Delicious Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones

Craving a handheld delight bursting with creamy Alfredo goodness and tender chicken? Look no further than these irresistible Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones. With a crispy golden crust that seals in all the cheesy deliciousness, these calzones are a surefire hit for a quick and satisfying meal. The air fryer takes care of the crispy finish, making cleanup a breeze and leaving you more time to enjoy these delectable treats.

I can’t help but smile at how quickly these Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones became a family favorite in my household. Perfect for lunchboxes, parties, or a cozy night in, these calzones will have everyone asking for seconds before you know it. The stretchy melt of mozzarella cheese combined with the savory chicken and creamy Alfredo sauce will transport you to pizza night memories with a delightful twist. So, whether you’re a fan of comforting Italian classics or simply looking for a fun and easy meal idea, these calzones are a must-try.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with different fillings to suit your taste buds – from pesto to marinara, the options are endless. And for those with dietary preferences, feel free to customize with plant-based cheese or gluten-free dough. These versatile Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones are a delightful fusion of Italian tradition and American comfort food, bringing joy to every bite. So, get ready to indulge in a simple yet satisfying culinary experience that will keep you coming back for more.

Quick Benefits

• Quick and easy meal prep with minimal cleanup
• Versatile – customize with different fillings and sauces for variety
• Can be made ahead and stored for convenient meals throughout the week
• Air fryer cooking results in a crispy golden crust without turning on the oven

Why You’ll Love This Delicious Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together swiftly with store-bought dough and the convenience of the air fryer, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Minimal Cleanup: Enjoy the indulgence of a creamy, cheesy calzone without the hassle of a messy kitchen, as the air fryer takes care of the cooking without the need for the oven.
• Kid-Friendly: Kids will love these calzones in their lunchboxes, and leftovers are devoured quickly, making it a family favorite.
• Versatile: You can easily customize this recipe with different sauces, proteins, and cheeses to suit your preferences, making it adaptable for various diets and tastes.
• Make-Ahead: These calzones can be stored in the fridge for up to three days or frozen for longer, offering a convenient option for meal prep or quick reheating.
• Traditional and Modern: This recipe combines the classic concept of calzones as portable street food with a modern twist of creamy Alfredo sauce, creating a fusion of Italian and American comfort food.
• Perfect for Sharing: Whether as a main meal with a side salad or cut in half for party appetizers, these calzones are versatile for various occasions and meals.

Ingredients for Delicious Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones

Calzone Filling

• Black pepper, to taste
• 100 grams mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 250 grams cooked chicken, shredded
• 240 milliliters Alfredo sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt, to taste

Dough

• 450 grams refrigerated pizza dough
• All-purpose flour, for dusting

Finishing

• 1 tablespoon olive oil, for brushing
• 1 egg, beaten

Pro Tips for Delicious Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones

Pro Tip 1: Consider using homemade pizza dough for a fresher taste in your calzones. It can elevate the overall flavor and texture of the final dish.

Pro Tip 2: To ensure quick and flavorful results, opt for cooked and shredded rotisserie or grilled chicken as your protein choice. It adds a depth of flavor without the need for extensive cooking time.

Pro Tip 3: When sealing your calzones, make sure to firmly press and crimp the edges to prevent any filling from leaking out during the cooking process. Also, avoid overfilling to maintain the structural integrity of your calzones.

How to Make Delicious Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones

Step 1: Preheat Air Fryer

Preheat air fryer to 190°C while preparing the filling.

Step 2: Prepare Filling

Combine shredded chicken, Alfredo sauce, mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl.

Step 3: Shape Dough

Roll out pizza dough on a floured surface to form a 6mm thick rectangle. Divide into 4 equal squares.

Step 4: Fill Calzones

Place approximately 80 milliliters of the chicken Alfredo mixture in the middle of each dough square.

Step 5: Seal Edges

Fold the dough over the filling to create pockets, sealing the edges tightly and crimping with a fork if desired.

Step 6: Apply Egg Wash and Oil

Brush the tops of the calzones with olive oil, then lightly brush each with beaten egg for a golden finish.

Step 7: Cook Calzones

Arrange calzones in the air fryer basket with space between each. Air fry for 10-12 minutes until golden brown and dough is fully cooked.

Step 8: Rest and Serve

Take out the calzones and allow them to rest for 1 minute before serving.

Storage Tips

To store Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones, wrap them tightly in foil or place them in an airtight container before storing them in the refrigerator. These calzones can be kept refrigerated for up to three days. When ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat the calzones in the air fryer or oven for the best texture. While microwaving is a quicker option, it may soften the crust, but it can be used when time is limited. For longer storage, freeze the calzones individually and reheat them directly from frozen using the air fryer.

When reheating the calzones, set the temperature to 350°F and warm them for a few minutes until they achieve the desired crispiness and heat. Remember not to overfill the calzones to prevent the filling from leaking out during cooking. Additionally, consider adding chopped spinach, sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or other favorite ingredients to customize the calzones with extra flavor and nutrition. Enjoy these calzones as a comforting main meal with a side salad, or serve them as a party or lunchbox treat by cutting them in half and accompanying them with warm marinara sauce for dipping.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a different flavor twist, you can substitute the Alfredo sauce with pesto or marinara sauce. This simple swap can give your calzones a whole new flavor profile.

If you prefer a different protein, consider using smoked turkey or ham instead of chicken. These alternatives can provide a fun and tasty variation to your calzones.

For those with dietary restrictions, you can easily make these calzones vegan by using plant-based cheese and a dairy-free sauce. Additionally, gluten-free pizza dough can be used as a substitute for regular dough for a gluten-free version of this recipe.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try arranging these Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones on a beautiful charcuterie board alongside a variety of dipping sauces like marinara, pesto, and garlic aioli. This presentation is perfect for entertaining guests or a fun family night in, allowing everyone to customize their calzone dipping experience.

Another serving idea is to turn these calzones into a build-your-own calzone bar. Set out bowls of different fillings such as cooked sausage, pepperoni, sundried tomatoes, and various cheeses. Let your guests or family members stuff their own calzones before air frying. It’s a interactive and delicious way to enjoy a meal together, with endless flavor combinations to suit everyone’s taste preferences.

FAQs for Delicious Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones

Can I use homemade pizza dough for these calzones?

Yes, homemade pizza dough works well and can offer a fresher flavor and texture for your calzones.

What is the best type of chicken to use for these calzones?

Cooked and shredded rotisserie or grilled chicken is ideal for quick and flavorful results.

How can I ensure that the calzones stay sealed during cooking?

Firmly press and crimp the edges to seal. Avoid overfilling to keep the filling inside during cooking.

Is the egg wash necessary for this recipe?

Egg wash helps the crust develop a beautiful golden color and glossy finish, but it’s optional.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones are a delightful twist on traditional calzones, combining the creamy goodness of Alfredo sauce with the convenience of your air fryer. The ease of preparation and the delicious results make them a favorite in my household, and I hope they become a staple in yours too. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different fillings and sauces to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.

Whether you’re enjoying these calzones as a satisfying weeknight dinner or packing them for a delicious lunch, the versatility and comfort they offer are truly unbeatable. So, embrace the simplicity and joy of making these Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones, and let the crispy, cheesy goodness speak for itself in every bite. Happy cooking and indulging in these delightful calzones!