Ah, the Costco Chicken Bake! Who doesn’t cherish that glorious combination of crispy dough, savory chicken, and the unapologetic richness of bacon? Whenever I take a bite, it takes me back to sunny weekends spent with friends, grabbing a slice of shopping adventure that always ended with a trip to that beloved food court. So naturally, I had to recreate this masterpiece at home! It’s easy, comforting, and has that delightful “just right” indulgence that makes my heart sing.
It’s amazing to whip these up in your kitchen; they are perfect for family gatherings, movie nights, or just because you need a little something extra on a Tuesday. Trust me, once you make these copycat Costco chicken bakes, you’ll likely have them on repeat in your meal rotation.
What’s in Costco Chicken Bake?
Cooked Chicken: I like to use shredded rotisserie chicken since it saves time and has that incredible flavor. If I’m feeling adventurous, I’ll poach some chicken breast for a healthier option.
Cooked Bacon: Because everything’s better with bacon! Cooked until crispy and then chopped, it adds a wonderful smoky flavor to each bite.
Mozzarella Cheese: The gooey, stretchy cheese that holds everything together. Freshly shredded works best for melting, but pre-packaged does the job just as well!
Caesar Dressing: The secret sauce in this recipe! It adds a creamy texture and a tangy finish. Choose your favorite dressing; homemade works wonders too!
Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: Essential for that extra hint of flavor. I like to use both for a delicious depth without too much chopping.
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings that elevate the dish. Adjust these according to your taste!
Pizza Dough: Whether you make your own or grab it from the store, this becomes the crispy outer shell of your chicken bake.
Egg (beaten): This acts as a lovely egg wash to give the bakes that golden-brown sheen.
Parmesan Cheese: An optional topping that adds an extra layer of flavor. Because really, who doesn’t love cheese?
Is Costco Chicken Bake Good for You?
You might be wondering how indulgent this dish actually is. While it’s not exactly a salad (I mean, we have bacon and cheese!), there are definitely some benefits.
Cooked Chicken: Packed with protein which can support muscle growth and repair.
Bacon: A treat in moderation can add flavor and excitement to your meals, but remember to enjoy it in balanced amounts.
Pizza Dough: If you go for whole wheat or cauliflower options, you can bring some extra nutrients into your diet.
Overall, this dish can fit nicely into a balanced diet. Just remember that it’s a richer food and best enjoyed in moderation—perfect for special occasions or cozy weeknight dinners!
Ingredients
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– 1/2 cup cooked bacon, chopped
– 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1/2 cup Caesar dressing
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large pizza dough balls (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Parmesan cheese, grated (for topping)
*Serves: 4*
How to Make Costco Chicken Bake?
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, chopped bacon, mozzarella cheese, Caesar dressing, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. On a lightly floured surface, roll out each pizza dough ball into a rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick.
4. Divide the chicken mixture evenly among the rolled-out pizza dough rectangles, placing the filling along one edge of the dough.
5. Roll the dough over the filling tightly, forming a log shape. Pinch the ends to seal and place seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Brush the tops of the chicken bakes with the beaten egg. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the bakes are golden brown and crispy.
8. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm, optionally with extra Caesar dressing for dipping. Enjoy!
Kick it Up a Notch!
Feeling a bit adventurous? Here are some fun variations!
– **Vegetable Add-ins:** Try adding some spinach or bell peppers to sneak in some greens.
– **Spicy Twist:** Kick up the heat by adding a touch of red pepper flakes or some spicy cheese.
– **Different Dressings:** Experiment with ranch or blue cheese instead of Caesar for a flavor twist.
I can’t tell you how excited I am for you to try this recipe! They’re a total crowd-pleaser, and I’d love to hear how your chicken bakes turn out! So, roll up your sleeves, indulge in some deliciousness, and don’t forget to share your experience with me! Happy cooking!
