Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones combine the creamy, savory goodness of Alfredo sauce with tender chicken and gooey cheese, all wrapped in a crispy, golden calzone. Cooking these calzones in the air fryer gives them a perfect, crispy exterior while keeping the inside moist and flavorful. This recipe is a great way to enjoy a classic Italian dish with a modern twist.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy and Delicious: The air fryer gives these calzones a perfectly crisp crust without deep-frying.
- Creamy and Savory: The Alfredo sauce adds a rich, creamy flavor to the chicken filling.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it a great weeknight meal.
- Customizable: Easily adapt the filling to your taste preferences or dietary needs.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones:
- For the Dough:
- 1 can (13.8 oz) refrigerated pizza dough
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- For the Filling:
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
- 1/2 cup Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup fresh spinach (optional)
- 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- For the Egg Wash:
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 tablespoon water
- For Garnish (optional):
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Extra Parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a rectangle or as per your air fryer size. Cut the dough into 4 equal portions for individual calzones.
2. Prepare the Filling
- Mix the Filling Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the cooked chicken, Alfredo sauce, shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Add spinach, mushrooms, and sun-dried tomatoes if using.
3. Assemble the Calzones
- Add the Filling: Spoon a generous amount of the filling onto one half of each dough portion, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Fold and Seal: Fold the other half of the dough over the filling to create a pocket. Press the edges together to seal, using a fork to crimp the edges if desired.
4. Apply the Egg Wash
- Prepare the Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the beaten egg and water.
- Brush the Calzones: Brush the tops of the calzones with the egg wash to achieve a golden brown finish.
5. Cook the Calzones
- Arrange in Air Fryer: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the calzones in the basket in a single layer, making sure they are not touching. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
- Air Fry: Cook the calzones at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Flip halfway through for even cooking.
6. Serve
- Garnish: Remove the calzones from the air fryer and let them cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Enjoy: Serve warm with a side of marinara sauce or additional Alfredo sauce for dipping.
Tips for Success
- Avoid Overstuffing: Don’t overfill the calzones to prevent the filling from spilling out during cooking.
- Seal Well: Ensure the edges of the calzones are well-sealed to keep the filling inside.
- Check Doneness: Cooking times may vary depending on the size of the calzones and the model of your air fryer.
Variations
Customize your Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones with these variations:
- Add Vegetables: Include your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, onions, or broccoli, in the filling.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for a spicy version.
- Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses like fontina, provolone, or Gouda for a unique flavor.
Conclusion
You’ve just made a batch of irresistible Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones that are crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside. This dish is perfect for a quick dinner, a fun family meal, or even a delicious appetizer. With its savory filling and crispy crust, it’s sure to be a hit at your table.
So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy these delicious calzones. Bon appétit!