Copycat Costco Chicken Bake: Recreate the Food Court Favorite at Home

Bringing the Costco Food Court Experience to Your Kitchen

The Costco Chicken Bake is a legendary food court item, beloved for its crispy, golden-brown exterior and its savory, creamy filling. This Copycat Costco Chicken Bake recipe allows you to recreate this iconic treat in your own kitchen, using simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps. It’s a fun and rewarding baking project that’s perfect for satisfying your Costco cravings or impressing your friends and family with your culinary skills. Get ready to experience the deliciousness of the Chicken Bake without leaving your home.

A Quest to Crack the Code of the Chicken Bake

As a devoted fan of the Costco Chicken Bake, I was determined to figure out how to make it myself. I scoured the internet for clues, analyzed the flavors and textures, and experimented with different ingredients and techniques. After numerous attempts, I finally developed this Copycat Costco Chicken Bake recipe, which I believe captures the essence of the original. It was so satisfying to finally nail the recipe and be able to enjoy this beloved treat whenever I wanted. It’s become a go-to recipe in my household, and it’s always a hit with friends and family. I love that I can recreate the Costco experience at home, and it’s a fun and delicious way to satisfy my cravings. It’s also a great recipe to take to potlucks or parties.

Ingredient Insights: Recreating the Signature Flavors and Textures

Let’s break down the key ingredients that make this Copycat Costco Chicken Bake so delicious:

• Prepared Pizza Dough: Forms the crispy, golden-brown exterior of the Chicken Bake.
  • Tip: Letting the dough rest at room temperature for about an hour before using makes it more pliable and easier to work with. Using a thin-crust pizza dough is recommended.
  • Alternative: You can use homemade pizza dough if you prefer.
• Skinless, Boneless Chicken Breasts: The main protein source, providing a tender and flavorful filling.
  • Tip: You can also use rotisserie chicken to save time.
• Seasonings:
  • Kosher Salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances the flavor of the chicken.
  • Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Adds a touch of warmth and spice.
  • Garlic Powder (1 teaspoon): Provides a savory, aromatic flavor.
• Olive Oil: Used for cooking the chicken, adding flavor and preventing it from sticking.
• Water: Added to the skillet when cooking the chicken, creating a bit of steam to help cook it through evenly.
• Creamy Caesar Dressing: A key component of the Chicken Bake’s signature flavor, providing a tangy, creamy, and savory element.
  • Tip: Use a good-quality Caesar dressing that you enjoy.
• Bacon: Adds a smoky, salty, and crispy texture to the filling.
• Green Onions: Provide a pop of color and a mild onion flavor.
• Italian Cheese Blend: A blend of shredded cheeses, such as mozzarella and provolone, that creates a gooey, cheesy filling.
  • Tip: The recipe reserves 2 tablespoons of this blend for the topping.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor to the filling and topping.
  • Tip: The recipe calls for using 1/2 cup inside, and then sprinkling each with 1 tablespoon on top for a total of 3/4 cup.
• Large Egg: Used as an egg wash to create a golden-brown and glossy finish on the baked Chicken Bake.

Essential Equipment: Tools for Chicken Bake Assembly and Baking

• Large Oven-Safe Skillet: For cooking the chicken.
• Baking Sheet: For baking the Chicken Bake.
• Parchment Paper: Lining the baking sheet prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
• Aluminum Foil: To cook the bacon in the oven.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
• Cutting Board: For chopping the chicken and green onions.
• Knife: For chopping the chicken and green onions.
• Rolling Pin: For rolling out the pizza dough.
• Pastry Brush: For applying the egg wash.
• Small Bowl: For beating the egg.
• Serrated Knife: For cutting through the cooked crust.

The Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide to Copycat Costco Chicken Bake

Ingredients with Measurements

• 1 pound prepared pizza dough (or homemade)
• 3 skinless, boneless chicken breasts
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 ½ tablespoons olive oil
• ¾ cup water, or more as needed
• ½ cup creamy Caesar dressing
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced
• 1 cup shredded Italian cheeses (such as mozzarella and provolone), divided
• ¾ cup shredded Parmesan cheese, divided
• 1 large egg, beaten

Detailed Instructions

1. Prepare the Pizza Dough: Allowing Time to Rise

1. Rest Dough: Remove the prepared pizza dough from the refrigerator and let it rest at room temperature for about 1 hour before using. This will make it more pliable and easier to work with.

2. Cook the Bacon: Crispy and Flavorful

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
3. Arrange Bacon: Lay the bacon strips in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until the bacon is browned and crispy.
5. Drain and Crumble: Remove the bacon from the oven and let it cool slightly on paper towels to drain excess grease. Once cool enough to handle, crumble the bacon into small pieces. Set aside.

3. Cook the Chicken: Seasoning and Searing for Tenderness

1. Season Chicken: Season the chicken breasts on both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
2. Heat Skillet: Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add Oil: Add the olive oil to the hot skillet.
4. Sear Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken breasts in the skillet, seasoned side down. Cook, undisturbed, until golden brown, about 5 minutes.
5. Season and Flip: Season the top side of the chicken breasts, then flip them and cook for another minute.
6. Add Water: Add just enough water (about ¾ cup) to fill the bottom of the skillet.
7. Remove from Heat: Remove the skillet from the heat.

4. Bake the Chicken: Ensuring it’s Cooked Through

1. Transfer to Oven: Place the skillet with the chicken in the preheated oven (still at 350°F/175°C).
2. Bake: Bake for 17-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
3. Cool and Chop: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest on a cutting board until it’s cool enough to handle. Chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces and set aside.

