You know that moment when you’re wandering through Costco, and you get a whiff of those warm, cheesy Chicken Bakes? It’s like being enveloped in a hug made of comfort food. Well, I have to confess, I can’t always make a trip to the giant store, but I can definitely recreate that magic right in my kitchen. That’s why I’m so excited to share this Copycat Costco Chicken Bake recipe with you!
I remember the first time I tried these Chicken Bakes. I was running errands with a friend, and we couldn’t resist grabbing a bite—and oh my goodness, it was love at first bite! Since then, I’ve always dreamed of making these at home. So, armed with a few ingredients and a bit of determination, I whipped up a batch, and let me tell you, they exceeded my expectations! Golden, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying, these Chicken Bakes are the perfect fun meal for your family or even a game day snack. Let’s get baking!
What’s in Copycat Costco Chicken Bake?
Cooked Chicken: You can use leftovers, rotisserie chicken, or even grilled chicken. It adds protein and makes the filling hearty.
mozzarella cheese: This cheese melts beautifully and gives that signature stretchy goodness that we all love.
Cream Cheese: It adds richness and creaminess to the filling, making each bite irresistible.
Sour Cream: Just a little enhances the flavors and keeps the filling moist and creamy.
Garlic Powder: Because let’s be honest, garlic makes everything better! It adds a subtle pungent kick.
Onion Powder: A great way to sneak in savory flavor without the need for chopping (which is a real win for lazy days).
Italian Seasoning: This blend brings in the Mediterranean vibes we adore.
Salt and Pepper: These little guys help elevate the flavors and make everything pop.
Pizza Dough: Feel free to take the shortcut with store-bought or, if you’re feeling ambitious, make your own!
Egg: This acts as a wash, giving those beautiful golden tops.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: The cherry on top—literally! This extra layer of cheese creates a lovely flavorful crust.
Is Copycat Costco Chicken Bake Good for You?
Now, I won’t pretend these are a salad, but they aren’t the worst thing you can enjoy. The combination of chicken, cheese, and spices delivers some protein, which is a fantastic bonus for muscle-building and keeping you energized throughout the day.
However, they do have a higher calorie count due to the creamy and cheesy filling, so it’s a good idea to enjoy them in moderation. If you’re looking for a healthier spin, consider tossing in some spinach or diced bell peppers for extra nutrients and color!
Ingredients List
– 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
– 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1 tsp Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 package (1 lb) pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
*Serves: 4-6 people*
How to Make Copycat Costco Chicken Bake?
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper—this prevents any sticky disasters!
2. In a large mixing bowl, toss in the cooked chicken, mozzarella cheese, cream cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix it all up until everything is well combined.
3. Roll out your pizza dough on a floured surface into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Take a moment to admire your handiwork!
4. Cut that dough into smaller rectangles, each about 6 inches wide and 8 inches long—fingers crossed they’re not all wonky!
5. Place a generous scoop of the chicken filling in the center of each rectangle. Remember to leave space around the edges; it’s crucial for sealing them up.
6. Fold the dough over the filling, pinching the edges to seal. Feel free to crimp with a fork for added flair!
7. Brush the tops of each chicken bake with the beaten egg to give them that gorgeous golden color when baked.
8. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of each bake. Trust me, this step is non-negotiable if you’re in the mood for cheesy goodness!
9. Bake those beauties in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, until they’re perfectly golden brown and flaky.
10. Take them out, let them cool for a minute (if you can resist the aroma), and dig in!
Serve Up with a Twist!
These chicken bakes are a great canvas! You can jazz them up by adding sautéed spinach, peppers, or even jalapeños for a kick. And seriously, don’t forget a side of ranch dressing or marinara sauce for dipping—either will take this to a whole new level.
Alright, my fellow foodies, I can’t wait for you to give this Copycat Costco Chicken Bake recipe a try! Whether you whip them up for an easy weeknight dinner or a fun gathering, I know they will be a hit. And remember, cooking is about enjoying the process as much as the result, so have fun with it! When you make these, I’d love to hear your thoughts. Happy baking!
