Copycat Costco Chicken Bake

The Costco Chicken Bake is a fan-favorite from the Costco food court, known for its cheesy, savory filling and golden, crispy crust. This homemade version captures all the delicious flavors of the original, featuring shredded chicken, crispy bacon, melted cheese, and creamy Caesar dressing, all wrapped in a warm, baked pizza dough.

This recipe is simple to make and requires only a few pantry staples. Whether you’re craving the Costco classic or looking for an easy, satisfying meal, this homemade chicken bake delivers on both taste and convenience.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Tastes Just Like the Original – Get the same great flavor of the Costco food court chicken bake at home.
• Quick and Easy to Make – Prep time is minimal, and baking takes less than 30 minutes.
• Customizable – Switch up the cheese, use ranch instead of Caesar dressing, or add extra toppings to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Meal Prep – Make extra and freeze them for later.

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Essential Tools and Equipment

Before you start, make sure you have the following tools:

• Baking sheet – To ensure even baking.
• Mixing bowl – For combining the filling ingredients.
• Rolling pin – To roll out the pizza dough.
• Pastry brush – For brushing olive oil onto the crust.
• Sharp knife or pizza cutter – To slice the finished chicken bake.

Each of these tools helps make the preparation process smooth and efficient.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this Costco-style chicken bake, gather the following ingredients:

For the Filling:

• 2 large chicken breasts, cooked and shredded (or use rotisserie chicken for convenience)
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup Caesar dressing
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Dough:

• 1 package pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Bacon

1. Cook the chicken using your preferred method (grill, bake, or sauté). Once fully cooked, shred it with two forks.
2. Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Drain on a paper towel, then crumble into small pieces.

Step 2: Make the Filling

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

Step 3: Assemble the Chicken Bake

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough into a rectangle (about 12×8 inches) on a lightly floured surface.
3. Spread the chicken mixture evenly down the center, leaving a 1-inch border on all sides.
4. Fold the sides of the dough over the filling, then tuck in the ends and pinch to seal, forming a log shape.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken Bake

1. Place the assembled chicken bake seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
2. Brush the top with olive oil for a golden, crispy crust.
3. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the crust is golden brown and bubbly.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Let the chicken bake cool for a few minutes before slicing.
2. Serve on its own or with a side salad or dipping sauce (such as extra Caesar dressing or marinara sauce).

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Preparation Tips

• For a crispier crust, brush the top with garlic butter before baking.
• To save time, use store-bought rotisserie chicken instead of cooking and shredding fresh chicken.
• For extra cheese, sprinkle some shredded Parmesan on top before baking.
• To make it spicier, add a dash of red pepper flakes to the filling.

Best Ways to Serve the Costco Chicken Bake

This homemade chicken bake is hearty and flavorful, making it perfect for lunch, dinner, or even meal prep. Here are a few serving ideas to elevate your meal:

• Slice and Serve – Cut into smaller portions and serve as an appetizer for gatherings.
• Pair with a Dipping Sauce – Serve with extra Caesar dressing, ranch, marinara sauce, or garlic butter for an added flavor boost.
• Make It a Full Meal – Pair with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or a light soup for a balanced meal.
• Pack for Lunch – Wrap in foil and take it on the go for a quick and satisfying lunch option.

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Common Mistakes & How to Perfect the Recipe

Even with simple ingredients, small mistakes can affect the final outcome. Here are the most common errors and how to avoid them:

1. Overfilling the Dough

• Adding too much filling can cause the chicken bake to burst open during baking.
• Solution: Keep portions balanced and avoid overstuffing the dough.

2. Not Sealing the Dough Properly

• If the edges are not sealed tightly, the filling may leak out while baking.
• Solution: Pinch the seams firmly and place the chicken bake seam-side down on the baking sheet.

3. Skipping the Oil or Butter Brushing Step

• Without an oil coating, the crust may turn out dry instead of crispy and golden.
• Solution: Brush with olive oil or melted butter before baking for the perfect crust.

4. Baking at the Wrong Temperature

• If the oven is too hot, the outside may burn before the inside is fully cooked.
• If the oven is too low, the crust won’t get that golden-brown color.
• Solution: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for even cooking and a crispy crust.

5. Using the Wrong Dough

• Some doughs, like croissant dough or pastry dough, may not hold the filling well.
• Solution: Stick to pizza dough for a sturdy, chewy texture that mimics the original.

6. Not Letting It Rest Before Slicing

• Cutting into the chicken bake too soon may cause the cheese and filling to spill out.
• Solution: Let it cool for 5 minutes before slicing for the best results.

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Side Dishes That Pair Well with Costco Chicken Bake

Since the chicken bake is rich and cheesy, pairing it with a lighter side dish helps balance the meal. Here are eight great options:

1. Caesar Salad

• Since the chicken bake already contains Caesar dressing, serving it with a fresh Caesar salad enhances the flavor.
• Use crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, Parmesan cheese, and a light dressing.