5. Prepare the Dough and Baking Sheet: Assembling the Chicken Bake

1. Increase Oven Temperature: Increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Divide Dough: Sprinkle flour onto a large work surface. Divide the pizza dough into 3 equal portions.
4. Roll Out Dough: Roll each portion of dough into a large circle, about 12 to 13 inches in diameter.

6. Assemble the Chicken Bakes: Building Layers of Flavor

1. Spread Dressing: Spread the Caesar dressing evenly over each dough circle, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
2. Sprinkle Parmesan: Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of the Parmesan cheese over the dressing on each dough circle.
3. Layer Fillings: Top each dough circle evenly with the chopped cooked chicken, crumbled bacon, sliced green onions, and the remaining Italian cheese blend, dividing evenly between the three.
4. Fold and Roll: Fold the outer left and right sides of each dough circle slightly over the filling. Starting from the bottom edge, roll the dough up and over the filling, then continue rolling towards the top edge until fully wrapped, like a large burrito.
5. Seal and Shape: Pinch the edges of the dough to seal the filling inside. Use your hands to gently shape each roll into a long log shape, about 12 inches long.

7. Prepare for Baking: Adding the Finishing Touches

1. Place on Baking Sheet: Place the filled dough logs seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
2. Brush with Egg Wash: In a small bowl, beat the egg with a fork or whisk until well combined. Brush the beaten egg over the tops of the dough logs.
3. Sprinkle with Cheese: Sprinkle each log evenly with the remaining shredded Parmesan cheese (about 1 tablespoon per log, for a total of 3 tablespoons).

8. Bake to Golden-Brown Perfection: Creating a Crispy Crust

1. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and cooked through.

9. Cool and Serve: Enjoying Your Homemade Chicken Bake

1. Cool Slightly: Let the Chicken Bakes cool slightly on the baking sheet for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
2. Serve Warm: Slice and serve warm.

Troubleshooting Common Problems: Tips for Success

• Dough Sticking:
  • Problem: The pizza dough is sticking to the work surface.
  • Solutions: Make sure your work surface is lightly floured. If the dough is very sticky, you can chill it for a few minutes before rolling.
• Filling Leaking:
  • Problem: The filling leaks out during baking.
  • Solutions: Don’t overfill the Chicken Bakes. Make sure to seal the edges of the dough firmly.
• Crust Not Crispy:
  • Problem: The crust isn’t as crispy as desired.
  • Solutions: Make sure your oven is preheated to the correct temperature.

Tips and Variations: Customize Your Chicken Bake

• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheese blends, such as adding provolone, mozzarella, or Asiago.
• Add Vegetables: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or onions into the filling for added flavor and texture.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling for a little heat.
• Different Sauce: Instead of Caesar dressing, try using a different creamy sauce, such as Alfredo or a garlic Parmesan sauce.
• BBQ Chicken: Use shredded BBQ chicken, red onion, and cheddar cheese for a BBQ chicken version.

Serving Suggestions: A Versatile Dish for Many Occasions

• Party Appetizer: Slice the Chicken Bake into smaller pieces and serve it as a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
• Game Day Snack: A hearty and satisfying snack to enjoy while watching the game.
• Lunch or Dinner: Serve with a side salad or soup for a complete meal.
• Potluck Contribution: This dish is easy to transport and always a popular choice.

Pairing Recommendations: Drinks and Sides

• Drinks:
  • Beer: A light-bodied beer, such as a lager or pilsner, pairs well with the savory flavors.
  • Soda: A refreshing choice, especially for kids.
  • Iced Tea: Sweet or unsweetened iced tea complements the dish nicely.
  • White Wine: A crisp, dry white wine like a Pinot Grigio can also work.
• Sides:
  • Caesar Salad: A classic pairing that echoes the flavors in the Chicken Bake.
  • Garden Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast.
  • French Fries: For a more indulgent meal.
  • Fruit Salad: A light and healthy option.

Nutritional Information: A Satisfying and Flavorful Meal

Per serving (approximate, will vary based on size and specific ingredients): Calories: 450-500, Fat: 25-30g, Carbohydrates: 30-35g, Protein: 25-30g. (Note: This is an approximation and may vary based on the specific ingredients used).

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Your Copycat Costco Chicken Bake Questions Answered

• Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
  • A: You can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Assemble the Chicken Bakes just before baking for the best results. You can also bake them ahead of time and reheat when ready to serve.
• Q: How do I store leftovers?
  • A: Store leftover Chicken Bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Q: Can I freeze this dish?
  • A: Yes, you can freeze the unbaked Chicken Bakes. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding extra time to the baking time. You can also freeze after baking.
• Q: Can I use a different type of dough?
  • A: Yes, you can use homemade pizza dough or a store-bought fresh pizza dough. You could also experiment with puff pastry for a different texture.
• Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
  • A: Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite cheese or a blend of cheeses. Mozzarella, provolone, cheddar, or a mix of Italian cheeses would all be delicious.
• Q: Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
  • A: Yes, this is a great way to use up leftover rotisserie chicken or any other cooked chicken.
• Q: Can I make this without the bacon?
  • A: Yes, you can omit the bacon if you prefer.
• Q: How can I make this spicier?
  • A: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling, or use a spicier variety of cheese, like pepper jack. You can also serve it with a side of hot sauce.
• Q: Can I add vegetables to this dish?
  • A: Yes, sautéed mushrooms, onions, or bell peppers would be great additions to the filling.
• Q: Can I use a different type of dressing?
• A: Yes, you could try using a different type of dressing, like a honey mustard or an Italian dressing.
• Q: What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
• A: Leftovers can be reheated in the oven at 350F for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. You can also use a microwave, but the crust may not be as crispy.
• Q: Can this recipe be doubled or tripled?
• A: Yes, this recipe can easily be doubled or tripled to serve a larger crowd. You will just need to adjust baking time accordingly.