Quick Overview
If you love shopping at Costco, you’ve likely enjoyed their famous chicken bake. Now you can recreate that deliciousness at home with this Copycat Costco Chicken Bake recipe. It features tender chicken, creamy sauce, and a flaky crust that makes it irresistible. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings without the need to leave your house.
Ingredient Breakdown
Chicken Breast
You will need about 2 cups of cooked and shredded chicken breast for this recipe. Rotisserie chicken works well if you’re short on time. The chicken provides protein and gives the dish its hearty base.
Pizza Dough
A pound of store-bought pizza dough makes it easy to create a flaky exterior. This dough serves as the perfect vessel to hold all the delicious fillings together in each bite.
Creamy Alfredo Sauce
Use one cup of creamy Alfredo sauce for richness and flavor. You can either make it from scratch or buy a jar from the store. This sauce adds moisture and creaminess to the filling.
Mozzarella Cheese
Incorporate one cup of shredded mozzarella cheese into your filling for that gooey texture. It melts beautifully and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
Spinach
One cup of fresh spinach adds color and nutrition. Not only does it provide health benefits, but it also complements the other ingredients with its subtle flavor.
Bacon Bits
Add half a cup of cooked bacon bits for an extra savory note. The crispy texture pairs well with the softness of the other ingredients.
Step By Step Recipe: Copycat Costco Chicken Bake
Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients on a clean countertop. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If you’re using rotisserie chicken, shred it into bite-sized pieces. This step ensures everything is ready when you start assembling your bake.
Roll Out Pizza Dough
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a rectangle approximately 12×16 inches in size. Make sure it’s not too thick so that it cooks evenly in the oven. You want the edges to be slightly thicker than the center to hold in all those tasty fillings.
Combine Filling Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, Alfredo sauce, mozzarella cheese, spinach, and bacon bits. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined. The filling should be creamy and packed with flavor at this stage.
Assemble the Chicken Bake
Transfer half of the rolled-out dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spoon the filling mixture down the center lengthwise, leaving space on both sides for folding over later. Carefully fold over each side of the dough over the filling and pinch to seal tightly.
Brush and Score
Lightly brush an egg wash over the top of your assembled chicken bake for that golden color when baked. Use a sharp knife to score diagonal slits across the top; this allows steam to escape while cooking and adds visual appeal.
Bake to Perfection
Place your baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown on top. Keep an eye on it towards the end; ovens vary in temperature, so adjust cooking time if necessary.
Serving and Storing Tips
Serving Suggestions
Slice your Copycat Costco Chicken Bake into generous portions and serve warm alongside a simple green salad or some fresh fruit. It’s perfect as an easy dinner option or as part of a potluck spread.
Storage Guidelines
Allow leftovers to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to three days when stored properly; reheat them in an oven or microwave as needed.
Freezing Tips
If you want to prepare ahead of time, consider freezing unbaked chicken bakes wrapped tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil. They can be frozen for up to three months; just remember to extend baking time if cooking from frozen!
Mistakes to avoid
One common mistake when making Copycat Costco Chicken Bake is using the wrong dough. Many people opt for pre-made dough that doesn’t have the right texture or flavor. Always choose a dough recipe that mimics the original, such as pizza dough or homemade bread for the best results.
Another mistake is overstuffing the bake. While it might be tempting to add more filling, too much can lead to spills and uneven cooking. Stick to the recommended amounts of chicken, cheese, and sauce for a balanced flavor in every bite.
Failing to preheat your oven is another critical error. Not preheating can result in an uneven bake, affecting both texture and taste. Ensure your oven reaches the proper temperature before placing your chicken bake inside for optimal cooking.
Not allowing the chicken to cool before assembling is also a frequent oversight. Hot chicken can make the dough soggy and hard to handle. Let your cooked chicken cool down slightly so that you achieve a crispier outer layer once baked.
Lastly, neglecting to brush the top with egg wash can limit the golden-brown color of your bake. An egg wash will give your Copycat Costco Chicken Bake an appealing shine and enhance its overall presentation.
