Copycat Costco Chicken Bake: A Delicious and Easy Recipe
Are you a fan of the iconic Costco Chicken Bake? That cheesy, savory, and perfectly portable snack has become a cult favorite for many Costco shoppers. But what if you don’t have a Costco membership, or you simply want to enjoy this treat from the comfort of your own home? Well, you’re in luck! This recipe will guide you through creating a mouthwatering copycat version that tastes just like the original, and maybe even better!
This Copycat Costco Chicken Bake recipe captures the essence of the original, offering a satisfying blend of creamy filling, savory chicken, crispy bacon, and a perfectly golden crust. It’s surprisingly easy to make, and you can customize it to your liking. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a party snack, or a comforting dinner, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Copycat Chicken Bake
* **Tastes Just Like the Original:** This recipe is designed to replicate the flavors and textures of the Costco Chicken Bake as closely as possible.
* **Easy to Make:** With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, even novice cooks can successfully create this dish.
* **Customizable:** Feel free to adjust the ingredients and seasonings to suit your preferences. Add different cheeses, vegetables, or spices for a unique twist.
* **Perfect for Any Occasion:** Whether you’re craving a quick snack, hosting a party, or looking for a comforting meal, this recipe fits the bill.
* **Budget-Friendly:** Making your own Chicken Bakes at home is often more economical than buying them at Costco.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a list of the ingredients you’ll need to make these delectable copycat Chicken Bakes:
* **Rotisserie Chicken:** 2 cups, cooked and shredded. Using a rotisserie chicken saves time and adds a depth of flavor.
* **Bacon:** 6 slices, cooked and crumbled. Crispy bacon adds a smoky and savory element to the bake.
* **Caesar Dressing:** 1/2 cup. Caesar dressing provides the creamy base and tangy flavor.
* **Cream Cheese:** 4 ounces, softened. Softened cream cheese adds richness and creaminess.
* **Mozzarella Cheese:** 1 cup, shredded. Mozzarella contributes to the cheesy goodness and provides a stretchy texture.
* **Parmesan Cheese:** 1/4 cup, grated. Parmesan cheese adds a salty and nutty flavor.
* **Green Onions:** 2 tablespoons, chopped. Green onions add a fresh and mild onion flavor.
* **Garlic Powder:** 1/2 teaspoon. Garlic powder enhances the savory flavor profile.
* **Black Pepper:** 1/4 teaspoon. Black pepper adds a touch of spice.
* **Pizza Dough:** 1 pound. Pre-made pizza dough makes this recipe quick and easy. You can also use homemade dough if you prefer.
* **Egg Wash:** 1 egg, beaten with 1 tablespoon of water (optional, for a golden crust).
Equipment You’ll Need
* **Baking Sheet:** For baking the Chicken Bakes.
* **Parchment Paper:** To line the baking sheet and prevent sticking.
* **Mixing Bowls:** For preparing the filling.
* **Measuring Cups and Spoons:** For accurate ingredient measurements.
* **Pizza Cutter or Knife:** For cutting the dough.
* **Rolling Pin (Optional):** To roll out the dough if needed.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now, let’s dive into the detailed instructions for creating these amazing Copycat Costco Chicken Bakes:
**1. Prepare the Chicken and Bacon:**
* If you’re using a rotisserie chicken, shred the meat into bite-sized pieces. Make sure to remove any bones or skin.
* Cook the bacon until crispy. You can do this in a skillet, in the oven, or in the microwave. Once cooked, crumble the bacon into small pieces.
**2. Make the Filling:**
* In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, Caesar dressing, softened cream cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, green onions, garlic powder, and black pepper.
* Mix all the ingredients thoroughly until well combined. Ensure the cream cheese is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
* Taste the filling and adjust the seasonings as needed. You might want to add a pinch of salt if necessary, but remember that Caesar dressing and Parmesan cheese are already salty.
**3. Prepare the Pizza Dough:**
* Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
* If you’re using pre-made pizza dough, let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes to make it easier to work with. If it’s too sticky, lightly flour your work surface.
* Divide the pizza dough into 4 equal portions. This will give you 4 individual Chicken Bakes.
