Crispy Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Calzones

The Crispy Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones are a fun and delicious way to enjoy a classic comfort food with an exciting twist. Picture this: golden-brown, crispy pockets filled with creamy Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, and gooey cheese. It’s everything you want in a dish, and it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or a casual get-together with friends. Not only are these calzones super satisfying, but they’re also healthier than deep-fried options since you’ll be using an air fryer. Plus, they’re quick to whip up. So grab your apron, and let’s embark on this tasty journey together that brings flavor, fun, and ease right to your dining table!

Why This Recipe Works

Making Crispy Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones provides a delightful balance of textures and flavors. First of all, the creaminess of the Alfredo sauce perfectly complements the crispiness of the air-fried dough. It creates a satisfying contrast that keeps each bite interesting. The mix of savory chicken, rich cheeses, and aromatic seasonings really hits all the right notes.

Additionally, this recipe is quick and straightforward, making it perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something delicious yet easy to prepare. You won’t spend hours in the kitchen, but you’ll still serve up something that feels like a treat.

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones

These calzones are not just a meal; they’re an experience. They deliver the comfort food vibe you crave while being fully customizable to suit your taste. You can add extra spices, switch up the cheeses, or even load them with your favorite veggies—everything is up to you!

Another reason you’ll love them is that they’re a healthier alternative to traditional frying. The air fryer gives you that sought-after crispy texture without using tons of oil. It’s perfect for meal prep if you like to get ahead on your week, and they’re even great for serving guests, leaving everyone raving about your culinary creations.

Ingredients

To make these delightful calzones, you’ll need a few key ingredients:

• 1 lb cooked chicken breast, shredded
• 1 cup Alfredo sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 package refrigerated pizza dough
• 1 large egg, beaten
• Cooking spray
• Marinara sauce for dipping (optional)

Preparing the Filling

Gather and Mix Ingredients

Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. Combine the shredded chicken, Alfredo sauce, mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until well-blended. This filling is the heart of your calzones, so make sure it’s evenly combined. Once done, you’re well on your way to creating something magical.

Preparing the Dough

Roll Out the Pizza Dough

Now comes the fun part! On a lightly floured surface, roll out the refrigerated pizza dough until it’s about 1/4 inch thick. Keep an eye on the thickness; you want it just right for a golden crust.

Create Rectangles

Once you have your dough rolled out, it’s time to cut it into shapes. Slice the rolled dough into 6 equal rectangles. This gives you enough space for your filling while ensuring they’ll cook nicely in the air fryer.

Assembling the Calzones

Spoon the Filling

Take a generous spoonful of your chicken Alfredo filling and place it on one half of each rectangle. Remember to leave a small border around the edges so you can seal them later. The filling should be snug but not overflowing.

Seal the Calzones

Now, fold the other half of the dough over the filling to create pockets. Press down firmly on the edges to seal them. For extra security (and a bit of flair), use a fork to crimp the edges. This prevents any filling from leaking out while they cook.

Brushing with Egg Wash

Prepare for Crispiness

To achieve that beautiful golden color on top, brush the tops of the calzones with the beaten egg. This step makes a huge difference in texture and appearance. You want a lovely crispy finish!

Air Frying the Calzones

Preheat and Spray

Set your air fryer to preheat at 375°F (190°C). While it’s heating up, lightly spray the basket with cooking spray to keep the calzones from sticking.

Cook in Batches

Carefully place your calzones in the basket, ensuring they have space between them. Cook in batches if needed. Air fry for about 10-12 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy. You’ll love watching them cook; the aroma will fill your kitchen!

Serving Suggestions

Once they’re done, serve the calzones warm for the best taste. Set out a bowl of marinara sauce for dipping; it adds an extra touch of flavor that perfectly complements the cheesy goodness.

Tips for Success

To ensure your calzones turn out perfectly:
– Make sure the filling isn’t too wet. Excess moisture can lead to soggy dough.
– Avoid overcrowding the air fryer to guarantee even cooking and that beloved crispiness everyone loves.

Variations

Feel like getting a bit creative? You can substitute chicken for spinach and ricotta for a delightful vegetarian twist. Or experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack to add a kick to your calzones.

Pairing Ideas

For a well-rounded meal, serve your calzones with a simple side salad. It balances the richness of the calzones. You can also pair them with garlic bread if you’re in the mood for an indulgent Italian night!

FAQs

Q: Can I make these calzones ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare and assemble them ahead and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to air fry.

Q: What dipping sauces go well with these calzones?
A: Marinara is classic. However, ranch or garlic butter are excellent choices too!

Q: Can I freeze the calzones?
A: Absolutely! Just freeze before air frying. When you’re ready to cook them, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Q: How do I reheat leftover calzones?
A: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-6 minutes until warmed through.

Q: Can I use homemade pizza dough instead?
A: Yes, homemade dough works wonderfully. Just roll it out to the same thickness as the refrigerated dough.

These Crispy Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones are sure to impress anyone who tries them. You’ll enjoy the combination of flavors and textures while relishing the ease of making them. Whether you’re entertaining friends or just treating yourself to a cozy meal, these calzones make for a satisfying dish that showcases your culinary skills. Happy cooking!

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