold Baking Time: Keep an eye on baking time; ovens vary, so adjust as necessary for golden perfection.

Best Side Dishes for Copycat Costco Chicken Bake

Pairing side dishes with your Copycat Costco Chicken Bake can elevate your meal. Here are some ideal sides to consider that will complement this savory dish perfectly.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting addition.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition without overpowering flavors.
3. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries offer a sweet contrast to the savory chicken bake.
4. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness and crunch that pair well with any main dish.
5. Baked Beans: A hearty side that brings a touch of smokiness to balance out the cheesy flavors.
6. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with veggies provides freshness and texture to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Copycat Costco Chicken Bake, there are a few common mistakes to watch out for. Here’s how to ensure your bake turns out perfectly.

• Skipping the Seasoning: Not seasoning your chicken and bacon mixture can lead to bland flavors. Always add salt, pepper, and spices to enhance taste.
• Overstuffing the Dough: Adding too much filling can cause the dough to break. Use an appropriate amount of filling to ensure easy folding and sealing.
• Not Preheating the Oven: Baking in a cold oven can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven for best results.
• Ignoring Cooking Times: Overbaking can result in a dry bake. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes to achieve a golden finish.
• Using Cold Dough: Working with cold pizza dough makes it hard to roll out. Let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before using.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• It can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Copycat Costco Chicken Bake

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing it in a freezer-safe container.
• It will last for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Copycat Costco Chicken Bake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate covered with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make my Copycat Costco Chicken Bake extra crispy?

To achieve extra crispiness, brush the dough with garlic butter before baking or use a higher oven temperature towards the end of baking.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes! Feel free to mix different cheeses like cheddar or gouda for added flavor in your Copycat Costco Chicken Bake.

What’s a good side dish for this chicken bake?

A fresh salad or steamed vegetables pairs well with the Copycat Costco Chicken Bake, adding color and nutrition to your meal.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare everything in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

Final Thoughts

The Copycat Costco Chicken Bake is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding different ingredients or spices according to your taste preferences. Whether it’s for a quick dinner or family gathering, this recipe is sure to impress!