As a busy mom, I know how challenging it can be to whip up a meal that pleases everyone. That’s why I’m excited to share my recipe for Air Fried Chicken Alfredo Calzones! These delightful pockets of goodness are not only quick to make but also bursting with creamy Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, and gooey cheese. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun family gathering, these calzones are sure to impress your loved ones. Plus, they’re made in the air fryer, which means less mess and a crispy finish that everyone will love!
Why You’ll Love This Air Fried Chicken Alfredo Calzones
These Air Fried Chicken Alfredo Calzones are a game-changer for busy nights! They come together in just 27 minutes, making them a quick and satisfying meal. The combination of creamy Alfredo and tender chicken wrapped in golden, crispy dough is simply irresistible. Plus, you can customize the filling to suit your family’s tastes, ensuring everyone leaves the table happy. Trust me, these calzones will become a family favorite in no time!
Ingredients for Air Fried Chicken Alfredo Calzones
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making these Air Fried Chicken Alfredo Calzones a hit! Here’s what you’ll need:
- Cooked chicken: Shredded chicken adds protein and heartiness. You can use rotisserie chicken for a quick option.
- Alfredo sauce: This creamy sauce is the star of the show! You can use store-bought or make your own for a personal touch.
- Mozzarella cheese: Shredded mozzarella gives that gooey, melty texture we all crave in a calzone.
- Ricotta cheese: This adds creaminess and a rich flavor, balancing the other ingredients beautifully.
- Pizza dough: You can buy pre-made dough or make your own. It’s the perfect vessel for all that delicious filling!
- Olive oil: A brush of olive oil on top helps achieve that golden, crispy finish in the air fryer.
- Garlic powder: This adds a lovely depth of flavor. Fresh garlic works too if you prefer!
- Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings a taste of Italy to your calzones.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for enhancing all the flavors in your filling.
Feel free to get creative! You can add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using low-fat cheeses or whole wheat dough. For exact quantities, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything available for printing!
How to Make Air Fried Chicken Alfredo Calzones
Making Air Fried Chicken Alfredo Calzones is a breeze! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time. Let’s dive in!
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
First things first, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial! Preheating ensures that your calzones cook evenly and achieve that perfect crispy texture. Think of it as warming up your oven before baking a cake; it sets the stage for success!
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, Alfredo sauce, mozzarella, ricotta, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix everything until it’s well combined. The creamy texture of the filling is what makes these calzones so delightful. You want every bite to be bursting with flavor!
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
Next, take your pizza dough and roll it out on a floured surface. Aim for about ¼ inch thick. Use a round cutter or a glass to cut out circles. Each circle should be about 6 inches in diameter. If the dough sticks, sprinkle a little more flour. This will help you create the perfect pockets for your filling!
Step 4: Assemble the Calzones
Now comes the fun part! Place a generous scoop of the chicken filling on one half of each dough circle. Be careful not to overfill, or they might burst open while cooking. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together firmly, then use a fork to seal them. This little step keeps all that delicious filling inside!
Step 5: Brush and Cook
Before cooking, brush the tops of your calzones with olive oil. This not only adds flavor but also helps them turn golden brown and crispy in the air fryer. Arrange the calzones in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they’re not touching. Cook for 10-12 minutes, or until they’re beautifully golden. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
Tips for Success
- Use pre-cooked chicken for a quick meal; rotisserie chicken works wonders!
- Don’t skip the preheating step; it’s key for that crispy texture.
- Experiment with fillings; add veggies like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
- Seal the edges well to prevent any filling from leaking out.
- Let the calzones cool for a few minutes before serving; they’ll be easier to handle!
Equipment Needed
- Air fryer: The star of the show! If you don’t have one, an oven can work, but the texture won’t be the same.
- Mixing bowl: For combining your filling ingredients. Any large bowl will do!
- Rolling pin: Essential for rolling out the dough. A wine bottle can work in a pinch!
- Round cutter: To cut dough circles. A glass or a bowl can substitute.
- Fork: For sealing the calzones. You can use your fingers if needed!
Variations
- Vegetable Medley: Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the filling for a nutritious boost.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in some crushed red pepper flakes or jalapeños for a spicy version that packs a punch!
- Cheesy Delight: Swap out mozzarella for pepper jack or add extra cheese for a gooey, cheesy experience.
- Low-Carb Option: Use cauliflower crust instead of pizza dough for a lighter, low-carb alternative.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or parsley in the filling for a burst of freshness.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair your calzones with a fresh garden salad for a light and refreshing meal.
- Serve with extra Alfredo sauce on the side for dipping; it’s a crowd-pleaser!
- A glass of chilled white wine complements the flavors beautifully.
- For a fun presentation, cut the calzones in half to showcase the delicious filling.
FAQs about Air Fried Chicken Alfredo Calzones
Can I use store-bought pizza dough for these calzones?
Absolutely! Store-bought pizza dough is a fantastic time-saver. It’s convenient and still delivers delicious results. Just roll it out and follow the recipe as usual!
What can I substitute for the Alfredo sauce?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use a homemade white sauce or even a creamy ranch dressing. Both will add a unique twist to your calzones!
How do I store leftover calzones?
Leftover Air Fried Chicken Alfredo Calzones can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain that crispy texture!
Can I freeze the calzones before cooking?
Yes! You can freeze the assembled calzones. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. When you’re ready to cook, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if cooking from frozen.
What other fillings can I try?
The possibilities are endless! You can experiment with different proteins like ground beef or turkey, or even go vegetarian with a mix of cheeses and veggies. Get creative!
Final Thoughts
Making Air Fried Chicken Alfredo Calzones is more than just cooking; it’s about creating moments with your loved ones. The joy of pulling a golden, crispy calzone from the air fryer, filled with creamy goodness, is simply unmatched. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy family gathering, these calzones bring smiles and satisfaction to the table. Plus, the ease of preparation means you can spend more time enjoying the meal and less time in the kitchen. I hope this recipe becomes a cherished part of your family’s culinary adventures, just as it has in mine!
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Air Fried Chicken Alfredo Calzones: A Delicious Twist!
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 calzones 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
Air Fried Chicken Alfredo Calzones are a delicious twist on traditional calzones, filled with creamy Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, and melted cheese, all cooked to perfection in an air fryer.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup Alfredo sauce
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 package pizza dough
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken, Alfredo sauce, mozzarella cheese, ricotta cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface and cut it into circles.
- Place a generous amount of the chicken mixture on one half of each dough circle.
- Fold the dough over to create a calzone and seal the edges by pressing with a fork.
- Brush the tops of the calzones with olive oil.
- Place the calzones in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the air fryer and let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms to the filling for extra flavor.
- Serve with extra Alfredo sauce for dipping.
- Calzones can be frozen before cooking; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if cooking from frozen.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 calzone
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: Air Fried Chicken Alfredo Calzones, Calzones, Chicken Alfredo, Air Fryer Recipes