Copycat Costco Chicken Bake Recipe

Easy Homemade Copycat Costco Chicken Bake Recipe That Wows

Pizza lovers crave this legendary copycat Costco chicken bake that brings restaurant-style comfort right to your kitchen.

My obsession started after countless weekend samplings at the warehouse store.

Creamy, cheesy goodness wrapped in a perfectly crisp golden crust makes this recipe irresistible.

Packed with tender chicken, melted cheese, and a secret sauce, each bite transports you to flavor paradise.

Recreating this iconic dish means you can enjoy the magic without waiting in those notoriously long lines.

Minimal ingredients and simple steps ensure anyone can master this crowd-pleasing meal.

Prepare to become the culinary hero who brings this beloved classic to your dinner table.

Copycat Costco Chicken Bake That Feels Like the Original

  • Craft Comfort Meals: Recreate the beloved Costco Chicken Bake at home with simple ingredients and basic cooking skills, perfect for satisfying comfort food cravings.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Versatility: Ideal for game day gatherings, potlucks, or family dinners, this recipe impresses with its restaurant-style presentation and delicious flavor combinations.
  • Quick Weeknight Winner: Minimal prep and straightforward steps make this chicken log a go-to meal for busy households seeking a tasty, filling dinner solution without extensive cooking experience.
  • Budget-Friendly Copycat: Save money by making a restaurant-favorite dish in your own kitchen, using accessible ingredients and delivering restaurant-quality results without the hefty price tag.

Ingredients for Copycat Costco Chicken Bake Magic

Main Protein:
  • Chicken Breast: A lean protein that provides the hearty core of this copycat Costco chicken bake.
  • Bacon: Crispy and flavorful meat that adds a smoky and rich element to the dish.
Cheese and Dairy:
  • Parmesan Cheese: A sharp and salty cheese that adds depth of flavor and a classic Italian touch.
  • Shredded Italian Cheese Blend: A mix of cheeses that melts beautifully and creates a creamy texture.
Dough and Seasoning Base:
  • Pizza Dough: A soft and pliable base that wraps all the ingredients into a delicious log.
  • Caesar Dressing: A creamy and tangy sauce that adds moisture and flavor to the chicken bake.
Herbs and Seasonings:
  • Salt, Pepper, Garlic Powder: Classic seasonings that enhance the chicken's natural flavor.
  • Green Onions: Fresh and mild onion flavor that provides a subtle, bright note.
Baking Essentials:
  • Olive Oil: Used for searing the chicken and adding a light, rich base.
  • Egg: Serves as a wash to create a golden, shiny exterior on the baked logs.
  • Flour: Helps prevent the dough from sticking during rolling.

Directions for Baking a Costco Chicken Bake at Home

Step 1: Prepare Bacon Crisps

Crank up your oven to 350F.

Lay out bacon strips and bake until they transform into crispy, golden delights.

Once done, set them aside to cool and become perfectly crunchy.

Step 2: Season and Sear Chicken

Generously coat chicken with a blend of:
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • Garlic powder

Heat oil in a skillet and sear the chicken until it develops a beautiful golden-brown exterior.

Add a splash of water and transfer to the oven.

Bake for 17-20 minutes until fully cooked.

Let it cool, then chop into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Create Dough Circles

Bump up the oven temperature to 400F.

Divide pizza dough into three equal portions.

On a flour-dusted surface, roll each piece into a perfect 12-inch circle.

Step 4: Layer Flavor Foundation

Spread a generous layer of Caesar dressing across each dough circle, leaving a small border around the edges.

Sprinkle with:
  • Parmesan cheese
  • Shredded Italian cheese blend

Step 5: Build Delicious Filling

Distribute your prepared ingredients across the dough:
  • Chopped chicken
  • Crumbled bacon
  • Sliced green onions

Step 6: Create Stuffed Logs

Carefully fold the sides of the dough over the fillings.

Roll into neat logs, ensuring the edges are securely sealed.

Step 7: Prepare for Baking

Place the logs on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Brush the exterior with beaten egg and dust with:
  • Additional Parmesan
  • Cheese blend

Step 8: Bake to Golden Perfection

Slide into the oven and bake for 20 minutes until the exterior turns a gorgeous golden brown.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Allow the chicken bakes to cool slightly.

Slice and serve warm, accompanied by your favorite dipping sauce for an extra flavor kick.

Best Practices for Crispy, Cheesy Chicken Bake Results

  • Bake bacon in the oven for consistent, evenly crispy results without greasy splatter on your stovetop.
  • Sear chicken first, then finish baking to lock in juices and ensure tender, flavorful meat that won't dry out.
  • Use a floured surface and gentle rolling motion to prevent sticking and create smooth, even pizza dough circles.
  • Pinch and fold edges carefully to prevent filling from leaking during baking, creating a neat and professional-looking log.
  • Brushing with beaten egg gives the chicken bake a beautiful golden-brown color and adds a slight shine to the crust.

