Copycat Costco Chicken Bake Recipe – A Crispy, Cheesy & Delicious Easy Dinner

If you’ve ever walked through the food court at Costco, you’ve likely seen (or smelled) their famous Chicken Bake. This savory, cheesy, and crispy delight has become a fan favorite, combining chicken, bacon, cheese, and creamy dressing inside a golden-brown crust. Now, you can recreate this Costco classic at home with fresh ingredients and no long checkout lines!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make – Uses simple ingredients that come together quickly.
• Budget-Friendly – Costs less than buying it at the store.
• Customizable – Adjust the filling to your taste with different cheeses, meats, or sauces.
• Great for Meal Prep – Freezes and reheats well for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

• 1 lb pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken
• 1/2 cup crispy bacon bits
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup Caesar dressing (or ranch dressing for a twist)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon butter, melted (optional, for extra golden crust)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a large bowl, mix the cooked chicken, bacon bits, mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese, Caesar dressing, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir until well combined.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a large rectangle, about 1/4-inch thick.

Step 4: Assemble the Chicken Bake

Spoon the filling mixture evenly onto one side of the dough, leaving about an inch of space around the edges. Carefully fold the dough over the filling, sealing the edges by pinching or pressing with a fork.

Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches

Transfer the filled dough to the prepared baking sheet, seam-side down. Brush the top with the beaten egg for a glossy finish, and optionally brush with melted butter for an extra golden crust.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Let cool for a few minutes before slicing.

Variations & Customizations

• Different Cheese: Swap out mozzarella for cheddar, provolone, or gouda.
• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
• BBQ Twist: Use BBQ sauce instead of Caesar dressing for a smoky flavor.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken and bacon with sautéed mushrooms and spinach.

Serving Size & Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

FAQs

How can I make this even crispier?

Brushing the dough with melted butter and baking at a slightly higher temperature (400°F) can help achieve a crispier crust.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes! Rotisserie chicken works perfectly and adds great flavor.

Can I make these in advance?

Absolutely! Prepare and assemble them, then refrigerate until ready to bake.

What dough works best?

Pizza dough is ideal, but you can also use crescent roll dough or puff pastry for a different texture.

Can I air fry these?

Yes! Air fry at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Is there a gluten-free option?

Use gluten-free pizza dough or a cauliflower crust alternative.

What’s the best dipping sauce?

Marinara, ranch, or extra Caesar dressing complement this dish well.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes! Bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms make great additions.

Do I have to use Caesar dressing?

No, ranch or a simple garlic butter sauce work well too.

Can I make mini versions?

Yes! Cut the dough into smaller sections and make individual-sized chicken bakes.

Conclusion

Now you can enjoy a homemade version of the Costco Chicken Bake anytime! This easy, budget-friendly recipe delivers the same cheesy, crispy goodness with the added bonus of customization. Try it today and bring a little bit of the Costco food court to your kitchen!

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