Copycat Costco Chicken Bake Recipe

Delightful Copycat Costco Chicken Bake Recipe You’ll Love

A legendary Costco chicken bake has captured the hearts of countless food enthusiasts across America.

Massive flavor bombs nestle inside this iconic handheld delight.

Crispy golden dough wraps around tender, seasoned chicken with precision and care.

Cheesy goodness melts perfectly between layers of savory ingredients.

Recreating this beloved treat at home means you can enjoy restaurant-style comfort without leaving your kitchen.

Pizza dough becomes the secret weapon for authentic texture and taste.

Recreate this crowd-pleasing recipe and watch hungry faces light up with excitement.

Copycat Costco Chicken Bake: A Family Favorite

  • Craft Homemade Comfort: Recreate the beloved Costco Chicken Bake in your own kitchen, bringing restaurant-style satisfaction right to your dining table with minimal professional cooking skills.
  • Pack Flavor Punch: Loaded with savory chicken, crispy bacon, melted cheese, and zesty Caesar dressing, this recipe delivers a powerful taste experience that satisfies serious hunger cravings.
  • Customize Your Creation: Easily swap ingredients to match personal preferences or dietary needs, making this recipe incredibly flexible for different taste buds and family members.
  • Meal Prep Magic: Perfect for preparing ahead, these chicken bakes can be assembled in advance and stored, providing a convenient option for busy weeknights or quick lunch solutions.

Ingredients for Copycat Costco Chicken Bake

Dough Ingredients:
  • Sugar: Helps activate the yeast and adds a subtle sweetness to the dough.
  • Warm Water: Creates the perfect environment for yeast activation.
  • Active Dry Yeast: Provides the rising action for the pizza dough.
  • Olive Oil: Adds moisture and helps create a tender dough texture.
  • Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dough.
  • All-Purpose Flour: Forms the base structure of the pizza dough.
Filling Ingredients:
  • Cooked Chicken: The main protein that provides the core flavor of the Chicken Bake.
  • Crumbled Bacon: Adds a smoky and crispy element to the filling.
  • Mozzarella Cheese: Provides creamy melting texture and rich flavor.
  • Caesar Dressing: Brings tangy and creamy notes to the chicken mixture.
  • Salt, Pepper: Seasonings that enhance the overall taste of the filling.
Topping Ingredients:
  • Melted Butter, Garlic Powder: Creates a flavorful and aromatic butter wash.
  • Beaten Egg: Helps achieve a golden and shiny exterior.
  • Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds a savory and crispy topping to the Chicken Bake.

Instructions for Copycat Costco Chicken Bake

Instructions for Copycat Costco Chicken Bake

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a cozy bowl, dissolve sugar in warm water and sprinkle yeast.

Let the mixture sit and get bubbly for 5-10 minutes until it looks frothy and alive.

Step 2: Create the Dough Base

Pour in olive oil, salt, and flour.

Mix everything until a soft, supple dough forms.

The texture should feel smooth and elastic.

Step 3: Knead and Rise the Dough

Work the dough with your hands for 5-7 minutes, adding extra flour if it feels sticky.

Transfer the dough to an oiled bowl, cover it, and let it rest and rise for a full hour.

Step 4: Prepare the Delicious Filling

Combine the ingredients in a mixing bowl:
  • Cooked chicken
  • Crumbled bacon
  • Mozzarella cheese
  • Caesar dressing

Season with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.

Step 5: Shape the Chicken Bakes

Roll out pizza dough into rectangular shapes about 8 inches long and 6 inches wide.

Spoon the chicken mixture down the center, leaving small edges free.

Step 6: Seal and Arrange

Fold dough sides over the filling, pinching edges tightly to create sealed pockets.

Place chicken bakes seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 7: Create the Flavor Topping

Mix melted butter with garlic powder in a small bowl.

Brush chicken bakes with the butter mixture, then coat with beaten egg.

Step 8: Add the Finishing Touch

Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese generously over the top of each chicken bake.

Step 9: Bake to Golden Perfection

Slide the baking sheet into a preheated 375°F oven.

Bake for 20-25 minutes until the exterior turns beautifully golden brown and crispy.

Pro Tips for Making Copycat Costco Chicken Bake

  • Pinch dough edges tightly to prevent filling from leaking during baking, ensuring a neat and secure Chicken Bake.
  • Let dough rise in a warm, draft-free area to achieve a light, fluffy consistency that enhances the overall texture.
  • Pat chicken dry before mixing to avoid excess liquid that could make the filling soggy and compromise the Chicken Bake's structure.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of pre-shredded for a more intense, authentic taste that elevates the entire dish.
  • Brush with egg wash and butter mixture generously to create a beautiful, crispy exterior with rich, golden-brown coloration.

Variations to Customize Your Chicken Bake

  • Vegetarian Chicken Bake: Replace chicken with seasoned roasted portobello mushrooms or plant-based chicken alternative, keeping the Caesar dressing and mozzarella for rich flavor.
  • Gluten-Free Version: Swap pizza dough with gluten-free flour blend, ensuring the same texture and using certified gluten-free ingredients for safe preparation.
  • Spicy Mediterranean Style: Add sun-dried tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, and red pepper flakes to create a Mediterranean-inspired filling with extra kick.
  • Low-Carb Keto Option: Substitute dough with large lettuce wraps or almond flour-based dough, using rotisserie chicken and extra cheese to maintain high protein content.

