Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones combine everything you love about pizza with the rich, savory flavors of chicken Alfredo. The air fryer gives the dough a perfectly crispy texture without the need for deep frying, while the inside is filled with a gooey, cheesy mixture of shredded chicken, Alfredo sauce, and a blend of cheeses. Whether you’re serving them for a family dinner, a party, or as a quick meal, these calzones are sure to impress.

Ingredients

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
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Marinara sauce (optional, for dipping)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Dough: Divide the pizza dough into 4 equal portions. Roll each portion into a circle approximately 6 inches in diameter.
Make the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken, Alfredo sauce, mozzarella cheese, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
Fill the Calzones: Place 2-3 tablespoons of the filling onto one half of each dough circle, leaving a small border around the edges. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape. Seal the edges by pressing them together and crimping with a fork.
Apply the Egg Wash: Brush the tops of the calzones with the beaten egg to give them a golden, glossy finish.
Air Fry: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the calzones in the air fryer basket, ensuring there’s space between them. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, or until the calzones are golden brown and cooked through. (Cook in batches if necessary.)
Serve: Let the calzones cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping, if desired.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Total Time: 20-25 minutes
Servings: 4 calzones

Variations

Add Vegetables: Include sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers in the filling for added flavor and texture.
Use Different Meats: Swap out the chicken for cooked sausage, ground beef, or even bacon for a new twist.
Spicy Kick: Add some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for a spicy version.
Cheese Lovers: Use different types of cheese, such as Gouda, provolone, or cheddar, for a more customized flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover calzones in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the calzones back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them for about 1-2 minutes, but the texture won’t be as crispy.

FAQs

1. Can I make these calzones ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the calzones ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to air fry. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if they are cold when you begin.

2. Can I use a different sauce besides Alfredo?

You can certainly use a different sauce, like marinara or pesto, to change up the flavor of your calzones. Just make sure the sauce is thick enough so it doesn’t make the dough soggy.

3. How do I prevent the calzones from getting too soggy?

Make sure the filling isn’t too wet. Drain any excess liquid from the chicken or sauce before adding it to the filling, and be sure to seal the edges of the calzones tightly.

4. Can I freeze these calzones?

Yes, you can freeze the uncooked calzones. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze for about 2 hours, then transfer to a zip-top bag or airtight container. When you’re ready to cook, air fry them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

5. Can I make these calzones without an air fryer?

Yes, you can bake them in a traditional oven. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 15-18 minutes, or until the calzones are golden brown and cooked through.

6. Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Store-bought rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and works perfectly in this recipe.

7. Can I make these calzones vegetarian?

Yes! You can skip the chicken and use a variety of vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, and artichokes for a delicious vegetarian version.

8. Can I use gluten-free pizza dough?

Yes, gluten-free pizza dough can be used to make these calzones. Just make sure to follow the instructions on the dough package for best results.

9. What can I serve these calzones with?

These calzones are perfect on their own, but they pair wonderfully with a side salad, garlic bread, or extra marinara sauce for dipping.

10. How do I know when the calzones are done?

The calzones are done when the outside is golden brown and the filling is hot and bubbling. You can cut one open to check if the inside is fully cooked and melted.

Conclusion

These Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones are a crowd-pleasing dish that’s both comforting and easy to prepare. With a creamy, cheesy filling wrapped in crispy dough, they make the perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, these calzones are sure to be a hit. Plus, the air fryer makes them quick and healthy without sacrificing any of the flavor. Enjoy these golden, cheesy pockets of deliciousness!