Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones

Chicken Alfredo air fryer calzones bring together everything I love about comfort food weeknight ease and creamy Italian flavors This recipe is that rare combination your family will cheer for plus it transforms pantry staples into something a little special without a lot of fuss A crispy golden crust hugs a cheesy garlicky center with plenty of tender chicken and a dunk of tangy sauce on the side

I made these once on a busy school night and now whenever pizza is mentioned my family loudly campaigns for calzones instead We never have leftovers

Ingredients

• Cooked chicken breast: Chopped or shredded this adds satisfying protein and soaks up flavor easily For best results use freshly cooked or high quality rotisserie chicken
• Alfredo sauce: Store bought or homemade creates a rich and creamy base If using jarred check for minimal added sugars and real cheese in the ingredient list
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: Provides melty stretch and gooeyness Look for whole milk mozzarella for extra richness
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Sharpens the flavor and adds nuttiness Always choose real Parmigiano Reggiano if possible for that distinctive bite
• Garlic powder: Gives gentle savory depth Fresh is nice but powder blends best for this filling
• Black pepper: Wakes up the flavors Use freshly ground if you like a little punch
• Chopped parsley: Optional for a hint of freshness—it also makes the filling look vibrant Choose flat leaf parsley for the best flavor
• Refrigerated pizza dough: Offers speed and convenience For a chewier crust homemade dough is a great choice too
• Olive oil or cooking spray for brushing: Makes the calzones brown beautifully in the air fryer Choose light olive oil for milder flavor
• Extra Alfredo or marinara for dipping: Lets everyone make their own flavor adventure Warm it for ultimate comfort

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Filling:

In a large bowl fold together the cooked chicken Alfredo sauce mozzarella Parmesan garlic powder black pepper and parsley if using Stir until every piece of chicken is coated in a creamy cheesy mixture Take a moment to taste and adjust with a pinch more pepper if you like

Roll Out the Dough:

Start with a clean lightly floured countertop Gently press the pizza dough into a rectangle or circle Use a rolling pin to reach an even thickness then cut into four portions for even sized calzones Aim for uniform shapes so they cook evenly in the air fryer

Fill and Seal the Calzones:

Spoon a generous amount of chicken filling onto one side of each dough shape leaving some space at the edges Carefully fold the dough over the filling to create a half moon Gently press the edges together then pinch or use a fork to crimp a secure seal Take care not to overfill which can cause leaks during cooking

Air Fry the Calzones:

Let your air fryer preheat to 375 degrees Fahrenheit for a few minutes Lightly brush or spray each calzone with olive oil for a beautiful golden crust Arrange two to three calzones in the air fryer basket space them out for air circulation Cook for about ten to twelve minutes flipping halfway until both sides are crisp and deeply golden Repeat this step for any remaining calzones

Serve:

Once the calzones are done let them sit for about five minutes This helps the cheese set so you get perfect slices Serve them with cups of warm Alfredo or marinara sauce for dipping The aroma of fresh calzones at the table is irresistible

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I am a cheese lover so using fresh mozzarella makes these extra special In my family the best memories are everyone gathering around to dip and share hot cheesy calzones straight from the basket

Storage Tips

These calzones are perfect for meal prep Let them cool completely then wrap tightly in foil or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days For best results reheat in the air fryer for two to three minutes to bring back the crunch Microwaving works but will soften the crust

Ingredient Substitutions

If you are short on Alfredo sauce substitute with cream cheese thinned with a splash of milk and a generous sprinkle of garlic powder Any cooked protein like turkey ham or rotisserie pork can work well For a veggie heavy twist try steamed spinach or roasted mushrooms

Serving Suggestions

Add a fresh mixed salad with tomatoes cucumbers and lemon vinaigrette for a balanced meal If you want a heartier platter add oven roasted vegetables or simple garlic bread This calzone recipe also makes tasty party snacks simply cut into smaller portions before air frying for bite sized treats

Cultural and Historical Context

Calzones started as a classic Italian street food especially in Naples They are the pizza's hand held cousin often created to be eaten on the go This version puts an American comfort spin on the tradition with Alfredo sauce and air fryer crispness blending Old World flavors with new kitchen techniques

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Serve hot and share with your family for a cheesy comforting meal you'll want to repeat soon

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use homemade pizza dough instead of canned?

Yes, both homemade and store-bought pizza dough work well. Adjust thickness to your preference for best texture.

→ How do I prevent calzones from leaking during cooking?

Avoid overfilling and ensure edges are sealed tightly with a fork. Press firmly to secure the seams before air frying.

→ What other cheeses can I use in the filling?

Fontina, provolone, or gouda can be used alongside mozzarella for added flavor and meltability.

→ How do I reheat leftover calzones?

Reheat in the air fryer for 3–4 minutes at 350°F for a crisp texture, or use an oven for similar results.

→ What dipping sauces work best?

Classic Alfredo or marinara sauce are both delicious. Garlic butter or ranch dressing are great alternatives.