Quick Overview
If you have ever wandered through the aisles of Costco and caught a whiff of their famous chicken bakes, you know how tempting they are. This Copycat Costco Chicken Bake recipe allows you to recreate this savory delight right in your own kitchen. With tender chicken, creamy sauce, and melty cheese wrapped in golden brown dough, it’s no wonder this dish has become a family favorite. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for lunch or dinner!
Ingredient Breakdown
Dough
For the dough, you will need 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of salt, and 1 cup of warm water. This combination creates a soft and pliable dough that forms an excellent base for your chicken bake.
Cooked Chicken
Use about 2 cups of cooked shredded chicken. Rotisserie chicken works great here as it saves time while adding rich flavor. Its tenderness will make every bite delightful.
Creamy Ranch Dressing
You will need ½ cup of creamy ranch dressing. This ingredient adds a rich and tangy flavor that perfectly complements the chicken and cheese within the bake.
Mozzarella Cheese
Grab 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese for that gooey texture everyone loves. It melts beautifully and binds all the ingredients together.
Bacon Pieces
Include ½ cup of cooked bacon pieces for added crunch and flavor. Bacon enhances the overall taste profile with its smoky richness.
Green Onions
Chop ¼ cup of green onions for freshness. They provide a nice contrast to the creaminess while adding a pop of color to your dish.
Step By Step Recipe: Copycat Costco Chicken Bake
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and ½ teaspoon salt. Gradually add in 1 cup warm water while stirring until a cohesive dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for about five minutes until smooth. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2: Mix Filling Ingredients
While the dough rests, prepare the filling by combining 2 cups shredded cooked chicken, ½ cup creamy ranch dressing, cooked bacon pieces, mozzarella cheese, and chopped green onions in a large bowl. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly coated with ranch dressing.
Step 3: Roll Out Dough
Once rested, divide the dough into four equal portions. Roll each portion into an oval shape on a lightly floured surface until it’s about ¼-inch thick. Ensure they are large enough to hold generous amounts of filling without tearing.
Step 4: Fill Each Dough Oval
Spoon about one-quarter of the filling mixture onto one half of each rolled-out dough oval. Be careful not to overfill; otherwise, it may burst during baking. Fold over the other half to enclose the filling completely.
Step 5: Seal Edges
Using your fingers or a fork, crimp the edges securely to seal each chicken bake tightly. This prevents any filling from leaking out during baking while ensuring an even cook.
Step 6: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats up, place your assembled chicken bakes on a parchment-lined baking sheet for easier cleanup later.
Step 7: Bake Until Golden Brown
Bake the chicken bakes in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until they turn golden brown on top and are fully cooked inside. Keep an eye on them towards the end to avoid burning.
Serving and Storing Tips
Serving Suggestion
These Copycat Costco Chicken Bakes are best served warm right out of the oven. Pair them with fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal that everyone will enjoy!
Storage Guidelines
If you have leftovers, allow them to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze them for longer storage up to two months.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat your chicken bakes, pop them back in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about ten minutes or until heated through. You can also use a microwave but be cautious as it may make them soggy rather than crispy.
Enjoy making this Copycat Costco Chicken Bake at home! It’s sure to become one of your go-to recipes that brings joy with every bite!
Mistakes to avoid
One common mistake when preparing a Copycat Costco Chicken Bake is using the wrong type of chicken. Always opt for rotisserie chicken for its flavor and tenderness. Raw chicken may not cook evenly within the baking time, affecting texture.
Another mistake is overstuffing the dough. While it might be tempting to add more filling, too much can cause the dough to burst during baking. Stick to recommended amounts for best results.
Not allowing the dough to rest can lead to a tough texture. Resting helps gluten relax, which keeps the bake light and flaky. Be patient for at least 30 minutes before rolling out your dough.
Using low-quality cheese can compromise the overall flavor of your Copycat Costco Chicken Bake. Choose a good melting cheese like mozzarella or cheddar for that gooey texture. Avoid pre-shredded cheese as it has additives that prevent melting.
Finally, neglecting to preheat your oven can lead to uneven baking. Always ensure your oven reaches the right temperature before placing your dish inside. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect golden-brown crust.
Tips and tricks
To make an irresistible Copycat Costco Chicken Bake, consider using homemade dough instead of store-bought options. While store-bought can save time, homemade dough offers a fresher taste and better texture. Combine flour, salt, yeast, and warm water, knead until smooth, then allow it to rise for about an hour. This extra effort will elevate the overall quality of your bake.
