Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones are a quick and delicious way to enjoy the rich flavors of Alfredo sauce and chicken wrapped in a crispy, golden crust. With the convenience of an air fryer, these calzones are ready in just minutes, making them perfect for a weeknight meal or a tasty appetizer. The combination of shredded chicken, mozzarella, Parmesan, and spinach, all enveloped in tender pizza dough, creates a satisfying dish that's sure to please.
INGREDIENTS
- Pizza Dough: 1 package of pizza dough serves as the base for these delicious calzones, providing a tender and chewy crust.
- Cooked Chicken: 1 cup of shredded, cooked chicken adds protein and a hearty texture to the filling.
- Alfredo Sauce: 1/2 cup of creamy Alfredo sauce brings rich, savory flavor to each bite.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: 1 cup of mozzarella cheese for a melty, gooey filling.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: 1/4 cup adds a sharp, nutty flavor that complements the Alfredo sauce.
- Cooked Spinach: 1/2 cup of cooked and drained spinach introduces a pop of green and a bit of extra nutrition.
- Dried Italian Seasoning: 1 tsp of Italian seasoning enhances the flavor with a blend of herbs.
- Olive Oil: A little olive oil is used for brushing the tops of the calzones, helping them achieve a golden brown finish in the air fryer.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface. Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces, each one serving as the base for your calzones.
- Step 2:
- Spread about a tablespoon of Alfredo sauce onto each piece of dough, leaving a small border around the edges. This sauce will add a rich, creamy flavor to the calzones.
- Step 3:
- Evenly distribute the shredded chicken, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and cooked spinach onto the Alfredo sauce. Sprinkle the filling with dried Italian seasoning for an added burst of flavor.
- Step 4:
- Carefully fold each piece of dough over the filling to create a pocket, pressing the edges together to seal. You can crimp the edges with a fork to ensure they stay closed during cooking.
- Step 5:
- Brush the tops of the calzones with olive oil. This will help them achieve a golden, crispy crust in the air fryer.
- Step 6:
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the calzones in the air fryer basket, making sure they aren’t touching to allow for even cooking.
- Step 7:
- Cook the calzones in the air fryer for 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook them in batches.
- Step 8:
- Once cooked, remove the calzones from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before serving. The filling will be very hot, so allowing them to cool for a few minutes will make them easier to handle and eat.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve the Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones warm, straight from the air fryer, with a side of extra Alfredo sauce for dipping.
- These calzones make a great appetizer or main dish, and they pair well with a fresh green salad or a side of roasted vegetables.
- If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, place the calzones back in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy again.
Helpful Notes
- For a more indulgent filling, you can add extra cheese or a few slices of cooked bacon.
- Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite ingredients, such as sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers.
- If you prefer a homemade touch, you can make your own pizza dough and Alfredo sauce.
- These calzones are versatile and can be made in advance. Simply assemble and refrigerate them, then cook when ready.
Tips from well-known chefs
- Chef Emeril Lagasse suggests adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling for a little extra heat.
- Chef Giada De Laurentiis recommends using freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture in your calzones.
- Chef Wolfgang Puck advises brushing the calzones with garlic-infused olive oil for an added layer of flavor.