Buffalo Chicken Calzones

Buffalo Chicken Calzones are a delightful blend of flavors that can turn any meal into a festivity. Imagine biting into a warm calzone with tender chicken coated in zesty buffalo sauce, melting cheeses, and a crispy, golden crust. This recipe is designed not just to satisfy your hunger but to make your taste buds dance with joy. Whether you’re gearing up for game day or just want something fun for a family dinner, these calzones will definitely bring smiles around the table.

The best part? They’re not only tasty but also easy to make. With straightforward ingredients and simple steps, you’ll feel like a pro in the kitchen. Plus, the interactive element invites everyone to join in, which is perfect for creating memories. So roll up your sleeves, and let’s get started on these Buffalo Chicken Calzones that everyone will crave again and again!

Why This Recipe Works

Buffalo Chicken Calzones boast a unique flavor combination that keeps your taste buds wanting more. The spicy buffalo chicken pairs beautifully with gooey, melty cheese, providing a mouthwatering experience. As you bite into the crispy outer layer, the savory filling brings an explosion of flavor.

The dough is another star in this recipe. It’s so easy to handle, making shaping and filling each calzone a breezy task. The result? A perfectly crispy outer layer that contrasts wonderfully with the tender inside. And don’t forget about the chicken! Marinating it enhances the flavor intensity and tenderness, making each bite an absolute pleasure.

Why You’ll Love This Buffalo Chicken Calzones

These Buffalo Chicken Calzones are the ultimate game day snack that doubles as a weeknight dinner. With each individual calzone, you can customize it with your favorite dips and sauces, ensuring everyone gets their perfect bites. They’re fun to make and even more enjoyable to eat, bringing the family together in the kitchen. The casual atmosphere while preparing them makes for a memorable cooking experience.

Ingredients

• 1 lb pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
• 2 medium chicken breasts, diced
• ½ cup buffalo hot sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ cup bleu cheese or ranch dressing
• Flour and cornmeal for preparing the dough
• 1½ cups shredded sharp white cheddar cheese
• 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• Egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water)
• Extra buffalo hot sauce or dressing for dipping

Marinate the Chicken

Prepare Chicken with Buffalo Sauce

To get started, take a large resealable plastic bag and combine diced chicken with buffalo sauce. Toss everything well to coat the chicken pieces thoroughly. After that, pop the bag into the refrigerator. Let the chicken marinate for at least 6 hours, but if you can, leave it overnight. This waiting game enhances those flavors and ensures your chicken will be tender.

Cook the Chicken

Sauté the Marinaded Chicken

When you’re ready to cook, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, toss in the marinated chicken. Cook, stirring frequently for about 10 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked. Once it’s done, let it cool for a bit. Then, mix in bleu cheese or ranch dressing, making it even more irresistible.

Preheat the Oven

Prepare Your Baking Setup

Now it’s time to preheat your oven to 475°F. If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven. If not, don’t worry! Just prepare a baking sheet by lightly oiling it to prevent sticking.

Shape the Calzones

Roll and Fill the Dough

Next up, take the pizza dough and divide it into six equal balls. Roll each ball into a round shape about ¼-inch thick. Now comes the fun part! On one half of each round, layer ¼ cup of cheddar cheese, a portion of your buffalo chicken, and top it off with ¼ cup of mozzarella cheese. Brush the edges of the dough with egg wash. Then, fold over the filling and seal the edges by pinching them together. This ensures all that deliciousness stays inside!

Bake the Calzones

Transfer and Bake

Carefully move your calzones onto the prepared pizza peel or baking sheet. Before placing them in the oven, cut a small slit in the top of each calzone to allow steam to escape. Brush the outside with egg wash and sprinkle a little sea salt on top. Then, it’s time to bake! Pop the calzones in the oven for 11-13 minutes until they turn a beautiful golden brown and smell amazing.

Serve and Enjoy

Let Cool and Serve

Once you take them out of the oven, let the calzones cool for just a few minutes. Slice each one in half to reveal the delicious filling and serve them with extra buffalo hot sauce or your favorite dressing. Dip them as desired for an added kick.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair your calzones with a refreshing side salad or some crunchy veggies for contrast.
• Offering extra sauces for dipping adds more fun and variety to your meal.

Tips for Success

• Remember to allow adequate marination time. This enhances the flavor tremendously.
• Adjust baking time based on your oven’s heat levels. Keep an eye on them to prevent overbaking.

Variations

• For a unique twist, consider substituting chicken with pulled pork.
• Mix things up by trying different cheese combinations, like adding pepper jack for an extra kick.

FAQs

1. Can I make the pizza dough ahead of time?
Yes, pizza dough can be made up to 3 days in advance and refrigerated.

2. Are calzones freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! You can freeze unbaked calzones for up to 3 months. Just bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.

3. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes! Using precooked chicken speeds up the process. Simply mix it with the buffalo sauce and follow the remaining steps.

4. What can I substitute for buffalo sauce?
For a different flavor, try BBQ sauce or even a homemade spicy sauce.

5. How can I maximize cheese stretchiness?
Using fresh cheese is key! Avoid pre-shredded options, as they contain anti-caking agents that can affect the meltiness.

Buffalo Chicken Calzones are truly more than just a meal; they offer an engaging experience filled with bold flavors and cheesy goodness. Whether it’s for a gathering or a cozy night in, these calzones deliver on every level. Enjoy crafting this recipe, and watch as everyone loves digging into their personalized bites!

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