The Costco Chicken Bake Recipe is a fan-favorite for a reason. This dish is the perfect combination of crispy bacon, shredded chicken, gooey mozzarella cheese, and tangy dressing, all wrapped in soft pizza dough. It’s a versatile meal, ideal for a quick dinner, a snack, or even a hearty lunch. Whether you’re craving comfort food or need a time-saving dinner option, this recipe delivers. Plus, it’s great for large gatherings or meal prepping, offering a convenient way to satisfy everyone’s taste buds.
How to Choose the Right Main Ingredients?
When making this recipe, picking high-quality ingredients ensures your dish turns out perfectly. Start with a rotisserie chicken for a juicy and flavorful base. You can also use Instant Pot chicken if you prefer something homemade and quicker. For the dough, opt for pre-made dough from the store for convenience, or go with plain dough from Trader Joe’s for a more homemade feel. Freshly cooked air fryer bacon adds crispness, but pre-made bacon bits can be used for time-saving purposes.
What About Seasoning?
The right seasonings can elevate this dish from good to great. Italian herbs like oregano and basil pair beautifully with the cheesy and meaty filling. Consider adding Parmesan cheese for extra richness, and a sprinkle of garlic for a fragrant touch. Both Ranch dressing and Caesar dressing can be used as part of the filling, each offering a unique flavor profile. For those who prefer a healthier option, choosing organic ingredients where possible can make a difference in the final taste.
Recommended Cooking Equipment and How to Use It Effectively
This recipe doesn’t require fancy tools, just a few kitchen staples to get the job done. Here’s a list of the essential equipment and how to use them for best results:
- Baking Sheet: Use a non-stick baking sheet to avoid sticking and ensure even baking. Lining it with parchment paper makes cleanup easier.
- Air Fryer: If you’re short on time, consider cooking your bacon in an air fryer. It’s faster and healthier, giving you crispy bacon without the added grease.
- Rolling Pin: If using refrigerated dough, a rolling pin will help you spread it out evenly, ensuring the perfect texture and thickness.
- Instant Pot: For homemade chicken, an Instant Pot can cook it quickly and keep the chicken juicy.
Using this equipment effectively will make the cooking process easier and ensure a consistently delicious Costco Chicken Bake every time.
Costco Chicken Bake Recipe: Comprehensive Guide
Costco Chicken Bake Recipe
Costco Chicken Bake Recipe is a comforting, cheesy delight that never fails to satisfy cravings. The combination of chicken, bacon, and mozzarella wrapped in golden dough makes it irresistible. Perfect for a quick meal or snack, this easy-to-make dish brings the familiar taste of Costco’s food court straight to your home.
Ingredients
- Rotisserie Chicken (or Instant Pot Chicken): 2 cups, shredded
- Bacon: 6 slices, cooked and crumbled (Air Fryer Bacon or pre-made bacon bits)
- Mozzarella Cheese: 1 ½ cups, shredded
- Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup, grated
- Pizza Dough: 1 large piece (store-bought pre-made dough or refrigerated dough)
- Ranch Dressing or Caesar Dressing: ¼ cup
- Italian Herbs: 1 tsp (oregano, basil)
- Garlic Powder: ½ tsp
- Flour: For rolling out the dough
Instructions
- Prepare the dough: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). On a floured surface, roll out the pizza dough or plain dough into large rectangles, about ¼-inch thick. If using refrigerated dough, make sure to let it rest at room temperature for 10 minutes before rolling.
- Cook the bacon: If you're using fresh bacon, cook it in an air fryer or a pan until crispy. Crumble the bacon and set it aside. You can also use pre-made bacon bits for convenience.
- Assemble the filling: In a large bowl, combine the shredded rotisserie chicken, crumbled bacon, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Add Ranch dressing or Caesar dressing, along with a sprinkle of Italian herbs and garlic powder. Mix until everything is evenly coated.
- Fill the dough: Spread the chicken mixture down the center of each dough rectangle, leaving some space on the edges. Fold the sides over the filling and pinch the seams to seal tightly.
- Bake: Place the filled dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with a little extra dressing or olive oil for a golden crust. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the dough is golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Let the Costco Chicken Bakes cool for 5 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy this dish as a filling homemade dinner or a satisfying snack for family and friends.
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
4Serving Size:
1Amount Per Serving:Calories: 650Total Fat: 30gSodium: 1200mgCarbohydrates: 55gProtein: 36g
Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes
The Costco Chicken Bake pairs well with a variety of sides. For a lighter option, serve with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables. If you’re going for a heartier meal, garlic bread or garlic knots make a great side. You could also offer a simple dipping sauce like Ranch dressing or marinara sauce to enhance the flavors.
Cooking Tips and Tricks for Success
- Use Fresh Ingredients: While using frozen food is convenient, opting for fresh ingredients whenever possible makes a big difference in flavor.
- Time-Saving Options: If you’re in a rush, using pre-made dough and pre-made bacon bits can significantly cut down your prep time without sacrificing taste.
- Avoid Overfilling: Be careful not to overstuff your dough. Too much filling can cause the dough to tear or bake unevenly.
- Adjust for Personal Taste: Feel free to substitute Ranch dressing with Caesar dressing, depending on your flavor preference. Both work well, but each gives a slightly different tang to the dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overbaking: Keep a close eye on the bake during the last few minutes. Overbaking will dry out the dough and the filling.
- Not Sealing the Dough Properly: Make sure the seams are well-sealed to prevent the filling from leaking during baking.
- Using Too Much Dressing: While it adds great flavor, using too much dressing can make the bake soggy, so stick to the recommended amount.
Conclusion: The Perfect Costco Chicken Bake at Home
This Costco Chicken Bake Recipe is the ultimate comfort food that’s perfect for any meal. Whether you’re hosting a big family dinner, need a quick meal for a busy weeknight, or simply craving something cheesy and delicious, this bake is sure to hit the spot. With fresh ingredients and a few simple tools, you can recreate the Costco Food Court favorite right in your own kitchen. Try it out and customize it to suit your taste—you’ll have a new go-to dish in no time!
Related Article:
I’m Calvin Lamb, an LA-based culinary enthusiast with a decade’s experience in five-star kitchens. My innovative dishes, inspired by seasonal flavors and sustainable practices, blend classic and modern cuisine. Besides crafting unique culinary experiences, I relish exploring new eateries and devising fresh recipes.