The Copycat Costco Chicken Bake delivers everything you love about the food court classic—tender shredded chicken, smoky crispy bacon, and a creamy Caesar dressing filling, all wrapped in golden pizza dough. This handheld meal is perfect for busy weeknights, game-day snacks, or meal prep. Unlike the original, this homemade version lets you control the ingredients, adjust flavors, and enjoy fresh-from-the-oven warmth without waiting in line. Whether you’re craving comfort food or feeding a crowd, this recipe guarantees cheesy, savory satisfaction in every bite.
Preparation Phase & Essential Tools
Before diving into the recipe, gather these tools to streamline the process:
- Mixing Bowls: Use a large bowl to combine the filling evenly without spills.
- Baking Sheet: Line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Rolling Pin: Essential for flattening the dough to a uniform 12×8-inch rectangle.
- Pastry Brush: Helps apply olive oil for a golden, crispy crust.
- Knife and Cutting Board: For prepping bacon and shredding cooked chicken.
Why These Tools Matter
- A rolling pin ensures the dough bakes evenly, avoiding thick, doughy spots.
- Parchment paper eliminates sticking and preserves the bake’s shape.
- Shredding chicken while warm (with forks or a stand mixer) saves time and improves texture.
Preparation Tips for Success
- Chicken: Cook breasts with salt and pepper for baseline flavor. Grill, bake, or poach, then shred.
- Bacon: Fry until extra crispy so it stays crunchy after baking. Blot excess grease with paper towels.
- Dough: Let refrigerated dough rest at room temperature for 30 minutes for easier rolling.
Ingredients List
Measurements matter—here’s what you’ll need:
Proteins
- 2 large chicken breasts (cooked and shredded)
- 6 slices bacon (cooked until crisp, then crumbled)
Cheeses
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella (for meltiness)
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan (for sharpness)
Wet Ingredients & Seasonings
- ½ cup Caesar dressing (creamy base)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
Dough
- 1 package pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cook the Chicken and Bacon
- Chicken: Season breasts with salt, pepper, and ½ tsp garlic powder. Bake at 375°F for 25 minutes or grill until internal temp reaches 165°F. Shred with forks.
- Bacon: Pan-fry or bake until crispy. Drain on paper towels, then crumble.
Prepare the Filling
- In a large bowl, mix shredded chicken, bacon, mozzarella, Parmesan, and Caesar dressing.
- Add remaining garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until fully combined.
Assemble the Bake
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll dough into a 12×8-inch rectangle on a floured surface.
- Spoon filling down the center, leaving 2-inch borders on the long sides.
- Fold dough over the filling, pinching edges to seal. Place seam-side down on the baking sheet.
Bake to Perfection
- Brush the top with olive oil for a golden finish.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes until the crust is crisp and lightly browned.
Pro Tip: For extra flavor, brush the baked dough with garlic butter (1 tbsp melted butter + ½ tsp garlic powder) right after removing it from the oven.
Now that your Copycat Costco Chicken Bake is golden and bubbling from the oven, it’s time to elevate it from great to unforgettable. This section covers professional plating tips, troubleshooting pitfalls, and a curated list of side dishes to round out your meal.
Serving Suggestions
For a presentation worthy of Costco’s food court:
- Diagonal Slicing: Cut the bake into 2-inch thick slices on a bias for visual appeal.
- Dipping Sauces: Serve with small bowls of extra Caesar dressing, marinara sauce, or ranch dressing for added richness.
- Garnish: Sprinkle chopped parsley or grated Parmesan over the top for color and flavor contrast.
Pro Tip: Let the bake rest for 5 minutes after removing it from the oven. This prevents the filling from oozing out when sliced.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even seasoned cooks encounter hiccups. Here’s how to sidestep them:
1. Soggy or Undercooked Dough
- Cause: Overloading the filling or using excess dressing.
- Fix: Drain shredded chicken thoroughly and measure dressing precisely (½ cup max). For extra insurance, pre-bake the dough for 5 minutes before adding filling.
2. Bland Filling
- Cause: Underseasoned chicken or skipped spices.
- Fix: Taste the filling mixture before assembling. Add a pinch of salt, smoked paprika, or extra garlic powder if needed.
3. Leaky Seams
- Cause: Inadequate sealing or overfilling.
- Fix: Leave a 2-inch border when adding filling. Pinch edges firmly, then crimp with a fork for a tight seal.
4. Uneven Browning
- Cause: Oven hot spots or incorrect rack placement.
- Fix: Bake on the center rack and rotate the sheet halfway through. For deeper color, broil for the final 2 minutes (watch closely).
8 Perfect Side Dishes
Pair your chicken bake with these crowd-pleasing accompaniments:
- Classic Caesar Salad
- Crisp romaine, croutons, and shaved Parmesan mirror the bake’s flavors.
- Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
- Creamy potatoes balance the bake’s savory notes.
