Ultimate Crispy Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Calzones Recipe

I’m so excited to share one of my new favorite recipes with you: Crispy Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Calzones! These little pockets of deliciousness are the ultimate comfort food, bringing together the creamy richness of Alfredo, savory chicken, and gooey cheese, all wrapped in a perfectly crisp crust.

Plus, with my easy-to-follow instructions, you can have these on the table in approximately 30 minutes. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love These Crispy Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Calzones

These aren’t just any calzones; they’re designed to be your new go-to weeknight meal. Here’s why I think you’ll love them:

• Quick and easy to make, perfect for a weeknight meal.
• Customizable with your favorite cheeses and meats.
• Great for kids and adults alike.
• Portable and fun to eat.

Key Ingredients for Crispy Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Calzones

Let’s break down what you’ll need for these amazing calzones:

• 1 lb. premade pizza dough: This is the foundation of our calzones, and using store-bought dough makes the process so much faster. Most pizza places also sell their dough if you want a local option.
• 2 cups rotisserie chicken: This is already cooked and seasoned, saving you time and effort. I like to dice it into bite-sized pieces. Or, cook and dice 2 chicken breasts.
• 1 cup mozzarella, shredded: This cheese melts beautifully and adds that classic cheesy flavor we all love.
• Marinara sauce for dipping (optional): While the calzones are delicious on their own, a little marinara sauce takes them to the next level.
• 4 tablespoons butter, softened: This is for brushing the calzones before air frying, giving them a beautiful golden color and extra flavor.
• 2 teaspoons fresh parsley, minced: Adds a pop of freshness and color to the butter topping.
• 5 tablespoons butter: This is the base for our creamy Alfredo sauce.
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream: This is what makes the Alfredo sauce so rich and decadent.
• 4 garlic cloves, minced or grated: Adds a pungent, savory flavor to the Alfredo sauce.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or cajun seasoning: Use your favorite! Italian seasoning adds a classic flavor, while Cajun seasoning gives it a little kick.
• ¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste): Enhances the flavors of all the other ingredients.
• ¼ teaspoon pepper (or to taste): Adds a touch of spice.
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese freshly grated: This is what gives the Alfredo sauce its signature cheesy flavor and helps to thicken it.

How to Make Crispy Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Calzones: Step-by-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get down to business! Here’s how I make these delicious calzones:

1. In a small saucepan over medium low heat, add butter and allow it to melt. Add garlic and stir. Once it’s fragrant, add in the heavy cream and seasonings. Bring to a low simmering boil and allow it to thicken, about 3 minutes.
2. While it’s gently boiling, add parmesan cheese and stir until it’s melted through and sauce is thickened and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. Allow to cool while you prep the dough.
3. Separate pizza dough into 4 ounce balls. With clean, flour-dusted hands, work dough into a 6″ pizza sized shapes.
4. Spoon a tablespoons of alfredo sauce on to the center of the dough and spread it in the center, leaving the edges free of sauce.
5. Top the sauce with a few tablespoons pulled chicken over the sauce, followed by a large pinch of mozzarella cheese.
6. Fold the dough in half over the fillings making a half circle shape and seal. Pinch the edge of the dough together and fold back. Repeat with the rest of the dough balls.
7. Melt butter in a small bowl and add parsley.
8. Load the calzones into the air fryer and spread with the melted parsley butter.
9. Cook at 375 for 8 minutes or until golden brown, reapplying butter about halfway through.
10. Spread the calzones again with the melted butter when they finish cooking. Serve immediately with marinara sauce.

Dough Deep Dive: Choosing the Right Dough for Your Calzones

The dough is the vessel that holds all of our yummy fillings, so it’s important to choose wisely! Here’s a breakdown of some options:

• Store-bought dough: This is my go-to for convenience. It’s readily available and saves a ton of time.
• Homemade dough: If you’re feeling ambitious, making your own dough can be incredibly rewarding. You have full control over the ingredients and flavor.
• Sourdough dough: This adds a tangy, complex flavor to the calzones. I love the subtle sourness it brings.
• Whole wheat dough: For a slightly healthier option, whole wheat dough adds fiber and a nutty flavor.

Properly storing pizza dough is key to maintaining its quality. I always wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and keep it in the refrigerator. It will typically last for a few days. These calzones remind me of Incredible Crispy Pizza Chips Recipe You’ll Love because they both feature flavorful toppings on a pizza-like base.

Alfredo Sauce Amplified: Variations and Tips for the Perfect Sauce

Alfredo sauce is the heart of these calzones, so let’s talk about how to make it your own!

