Introduction
Welcome to our copycat Costco Chicken Bake recipe! If you’ve ever visited Costco, you’ve likely been tempted by their delicious and satisfying Chicken Bake. It’s a delectable combination of tender chicken, smoky bacon, melty cheese, and a hint of tangy sauce, all wrapped in a warm and fluffy dough. In this article, we’ll show you how to recreate this popular Costco favorite in your own kitchen. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or simply looking for a new and exciting recipe to try, this copycat Costco Chicken Bake will not disappoint!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are several reasons why you’ll fall head over heels for this copycat Costco Chicken Bake recipe:
Firstly, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a homemade version of this beloved dish in no time.
Secondly, the flavors and textures in this Chicken Bake are truly irresistible. The combination of tender chicken, crispy bacon, gooey cheese, and zesty sauce creates a mouthwatering symphony of flavors.
Lastly, this recipe offers versatility. You can easily customize the ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Whether you’re vegetarian, gluten-free, or simply looking to switch things up, we’ll provide some delicious substitution ideas along the way.
Ingredients
To recreate the copycat Costco Chicken Bake, you’ll need the following ingredients:
– 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 4 slices of bacon
– 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup of mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon of dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pound of pizza dough
– Optional: 1/4 cup of sliced green onions for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove from heat, drain on paper towels, and crumble into small pieces.
3. In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
4. Flatten the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface into a rectangular shape, about 1/4 inch thick.
5. Spread the mayonnaise mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
6. Place the chicken breasts on top of the mayonnaise mixture and sprinkle them with salt and pepper.
7. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese, crumbled bacon, and grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken.
8. Starting from one of the long edges, tightly roll up the dough, enclosing the filling. Pinch the edges to seal.
9. Transfer the rolled dough onto the prepared baking sheet, seam side down.
10. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the chicken is cooked through.
11. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing into individual portions.
12. Optional: Garnish with sliced green onions for added freshness and color.
Expert Tips for Success
– To save time, you can use store-bought rotisserie chicken instead of cooking the chicken breasts from scratch.
– Experiment with different types of cheese for added variety. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Swiss cheese would all work well in this recipe.
– If you prefer a crispier crust, brush the rolled dough with beaten egg before baking. This will give it a beautiful golden color and a slight shine.
– For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the mayonnaise mixture.
– Make sure to fully seal the edges of the dough to prevent any filling from leaking out during baking.
Variations and Substitutions
This copycat Costco Chicken Bake recipe can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs:
– Vegetarian option: Skip the chicken and bacon, and substitute them with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms.
– Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free pizza dough or wrap the filling in gluten-free tortillas instead.
– Keto-friendly option: Replace the pizza dough with a low-carb alternative like almond flour dough or cauliflower crust.
Serving Suggestions
The copycat Costco Chicken Bake is a satisfying and complete meal on its own. However, you can enhance the dining experience by serving it with some delicious sides:
– Fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette dressing
– Crispy French fries or sweet potato fries
– Creamy coleslaw
– A refreshing glass of lemonade or iced tea
FAQs
Q: Can I make the filling in advance?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the mayo-mustard mixture and cook the chicken and bacon ahead of time. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble and bake the Chicken Bake.
Q: Can I freeze the copycat Costco Chicken Bake?
A: Yes, you can freeze the baked Chicken Bake for later consumption. Once it has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Label it with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake it at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
Q: Can I use a different sauce instead of mayonnaise and Dijon mustard?
A: Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of mayonnaise or Dijon mustard, you can use your favorite barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, or even buffalo sauce as a delicious alternative.
Final Thoughts
Now that you have the recipe for the copycat Costco Chicken Bake, it’s time to unleash your inner chef! This delightful dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a gathering with friends, or simply indulging in a tasty treat. With its savory flavors and comforting textures, it’s bound to become a new family favorite. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a homemade version of the famous Costco Chicken Bake. Don’t forget to share your culinary triumphs and tag us on social media!