**4. Assemble the Chicken Bakes:**
* Take one portion of the dough and gently stretch or roll it into an oval shape, approximately 6-8 inches long and 4-5 inches wide. The dough should be thin but not so thin that it tears easily.
* Place the dough on the prepared baking sheet.
* Spoon about 1/4 of the chicken filling onto the center of the dough, leaving a border of about 1 inch around the edges.
* Gently fold one side of the dough over the filling, and then fold the other side over, creating a sealed pocket. Pinch the edges together to seal them tightly. You can also crimp the edges with a fork for a decorative touch and to ensure they are well sealed.
* Repeat this process with the remaining dough and filling.
**5. Bake the Chicken Bakes:**
* In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water to make an egg wash (optional). Brush the top of each Chicken Bake with the egg wash for a golden and glossy finish.
* Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to make 2-3 slits on the top of each Chicken Bake. This will allow steam to escape during baking and prevent the bakes from bursting.
* Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the Chicken Bakes are golden brown and the filling is heated through.
* Keep an eye on them, as baking times may vary depending on your oven. If the tops are browning too quickly, you can loosely cover them with aluminum foil.
**6. Cool and Serve:**
* Once the Chicken Bakes are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before serving.
* Serve the Chicken Bakes warm. They are delicious on their own or with a side of your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch dressing or a simple salad.
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to help you customize your Copycat Costco Chicken Bakes:
* **Use Different Cheeses:** Experiment with different cheese blends. Try adding cheddar cheese, provolone cheese, or a Mexican cheese blend for a different flavor profile.
* **Add Vegetables:** Incorporate vegetables such as chopped bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, or spinach into the filling for added nutrients and flavor.
* **Spice It Up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for a spicy kick.
* **Use Different Dough:** If you’re not a fan of pizza dough, you can use puff pastry or crescent roll dough instead. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly.
* **Make Mini Chicken Bakes:** Divide the dough into smaller portions and create mini Chicken Bakes for appetizers or snacks.
* **Make Ahead:** You can assemble the Chicken Bakes ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
* **Freezing:** These chicken bakes can be frozen before baking. Assemble them, then freeze on a baking sheet. Once solid, transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding about 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
* **Adjust the Bacon:** If you want a richer smoky flavor, consider using smoked bacon.
* **Use a Stand Mixer:** If you are making a large batch, use a stand mixer to easily combine the ingredients.
* **Brush with Garlic Butter:** After baking, brush the chicken bakes with melted garlic butter for an extra layer of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These Copycat Costco Chicken Bakes are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways:
* **As a Quick Lunch:** Enjoy a Chicken Bake on its own for a satisfying and convenient lunch.
* **As a Party Appetizer:** Cut the Chicken Bakes into smaller pieces and serve them as appetizers at your next party or gathering.
* **As a Comforting Dinner:** Pair a Chicken Bake with a side salad or your favorite vegetables for a complete and comforting dinner.
* **As a Road Trip Snack:** These Chicken Bakes are perfect for taking on road trips or picnics. They are easy to eat and don’t require any utensils.
* **Dipping Sauces:** Serve with ranch dressing, BBQ sauce, honey mustard, or your favorite dipping sauce.
* **Side Salad:** A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the chicken bake.
* **Coleslaw:** A creamy coleslaw provides a cool and refreshing contrast.
* **Fruit Salad:** A fruit salad adds a touch of sweetness and balances the savory flavors.
Nutritional Information (Approximate)
Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and can vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
* **Calories:** Approximately 450-550 per Chicken Bake
* **Fat:** 25-35 grams
* **Saturated Fat:** 10-15 grams
* **Cholesterol:** 100-150 mg
* **Sodium:** 800-1000 mg
* **Carbohydrates:** 30-40 grams
* **Fiber:** 2-3 grams
* **Sugar:** 5-8 grams
* **Protein:** 25-35 grams
Conclusion
This Copycat Costco Chicken Bake recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy the flavors you love without having to go to Costco. It’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, you’ll be able to create these delicious treats with ease. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your oven, and get ready to indulge in a homemade version of the iconic Costco Chicken Bake!
Enjoy your homemade Chicken Bakes, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations to find your perfect recipe. Happy baking!