Crispy Chicken Alfredo Calzones (Air Fryer Recipe)

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If you’re craving a cheesy, golden, and crispy meal that’s as delicious as it is easy to make, then you’re in the right place! These Crispy Chicken Alfredo Calzones are a game changer. With the perfect balance of creamy Alfredo sauce, savory rotisserie chicken, and melty mozzarella cheese—all wrapped in a crispy, golden dough—you’ll be hooked after just one bite. And the best part? You can make them quickly using an air fryer!

Whether you’re looking to treat yourself to a comforting dinner or impress friends and family with an irresistible appetizer, this recipe is sure to please. Let’s dive into how you can make these Crispy Chicken Alfredo Calzones in no time!

What Makes These Calzones Special?

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s take a moment to talk about what makes these calzones so irresistible. The combination of creamy Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, and gooey mozzarella cheese, all wrapped in crispy dough, is already enough to make your mouth water. But the air fryer takes these calzones to the next level.  Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our Baked Spinach Mushroom Quesadillas

The air fryer is the secret ingredient that guarantees the calzones come out with a perfectly golden and crispy crust, without needing to deep fry them in oil. Not only does this method cut down on cooking time, but it also results in a lighter, healthier version of this comforting dish.

Here’s why these calzones stand out:

• Quick and Easy: No oven required! The air fryer cooks the calzones in just 8 minutes, which means you can enjoy a delicious homemade meal in less time.
• Crispy Texture: The air fryer creates a crispy outer shell that holds the creamy and melty filling inside, giving you that satisfying crunch with every bite.
• Versatile: These calzones can be served as a main dish, appetizer, or snack. Plus, you can easily swap out the chicken for your favorite protein or veggies, making this recipe perfect for different tastes.

How to Make Crispy Chicken Alfredo Calzones (Step-by-Step)

Now, let’s get down to business! Making these Crispy Chicken Alfredo Calzones is simple and straightforward. Here’s how you can prepare them in just a few easy steps.

Step 1: Prepare the Alfredo Sauce

A rich, creamy Alfredo sauce is the heart and soul of these calzones. While it’s easy to grab a jar of sauce from the store, homemade Alfredo sauce is so much more flavorful and satisfying.

1. Melt the Butter: Start by melting 5 tablespoons of butter in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. This will serve as the base for your Alfredo sauce.
2. Add Garlic: Mince 4 garlic cloves and add them to the butter. Stir and cook the garlic until fragrant, which should take about 1 minute.
3. Stir in the Cream: Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir to combine, and let it come to a low simmer. Season with 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
4. Simmer and Thicken: Let the mixture simmer for about 3 minutes, which will help thicken the sauce.
5. Add Parmesan Cheese: Stir in 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Continue to cook and stir until the cheese has fully melted and the sauce is smooth.

Once your Alfredo sauce is ready, remove it from the heat and set it aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Assemble the Calzones

Now that your Alfredo sauce is ready, it’s time to assemble the calzones. Don’t worry—this part is easy, and you can get creative with your fillings.

1. Prepare the Dough: Start by dividing 1 lb of premade pizza dough into 4 equal portions (about 4 ounces each). Roll each portion into a 6-inch circle on a floured surface.
2. Add Alfredo Sauce: Spoon about a tablespoon of Alfredo sauce onto the center of each dough circle. Leave a small border around the edges to make sealing the calzones easier.
3. Add the Chicken: Add a few tablespoons of cooked rotisserie chicken (or two cooked chicken breasts, diced). The chicken should be tender and flavorful, and it will pair perfectly with the creamy sauce.
4. Top with Mozzarella: Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the chicken and Alfredo sauce.
5. Seal the Calzones: Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together to seal, then fold the edges over for a secure seal. This will help ensure that none of the cheesy filling escapes while cooking.
6. Repeat: Repeat the process for the remaining dough portions.

Step 3: Prepare the Butter Topping

To add extra flavor and crispiness, we’ll be brushing the calzones with a buttery herb topping.

1. Melt the Butter: Melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a small bowl.
2. Add Fresh Parsley: Stir in 2 teaspoons of minced fresh parsley for a burst of freshness and color. This topping will give the calzones an irresistible finish.

Step 4: Air Fry the Calzones

Now for the fun part—cooking these calzones in the air fryer!