Tips and tricks
To perfect your Copycat Costco Chicken Bake, start by preparing the filling ahead of time. This allows flavors to meld together, enhancing taste. Cook your chicken thoroughly and season it well with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper for a flavorful filling. Allow it to cool slightly before mixing in cheese and any additional ingredients like spinach or artichokes for added nutrition.
When rolling out your dough, make sure it’s thin but not too fragile. A thicker dough may not cook properly while a very thin one might tear easily when filled. Use a rolling pin generously dusted with flour to prevent sticking while shaping it into rectangles large enough to hold the filling without spilling.
Also consider adding herbs or spices directly into your dough for extra flavor. Mixing dried herbs like oregano or basil into your pizza or bread dough can complement the fillings beautifully and contribute an additional layer of taste.
Ensure you seal your Chicken Bake properly by crimping edges with a fork after folding over the dough. This secures everything inside while preventing leaks during baking, keeping all those delicious flavors intact.
Finally, monitor baking time closely. Every oven is different; start checking at 20 minutes to avoid burning or undercooking your creation. The ideal bake should be golden brown on top and firm but not hard when pressed gently.
Suggestions for Copycat Costco Chicken Bake
Consider using rotisserie chicken as a quick and convenient option for filling your Copycat Costco Chicken Bake. This saves you time on cooking while still providing great flavor; just shred the meat and mix it with other ingredients.
Experiment with various cheeses beyond mozzarella for unique flavors; blends like Monterey Jack or smoked gouda can elevate your dish significantly. Combining different cheeses will yield richer textures and tastes that are sure to impress anyone who tries it.
Adding vegetables can boost nutrition without compromising flavor; try incorporating sautéed onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms into the mix for added texture and taste. These ingredients meld beautifully with chicken and cheese while providing extra vitamins.
If you’re looking for a healthier version, consider using whole wheat flour for your dough instead of white flour. This provides additional fiber and nutrients without sacrificing taste; you’ll enjoy a wholesome treat that feels less indulgent but still satisfies cravings.
Lastly, serve with dipping sauces like ranch or buffalo sauce on the side to enhance each bite further. These condiments complement the savory flavors of the Chicken Bake perfectly and allow guests to customize their experience as desired.
FAQs
What is a Copycat Costco Chicken Bake?
A Copycat Costco Chicken Bake replicates the popular dish sold at Costco food courts featuring tender chicken wrapped in pizza dough with cheese and creamy sauces inside. By making this dish at home, you can enjoy similar flavors tailored to your preferences without having to visit a store.
Can I freeze my Copycat Costco Chicken Bake?
Yes! You can freeze prepared but unbaked Copycat Costco Chicken Bakes easily by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil before placing them in an airtight freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking according to instructions.
What kind of chicken should I use?
Using cooked rotisserie chicken makes preparation quick and easy since it’s already seasoned well; however, you may also roast or grill fresh chicken breasts if preferred. Just ensure that whatever method you choose results in juicy meat that’s easy enough to shred or chop finely.
How long do I need to bake my Copycat Costco Chicken Bake?
Typically, these bakes require about 20-25 minutes at 400°F (204°C). However, ovens vary significantly; check for golden brown tops and ensure they’re fully cooked through before removing them from heat for serving.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute shredded vegetables such as zucchini or mushrooms along with plant-based cheese alternatives instead of traditional meats and dairy products for a delicious vegetarian twist on this classic dish while maintaining similar textures!
What dipping sauces pair well with this dish?
Ranch dressing is always popular alongside savory baked dishes like this one! Additionally, buffalo sauce adds spicy kick while honey mustard offers sweetness—both complementing rich flavors beautifully when served on side plates during meals!
Summary
Creating a delicious Copycat Costco Chicken Bake at home is achievable by avoiding common mistakes such as using incorrect dough types or overstuffing it with fillings. Incorporate helpful tips like preparing filling ahead of time or sealing edges tightly for best results. Experiment with suggestions including different cheeses or added vegetables for nutritional value without losing flavor appeal! Finally, don’t forget about essential FAQs regarding preparation methods—such as freezing options—and ideal accompanying sauces! Enjoy this delightful dish that mirrors its food court counterpart perfectly!