Oh my goodness, have you ever tasted a Costco Chicken Bake? If you haven’t, you’re in for a real treat! I remember the first time I had one—I was wandering through Costco trying to fit in all the samples (as one does), and I spotted this magical creation whirling out of the food court. One bite and my taste buds did a happy dance! The combination of tender chicken, gooey cheese, crispy bacon, and creamy Alfredo sauce wrapped in a golden pastry is simply divine.
Now, it’s not just about indulging; there’s this sweet nostalgia that comes with each bite. The Costco Chicken Bake has a way of reminding me of family outings spent strolling through the aisles, hands full of snacks. So, I decided to recreate this fabulous dish at home. And let me tell you, it’s easier than you think! Gather your friends, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get baking!
What’s in Costco Chicken Bake?
Every hero needs a good set of ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to create this drool-worthy Chicken Bake:
Cooked Chicken: Shredded chicken is the MVP of this dish. You can use leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken from your fridge—whatever you have on hand works wonders!
Mozzarella Cheese: This gooey cheese is what dreams are made of. It gives the bake its melty texture. I always go for a good quality shredded mozzarella for the best results.
Bacon Bits: Who doesn’t love bacon? Make sure they are cooked and crumbled before you toss them into the mix. The flavor adds that perfect crunch.
Alfredo Sauce: Creamy and dreamy! You can either use store-bought or whip up a quick homemade version. Either way, it’s what makes everything come together.
Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: These two are the dynamic duo you didn’t know you needed. They add a depth of flavor that’s irresistible.
Salt and Pepper: Classic seasonings that never disappoint. Adjust to your taste.
Pizza Dough: You can use store-bought or make your own if you’re feeling ambitious. Either way, it forms the buttery, flaky pocket around your filling.
Egg (for egg wash): This will give your Chicken Bakes a beautiful golden-brown color when they come out of the oven.
Grated Parmesan Cheese: For that sprinkle of extra flavor on top! Trust me, it’s worth it.
Is Costco Chicken Bake Good for You?
Alright, before we dive into the comfort food bliss, let’s talk about the nutrition side!
Cooked Chicken: This lean protein source is packed with benefits—including muscle repair and maintaining a healthy metabolism. Plus, it keeps you feeling fuller for longer, which is always a win.
Mozzarella Cheese: Rich in calcium, it supports bone health but should be enjoyed in moderation, especially if you’re watching your calories.
Bacon Bits: While they do add incredible flavor, remember that they are higher in salt and fat. Enjoy them in moderation, my friend!
Alfredo Sauce: It’s creamy and delightful, but it’s often high in saturated fats and calories. You can look for lighter versions if you don’t want to skimp on flavor.
All in all, while this delightful treat may not be classified as “health food,” it does have ingredients that can fit into a balanced diet. Just keep portion sizes in check—it’s all about balance, right?
How to Make Costco Chicken Bake?
Let’s get to the fun part! Here’s how to whip up these tasty Chicken Bakes:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C)—this is key for those golden edges!
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, mozzarella cheese, bacon bits, Alfredo sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined—trust me, the smell alone will make you want to dig in!
3. On a floured surface, roll out the pizza dough to about 1/4 inch thick. Cut the dough into rectangles about 6 inches by 4 inches.
4. Place a generous amount of your chicken mixture in the center of each rectangle. Don’t skimp—this is the good stuff!
5. Fold the dough over the filling, creating a pocket, and seal the edges by pressing them together or crimping them with a fork to hold all that goodness inside.
6. Place the chicken bakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper—easy cleanup is key!
7. Beat the egg in a small bowl and brush the egg wash over the tops of each chicken bake. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top for that extra yum factor.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until the dough turns a beautiful golden brown and crispy.
9. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few moments. I know—it’s hard to wait, but trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
And there you have it—your very own homemade Costco Chicken Bake!
Serving Suggestions and Extra Tips!
Now that you have these beauties ready, how can we make this experience even better?
– Pair them with a fresh salad or some simple roasted veggies to balance that richness.
– If you’re feeling adventurous, add some spinach or sun-dried tomatoes to the filling for an extra veggie boost!
– These Chicken Bakes freeze beautifully! Just let them cool completely before wrapping them up tightly. Whenever you need a quick meal, pop them in the oven from frozen—just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time!
So, friends, I encourage you to roll up your sleeves and give these a try! I’d love to hear how yours turn out. Happy baking!
