Who says calzones have to stick to the basics? Let me tell you, Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones are the ultimate comfort food mashup you didn’t know you needed. Imagine creamy, cheesy Chicken Alfredo wrapped in a golden, crispy calzone crust – and best of all, it’s made effortlessly in an air fryer. This dish takes your love of Italian cuisine and turns it into an easy-to-make, satisfying meal with a modern twist. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this recipe is foolproof and full of flavor, making it perfect for any occasion.
If you enjoy creative twists on classic dishes, check out this recipe for Garbage Bread – another delicious and versatile comfort food idea that’s perfect for family nights or casual entertaining!
What Are Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones?
Calzones are like the pizza’s cozy cousin: dough pockets filled with savory goodness and baked (or in this case, air-fried) to golden perfection. This recipe takes the classic calzone and gives it a decadent twist by using a rich and creamy Chicken Alfredo filling. The air fryer makes it quicker and healthier, delivering a crispy exterior without the need for deep frying. Think of it as indulgence made easy – with fewer calories but no compromise on taste.
These calzones are perfect for busy weeknights, game day gatherings, or when you’re simply craving a hearty treat. They’re easy to customize and fun to make, whether you’re cooking solo or with the family. For more dinner inspiration, you might enjoy this Chicken Tamale Pie, which packs bold flavors into a comforting dish that’s just as satisfying.
Table of Contents
Ingredients for Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones
Main Ingredients
- Pizza Dough: 1 pound of pre-made or homemade dough – your call! For ease, store-bought dough works wonderfully, but if you’re feeling adventurous, try making your own for an extra special touch.
- Cooked, Shredded Chicken: 2 cups of rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that keeps this recipe quick, but you can also cook about 2 large chicken breasts or 3 chicken thighs and shred them for a more homemade vibe.
- Alfredo Sauce: 1 cup of store-bought Alfredo sauce is convenient, but a homemade version with 2 tablespoons of butter, 1/2 cup heavy cream, 1 minced garlic clove, and 1/4 cup grated parmesan will take these calzones to the next level.
- Mozzarella Cheese: 1 1/2 cups of freshly shredded mozzarella cheese – melty and delicious, this is a must for the perfect calzone.
- Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup of grated parmesan cheese adds a nutty, rich flavor to the filling and pairs beautifully with the Alfredo sauce.
- Optional Add-Ins: 1/2 cup of spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers bring variety, texture, and a pop of color to the filling.
Seasonings
- Garlic powder.
- Italian seasoning.
- Salt and pepper to taste.
For Finishing
- Egg wash for a golden crust.
- Fresh parsley for garnish to add a burst of color and freshness.
Extra Ingredient Tips
Want to add more flavor? Try sprinkling a little red pepper flakes into the filling for a spicy kick or mixing in some sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy twist.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
To get started, gather these essential tools:
- Air Fryer: The star appliance that makes this recipe fast and foolproof.
- Rolling Pin: For evenly flattening the dough and ensuring each calzone is uniform.
- Mixing Bowls: To combine the flavorful filling ingredients.
- Brush for Egg Wash: Helps create that glossy, golden-brown crust that’s irresistible.
- Sharp Knife or Pizza Cutter: For dividing and shaping the dough, ensuring clean edges for perfect sealing.
Bonus Tips for Tools
If you don’t have a rolling pin, a clean wine bottle works in a pinch. And for sealing the calzones, a pastry crimper or the back of a fork will do the trick.
Preparing the Filling
The filling is the heart of these calzones, and getting it just right makes all the difference. Here’s how to create it:
- Cook and Shred the Chicken: Use rotisserie chicken for a quick option, or season and cook chicken breasts or thighs, then shred them into bite-sized pieces. A handheld mixer can speed up the shredding process if you’re in a rush.
- Prep the Alfredo Sauce: Heat your favorite Alfredo sauce on the stove or microwave. For homemade, whisk together butter, cream, garlic, and parmesan over low heat until creamy and smooth.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, Alfredo sauce, mozzarella, parmesan, and any optional add-ins like sautéed spinach or mushrooms. Add garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir until everything is well-coated and irresistibly creamy.
Assembling the Calzones
Creating these golden pockets is as simple as 1-2-3, but a little attention to detail ensures perfection:
- Divide and Roll: Portion your dough into even pieces and roll each one into a 6-inch circle or oval on a floured surface. Aim for uniform thickness to ensure even cooking.
- Add the Filling: Spoon a generous amount of the chicken Alfredo mixture onto one side of the dough, leaving a border around the edges for sealing. Resist the urge to overfill – less is more when it comes to avoiding leaks.
- Seal the Calzones: Fold the dough over the filling and press the edges together. Use a fork to crimp the edges, ensuring they’re tightly sealed to prevent any filling from escaping during cooking.
Bonus Assembly Tip
For an extra fancy touch, brush the edges with water before sealing and fold them over into a rope-like design for a bakery-style calzone.
Air Fryer Tips for Perfect Calzones
- Preheat for Best Results: Some air fryer models benefit from preheating to ensure even cooking and a consistently crispy crust.
