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Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones are my go to when I want something super cheesy and comforting but do not have hours to spend in the kitchen. The air fryer gets these golden and crispy in record time while the inside stays creamy and satisfying. Packed with shredded chicken juicy mozzarella and plenty of Alfredo sauce these calzones always vanish at family movie night.
The first time I threw these together I did not expect them to taste exactly like restaurant calzones. Now every time I make them my family fights over the last one.
Ingredients
- Pizza dough: gives you that chewy bakery style crust I suggest buying a fresh refrigerated dough or using your own if you like to bake
- Cooked chicken: provides protein and heft I use rotisserie chicken for ease but you can also poach or roast your own
- Alfredo sauce: is the creamy base opt for a high quality jarred brand or homemade for the richest flavor
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: melts into gooey gloriousness choose whole milk mozzarella for the best stretch
- Grated Parmesan cheese: sharpens the flavor use a wedge and grate it yourself if possible for freshness
- Cooked spinach: not only adds color but brings moisture and a veggie boost I blot it well so there is no excess water
- Dried Italian seasoning: gives extra punch from the herbs choose a blend with oregano rosemary and thyme
- Olive oil: for brushing on top use extra virgin for the most aromatic finish and appetizing shine
Step by Step Instructions
- Prepare the Dough:
- Roll out your pizza dough on a lightly floured surface. Aim for an even thickness so it cooks perfectly in the air fryer. Divide into four equal pieces so each calzone cooks evenly.
- Layer the Filling:
- Dollop a spoonful of Alfredo sauce in the center of each round leaving about half an inch bare around the edge. Spoon it on gently so you do not rip the dough.
- Add the Good Stuff:
- Scatter shredded chicken across the sauce followed by mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Add spinach on top making sure the filling is evenly distributed. Sprinkle the dried Italian seasoning for fragrance and color.
- Fold and Seal:
- Fold the dough over the filling and line up the edges. Press together and then crimp them with a fork. This seals in all the flavor and keeps the cheese from escaping as it cooks.
- Brush with Oil:
- Lightly brush olive oil over the tops. This step is the secret for that tempting golden crust the air fryer creates.
- Arrange in the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 375 degrees. Place the calzones in the basket with space around them. Work in batches if you need to so the hot air can crisp all sides.
- Air Fry to Perfection:
- Cook for about twelve minutes until the dough is deep golden and crisp to the touch. Peek halfway through to make sure nothing is burning and rotate if needed for even color.
- Rest and Serve:
- Let the calzones sit for a few minutes so molten cheese does not burn your palate. Serve with more Alfredo sauce on the side for dunking and enjoy every bite.
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I love using my own roasted chicken in this recipe especially after we have leftovers from a big Sunday meal. Parmesan cheese always brings back memories of my dad grating it over the table when we made Italian food together.
Storage Tips
Store cooled leftover calzones in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat pop them back in the air fryer at a lower heat so the crust crisps up again and the center warms through.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you only have turkey it works just as well as chicken. Swap spinach for kale or even roasted broccoli if you prefer. If you need a dairy free option pick a plant based Alfredo sauce and vegan cheese blends.
Serving Suggestions
Pair these calzones with a crisp green salad or a bowl of roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. My kids like them cut into strips for easy dipping and they always disappear at game night parties.
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Cultural Context
Chicken Alfredo is a modern twist on classic Italian flavors and calzones themselves originate from southern Italy often stuffed with whatever was fresh and available. Using an air fryer gives this iconic combo a very American style weeknight upgrade.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I ensure the calzones seal properly?
Press the dough edges firmly together and use a fork to crimp the edges. This helps prevent the filling from leaking during cooking.
- → Can I customize the filling?
Absolutely. Try adding sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or cooked bacon to enhance the flavors according to your preference.
- → What temperature and time are best for air frying?
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook the calzones for 10-12 minutes until golden and crisp.
- → How should I store leftovers?
Place cooled calzones in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. Reheat in the air fryer for 3-5 minutes at 350°F to restore crispiness.
- → What type of cheese works best inside?
Mozzarella and Parmesan blend well for a creamy, melty texture with a sharp, nutty finish that complements the Alfredo sauce.