Copycat Costco Chicken Bake

Love Costco’s Chicken Bake? Now you can make it at home. This easy and delicious recipe features juicy chicken, crispy bacon, gooey cheese, and creamy Caesar dressing wrapped in golden pizza dough—perfect for a quick, satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Tastes just like the Costco version
Easy to make with simple ingredients
Great for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner
Customizable with your favorite add-ins

Part 1: Preparation & Cooking

Ingredients

For the Chicken Bake

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 (homemade or store-bought)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste

Essential Tools & Equipment

Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Rolling pin
Mixing bowls
Pastry brush

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken and Bacon

Cook the chicken using your preferred method (boiled, baked, or grilled), then shred it.
Cook bacon until crispy and crumble into small pieces.

2. Make the Filling

In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, bacon, mozzarella, Parmesan, and Caesar dressing.
Add garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

3. Assemble the Chicken Bake

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Roll out the pizza dough into a 12×8-inch rectangle.
Spread the filling evenly down the center.
Fold over the edges and pinch to seal into a log shape.

4. Bake

Place the chicken bake seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Brush with olive oil.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown and crispy.

5. Serve & Enjoy

Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing.
Serve with marinara sauce or a crisp salad.

Best Ways to Serve Costco Chicken Bake

Serve warm, sliced into portions.
Pair with a dipping sauce like ranch, marinara, or garlic aioli.
Enjoy as a meal or cut into smaller pieces for appetizers.

Side Dish Recommendations

A well-balanced side dish can elevate the flavors of this chicken bake. Here are eight great options to serve alongside it:

1. Caesar Salad

A crisp Caesar salad complements the flavors inside the chicken bake, making it a natural pairing. The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons add texture and balance.

2. Garlic Parmesan Roasted Vegetables

Roasting vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus with garlic and Parmesan enhances their natural sweetness and adds a delicious contrast to the richness of the chicken bake.

3. Tomato Basil Soup

A warm bowl of tomato basil soup pairs perfectly with the cheesy, crispy bake. The acidity of the tomatoes cuts through the richness of the filling, creating a satisfying combination.

4. French Fries or Sweet Potato Fries

For a casual meal, serve with crispy fries. Sweet potato fries add a slightly sweet contrast to the savory flavors.

5. Coleslaw

A tangy, crunchy coleslaw made with a light vinaigrette or classic creamy dressing can add a refreshing balance to the meal.

6. Steamed Broccoli

For a healthier option, steamed broccoli provides a simple, nutritious side without overpowering the flavors of the dish. Adding a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese can enhance the taste.

7. Mac and Cheese

A side of creamy mac and cheese makes this meal extra indulgent. The combination of cheesy pasta and the chicken bake creates a comforting, satisfying dinner.

8. Garlic Breadsticks

Soft or crispy garlic breadsticks complement the chicken bake perfectly, especially when served with marinara sauce for dipping. The extra garlic flavor enhances the overall experience.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Bake

Use rotisserie chicken for faster preparation.
Seal the edges well to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.
Bake until golden brown for the best texture and crispiness.
Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing to help the filling set.
Brush the top with garlic butter for extra flavor before baking.

How to Store & Reheat

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating Instructions

Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or until heated through.
Air Fryer: Heat at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes for a crispy texture.
Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, but this may make the crust softer rather than crispy.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the chicken bake and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes, then bake as directed.

What other sauces can I use instead of Caesar dressing?

You can substitute Caesar dressing with ranch, buffalo sauce, barbecue sauce, or garlic aioli for a different flavor profile.

Can I use store-bought pizza dough?

Yes, store-bought pizza dough works well. Pillsbury, Trader Joe’s, or any pre-made dough from your local grocery store are good options.

How do I make this recipe healthier?

Use whole wheat pizza dough instead of regular dough.
Replace bacon with turkey bacon for a leaner option.
Use low-fat mozzarella and Parmesan to reduce calories.
Swap Caesar dressing for Greek yogurt-based dressing for a lighter alternative.

Can I make this without bacon?

Yes, you can leave out the bacon or replace it with cooked mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or spinach for a vegetarian-friendly option.

What is the best way to get a crispy crust?

Bake on a preheated baking sheet for an extra crispy bottom.
Brush the dough with olive oil or melted butter before baking.
Allow the chicken bake to cool slightly before cutting to avoid losing crispiness.

Final Thoughts

Making a homemade Costco Chicken Bake is easier than you think. This recipe delivers the same cheesy, crispy, and flavorful experience without a trip to the store. It is perfect for a quick dinner, meal prep, or even a party appetizer. Try different variations to customize it to your taste and enjoy a homemade version of this Costco favorite anytime.