Incorporating fresh herbs into your filling adds depth of flavor that frozen or dried herbs often lack. Try adding chopped parsley or rosemary directly into your chicken mixture. Fresh ingredients always enhance flavor profiles and make each bite more enjoyable.
Consider experimenting with different fillings beyond just chicken and cheese. Adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers not only boosts nutrition but also adds color and texture. You can also try different cheese combinations such as pepper jack for a spicy kick or feta for a tangy twist.
When assembling your Copycat Costco Chicken Bake, keep a small bowl of water nearby while sealing the edges of the dough. Dipping your fingers in water helps create a better seal by sticking the edges together more effectively, preventing any filling from escaping during baking.
Lastly, let your baked creation cool slightly before slicing into it. This resting time allows the cheese to set up a bit, making it easier to cut clean slices without losing all the cheesy goodness inside.
Suggestions for Copycat Costco Chicken Bake
For an extra layer of flavor in your Copycat Costco Chicken Bake, consider marinating your rotisserie chicken in a blend of garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika before mixing it into the filling. This simple addition enhances the overall taste profile and gives each bite a delightful kick that mirrors what you love about Costco’s version.
If you’re looking for an easier way to enjoy leftovers from this recipe, turn any remaining chicken bake into mini hand pies! Simply chop leftover pieces into smaller portions and wrap them in pastry dough for quick snacks or lunches throughout the week.
Serving this dish with a side salad adds freshness and balances out its richness perfectly. A simple green salad with vinaigrette complements the flavors well without overwhelming them. Try adding sliced cucumbers and cherry tomatoes for an appealing presentation.
For those who prefer a vegetarian option, you can substitute shredded chicken with cooked quinoa or chickpeas mixed with sautéed vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms. This variation retains protein while providing delicious flavors that everyone will enjoy.
Finally, consider pairing your Copycat Costco Chicken Bake with dipping sauces like ranch dressing or spicy sriracha mayo on the side. These sauces add another dimension to each bite and cater to various taste preferences at your gathering.
FAQs
What ingredients do I need for Copycat Costco Chicken Bake?
To prepare this dish, you’ll need rotisserie chicken (shredded), mozzarella cheese (or cheese of choice), pizza dough (homemade or store-bought), cream cheese (optional), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and any additional herbs you desire such as parsley or rosemary. These ingredients come together wonderfully to create an indulgent treat reminiscent of Costco’s famous bake.
How long does it take to cook Copycat Costco Chicken Bake?
Typically, this savory treat takes about 25-30 minutes in a preheated oven set at 400°F (200°C). Baking times may vary slightly depending on how thick you roll out your dough or how much filling you add inside; therefore, keep an eye on it until you achieve that golden brown color on top!
Can I freeze my Copycat Costco Chicken Bake?
Absolutely! Once fully baked and cooled down completely, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil before storing them in an airtight container suitable for freezing. When ready to eat later on? Just reheat directly from frozen at 350°F (175°C) until heated through—around 20-25 minutes should do!
How do I reheat leftover Copycat Costco Chicken Bake?
To reheat leftovers effectively without drying them out involves covering them loosely with foil placed onto a baking sheet at around 350°F (175°C). Warm them slowly until heated through—approximately 15-20 minutes should help retain moisture while giving you that delightful crispy exterior once again!
What can I serve alongside my Copycat Costco Chicken Bake?
Pairing this dish with sides like coleslaw or garden salads works wonderfully! Additionally—consider serving some roasted vegetables which provide both nutrition benefits as well as beautiful colors complementing each plate beautifully!
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! To recreate this recipe gluten-free simply substitute regular flour-based pizza dough with gluten-free alternatives readily available in stores nowadays! Ensure all other ingredients used are also certified gluten-free so everyone can enjoy this lovely treat without worries about dietary restrictions!
Summary
Making a delicious Copycat Costco Chicken Bake at home is both fun and rewarding! By avoiding common mistakes such as using low-quality ingredients or overstuffing your dough, you ensure great results every time. Incorporating tips like using fresh herbs or marinating chicken adds extra flavor while experimenting with various fillings can keep things interesting! Don’t forget about those tasty sides that enhance every meal experience! Enjoy creating this beloved dish with family and friends while savoring every bite together!