Introduction
If you're in the mood for a comforting, cheesy dish that combines convenience and flavor, Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones are an excellent choice. These calzones pack in the creamy goodness of Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, and gooey cheese, all encased in a golden-brown crust. Plus, using the air fryer makes the preparation faster while still delivering that satisfying crunch.
Ideal for weeknight meals or weekend get-togethers, these calzones are not just easy to make; they also make use of ingredients you might already have in your kitchen. As the air fryer circulates hot air around the calzones, they achieve a delightful crispness without needing much oil, proving you can enjoy indulgent comfort food without the guilt.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
Using shredded chicken not only adds protein but also allows the meat to blend seamlessly with the creamy filling. You can use leftover rotisserie chicken for ease. - 1/2 cup Alfredo sauce
The Alfredo sauce acts as the creamy base that ties all the flavors together. Its rich texture elevates the dish, ensuring every bite is satisfying. - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Mozzarella is the classic choice for calzones, providing that gooey and stretchy texture. It melts beautifully and complements the chicken and Alfredo sauce perfectly. - 1 cup pizza dough, homemade or store-bought
Pizza dough serves as the outer layer that holds all the delicious fillings. If using store-bought, choose a high-quality dough for the best results. - 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Garlic powder enhances the overall flavor profile of the calzones. It adds depth without overpowering the other ingredients. - 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Italian seasoning adds a fragrant herbal note that brightens the calzone's flavor, making it taste homemade and fresh. - Olive oil for brushing
Brushing the calzones with olive oil prior to air frying promotes even browning and adds a subtle richness to the crust.
Directions & Preparation
Step 1: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Preheating is crucial for achieving a perfectly crispy exterior. By starting with a hot air fryer, your calzones will cook evenly and prevent them from being doughy.
Step 2: In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, Alfredo sauce, mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
Mixing these ingredients not only combines flavors but also ensures that each calzone has a balanced filling. The creamy sauce enveloping the chicken and cheese creates a luscious texture.
Step 3: Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
Rolling the dough evenly is key for uniform cooking. Too thick, and the calzones will remain doughy inside; too thin, and they risk tearing during filling and cooking.
Step 4: Cut the rolled-out dough into circles, approximately 5-6 inches in diameter.
Creating uniform circles allows for evenly stuffed and shaped calzones. Use a pizza cutter or a sharp knife for clean edges.
Step 5: Spoon the chicken and Alfredo mixture onto one half of each dough circle, leaving a margin.
Be careful not to overfill, as this can lead to messy calzones that spill during cooking. The margin is essential for sealing the calzone.
Step 6: Fold the dough over and pinch the edges to seal tightly.
This step is crucial for keeping the filling inside during cooking. A good seal prevents leaks, ensuring your calzones are perfectly filled.
Step 7: Brush the tops of the calzones with olive oil for a golden finish.
The olive oil aids in browning, making the calzones visually appealing while adding flavor. It creates that desirable golden crust everyone loves.
Step 8: Place the calzones in the preheated air fryer in a single layer, not overcrowded.
Spacing the calzones allows hot air to circulate around them, promoting even cooking. Overcrowding can lead to soggy bottoms.
Step 9: Air fry the calzones for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
Monitoring the cooking time is important. Each air fryer varies slightly; you're looking for a deep golden hue where the dough is crisp and the filling is warm.
Step 10: Carefully remove the calzones from the air fryer and let them cool for a minute before serving.
Allowing them to cool slightly enables the filling to set, making them easier to eat. Cutting into them too soon can cause the cheesy goodness to ooze out.
Creative Filling Variations
While this recipe highlights a delicious chicken Alfredo filling, the beauty of calzones lies in their versatility. Consider adding sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or peppers for extra flavor and nutrition. Alternatively, swapping the chicken for steak or roasted veggies can create a completely different meal. Experimenting with your favorite ingredients can turn these calzones into a regular family favorite.
Pairing Suggestions
To round out your meal, serve the calzones with a refreshing side salad or a bowl of marinara sauce for dipping. The acidity of the tomato sauce counterbalances the richness of the calzones. A simple arugula salad dressed with lemon and olive oil provides a light contrast that complements the creamy filling while enhancing your dining experience.
Make-Ahead Tips
These calzones can be prepared ahead of time for easy weeknight dinners. Assemble the calzones, seal them tightly, and refrigerate for a few hours before air frying. This not only saves time but allows the flavors to meld together nicely. They can also be frozen before cooking; simply adjust the air frying time when cooking from frozen.
FAQs
What should I do if my calzone dough is too thick?
If your calzone dough is too thick, roll it out more evenly until it reaches about 1/4 inch thick. This ensures a better texture after cooking.
How can I prevent overcooking my calzones?
Check your calzones a few minutes before the cooking time is up. Each air fryer is different, so keep an eye on them to achieve the perfect golden brown.
Can I substitute homemade Alfredo sauce?
Absolutely! If you have a favorite homemade Alfredo recipe, feel free to use it. Just ensure it’s thick enough to stay contained within the calzones.
What if the filling spills out during cooking?
Ensure you seal your calzones tightly and don’t overfill them. If spillage occurs, it may still be salvageable; just scoop excess out before serving.
Can I scale this recipe for a larger crowd?
Yes, you can easily double or triple the quantities of ingredients for more calzones. Just make sure to cook them in batches to not overcrowd your air fryer.
What if the filling is bland?
Taste your filling mixture before sealing the calzones. Adding more seasoning or herbs can enhance the flavors significantly.
Conclusion
Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones are not just a meal; they are a wonderful way to bring comfort food into your kitchen with minimal effort. By combining straightforward ingredients and an air fryer’s efficiency, you can enjoy a tasty creation that suits any occasion.
Whether you’re preparing dinner for your family or hosting friends, these calzones will certainly impress. With plenty of opportunities to customize the filling, you can tailor them to meet everyone’s preferences while enjoying a simple and satisfying cooking experience.
Recipe Card
Creamy Cheesy Ranch Potatoes with Smoked Sausage
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Wash and halve the baby potatoes.
- In a large bowl, combine the halved potatoes with olive oil, ranch seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Add the smoked sausage to the bowl and toss everything together.
- Spread the mixture out on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Roast in the oven for 25–30 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle the cheese on top.
- Return to the oven for an additional 5–7 minutes, until cheese is bubbly.
- Remove, garnish with parsley, and serve hot.
Notes
Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.
For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.
Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.
