Copycat Costco Chicken Bake

If you’ve ever walked through the food court at Costco, you’ve likely encountered their famous Chicken Bake—a golden, cheesy, and flavor-packed handheld meal that’s perfect for satisfying your hunger. The Costco Chicken Bake is a warm, crispy bread roll filled with tender chicken, smoky bacon, gooey cheese, and a creamy Caesar dressing, all wrapped up in pizza dough and baked until perfectly golden brown.

While it’s a favorite for many Costco shoppers, you don’t have to make a trip to the store to enjoy this delicious treat. With this homemade copycat Costco Chicken Bake recipe, you can recreate this classic right in your own kitchen! Not only does this recipe taste just like the original, but it also allows you to customize the ingredients, control portion sizes, and make a healthier, fresher version at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic Copycat Flavor – This recipe captures the exact cheesy, savory taste of the Costco food court favorite.
• Easy to Make at Home – Simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions make this recipe beginner-friendly.
• Customizable – Adjust the fillings, cheese, or sauce to your taste.
• Meal-Prep Friendly – Make a batch and store extras for quick meals later.
• More Budget-Friendly – Save money by making your own chicken bakes instead of buying them.

Whether you’re a longtime Costco Chicken Bake lover or trying it for the first time, this homemade version will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen!

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Cook time: 25 minutes
• Total time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Serving Size: 1 Chicken Bake

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~650 kcal
• Carbohydrates: ~50g
• Protein: ~45g
• Fat: ~28g
• Fiber: ~3g
• Sugar: ~4g

(Note: Nutrition values are estimated and can vary based on ingredients used.)

Ingredients

For the Dough (Homemade or Store-Bought)

• 1 lb pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)

For the Filling

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped (rotisserie chicken works well)
• ½ cup cooked bacon, crumbled
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• ½ cup Caesar dressing
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt

For the Topping

• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese (for sprinkling)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. If using store-bought pizza dough, let it sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes to make it easier to roll out.
2. If making homemade pizza dough, prepare it in advance and let it rise until doubled in size.
3. Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out the dough into a large rectangle, about ¼ inch thick.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, Caesar dressing, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt.
2. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly coated in the dressing.

Step 3: Assemble the Chicken Bakes

1. Cut the rolled-out dough into 4 equal rectangles.
2. Spoon a generous amount of filling onto one side of each rectangle, leaving about ½ inch of space around the edges.
3. Fold the dough over the filling, pressing the edges together to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges for extra security.
4. Place the chicken bakes seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 4: Add the Topping

1. In a small bowl, whisk the egg.
2. Brush the tops of each chicken bake with the egg wash to give them a golden, glossy finish.
3. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top for extra flavor.

Step 5: Bake the Chicken Bakes

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Bake the chicken bakes for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
3. Let them cool slightly before serving.

Ingredient Background

Why Use Pizza Dough?

Pizza dough provides the perfect crispy-yet-soft texture for these chicken bakes. It’s sturdy enough to hold the filling but still light and chewy when baked.

What Makes the Filling Flavorful?

The Caesar dressing, bacon, and Parmesan cheese give this filling its signature Costco-style taste. Caesar dressing adds creaminess, while bacon and Parmesan bring a salty, umami depth.

Why an Egg Wash?

Brushing the dough with an egg wash ensures a shiny, golden-brown crust, just like the Costco version.

Technique Tips

• Don’t Overfill – Adding too much filling can cause the dough to tear or the chicken bake to burst open while baking.
• Seal Well – Press the edges tightly to prevent cheese from leaking out.
• Let the Dough Rest – If the dough keeps shrinking while rolling, let it rest for 5-10 minutes before continuing.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Mini Chicken Bakes – Make smaller, handheld versions for parties or appetizers.
• Open-Faced Chicken Bake – Bake the filling on top of a flatbread or pizza crust.
• Calzone Style – Shape the dough like a calzone for a twist on the classic.

Additional Tips for Success

• Use Rotisserie Chicken – It’s flavorful and saves time on cooking.
• Add Veggies – Try chopped spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
• Make-Ahead Option – Assemble the chicken bakes, then freeze before baking for an easy meal later.

Recipe Variations

• Buffalo Chicken Bake – Swap Caesar dressing for buffalo sauce and add blue cheese.
• BBQ Chicken Bake – Use BBQ sauce instead of Caesar dressing for a smoky twist.
• Spicy Chicken Bake – Add sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes.

Freezing and Storage

Refrigeration:

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes or in the air fryer for 5 minutes.

Freezing:

• Freeze uncooked chicken bakes for up to 3 months.
• Bake straight from frozen at 375°F, adding 5-7 extra minutes to the baking time.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Whole Wheat Dough – Use whole wheat pizza dough for more fiber.
• Low-Fat Cheese – Swap full-fat cheese for a reduced-fat version.
• Turkey Bacon – Replace regular bacon with turkey bacon for a lighter option.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Game Day Snack – Serve with dipping sauces like ranch or honey mustard.
• Lunchbox Favorite – Pack with a side of fruit for a complete meal.
• Potluck Hit – Slice into smaller portions and serve on a platter.

