I don’t know about you, but there’s just something life-affirming about a good chicken bake. And let me tell you, the one I whip up at home has become a beloved family favorite! I first stumbled upon this gem during a Costco run (don’t all culinary adventures start in a warehouse?). Once I tried their Chicken Bake, I knew I had to recreate it at home. It’s a comforting blend of savory chicken, creamy cheese, and zesty Caesar dressing, all wrapped up in a golden, flaky dough. Yum!
I love making this dish on a busy weeknight because it comes together in no time and is always met with smiles around the dinner table. Plus, it’s versatile! You can customize it with your favorite ingredients, but I promise you—the way I make it is pretty much perfect. Ready to learn how to make your very own Costco-inspired Chicken Bake? Let’s dive in!
What’s in Costco Chicken Bake?
Here’s a quick breakdown of the ingredients that give this dish its mouthwatering appeal:
Cooked Chicken: The star of the show! I usually go for shredded rotisserie chicken because it’s already cooked and full of flavor.
Mozzarella Cheese: This one adds a delightful stretch and creaminess to the filling. I always grab the shredded kind for ease, but feel free to shred your own if you’re feeling fancy!
Caesar Dressing: This adds a nice zesty kick and moisture to the chicken. A good quality dressing makes all the difference—go with your favorite!
Bacon (optional): Who doesn’t love a little crunch? Cooked and crumbled bacon can add a nice savory touch, but it’s entirely optional!
Garlic Powder: Because garlic makes everything better, right? This adds a nice subtle flavor boost.
Italian Seasoning: A touch of herbs to elevate the taste. I usually use a pre-mixed version, but you can mix your own using dried basil, oregano, and rosemary.
Refrigerated Pizza Dough: The delightful wrapper for all this goodness! You can go store-bought or homemade—both work beautifully!
Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle on top for that golden, cheesy perfection.
Egg (for wash): This is what gives your chicken bake that lovely golden crust.
Salt and Pepper: Essential to taste, as always!
Is Costco Chicken Bake Good for You?
You might be wondering if this dish can fit into a healthy diet. Well, here’s the lowdown!
Chicken: Packed with protein, it’s a great choice for a filling meal. Plus, it’s versatile and can be paired with veggies for balance.
Mozzarella and Parmesan Cheese: Both of these add calcium but come with saturated fats, so moderation is essential. Lightweight cheese options are available if that’s a concern!
Caesar Dressing: It usually contains oils and cream, making it delicious but calorie-dense. Opt for a lighter version if you prefer a healthier alternative.
Bacon: Adds flavor but can be high in fat and sodium. If you’re watching your intake, consider skipping it or using turkey bacon.
Overall, while this chicken bake is not “health food,” it can definitely be part of a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation!
Ingredients
To make about 4 generous servings, you will need:
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
– 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1 cup Caesar dressing
– 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled (optional)
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– 1 package refrigerated pizza dough (or homemade dough)
– 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Costco Chicken Bake?
Let’s get cooking! Here’s how to make your own delicious chicken bake:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, mozzarella cheese, Caesar dressing, cooked bacon (if you’re using it), garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is beautifully mixed.
3. Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface until it’s about 1/4 inch thick and shaped like a rectangle.
4. Spread the chicken mixture evenly down the center of the dough, making sure to leave about an inch of space on each end.
5. Now for the fun part! Fold the sides of the dough over the filling and pinch to seal it all in. If you want to get crafty, twist the ends for a lovely decorative touch.
6. Place your chicken bakes on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush the tops with the beaten egg and sprinkle plenty of grated Parmesan cheese over them.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until those lovely treats are golden brown and begging to be eaten.
8. Once done, let them cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving warm. I promise they smell heavenly!
Creative Twists and Serving Suggestions
If you want to mix things up a bit, why not try some variations? Maybe add in some sautéed spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor. You could even swap the Caesar dressing for ranch or barbecue sauce for a new twist!
Pair these delightful chicken bakes with a fresh salad or some crispy veggies for a complete meal. They also freeze beautifully, so you can prepare a batch and save some for a rainy day!
I hope you give this Costco Chicken Bake recipe a try! I can’t wait for you to take a bite and feel the warmth and happiness it brings—just like a hug from your favorite friend. Don’t forget to share your thoughts or any fun tweaks you make along the way. Happy cooking!