• Creamy vs. cheesy: Some people prefer a super creamy Alfredo, while others like it extra cheesy. Adjust the amount of Parmesan cheese to your liking.
• Garlic levels: I love garlic, so I’m generous with it in my Alfredo sauce. But if you prefer a more subtle flavor, you can use less.
• Spice additions: A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick to the Alfredo sauce.
• Wine: A splash of white wine can add depth of flavor to the sauce.

Can you use a store-bought Alfredo sauce? Absolutely! In a pinch, it’s a great time-saver. For another dish with cheese, consider this Amazing Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks Recipe At Home.

Air Frying Tips & Tricks for Crispy Perfection

Air frying is my secret weapon for achieving that perfect crispy crust.

• Temperature and time: I find that 375°F for 8 minutes is the sweet spot for my air fryer. However, air fryer models vary, so you may need to adjust the time slightly.
• Preventing sticking: To prevent the calzones from sticking, I always spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
• Ensuring even cooking: I like to flip the calzones halfway through cooking to ensure they brown evenly on both sides.
• Troubleshooting:
• If the calzones are burning: Reduce the temperature or cooking time.
• If the calzones are not cooking through: Increase the cooking time.
• If the filling is leaking: Make sure you seal the edges of the calzones tightly.

Baking Instructions: Crispy Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Calzones in the Oven

If you don’t have an air fryer, don’t worry! You can still bake these calzones in the oven. I recommend baking them at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. You can find more related recipes in our main dishes category.

Serving Suggestions for Your Crispy Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Calzones

These calzones are delicious on their own, but here are some ideas to take them to the next level:

• Sauces: Marinara, ranch, or garlic aioli are all great dipping options.
• Side dishes: A simple salad or some roasted vegetables would be the perfect complement to the richness of the calzones.
• Presentation: Arrange the calzones on a platter and garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Filling Variations: Customize Your Calzones

Get creative and try some different filling combinations!

Make-Ahead and Freezing Instructions

These calzones are perfect for making ahead of time! You can assemble them and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.

For freezing, I recommend freezing them uncooked. Simply place the assembled calzones on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to cook them, simply bake them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

FAQs about Crispy Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Calzones

Here are some answers to common questions I get about making these calzones:

Conclusion

I hope you’re as excited as I am to make these Crispy Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Calzones! They’re the perfect combination of comfort, flavor, and convenience. And with so many ways to customize them, you can create a calzone that’s perfect for you and your family.

Now it’s your turn! I can’t wait to see what you create. Leave a comment below to let me know how they turned out, ask any questions you may have, and be sure to tag me on social media with your culinary masterpieces! Happy cooking!

Follow our Pinterest board for quick, comforting, and family-favorite meals!

Maya

Crispy Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Calzones Recipe

These little pockets of deliciousness are the ultimate comfort food, bringing together the creamy richness of Alfredo, savory chicken, and gooey cheese, all wrapped in a perfectly crisp crust.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 8 minutes mins

Total Time 28 minutes mins

Servings: 4 4 calzones

Course: Main Course

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

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Key Ingredients for Crispy Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Calzones

• 1 lb premade pizza dough store-bought or most pizza places sell their dough
• 2 cups rotisserie chicken or 2 chicken breasts cooked and diced
• 1 cup mozzarella shredded
• marinara sauce for dipping optional
• 4 tablespoons butter softened
• 2 teaspoons fresh parsley minced
• 5 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 4 garlic cloves minced or grated
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or cajun seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon salt or to taste
• ¼ teaspoon pepper or to taste
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese freshly grated

Equipment

• Small saucepan
• small bowl
• air fryer

Method

 

1. In a small saucepan over medium low heat, add butter and allow it to melt. Add garlic and stir. Once it’s fragrant, add in the heavy cream and seasonings. Bring to a low simmering boil and allow it to thicken, about 3 minutes.
2. While it’s gently boiling, add parmesan cheese and stir until it’s melted through and sauce is thickened and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. Allow to cool while you prep the dough.
3. Separate pizza dough into 4 ounce balls. With clean, flour-dusted hands, work dough into a 6″ pizza sized shapes.
4. Spoon a tablespoons of alfredo sauce on to the center of the dough and spread it in the center, leaving the edges free of sauce.
5. Top the sauce with a few tablespoons pulled chicken over the sauce, followed by a large pinch of mozzarella cheese.
6. Fold the dough in half over the fillings making a half circle shape and seal. Pinch the edge of the dough together and fold back. Repeat with the rest of the dough balls.
7. Melt butter in a small bowl and add parsley.
8. Load the calzones into the air fryer and spread with the melted parsley butter.
9. Cook at 375 for 8 minutes or until golden brown, reapplying butter about halfway through.
10. Spread the calzones again with the melted butter when they finish cooking. Serve immediately with marinara sauce.

Notes

Properly storing pizza dough is key to maintaining its quality. I always wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and keep it in the refrigerator. It will typically last for a few days.

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Let us know how it was!