Serving Suggestions for Chicken Bake

  • Picnic Perfect Pocket: Pack these Chicken Bakes in individual wrappers for a delightful outdoor meal that stays warm and tasty during park lunches or beach trips.
  • Dipping Delight Station: Serve with small bowls of ranch, extra Caesar dressing, or marinara sauce to let everyone customize their dipping experience and add extra flavor layers.
  • Game Day Companion: Cut Chicken Bakes into smaller bite-sized pieces for easy game night snacking, making them perfect for sharing during sports events or movie marathons.
  • Salad Side Kick: Slice the Chicken Bake and place atop a crisp green salad to transform this hearty dish into a lighter meal with added freshness and crunch.

How to Store Copycat Costco Chicken Bake

  • Wrap individual Chicken Bakes tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap, then place in an airtight container. Keep refrigerated for up to 3-4 days.
  • Completely cool the Chicken Bakes, then wrap each separately in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Store in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag for up to 2-3 months.
  • Place a Chicken Bake on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 1-2 minutes until warm. Be careful not to overheat, as this can make the dough tough.

FAQs

  • Can I use store-bought pizza dough?

Yes, you can use premade pizza dough to save time. Just roll it out and follow the remaining assembly instructions for the Chicken Bake.

  • Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Absolutely! You can prepare the Chicken Bakes ahead of time, wrap them tightly, and refrigerate or freeze before baking. When ready to eat, bake directly from the refrigerator or thaw first.

  • What can I substitute for Caesar dressing?

Ranch dressing works great as an alternative. You can also use a mix of mayonnaise and a little garlic powder for a similar creamy flavor profile.

  • How do I prevent the dough from getting soggy?

Make sure to leave space around the edges when adding filling and seal the edges tightly. This helps prevent moisture from making the dough soggy during baking.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Copycat Costco Chicken Bake Recipe

Copycat Costco Chicken Bake Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 14 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Hearty Costco chicken bake recipe delivers comforting Italian-American flavors with crispy cheese-crusted dough. Homemade version rivals the original, promising restaurant-quality satisfaction for passionate home cooks.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Protein Ingredients:

  • 1 pound cooked chicken breast, chopped or shredded
  • 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled

Cheese Ingredients:

  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Dough and Seasoning Ingredients:

  • 1 package pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1/2 cup creamy Caesar dressing
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Homemade Pizza Dough Ingredients:

  • 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
  • 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F)
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 3 1/2 to 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Activate yeast by dissolving sugar in warm water, then sprinkle yeast and allow to foam for 5-10 minutes at room temperature.
  2. Incorporate olive oil, salt, and flour into the yeast mixture, mixing until a cohesive dough forms.
  3. Knead the dough thoroughly for 5-7 minutes, adding extra flour if the texture remains sticky.
  4. Transfer dough to an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm environment for approximately 1 hour until doubled in size.
  5. Prepare the filling by combining cooked chicken, crumbled bacon, mozzarella cheese, and Caesar dressing, seasoning with salt and pepper.
  6. Roll out pizza dough into rectangular shapes approximately 8 inches long and 6 inches wide.
  7. Distribute chicken mixture centrally along each dough rectangle, maintaining border spaces.
  8. Carefully fold dough edges over the filling, firmly pinching to create a secure seal.
  9. Arrange chicken bakes seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  10. Blend melted butter with garlic powder in a separate bowl.
  11. Generously brush chicken bakes with butter mixture, then apply beaten egg wash.
  12. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese across the surface.
  13. Bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes until achieving a golden, crispy exterior.

Notes

  • Experiment with different types of cheese like cheddar or provolone for unique flavor variations.
  • Use gluten-free pizza dough to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
  • Swap bacon for turkey bacon or omit entirely for a lighter, vegetarian-friendly option.
  • Prepare the filling ahead of time and store in the refrigerator to streamline the cooking process.
  • Prep Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 482 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 865 mg
  • Fat: 31 g
  • Saturated Fat: 13 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 25 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 38 g
  • Cholesterol: 110 mg
Mia Thompson

Mia Thompson

Pastry Chef & Content Creator

Expertise

  • Creating wholesome, seasonal desserts with a focus on nutrition.
  • Developing recipes on healthy baking alternatives.
  • Experimenting with plant-based and gluten-free recipes.​

Education

Portland Community College – Baking and Pastry Arts Program
Specialized in artisanal bread, seasonal desserts, and sustainable baking methods.

National University of Natural Medicine – Bachelor of Science in Nutrition (BScN)
Focused on “Food as Medicine” philosophy, with core threads in nutrition.


Mia’s love affair with baking began in her grandmother’s kitchen, where sneaking spoonfuls of batter first sparked her curiosity. She refined her skills through Portland Community College’s Baking and Pastry Arts Program and her expertise at the National University of Natural Medicine, earning a B.Sc. in Nutrition.
At The Scrumptious Pumpkin, Mia reimagines classics with effortless seasonal treats, healthier twists on old favorites, and playful confections that feel like pure joy. Beyond the oven, she nurtures her urban garden, forages local ingredients around Portland, and leads hands‑on nutrition workshops for her community.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star