Let’s break down the cooking process into clear, easy-to-follow steps so you can nail this recipe like a pro!

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure your chicken bakes get that lovely golden color.
2. Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, mozzarella cheese, cream cheese, ranch dressing, bacon bits, and garlic powder. Mix everything until well combined. The creamy mixture should be smooth and easy to spread. Don’t worry if it seems a little thick at first; it’ll loosen up as it bakes.
3. Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a large rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick. This dough will form the outer layer of your chicken bake, so make sure it’s nice and even.
4. Cut the Dough: Using a pizza cutter or knife, slice the dough into four equal rectangles. Aim for roughly 6×8 inches; this size will allow for a generous filling without making the bakes too bulky.
5. Fill the Dough: Spoon a portion of the chicken mixture onto one half of each rectangle, leaving some space around the edges. This step is crucial because you don’t want your filling oozing out during baking!
6. Fold and Seal: Carefully fold the other half of the dough over the filling, creating a pocket. Press the edges firmly to seal. You can use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch (and extra security!).
7. Prepare for Baking: Place the chicken bakes on a parchment-lined baking sheet. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze!
8. Egg Wash: In a small bowl, beat the egg and brush it over the tops of the bakes. This step gives them that beautiful golden-brown finish.
9. Bake: Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the filling is bubbly. The aroma that fills your kitchen will be absolutely irresistible!
10. Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the chicken bakes from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. This step is essential to prevent anyone from burning their mouth on the hot filling.