These Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones are a delightful twist on classic Italian flavors, offering a comforting and satisfying meal in a convenient, hand-held package. Imagine tender, juicy shredded chicken enveloped in a creamy, cheesy Alfredo sauce, all nestled within a perfectly golden-brown and crispy pizza dough crust. These calzones are not only incredibly delicious but also surprisingly easy to make, thanks to the magic of the air fryer. The air fryer ensures that the crust becomes beautifully crisp without the need for deep frying, resulting in a healthier and lighter version of this traditionally indulgent dish. Each bite delivers a symphony of textures and tastes, from the savory chicken and rich Alfredo to the melted mozzarella and the perfectly cooked dough. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a fun appetizer for a gathering, or a comforting snack on a chilly evening, these Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
There are countless reasons to fall in love with these Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones. First and foremost, the flavor combination is simply irresistible. The creamy Alfredo sauce, infused with garlic and Italian herbs, perfectly complements the savory shredded chicken and the melted mozzarella cheese. The air fryer cooking method ensures that the crust is perfectly crisp and golden brown, providing a delightful textural contrast to the soft and gooey filling. These calzones are also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize the filling to suit your preferences by adding vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a delightful kick. Another reason to love this recipe is its simplicity. Using refrigerated pizza dough cuts down on prep time, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights. The air fryer also simplifies the cooking process, eliminating the need to preheat a large oven and reducing the overall cooking time. These calzones are also a great way to use up leftover cooked chicken, transforming it into a delicious and satisfying meal. Finally, these Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones are incredibly kid-friendly. Their hand-held format makes them easy for children to eat, and the familiar flavors of chicken Alfredo are sure to be a hit with even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
→ Calzone Filling
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup Alfredo sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
→ Dough
- 1 package (16 ounces) refrigerated pizza dough
- All-purpose flour, for dusting
→ Finishing
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, for brushing
- 1 egg, beaten
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the air fryer is at the optimal temperature for cooking the calzones evenly and achieving a crispy crust. Allowing the air fryer to preheat properly is crucial for the best results.
Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, Alfredo sauce, mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir until all ingredients are thoroughly mixed, ensuring that the chicken is evenly coated in the Alfredo sauce and cheese. This ensures that each bite of the calzone is packed with flavor.
Step 3: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the refrigerated pizza dough into a rectangle approximately 1/4 inch thick. Use a rolling pin to evenly flatten the dough, preventing it from sticking to the surface. The flour helps to prevent the dough from sticking and makes it easier to work with. Cut the rectangle into 4 equal squares using a pizza cutter or a sharp knife. This creates the individual portions for the calzones.
Step 4: Place about 1/3 cup of the chicken Alfredo mixture in the center of each dough square. Be careful not to overfill the squares, as this can make it difficult to seal the calzones properly. Leave a small border around the edges of the filling to allow for easy sealing.
Step 5: Fold each dough square over the filling to create a pocket or triangle shape. Firmly press the edges together to seal, ensuring that the filling is completely enclosed. Crimp the edges with a fork for a decorative touch and to further secure the seal. This prevents the filling from leaking out during cooking.
Step 6: Brush the tops of the calzones with olive oil. This helps to promote browning and adds a subtle richness to the crust. In a small bowl, beat the egg and brush the egg wash over the calzones for a golden finish. The egg wash adds a beautiful sheen to the crust and helps it to brown evenly.
Step 7: Arrange the calzones in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring that there is adequate space between each calzone for proper air circulation. Cooking the calzones in a single layer prevents overcrowding and allows for even cooking. Cook for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the calzones are golden brown and fully cooked. Check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure that it is heated through.
Step 8: Remove the calzones from the air fryer and allow them to cool for one minute before serving. This allows the filling to set slightly, preventing it from being too runny and making it easier to handle.
COOKING Rating: Easy
Serving Suggestions:
These Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones can be served as a main course, a side dish, or an appetizer. They are delicious on their own, but they can also be paired with a variety of sides to create a complete meal. Consider serving them with a fresh salad, steamed vegetables, or a side of marinara sauce for dipping. For a more substantial meal, serve them alongside a bowl of creamy tomato soup or a hearty minestrone. They also make a great addition to a buffet table or a potluck, as they are easy to transport and serve.
Tips:
- For best results, use high-quality Alfredo sauce. Homemade Alfredo sauce is always a great option, but store-bought versions can also work well. Look for a sauce that is rich, creamy, and flavorful.
- To prevent the dough from sticking, lightly flour your work surface and your rolling pin. You can also use parchment paper to roll out the dough.
- If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake these calzones in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15 to 20 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Get creative with the filling! Add vegetables, different types of cheese, or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- These calzones are best served warm, but they can also be reheated in the air fryer or oven.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 32 minutes
Nutritional Information: (per calzone, estimated)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 25g
- Sodium: 700mg
Conclusion
These Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones offer a delightful and convenient way to enjoy the classic flavors of chicken Alfredo in a hand-held format. The air fryer ensures a perfectly crispy crust without the need for deep frying, making them a healthier and lighter option. With their customizable filling and easy preparation, these calzones are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a fun appetizer, or a comforting snack. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your air fryer, and get ready to enjoy these delicious and satisfying Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones!
5 Questions and Answers About This Recipe:
Q1: Can I use a different type of dough for these calzones?
A: Absolutely! While this recipe calls for refrigerated pizza dough for convenience, you can definitely use other types of dough. Homemade pizza dough would be a great option, or you could even try using puff pastry for a flakier crust. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different doughs may require slightly different cooking times.
Q2: Can I add vegetables to the filling?
A: Yes, you can absolutely add vegetables to the filling! Spinach, mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, and roasted bell peppers are all excellent additions to these calzones. Simply sauté the vegetables before adding them to the chicken Alfredo mixture to ensure that they are cooked through.
Q3: How do I prevent the filling from leaking out of the calzones?
A: To prevent the filling from leaking out, make sure to firmly press the edges of the dough together to seal the calzones completely. You can also crimp the edges with a fork for a decorative touch and to further secure the seal. Avoid overfilling the calzones, as this can make it difficult to seal them properly.
Q4: Can I make these calzones ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the calzones ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to cook them. Simply assemble the calzones as directed, then place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you are ready to cook them, preheat your air fryer and cook the calzones as directed. You may need to add a few minutes to the cooking time if the calzones are cold.
Q5: Can I freeze these calzones?
A: Yes, you can freeze these calzones for longer storage. Assemble the calzones as directed, then place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for at least 2 hours, or until solid. Once frozen, transfer the calzones to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you are ready to cook them, you can cook them directly from frozen. Preheat your air fryer and cook the calzones for 15 to 20 minutes, or until golden brown and heated through.
