A Comfort Food Classic
If you’ve ever walked into Costco and caught the tantalizing aroma of their signature Chicken Bake, you know exactly how irresistible this savory treat can be. With its golden crust, creamy filling, and hearty mix of chicken, bacon, and cheese, the Costco Chicken Bake is comfort food at its finest. But did you know you can recreate this iconic dish at home? Perfect for busy weeknights, game-day snacks, or a casual dinner, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s surprisingly simple to make.
Who Is This Recipe For?
Whether you’re a fan of recreating restaurant favorites, a home cook looking for a hearty meal, or someone who loves cheesy, meaty comfort food, this recipe is for you. The homemade version of the Costco Chicken Bake lets you control the ingredients and customize the flavors to suit your preferences. Plus, it’s a fun cooking project that yields delicious results—you’ll feel like a pro in your own kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With store-bought pizza dough and pantry staples, this recipe comes together without a hassle.
- Customizable: Swap out ingredients or add your favorite flavors to make it uniquely yours.
- Freezer-Friendly: Prepare a batch and freeze for quick meals later.
- Family-Approved: It’s cheesy, savory, and satisfying—a hit with kids and adults alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Filling:
- 1 pound prepared pizza dough
- 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)
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- ½ cup creamy Caesar dressing
- 1 cup shredded Italian cheeses (such as mozzarella and provolone), divided
- ¾ cup shredded Parmesan cheese, divided
- 1 large egg, beaten
Optional Add-Ins:
- Sautéed mushrooms
- Sun-dried tomatoes
- Spinach or arugula
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large ovenproof skillet
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Rolling pin
- Mixing bowls
- Meat thermometer
- Pastry brush
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Pizza Dough
Let the pizza dough rest at room temperature for about 1 hour before using. This makes it easier to roll out and prevents tearing.
2. Cook the Bacon
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and lay the bacon strips in a single layer. Bake until browned and crisp, about 15 minutes. Drain on paper towels, crumble when cool, and set aside.
3. Cook the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with kosher salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Heat a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Cook the chicken, seasoned side down, until golden brown, about 5 minutes. Flip and cook for 1 more minute. Add just enough water to fill the bottom of the pan, then transfer the skillet to the oven. Bake until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), about 17-20 minutes. Remove from the oven and let cool before chopping into bite-sized pieces.
4. Assemble the Chicken Bakes
Increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Sprinkle flour onto a large work surface and divide the dough into 3 portions. Roll each portion into a large circle, about 12-13 inches wide.
Spread Caesar dressing evenly over each dough circle, leaving a 1-inch border. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, then top with chopped chicken, crumbled bacon, green onions, and shredded Italian cheese. Fold the outer edges slightly over the filling, then roll the dough from the bottom to the top to form a log shape. Pinch the edges to seal, then place seam side down on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake the Chicken Bakes
Brush the tops with beaten egg and sprinkle with the reserved Parmesan and Italian cheeses. Bake until golden brown, about 20 minutes. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Recipe Tips and Variations
- Shortcut Option: Use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken breasts to save time.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or drizzle sriracha over the filling for a spicy kick.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pizza dough and check all ingredients for gluten-free certification.
- Dipping Sauce: Serve with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or additional Caesar dressing for dipping.
How to Store and Reheat
Storing Leftovers:
- Wrap leftover Chicken Bakes tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, freeze individually wrapped Chicken Bakes in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Reheating
Food Pairings
- Side Salad: A crisp Caesar or mixed greens salad balances the richness of the Chicken Bake.
- Soup: Pair with a light vegetable or tomato soup for a comforting meal.
- Drinks: Enjoy with a chilled white wine like Chardonnay or a refreshing iced tea.
FAQ
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the Chicken Bakes, wrap them tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, freeze them unbaked and bake straight from the freezer, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
Can I use store-bought dough?
Yes! Store-bought pizza dough works perfectly for this recipe and saves time.
What if I don’t have an ovenproof skillet?
No problem. Sear the chicken in a regular skillet, then transfer it to a baking dish to finish cooking in the oven.
Can I substitute the Caesar dressing?
You can swap it out for ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or even pesto for a different flavor profile.
Final Thoughts
Recreating Costco’s Chicken Bake at home is not only a fun culinary project but also a way to enjoy this iconic dish with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Whether you’re serving it as a hearty dinner, a snack, or a party dish, it’s sure to impress.
If you try this recipe, let us know how it turned out in the comments below. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family and subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes and kitchen inspiration!