1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the calzones cook evenly and get that crispy golden brown finish.
2. Arrange the Calzones: Place the calzones in the air fryer basket. Make sure they’re not overcrowded, as this could affect the airflow and result in uneven cooking.
3. Brush with Butter: Using a brush, generously coat the tops of the calzones with the melted parsley butter. This will give them a beautiful, golden color.
4. Air Fry: Cook the calzones in the air fryer for 8 minutes. Halfway through, flip them over and brush them with more butter if desired. This ensures an even, crispy texture on both sides.
5. Check for Crispiness: Once they’re golden brown and crispy, remove the calzones from the air fryer and set them aside to cool slightly.

Step 5: Serve the Calzones

Once the calzones are cooked to perfection, it’s time to serve them! These crispy, cheesy pockets of deliciousness are best enjoyed while still warm. You can serve them with a side of marinara sauce for dipping, which adds a tangy contrast to the rich Alfredo filling.

Table of Ingredients for Crispy Chicken Alfredo Calzones

For ease of reference, here’s a quick table outlining the ingredients you’ll need to make these Crispy Chicken Alfredo Calzones:

Ingredients	Amount
Butter (for sauce)	5 tablespoons
Heavy cream	1 cup
Garlic cloves, minced	4
Italian seasoning	1 teaspoon
Salt	1/4 teaspoon
Pepper	1/4 teaspoon
Parmesan cheese (grated)	1 cup
Pizza dough (premade)	1 lb
Rotisserie chicken (or diced chicken breasts)	2 cups
Mozzarella cheese (shredded)	1 cup
Butter (for topping)	4 tablespoons
Fresh parsley (minced)	2 teaspoons
Marinara sauce (optional)	For dipping

Tips for Perfecting Your Air Fryer Calzones

To help you get the best results, here are a few tips for perfecting your Crispy Chicken Alfredo Calzones every time:

How to Get a Crispy, Golden Crust

• Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheating the air fryer helps the calzones cook evenly and ensures the dough becomes golden and crispy.
• Brush with Butter: Brushing the calzones with melted butter not only enhances the flavor but also promotes a beautiful, crispy texture.
• Flip Halfway Through: Flip the calzones halfway through cooking to ensure an even, golden crust on both sides.

Customizing Your Filling

Feel free to get creative with your calzone filling! Here are a few ideas to switch things up:

• Protein Options: If you’re not a fan of chicken, try using cooked sausage, pepperoni, or even grilled vegetables for a vegetarian version.
• Extra Seasonings: Add a pinch of garlic powder, red pepper flakes, or crushed black pepper to the filling for an extra kick of flavor.

Why Use an Air Fryer for Calzones?

You might be wondering, “Why should I use an air fryer instead of a traditional oven?” Here’s why the air fryer is the best choice for making these calzones:

• Quick Cooking Time: The air fryer cooks calzones in just 8 minutes, making it the perfect option for busy nights when you want a delicious meal in a fraction of the time.
• Crispy Texture Without Extra Oil: Air frying creates that crispy, golden crust without the need for excess oil, making it a healthier option compared to deep frying.
• Even Cooking: The circulating hot air ensures that your calzones cook evenly, so you don’t have to worry about hot spots or uneven browning.

Nutrition Facts for Crispy Chicken Alfredo Calzones

Here’s a breakdown of the nutrition information for one serving (1 calzone) of Crispy Chicken Alfredo Calzones:

Nutrition Information	Per Serving (1 calzone)
Calories	450-500 kcal (approximate)
Protein	28g
Carbohydrates	30g
Fat	26g
Fiber	2g
Sodium	600mg

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I use homemade pizza dough for this recipe?

A1: Absolutely! Homemade pizza dough works perfectly. Just make sure it’s rolled out to the right thickness for the best result.

Q2: Can I make these calzones ahead of time?

A2: Yes! Assemble the calzones, then store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. When you’re ready to eat, just pop them in the air fryer!

Q3: Can I make the Alfredo sauce ahead of time?

A3: Yes! You can store the sauce in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat it before using.

Q4: What can I substitute for the heavy cream in the Alfredo sauce?

A4: You can use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version, though the sauce may not be as rich.

Q5: Can I bake the calzones in the oven instead of the air fryer?

A5: Yes! Bake at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.

Conclusion: A Comforting Meal in No Time

These Crispy Chicken Alfredo Calzones are a perfect blend of creamy Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, and crispy dough—all made quickly and easily in the air fryer. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or a fun appetizer, this recipe will not disappoint. Give it a try tonight and experience the ultimate comfort food!

Ready to indulge? Try making these calzones for your next meal, and share your experience with us—We’d love to hear how they turned out!

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