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These Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones make homemade comfort food unbelievably easy. With golden crispy dough and a cheesy filling, this recipe brings together the flavors of classic chicken Alfredo wrapped inside a hand-held pocket that air fries to perfection. Whether you are feeding a family, meal prepping for the week, or just craving something cozy, these calzones come together in under half an hour and taste like pizzeria magic.
I started making these for family movie nights and they became an instant staple. My kids look forward to helping stuff and fold each calzone, and they always disappear fast.
Ingredients
- Cooked chicken: about two cups shredded is perfect for even filling in each calzone and using rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut
- Alfredo sauce: brings that signature creamy flavor opt for a jar you love or a homemade batch if you have time
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: makes every bite super gooey select a whole milk mozzarella for best melt
- Pizza dough: either a store-bought batch for speed or homemade if you want a chewier texture check it is soft and elastic
- Egg: for brushing the tops gives them a deep golden crust and helps the exterior crisp up even more
- Italian seasoning: for sprinkling on top adds herby aroma choose a fresh blend if possible for the best flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Filling:
- Combine the cooked shredded chicken with Alfredo sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese in a large bowl mix well to coat every bit of chicken and set aside. Make sure the sauce is evenly distributed for a creamy bite throughout
- Divide and Shape the Dough:
- On a lightly floured surface divide your pizza dough into four equal balls Roll each ball out into a thin circle about six inches across. Try to keep the dough thickness even so the calzones cook properly
- Fill the Calzones:
- Spoon the chicken and cheese filling onto one half of each dough circle leave a border around the edge. Overfilling will make it harder to seal so pile the filling neatly and press it down gently
- Seal the Edges:
- Fold the dough over the filling to create a half moon Press the edges together with your fingers and then crimp tightly with a fork. This step ensures the calzones do not burst open while cooking
- Egg Wash and Season:
- Brush the tops of each calzone generously with beaten egg to encourage a glossy golden color Sprinkle with Italian seasoning or just a pinch of salt for a flavor kick
- Air Fry Until Crisp:
- Place calzones in the air fryer basket making sure they do not touch Cook at three hundred seventy five degrees Fahrenheit for ten to twelve minutes until deeply golden and crispy Check after ten minutes and add more time for a darker crust
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Mozzarella really makes or breaks these calzones for me I love the rich gooey stretch when you break one open It reminds me of my grandmother who would always sneak extra cheese into her recipes for a little more indulgence We laugh every time someone finds the cheesiest bite
Storage Tips
Store any leftover calzones in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days To freeze wrap cooled calzones in foil and pop them in a freezer bag They reheat best in the air fryer right from frozen just add a few extra minutes to the cook time
Ingredient Substitutions
No chicken on hand Use cooked turkey or rotisserie pork for a similar protein hit For a vegetarian twist replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms bell peppers and spinach You can use any melty cheese blend just make sure there is enough moisture to keep the filling creamy
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Serving Suggestions
Serve these calzones hot with extra Alfredo sauce or marinara for dipping Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted veggies to make a full meal For parties cut each calzone in half for easy hand-held appetizers that everyone will adore
Cultural Context
Calzones hail from Southern Italy but filling them with Alfredo chicken is an American pizzeria spin that satisfies both Italian and comfort food cravings Air fryers give this rustic dish a modern twist making it lighter yet still indulgent
Common Recipe Questions
- → How do I keep air fryer calzones from getting soggy?
Avoid overfilling and make sure the dough is well sealed. Preheating the air fryer can also help achieve a crispier result.
- → Can I prepare calzones ahead of time?
Yes, stuff and fold the calzones, then refrigerate or freeze them until ready to air fry. Adjust cooking times if frozen.
- → What type of chicken works best?
Cooked, shredded chicken breast or rotisserie chicken both work well and absorb Alfredo flavors nicely.
- → Is homemade or store-bought dough better?
Both options are great. Store-bought dough saves time, while homemade offers more control over texture and flavor.
- → How long should I air fry calzones?
Typically, 10-12 minutes at 375°F (190°C) is enough for a crisp, golden finish. Monitor the first batch for best results.
- → Can these calzones be made vegetarian?
Yes, simply substitute the chicken with sautéed vegetables for a satisfying meatless option.