Ah, Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones! Just saying the name makes my mouth water. There’s something oh-so-comforting about filling warm, crispy dough with creamy Alfredo sauce and succulent chicken. I remember the first time I made these little pockets of joy. It was a chilly evening, and I had some leftover rotisserie chicken in the fridge. I wanted to use it in a fun way, so these calzones were born! They quickly became a family favorite, and now they are my go-to for quick weeknight dinners or game-day snacks!
What I love most about these calzones is their versatility. You can stuff them with whatever you have on hand, but the Chicken Alfredo combo is just so rich and satisfying. Plus, making them in the air fryer keeps them crispy without the guilt of deep frying. Perfect golden-brown bites await!
What’s in Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones?
– Cooked Chicken, Shredded: The star of the show! You can use leftover chicken or even a rotisserie chicken, which makes life so much easier.
– Alfredo Sauce: This creamy sauce is the magic that binds everything together. Feel free to use store-bought for convenience or whip up a homemade version if you’re feeling ambitious!
– Mozzarella Cheese: Gooey and stretchy, this cheese provides that delightful melt factor. I always opt for freshly shredded mozzarella for the best texture!
– Ricotta Cheese: It adds a creamy, slightly sweet touch that perfectly complements the other cheeses. Trust me; it enhances your calzone experience!
– Garlic Powder: A little sprinkle goes a long way in adding savory depth to the filling.
– Italian Seasoning: This mix of herbs brings a touch of Italy right to your kitchen.
– Salt and Pepper: Essential for balancing flavors—don’t skip these!
– Refrigerated Pizza Dough: The canvas for your calzones! Using refrigerated dough saves time and effort, but you can always make your own if you’re feeling adventurous!
– Egg (beaten): This acts as an egg wash to give your calzones that beautiful golden finish.
– Fresh Parsley (for garnish): A sprinkle of green not only looks pretty but brightens the flavor, too!
– Marinara Sauce (optional for dipping): Because what’s a calzone without a little dip? This gives that final touch of flavor!
Is Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones Good for You?
Well, like most delicious treats, everything in moderation! The chicken gives you a good dose of protein, making it quite filling. Plus, you’re sneaking in some dairy with the ricotta and mozzarella, which means you’re getting calcium too. However, the Alfredo sauce can be on the heavier side due to its cream base, so it might be worth considering lower-calorie variations if you’re keeping an eye on the calories.
Of course, the pizza dough is all about that carb love! If you’re looking for a healthier twist, you could try whole wheat dough or even cauliflower crust. Whatever route you take, these calzones are an indulgent treat that will keep you returning for seconds.
Gather Your Ingredients!
– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
– 1 cup Alfredo sauce
– 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 package (16 oz) refrigerated pizza dough
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– Marinara sauce (for dipping, optional)
This recipe yields about 4-6 delicious calzones, depending on how big you make them.
How to Make Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones?
1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, Alfredo sauce, mozzarella cheese, ricotta cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and drool-worthy!
3. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough and cut it into circles (around 6-8 inches in diameter).
4. Place a generous amount of the chicken and cheese filling on one half of each dough circle, leaving a small border around the edges—don’t skimp on that filling!
5. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling to create a semi-circle. Press the edges together to seal, and for good measure, use a fork to crimp the edges.
6. Brush the tops of the calzones with the beaten egg—this is what gives them that beautiful golden color while cooking, and hey—who doesn’t love a little shiny crust?
7. Carefully place the calzones in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Make sure they’re not squished together; we want them to breathe!
8. Cook the calzones in the air fryer for about 8-10 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and crispy.
9. Once cooked, remove the calzones from the air fryer and let them cool slightly. Garnish with chopped parsley for that pop of green.
10. Serve with marinara sauce on the side for a tasty dip if that’s your jam!
Calzone Creations: Variations and Serving Suggestions
If you’re feeling a bit adventurous, you can switch up the fillings to suit your taste! Here are some ideas:
– **Veggie Delight:** Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the chicken filling for a fresh twist.
– **Spicy Kick:** Toss in some red pepper flakes or jalapeños for an extra zing!
– **Cheesy Goodness**: Mix in different cheeses like parmesan or gouda for layers of flavor.
You can also serve these calzones with a side salad for a well-rounded meal or pair them with garlic knots for that extra Italian flair. Whatever you do, just make sure you enjoy every bite!
I truly hope you give these Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones a try. They’re perfect for a cozy dinner, a friendly gathering, or even a late-night snack when it’s just you and your favorite show. Don’t forget to let me know how yours turned out! Happy cooking!