- Steamed Broccoli with Lemon Zest
- A bright, fresh contrast to the rich filling.
- Tomato Basil Soup
- Dip slices into this comforting soup for a cozy meal.
- Creamy Coleslaw
- Adds crunch and tanginess to cut through the cheese.
- Garlic Knots
- Double down on doughy goodness with buttery, herbed knots.
- Grilled Vegetable Skewers
- Zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms add smoky depth.
- Corn on the Cob with Chili Lime Butter
- A sweet-spicy side that’s effortless to prepare.
Pro Tip: For parties, slice the bake into smaller portions and serve with 2–3 sides for a DIY “food court” spread.
Completing your Copycat Costco Chicken Bake is just the beginning—knowing how to store leftovers, reheat for maximum crispiness, and tweak the recipe ensures every bite stays delicious. This final section answers common questions and provides expert guidance for making this dish a regular in your meal rotation.
Recipe Tips and Variations
Customizing Your Chicken Bake
- Extra Vegetables: Add ¼ cup diced roasted red peppers, sautéed mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrition.
- Spicy Kick: Mix 1 teaspoon of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the filling.
- Alternative Proteins: Swap chicken for turkey or use plant-based chicken and vegan bacon for a vegetarian version.
- Dough Alternatives: Substitute pizza dough with puff pastry for a flakier texture or whole wheat dough for extra fiber.
Achieving the Perfect Texture
- Crispier Crust: Brush the dough with a mixture of melted butter and minced garlic before baking.
- Gooey Cheese: Use a blend of mozzarella and Monterey Jack for extra meltiness.
- Prevent Sogginess: If using fresh vegetables (like tomatoes), pat them dry before adding to the filling.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Refrigerating Leftovers
- Cool Completely: Let the bake rest for 30 minutes before storing to avoid condensation.
- Airtight Container: Wrap slices in foil or place in a sealed container for up to 3 days.
Freezing for Later
- Whole or Sliced: Wrap the unbaked or fully cooked chicken bake tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil.
- Storage Time: Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Best Reheating Methods
- Oven (Recommended):
- Preheat to 350°F (175°C).
- Place slices on a baking sheet, cover loosely with foil, and heat for 10–12 minutes.
- Remove foil and broil for 1–2 minutes to crisp the crust.
- Air Fryer:
- Reheat at 375°F (190°C) for 5–7 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave (Quick Option):
- Use 50% power in 30-second intervals to prevent rubbery cheese.
Pro Tip: Add a splash of water to the baking sheet when reheating to keep the dough moist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken?
Yes! Store-bought rotisserie chicken saves time. Shred 2 cups of meat (about 1 small chicken) and skip the cooking step.
How Do I Prevent the Filling from Spilling Out?
- Avoid overstuffing—use 1½ to 2 cups of filling max.
- Seal edges tightly by pinching and crimping with a fork.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
- Unbaked: Assemble, wrap tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Baked: Reheat as directed above.
Is There a Low-Carb Alternative?
Replace pizza dough with low-carb tortillas or cauliflower dough for a keto-friendly version.
Why Is My Dough Not Browning?
- Brush with egg wash (1 egg + 1 tbsp water) before baking for a deeper golden color.
- Ensure your oven is fully preheated—use an oven thermometer to verify temperature.
Can I Air Fry This Recipe?
Yes! Shape into smaller rolls, air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway.
Final Thoughts
This Copycat Costco Chicken Bake brings the iconic food court favorite to your kitchen with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with add-ins, it’s a versatile dish that suits weeknight dinners, meal prep, and gatherings. By mastering storage tricks and reheating techniques, you can enjoy crispy, cheesy leftovers just like the first bake.
Try It Tonight: Pair with a simple salad or soup for a complete meal that satisfies every craving.
Copycat Costco Chicken Bake
Ingredients
- 2 large chicken breasts cooked and shredded
- 6 slices bacon cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup Caesar dressing
- 1 package pizza dough
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
Cook the Chicken and Bacon:
- Grill, bake, or sauté the chicken until fully cooked, then shred.
- Cook bacon until crispy, then crumble and set aside.
Prepare the Filling:
- In a large bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, mozzarella, Parmesan, and Caesar dressing.
- Season with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
Assemble the Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out the pizza dough into a rectangle, about 12×8 inches.
- Spoon the filling down the center of the dough.
- Fold over the sides to cover the filling and pinch the edges to seal.
Bake:
- Place the filled dough seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Brush the top with olive oil.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
Serve & Enjoy:
- Let rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Serve with extra Caesar dressing or a fresh side salad, if desired.
- Notes
- Add-ins: Try diced tomatoes or chopped green onions in the filling for extra flavor.
- Crispier crust: For a crunchier crust, brush with a mix of melted butter and garlic powder before baking.
- Leftovers: Wrap in foil and reheat in the oven for best results.
