Introduction

Chicken Alfredo Calzones are a rich and comforting twist on the classic calzone. Filled with creamy Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, and melted mozzarella, they make a perfect meal for any night of the week. Ready in under 30 minutes using an air fryer, these calzones bring Italian flavors to your table with ease.

A close-up of a golden-brown puff pastry turnover cut open to show a thick, creamy filling inside speckled with black pepper. The pastry is flaky with shiny, crisp layers on the outside and sprinkled with small pieces of fresh green herbs on top. More whole turnovers with the same shiny, flaky texture and herb garnish are stacked underneath. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

5 tablespoons unsalted butter

4 cloves garlic (minced)

1 cup heavy cream

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/8 teaspoon black pepper

1 pound pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)

2 cups cooked chicken breast (shredded, about 2 small chicken breasts)

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

4 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)

2 teaspoons fresh parsley (chopped)

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Alfredo sauce by melting 5 tablespoons butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and Italian seasoning, then let simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly reduced. Lower the heat and gradually stir in Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper, then set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the dough by cutting it into 4 equal pieces. On a lightly floured surface, roll each piece into a 6-inch round about 1/4 inch thick. Place the dough rounds on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 3: Assemble the calzones by spreading a quarter of the Alfredo sauce on one half of each dough round, leaving a 1/2-inch border. Top the sauce with 1/2 cup shredded chicken and 1/4 cup mozzarella cheese. Fold the empty half of the dough over the filling and press the edges with a fork to seal.

Step 4: Combine the softened butter and chopped parsley in a small bowl. Brush the tops of each calzone with the parsley butter using a pastry brush.

Step 5: Place the calzones in an air fryer basket lightly coated with oil or lined with parchment paper. Air fry at 375°F for 8 minutes until golden brown, flipping halfway through. Brush again with the remaining parsley butter.

Step 6: Let the calzones cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm with marinara sauce for dipping if desired.

Tips & Variations

Use rotisserie chicken to save time on cooking and shredding.

Try adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the filling for a vegetable boost.

For a crispier crust, brush the calzones with an egg wash before air frying.

Swap heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter Alfredo sauce, though it will be less rich.

FAQs

Can I bake these calzones instead of air frying?

Yes, preheat your oven to 400°F and bake the calzones on a parchment-lined baking sheet for 15-20 minutes or until golden and cooked through.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely. Use gluten-free pizza dough to prepare the calzones and ensure all other ingredients used are gluten-free.

Dinner

Chicken Alfredo Calzones Recipe