Chicken Bacon Ranch Calzones are a delightful combination of savory chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch dressing, all wrapped up in a golden, crispy crust. This recipe is perfect for any meal, whether it's a casual lunch, a family dinner, or a quick meal on a busy day. The calzones are easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste. Whether you prefer extra cheese or a bit of spice, these calzones can be tailored to your liking. Follow this simple recipe for a delicious and satisfying meal that everyone will love.
Calzones are a delightful twist on traditional pizza, offering a convenient and portable way to enjoy your favorite toppings wrapped in a crispy, golden crust. Our Savory Chicken Bacon Ranch Calzones combine tender chicken, crispy bacon, and flavorful ranch dressing, all encased in a cheesy, delicious dough. Perfect for a quick family dinner, game day snack, or even meal prep, these calzones are sure to become a staple in your household. Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that will bring comfort and joy to your dining table.
Ingredients
To create these mouthwatering calzones, you will need the following ingredients:
- 16 oz premade pizza dough: You can find this in the refrigerated section of your grocery store, or you can make your own if you prefer homemade dough.
- 2 cups cooked chicken, chopped: This can be leftover chicken, rotisserie chicken, or chicken breast cooked specifically for this recipe.
- 5 slices bacon, cooked crispy and chopped: The crispy texture of the bacon adds a delightful crunch to every bite.
- 1 cup red onion, finely chopped: Red onions provide a mild sweetness and a bit of crunch, balancing out the richness of the other ingredients.
- ½ cup ranch dressing: The creamy ranch dressing ties all the flavors together, adding a tangy zest.
- 6 oz shredded mozzarella cheese: Mozzarella melts beautifully, giving a gooey, cheesy finish to the calzones.
- 1 large egg, beaten: Used to brush over the calzones for a shiny, golden crust.
- Garlic powder, to taste: Adds a subtle garlic flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the calzones.
Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to prepare your Savory Chicken Bacon Ranch Calzones:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). If your pizza dough is stiff, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to soften and become easier to work with.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet
Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the calzones from sticking and make cleanup easier.
Step 3: Mix the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped cooked chicken, crispy bacon, finely chopped red onion, and ranch dressing. Stir well to ensure the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing. If you prefer a creamier filling, you can add more ranch dressing to taste.
Step 4: Divide and Shape the Dough
Cut the pizza dough into 8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball, then flatten it into a 6-inch circle. This will form the base for your calzones.
Step 5: Add the Cheese and Filling
Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese on one half of each dough circle, leaving a border around the edges to seal the calzone. Spoon the chicken mixture onto the cheese, then top with another layer of mozzarella.
Step 6: Fold and Seal
Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges firmly to seal, ensuring the filling is enclosed. You can crimp the edges with a fork for a decorative touch and to help seal the calzone.
Step 7: Brush and Season
Place the calzones on the prepared baking sheet. Brush each with the beaten egg, which will give them a shiny, golden crust. Lightly dust with garlic powder to enhance the flavor.
Step 8: Bake
Bake the calzones in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-browning. Serve warm and enjoy!
Serving and Storage Tips
These Savory Chicken Bacon Ranch Calzones are best served warm, straight out of the oven. Their gooey, cheesy filling and crispy crust make for a delightful eating experience. If you have leftovers, allow the calzones to cool completely before storing them. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. You can also freeze the calzones for up to 2 months. To reheat from frozen, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes.
Helpful Notes and Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Here are some variations and tips to make these calzones your own:
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken and bacon for your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach. Ensure to use a ranch dressing that suits your dietary preferences.
- Cheese Lovers: Experiment with different types of cheese. Cheddar, provolone, or a blend of Italian cheeses can add a new dimension of flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add a bit of heat by incorporating jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the filling.
As renowned chef Gordon Ramsay once said, "Cooking is about passion, so it may look slightly temperamental in a way that it’s too assertive to the naked eye." Use this recipe as a base and let your culinary creativity shine. Enjoy these calzones as a fun and delicious meal for any occasion.
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