2. Roasted Vegetables

• Roasting vegetables like broccoli, zucchini, or bell peppers adds a nutritious and flavorful side.
• Toss with olive oil, garlic, and a pinch of salt before roasting at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes.

3. Garlic Bread

• A side of cheesy garlic bread or buttery breadsticks makes the meal extra indulgent.
• Brush with garlic butter and bake until golden brown for a crispy bite.

4. Tomato Soup

• A warm bowl of creamy tomato soup pairs beautifully with the cheesy, savory flavors of the chicken bake.
• The acidity of the tomatoes helps cut through the richness of the dish.

5. Coleslaw

• A light coleslaw with a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast.
• Use shredded cabbage, carrots, and a simple dressing for a crunchy texture.

6. Sweet Potato Fries

• Crispy sweet potato fries add a slightly sweet and salty contrast.
• Serve with a side of chipotle mayo or garlic aioli for dipping.

7. Steamed Green Beans

• Lightly steamed green beans with lemon juice and sea salt provide a fresh, crisp side.
• This option keeps the meal balanced and nutritious.

8. Pickled Vegetables

• Pickled cucumbers, carrots, or red onions add a tangy, refreshing bite that balances the creamy filling.

Tips for the Best Costco Chicken Bake

1. Use Rotisserie Chicken for Convenience

• If you’re short on time, store-bought rotisserie chicken is a great alternative to cooking and shredding chicken yourself.
• It adds extra flavor and cuts down on prep time.

2. Let the Dough Rest Before Rolling

• If using refrigerated pizza dough, let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before rolling.
• This makes the dough easier to stretch and prevents shrinking during baking.

3. Brush with Garlic Butter for Extra Flavor

• For a richer taste, mix melted butter with minced garlic and parsley and brush it on the crust before baking.
• This adds a delicious garlic-bread-style finish.

4. Don’t Overstuff the Filling

• Overfilling the dough can cause the chicken bake to break open while baking.
• Keep the filling portion balanced and evenly distributed.

5. Customize with Different Cheeses

• Mozzarella and Parmesan are classic choices, but cheddar, provolone, or gouda can add different flavors.
• A mix of cheeses can create a more dynamic taste.

6. Experiment with Different Fillings

• Swap Caesar dressing with ranch, buffalo sauce, or Alfredo sauce for a different flavor profile.
• Add sautéed onions, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra texture and depth.

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Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers or want to make extra for later, proper storage is key to keeping the chicken bake fresh and flavorful.

Refrigerating Leftovers

• Allow the chicken bake to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap in foil or place in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing for Longer Storage

• Chicken bakes can be frozen before or after baking.
• To freeze before baking:
  • Assemble the chicken bake as instructed but do not bake.
  • Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil.
  • Freeze for up to 2 months.
• To freeze after baking:
  • Let it cool completely.
  • Wrap in foil and place in a freezer-safe bag.
  • Freeze for up to 2 months.

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Reheating Instructions

Reheating the chicken bake correctly helps maintain its crispy crust and gooey filling. Avoid using the microwave alone, as it can make the crust soggy.

Oven Method (Best for Maintaining Crispiness)

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the chicken bake on a baking sheet.
• Bake for 10-12 minutes until heated through.

Air Fryer Method (Quick and Crispy)

• Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the chicken bake inside and cook for 5-7 minutes.

Microwave Method (Fastest, but Soft Crust)

• Place on a microwave-safe plate and cover loosely with a damp paper towel.
• Heat in 30-second intervals until warm.

Reheating from Frozen

• If frozen unbaked, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30-35 minutes.
• If frozen after baking, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Make Costco Chicken Bake Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can assemble the chicken bakes and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, follow the original instructions.

2. What Type of Dough Works Best?

Pizza dough is the best option for the classic texture. However, crescent roll dough, puff pastry, or even naan bread can work for variations.

3. Can I Make a Healthier Version?

Yes, for a lighter version:

• Use whole wheat pizza dough instead of regular dough.
• Swap Greek yogurt Caesar dressing for the standard version.
• Reduce the amount of cheese or use a low-fat alternative.

4. Can I Make This Recipe Without Bacon?

Absolutely. Simply omit the bacon, or replace it with turkey bacon, diced ham, or sautéed mushrooms for a meatless alternative.

5. How Do I Get the Perfect Crispy Crust?

For a golden, crispy finish:

• Brush the top with olive oil, butter, or an egg wash before baking.
• Bake at a high temperature (375°F or 190°C).
• Use a pizza stone or a preheated baking sheet to help crisp up the bottom.

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Final Thoughts

With the right preparation, storage, and reheating methods, the Costco Chicken Bake can be enjoyed fresh or saved for later without losing its signature taste and texture. Whether you make it ahead of time, customize the filling, or experiment with different cheeses, this homemade version is just as satisfying as the original.