Flavorful Variations for Costco Chicken Bake Fans

  • Gluten-Free Chicken Bake: Replace pizza dough with gluten-free cauliflower crust or almond flour tortillas for a low-carb alternative.
  • Vegetarian Version: Swap chicken with roasted portobello mushrooms or crispy tofu cubes for a plant-based protein option.
  • Spicy Mexican Fusion: Add diced jalapeños, swap Caesar dressing for chipotle mayo, and include pepper jack cheese for a zesty kick.
  • Mediterranean Style: Use feta cheese, add chopped spinach, replace bacon with sun-dried tomatoes, and drizzle with tzatziki sauce for a Greek-inspired variation.

How to Plate Costco Chicken Bake

  • Dip Delight: Serve with ranch, marinara, or garlic aioli for an extra flavor punch that complements the savory chicken and crispy bacon.
  • Salad Sidekick: Pair with a light caesar or mixed green salad to balance the rich, cheesy chicken bake and add freshness to your meal.
  • Game Day Companion: Cut into smaller sections for perfect party appetizers or game night snacks that everyone will love and devour quickly.
  • Lunch Box Winner: Pack cooled slices for a delicious work or school lunch that stays tasty and satisfying even when eaten at room temperature.

Chicken Bake Storage Tricks for Next Day Meals

  • Wrap individual chicken bake logs tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Keep away from raw foods to prevent cross-contamination.
  • Carefully wrap each chicken bake log in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Label with the date to track freshness.
  • Preheat oven to 350F. Remove from refrigerator and unwrap. Place on a baking sheet and heat for 10-15 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165F. Avoid overheating to prevent dryness.

FAQs

  • What ingredients make this Costco Chicken Bake copycat recipe unique?

The combination of Caesar dressing, crispy bacon, seasoned chicken, and a blend of Parmesan and Italian cheeses creates a flavorful and hearty filling that mimics the popular Costco version.

  • Can I use a different type of dough?

Yes, you can substitute pizza dough with premade bread dough or even crescent roll dough, but pizza dough provides the most authentic texture and taste.

  • How can I ensure the chicken stays moist?

Searing the chicken first and then baking it in the oven with a bit of water helps lock in moisture, preventing the chicken from becoming dry and tough.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Copycat Costco Chicken Bake Recipe

Copycat Costco Chicken Bake Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 33 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Craving Costco’s legendary chicken bake? This homemade version brings restaurant-style indulgence straight to your kitchen. Simple ingredients and easy steps ensure you can enjoy this cheesy, savory delight without leaving home.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 pound (1 lb) prepared pizza dough
  • 3 skinless, boneless chicken breasts
  • 6 slices bacon (cooked and crumbled)
  • 1 cup shredded Italian cheese blend (mozzarella, provolone)
  • 3/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

Seasoning and Spices:

  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Liquid and Binding Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3/4 cup water
  • 1/2 cup creamy Caesar dressing
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 1 large egg (beaten)
  • 2 green onions (thinly sliced)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and crisp the bacon for 15 minutes until golden and crunchy. Remove and set aside to cool.
  2. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Sear in a hot skillet until golden on both sides. Transfer to oven and bake for 17-20 minutes until fully cooked. Let cool, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
  3. Raise oven temperature to 400°F. Divide pizza dough into three equal portions and roll each into a 12-inch circle on a lightly floured surface.
  4. Spread Caesar dressing evenly across each dough circle, maintaining a 1-inch border around the edges. Sprinkle generously with Parmesan and shredded Italian cheese blend.
  5. Distribute chopped chicken, crumbled bacon, and sliced green onions over the cheese layer. Carefully fold the sides of the dough over the fillings and roll into sealed logs.
  6. Arrange logs on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush exterior with beaten egg and dust with additional Parmesan and cheese blend.
  7. Bake for 20 minutes until the logs turn a rich golden brown and the dough appears crisp and flaky.
  8. Allow to cool for a few minutes, slice diagonally, and serve warm alongside your preferred dipping sauce.

Notes

  • Customize ingredients easily by swapping chicken for turkey or plant-based protein for vegetarian options.
  • Use cold pizza dough for easier handling and more manageable rolling process.
  • Ensure chicken is fully cooked by checking internal temperature reaches 165°F with a meat thermometer.
  • Try different cheese blends like smoked gouda or sharp cheddar for unique flavor variations.
  • Prep Time: 40 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 495 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 810 mg
  • Fat: 29 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 17 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.2 g
  • Carbohydrates: 26 g
  • Fiber: 1.5 g
  • Protein: 38 g
  • Cholesterol: 115 mg
Nathaniel Brooks

Nathaniel Brooks

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

Farm-to-table cuisine, Seasonal recipe development, Culinary storytelling

Education

Ivy Tech Community College – Indianapolis, IN
Culinary Arts / Hospitality Administration & Events
Focused on hands-on training in classical and modern culinary techniques. ​


Nathaniel’s story starts in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, where farm stands, backyard gardens, and old family recipes shaped his love for real food. After graduating from Ivy Tech Community College in Indianapolis, he spent years working in farm-to-table kitchens, learning how to turn local, seasonal ingredients into something memorable.
Today, Nathaniel pours that same spirit into every single recipe on Aspiring Culinarian – recipes that feel real, comforting, and connected to the land. When he’s not in the kitchen, you’ll find him foraging wild herbs, chasing sunsets with his camera, or writing about the flavors that shaped his roots.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star