- Set the Right Temperature: Cook at 375°F – this is the sweet spot for achieving a crispy exterior while keeping the inside moist and melty.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Fry in batches to give each calzone room for hot air circulation, which is essential for even cooking.
- Flip for Even Browning: Carefully flip the calzones halfway through cooking to achieve a perfectly golden finish on all sides.
Cooking the Calzones
- Place in the Air Fryer: Arrange calzones in the air fryer basket, ensuring they’re not touching. Overlapping can lead to uneven cooking.
- Cook Until Perfectly Golden: Air fry for 8-12 minutes, checking periodically to ensure they don’t overcook. Look for a deep golden-brown crust.
- Check the Center: Slice one open or use a thermometer to confirm an internal temperature of 165°F, ensuring both safety and optimal taste.
For more air fryer recipes, try these Air Fryer Turkey Burgers – a healthier yet flavorful option that’s always a hit.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with Fresh Sides: A Caesar salad, garlic knots, or roasted vegetables are excellent accompaniments that round out the meal.
- Choose Dipping Sauces: Marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or extra Alfredo sauce make great dips for added flavor.
- Serve with Drinks: Pair with crisp white wine, sparkling water with lemon, or iced tea for a refreshing balance.
Bonus Serving Idea
For a crowd-pleasing platter, slice the calzones into halves or quarters and serve them on a board with an assortment of dipping sauces.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Refrigerate Leftovers: Store cooled calzones in an airtight container for up to three days. They’ll stay fresh and flavorful.
- Reheat for Freshness: Use the air fryer to reheat at 350°F for 3-5 minutes to revive the crispiness.
- Freeze for Later: Wrap uncooked calzones individually in plastic wrap and freeze. When ready to cook, thaw in the fridge overnight and follow the cooking instructions.
Customization Ideas
Filling Variations
- Protein Substitutes: Switch things up with turkey, shrimp, or ground sausage to complement the Alfredo sauce.
- Vegetarian Options: Add a variety of roasted vegetables such as zucchini, eggplant, or caramelized onions for a meatless delight.
- Cheese Twists: Experiment with cheese options like gouda, ricotta, or a mix of sharp cheddar for a unique twist on traditional calzones.
Crust Enhancements
- Herb-Infused Dough: Incorporate dried herbs like basil, thyme, or rosemary into the dough to boost flavor.
- Cheesy Edges: Sprinkle parmesan or mozzarella along the edges before sealing for an extra layer of cheesiness.
Sauce Alternatives
- Pesto Sauce: Swap the Alfredo with fresh pesto for a lighter, herbaceous calzone.
- Marinara Sauce: If you prefer a tangy kick, replace Alfredo with marinara or even a vodka cream sauce for a bold flavor.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Dough is Raw Inside: Reduce the cooking temperature slightly and increase the time to ensure the center cooks evenly without burning the crust.
- Filling Spills Out: Avoid overfilling the calzones and make sure the edges are sealed tightly. Use an egg wash to help seal the dough.
- Uneven Cooking: Rotate the calzones or flip them during the cooking process to prevent uneven browning.
FAQs
How do you know when a calzone is cooked?
The crust should be golden brown, and an internal thermometer should read 165°F. You can also slice one open to check for fully cooked dough and
How do you keep calzones from getting soggy?
Avoid overloading with sauce and pat dry any vegetables before adding them to the filling.
Does sauce go inside a calzone?
Yes, but use it sparingly to prevent sogginess. Serving extra sauce on the side for dipping is a great option.
How long to air fry Stefano’s calzone?
Pre-made calzones like Stefano’s typically take 8-10 minutes at 375°F in the air fryer, but check packaging for exact instructions.
How long to reheat a calzone in an air fryer?
Reheat at 350°F for 3-5 minutes to restore crispness and heat the filling.
What is the proper way to eat a calzone?
Calzones are versatile – you can eat them with a knife and fork for a clean approach or dive in with your hands for a more casual experience. Don’t forget the dipping sauce!
Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones are the perfect comfort food. Creamy Alfredo filling wrapped in a golden crust, cooked effortlessly in the air fryer.
Ingredients
- Pizza Dough
- Cooked, shredded chicken
- Alfredo sauce
- Mozzarella cheese
- Parmesan cheese
- Optional: spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers
- Garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper
- Egg wash and fresh parsley
Instructions
- Roll out pizza dough into 6-inch circles.
- Mix shredded chicken, Alfredo sauce, mozzarella, parmesan, and optional add-ins in a bowl.
- Spoon the mixture onto one side of the dough, leaving edges clean.
- Fold over the dough, seal edges with a fork, and brush with egg wash.
- Air fry at 375°F for 8-12 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve with marinara or extra Alfredo sauce for dipping.
Notes
- Preheat the air fryer for even cooking.
- Adjust cooking times based on your air fryer model.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in the air fryer for best results.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 calzone
- Calories: 375
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
There you have it – Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones that are crispy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying. Whether for family dinners, game days, or solo treats, these calzones are guaranteed to impress. Customize them, pair them with delicious sides, and enjoy every bite! For more fun recipes, don’t forget to check out other air fryer creations and Italian-inspired dishes. Your taste buds will thank you!