Special Equipment

• Rolling Pin – To roll out the dough evenly.
• Baking Sheet – A large sheet pan for baking multiple chicken bakes.
• Pastry Brush – For applying the egg wash.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use store-bought pizza dough?

Yes! Store-bought pizza dough is a great time-saver and works perfectly for this recipe. You can usually find fresh or frozen pizza dough in the refrigerated or freezer section of most grocery stores. If using frozen dough, let it thaw completely and come to room temperature before rolling it out. This will make it easier to work with and prevent it from shrinking back when shaping the chicken bakes.

If you want a quicker alternative, pre-made crescent roll dough or puff pastry can be used instead. However, the texture will be slightly different from the original Costco version, as pizza dough gives that chewy, golden crust we all love.

2. Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! Chicken bakes are excellent for meal prep and can be assembled ahead of time. Here are a couple of options for making them in advance:

• Refrigerating (Short-Term Prep): Assemble the chicken bakes and place them on a baking sheet. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to cook, remove them from the fridge and bake as directed.
• Freezing (Long-Term Prep):
  • Unbaked: Wrap each assembled chicken bake in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Bake straight from frozen, adding an extra 5-7 minutes to the cooking time.
  • Baked: If you have already baked the chicken bakes, let them cool completely before wrapping them individually and freezing. Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, or in an air fryer for a crispy finish.

3. How do I reheat them?

Reheating properly ensures that the chicken bake stays crispy on the outside while keeping the filling warm and gooey inside. Here’s the best way to do it:

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10-12 minutes. This helps restore the crispy crust.
• Air Fryer: Reheat at 350°F for 5 minutes for a fast and crispy result.
• Microwave: While this is the quickest option, the crust may become slightly chewy. Heat for 1-2 minutes, then toast in the oven or air fryer for a crispier finish.

4. Can I make this without bacon?

Absolutely! Bacon adds a smoky, salty flavor, but it’s not essential to the recipe. Here are a few alternatives:

• Turkey Bacon: A leaner option that still provides a smoky taste.
• Chicken Sausage or Turkey Sausage: Adds a different depth of flavor.
• Crispy Fried Onions: Provides crunch and a savory taste.
• Mushrooms: If you want a vegetarian option, sautéed mushrooms add a great umami flavor.

If you omit the bacon altogether, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika to the filling to replace the smoky flavor bacon provides.

5. Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, making a gluten-free version is easy! Simply swap the pizza dough for gluten-free pizza dough (available at most grocery stores or homemade). Also, check the labels on your Caesar dressing and Parmesan cheese, as some brands may contain gluten.

Another option is to use gluten-free tortillas instead of dough, wrapping the filling inside and lightly toasting them for a crispy alternative.

6. Can I make this healthier?

Yes! Here are a few modifications to make your homemade Costco Chicken Bake a bit lighter:

• Use whole wheat pizza dough instead of white dough for extra fiber.
• Swap regular bacon for turkey bacon or omit it completely.
• Use reduced-fat mozzarella and Parmesan to cut back on fat.
• Make a lighter Caesar dressing by using a yogurt-based version or a homemade dressing with olive oil and lemon juice.
• Add veggies! Chopped spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers can increase the nutritional value without sacrificing flavor.

7. What other sauces can I use instead of Caesar dressing?

While Caesar dressing gives the signature Costco Chicken Bake taste, you can experiment with different sauces for a fun twist:

• Ranch Dressing – A creamier, tangier alternative.
• Buffalo Sauce + Ranch – Perfect if you like a spicy kick.
• BBQ Sauce – For a smoky, sweet variation.
• Honey Mustard – Adds a slight sweetness and tang.
• Pesto Sauce – A basil and garlic twist that pairs well with chicken.

8. What’s the best type of cheese to use?

The classic Costco Chicken Bake uses mozzarella and Parmesan, but you can mix things up! Try:

• Cheddar Cheese – For a sharper, richer flavor.
• Swiss Cheese – Melts beautifully and adds a nutty taste.
• Provolone – Gives a mild and creamy texture.
• Pepper Jack – Great if you want a little heat.

For a super cheesy chicken bake, try a blend of mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan!

Conclusion

The Copycat Costco Chicken Bake is a satisfying, cheesy, and savory meal that you can easily make at home. With its golden, crispy exterior and creamy, flavorful filling, this recipe delivers everything you love about the Costco food court classic—but with the added benefit of fresh ingredients and customization options.

What makes this recipe so great is its versatility. Whether you want to make it ahead of time, swap ingredients for a healthier twist, or experiment with different fillings and sauces, this homemade version allows you to enjoy the Costco Chicken Bake exactly the way you like it.

Print