Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones Recipe
If you’re craving a comforting, cheesy delight that’s quick to whip up and packed with creamy flavor, you’re going to love this Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones Recipe. Imagine golden, crispy pockets bursting with tender chicken, rich Alfredo sauce, and a blend of luscious cheeses, all coming together to create the perfect handheld meal. Air frying these calzones gives them an unbeatable crispy finish without the hassle of deep frying, making this recipe both delicious and approachable for any night of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients, each carefully chosen to build layers of flavor and texture. From silky Alfredo sauce to the blend of cheeses that make every bite irresistible, here’s what you’ll need to get started:
- 1 lb pizza dough: You can choose store-bought for convenience or homemade for that extra touch of love and freshness.
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded: Use rotisserie chicken or leftovers to keep things easy and flavorful.
- 1 cup Alfredo sauce: Creamy and decadent, this is the heart of the calzone’s rich filling.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: For that gooey, stretchy texture everyone adores.
- ½ cup ricotta cheese: Adds a smooth, creamy dimension that balances the stronger cheeses.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a sharp, savory kick to elevate the entire filling.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that infuses every bite with classic Italian flair.
- ½ tsp garlic powder: Adds depth and a subtle, irresistible warmth.
- 1 egg, beaten: Used as an egg wash to give the calzones a golden, glossy finish.
- Marinara sauce (optional): Perfect for dipping and adding a tangy contrast to the creamy interior.
How to Make Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Filling
Start by combining the shredded chicken, Alfredo sauce, mozzarella, ricotta, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder in a bowl. Stir until everything is evenly mixed and the texture is creamy and inviting. This mixture will be the luscious center of your calzones, so take a moment to taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Step 2: Roll Out the Dough
On a lightly floured surface, roll out your pizza dough into a large circle, about 12 inches in diameter. This size allows for perfect portions, making four evenly sized calzones. Make sure the thickness is uniform for even cooking and to avoid doughy or overly thick edges.
Step 3: Assemble the Calzones
Spoon the chicken Alfredo filling onto one half of each dough circle, leaving enough border to seal the edges properly. Fold the dough over the filling, forming a half-moon shape, and press the edges together firmly. Crimp the edges with a fork to ensure nothing leaks out during cooking.
Step 4: Apply the Egg Wash
Brush the beaten egg all over the calzones. This step is crucial as it will give your calzones a stunning golden-brown color once air fried, making them look just as amazing as they taste.
Step 5: Air Fry to Perfection
Preheat your air fryer to 370 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the calzones in the basket in a single layer—avoid overcrowding for the crispiest results. Cook for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the crust is golden and the cheese filling is bubbling inside.
How to Serve Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs are a fantastic way to brighten up your calzones. Sprinkle some chopped parsley or basil on top before serving for a pop of color and fresh aroma. A light dusting of extra Parmesan can also add an inviting savory finish.
Side Dishes
When it comes to sides, think light and fresh to complement the richness of the calzones. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or a vibrant roasted vegetable medley works perfectly, balancing the creamy indulgence without overwhelming your palate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun presentation, slice the calzones into halves or thirds to showcase the cheesy filling. Serve with small bowls of warm marinara sauce or even a zesty pesto dip for guests to personalize their bites. This Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones Recipe is as delightful visually as it is in taste.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days, making these calzones a great option for next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
You can freeze uncooked calzones by wrapping each one tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Place them in a freezer-safe bag and use within 1 month for the best flavor. When ready to cook, thaw overnight in the fridge before air frying as instructed.
Reheating
To reheat, pop your leftover calzones into the air fryer at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 5-7 minutes. This method helps retain their crispy exterior while warming the filling evenly. Avoid microwaving as it tends to make the dough soggy.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce for this recipe?
Absolutely! Store-bought Alfredo sauce works wonderfully here and keeps the recipe quick and convenient without sacrificing flavor.
What type of chicken is best for the filling?
Shredded cooked chicken breasts, rotisserie chicken, or even leftover grilled chicken all work great. Just be sure the chicken is tender and not overly dry.
Can I prepare this Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones Recipe without an air fryer?
Yes, you can bake the calzones in a conventional oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for about 15-18 minutes or until golden and cooked through.
Is it okay to add other vegetables inside the calzones?
Definitely! Spinach, mushrooms, or roasted peppers make excellent additions to the filling, adding texture and nutrients.
How do I make sure the calzones don’t leak filling while cooking?
Be sure to seal the edges tightly by pressing firmly and crimping with a fork. Avoid overfilling to prevent leaks during air frying.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones Recipe has become one of my all-time favorites for good reason: it’s straightforward, satisfying, and packed with indulgent flavors. Whether you’re feeding family or friends, this recipe promises crispy, cheesy bites of pure joy. Give it a try and watch it become a beloved staple in your recipe collection!
Print
Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones Recipe
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
These Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones are a quick and delicious meal combining tender shredded chicken, creamy Alfredo sauce, and a blend of cheeses, all wrapped in golden, crispy pizza dough. Using the air fryer ensures a perfectly cooked, crispy crust in just minutes, making these calzones a fantastic option for a satisfying weeknight dinner or a fun appetizer.
Ingredients
Calzone Dough and Filling
- 1 lb pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup Alfredo sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup ricotta cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp garlic powder
Finishing
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Marinara sauce (optional, for dipping)
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, Alfredo sauce, shredded mozzarella, ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated to create a creamy, flavorful filling.
- Divide and Roll Dough: On a lightly floured surface, divide the pizza dough into 4 equal portions. Roll each portion into a roughly 8-inch circle, ensuring even thickness to help the calzones cook uniformly in the air fryer.
- Assemble Calzones: Spoon an equal amount of the chicken Alfredo filling onto one half of each dough circle, leaving a border around the edges. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges firmly to seal, then crimp with a fork to secure and prevent leaks.
- Apply Egg Wash: Brush the beaten egg over the top and edges of each calzone. This will give the crust a beautiful golden color and a slight shine once air fried.
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes to ensure even cooking of the calzones.
- Air Fry the Calzones: Place the calzones in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they don’t touch to allow the hot air to circulate properly. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until the calzones are golden brown and the filling is bubbly and heated through.
- Cool and Serve: Carefully remove the calzones from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve warm with marinara sauce on the side for dipping if desired.
Notes
- You can substitute cooked rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Make sure to seal the edges well to prevent filling leakage during air frying.
- Adjust the cooking time depending on the size and model of your air fryer; always check for a golden crust and hot filling.
- Marinara sauce for dipping adds a nice tangy contrast but is optional.
- Leftover calzones can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated in the air fryer for best texture.
- Prep Time: 8 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American-Italian
