If you love rich flavors wrapped in a crispy, golden crust, you are going to adore this Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones Recipe. Imagine tender chicken combined with creamy Alfredo sauce and melty mozzarella cheese, all tucked inside perfectly cooked pizza dough pockets. The air fryer gives these calzones an irresistibly crispy exterior while keeping the filling warm, gooey, and packed with comforting Italian-inspired goodness. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or impressing friends at a casual get-together, this recipe is a surefire hit that’s quick and satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple ingredients come together beautifully to create a calzone that balances creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors with a wonderfully crisp dough. Each element plays a key role, from the tender chicken adding protein to the cheesy blend that defines the heart of the filling.
- Refrigerated pizza dough (1 can, 13.8 oz): An easy shortcut that forms the perfect calzone crust when air fried.
- Cooked chicken breast (1 cup, shredded or chopped): Adds lean protein and tender texture to the filling.
- Alfredo sauce (1/2 cup): Brings creamy indulgence and classic Italian flavor.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 cup): Melts beautifully to create gooey, cheesy deliciousness.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup): Adds a sharp, salty punch enhancing the overall taste.
- Garlic powder (1/2 tsp): Infuses subtle warmth and depth.
- Italian seasoning (1/2 tsp): A fragrant blend of herbs that brightens the filling.
- Olive oil spray: Ensures a golden, crispy crust without extra grease.
- Beaten egg (1 egg): Used for the egg wash to give the calzones a beautiful sheen.
How to Make Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Begin by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready when you need it. Then, roll out the refrigerated pizza dough on a lightly floured surface. Cutting the dough into four equal rectangles ensures each calzone will be perfectly sized and cook evenly in the air fryer basket.
Step 2: Make the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken breast with Alfredo sauce, mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. This mixture is the heart of the Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones Recipe — rich, creamy, and bursting with Italian-inspired flavors that will make your taste buds dance.
Step 3: Assemble the Calzones
Spoon the filling evenly onto one half of each dough rectangle, remembering to leave some space around the edges for sealing. Then fold the dough over the filling, creating a neat pocket. Press the edges firmly with a fork to ensure the calzones stay sealed during cooking — this step is key to locking in those delicious flavors and juices.
Step 4: Prepare for Air Frying
Brush each calzone lightly with the beaten egg to give them that gorgeous golden color as they cook. A quick spray of olive oil helps achieve the perfect crispiness on the outside without any heaviness.
Step 5: Cook in the Air Fryer
Place the calzones in the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t touch to allow air to circulate freely. Cook them in batches if necessary. Let them bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and irresistible. Let them cool just a bit before serving so the molten cheese filling settles perfectly inside.
How to Serve Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes take your Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones Recipe to the next level. A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or basil on top adds a burst of color and a fresh herbal note that contrasts delightfully with the creamy filling. You can also dust a bit more grated Parmesan over the hot calzones for extra cheesy goodness.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with light, fresh sides. A simple crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness beautifully. Roasted or steamed veggies like broccoli or asparagus sprinkled with lemon zest also complement these calzones perfectly, offering a balance of textures and flavors for a complete meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, cut the calzones into smaller bite-sized pieces and serve them on a platter with ramekins of warmed Alfredo sauce and marinara for dipping. This makes for a fantastic party appetizer or game day snack. You could also serve the calzones nestled on a bed of arugula or baby spinach with a drizzle of balsamic glaze to impress your guests visually and gastronomically.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones make a quick and flavorful lunch option. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The filling retains its creamy texture surprisingly well when properly stored.
Freezing
To freeze, assemble the calzones but do not cook them. Wrap each calzone individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, let them thaw overnight in the fridge before air frying as usual for freshly cooked texture and taste.
Reheating
The best way to reheat is in the air fryer or a conventional oven to maintain the crispiness of the dough. Heat at 350°F (175°C) for 5 to 7 minutes until warmed through and slightly crispy on the outside. Avoid microwaving, which can leave the dough soggy and the filling unevenly heated.
FAQs
Can I use a different cheese instead of mozzarella?
Absolutely! While mozzarella is classic for meltiness, you can experiment with provolone, fontina, or even a sharp white cheddar for a different flavor profile. Just make sure the cheese melts well for that gooey center.
Is it necessary to use Alfredo sauce, or can I substitute it?
Alfredo sauce gives this recipe its signature creamy element, but if you want a lighter version, a béchamel or even a cream cheese-based sauce could work. You could also add extra seasoning to boost flavor if you swap sauces.
Can I add vegetables to the filling?
Yes! Spinach, cooked broccoli, or even sautéed mushrooms can be mixed into the filling for extra nutrition and texture. Just be sure to cook and drain any veggies beforehand to avoid soggy dough.
Do I need an air fryer to make this recipe?
The air fryer is fantastic for a crispy crust and quick cooking time, but you can also bake these calzones in a conventional oven at 400°F (205°C) for about 15-20 minutes until golden and cooked through.
How do I prevent the calzones from bursting open during cooking?
Pressing the edges firmly with a fork and using an egg wash helps seal the dough tightly. Also, avoid overfilling to prevent leaks. If the dough is thin near the edges, pinch and fold it over once more for added security.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones Recipe is a delightful way to bring comfort food and convenience together in one irresistible package. The crispy crust, creamy filling, and savory chicken make every bite a mini celebration of flavors. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual weekend treat, I guarantee this recipe will become one of your favorites to keep on hand. Give it a try and see just how easy and satisfying homemade calzones can be!
Print
Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 calzones
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Description
These Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones are a quick, delicious main course featuring tender shredded chicken smothered in creamy Alfredo sauce and melty mozzarella cheese, all encased in golden, crispy air-fried pizza dough pockets. Perfectly seasoned with garlic and Italian herbs, this easy recipe offers a kid-friendly, flavorful dinner that cooks in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Calzone Dough
- 1 can (13.8 oz) refrigerated pizza dough
Filling
- 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
- 1/2 cup Alfredo sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
Toppings and Finishes
- Olive oil spray
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to heat up to ensure even cooking and a crispy crust.
- Prepare Dough: Roll out the refrigerated pizza dough on a lightly floured surface into a large rectangle. Cut the dough into 4 equal rectangles to form the base for each calzone.
- Mix Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken, Alfredo sauce, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Assemble Calzones: Spoon an even amount of the filling onto one half of each dough rectangle, leaving space around the edges for sealing. Fold the empty dough half over the filling to create a pocket and firmly seal the edges by pressing with a fork.
- Apply Egg Wash and Oil: Lightly brush each calzone with the beaten egg to create a golden crust. Then, spray the calzones lightly with olive oil to enhance crispiness during cooking.
- Air Fry: Place the calzones in the air fryer basket without letting them touch, working in batches if needed. Cook for 8–10 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the calzones to cool slightly after cooking before serving to avoid burns and let the filling set.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quick and flavorful shortcut.
- Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or cooked broccoli to the filling for added nutrition and variety.
- Serve the calzones with extra Alfredo sauce or marinara sauce for dipping.
- Ensure the edges are well sealed to prevent filling leakage during cooking.
- If you don’t have an air fryer, these calzones can also be baked in a conventional oven at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
