If you’re craving a delicious, cheesy meal that’s both crispy and creamy, then Crispy Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones are exactly what you need! These calzones combine the indulgence of chicken Alfredo with the crispy, golden perfection of a calzone, all made easy and quick in your air fryer. I remember the first time I tried making calzones in the air fryer my family was blown away by how fast and perfectly crispy they turned out. The inside was filled with warm, melty cheese and creamy chicken Alfredo, and the outside was golden and crunchy. It became a family favorite almost instantly!
This recipe is not only perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick but also works wonderfully for a casual family gathering or even a fun meal to share with friends. The air fryer cuts down on time, so you can enjoy the same crispy, cheesy goodness as traditional calzones, but with much less effort and in a fraction of the time. Whether you’re hosting a weekend get-together or simply looking to impress the family with an easy dinner, these Crispy Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones will not disappoint.
What Makes This Recipe Stand Out?
This recipe brings together two beloved favorites: the creamy, comforting richness of chicken Alfredo and the crispy, cheesy goodness of a calzone. The air fryer cooks the calzone to perfection, creating a crunchy golden crust while keeping the inside soft and packed with flavor. With each bite, you get the rich creaminess of the Alfredo sauce, the savory chicken, and the melty cheese all wrapped up in a crispy shell. It’s indulgent, it’s satisfying, and it’s the perfect way to elevate your calzone game without the need for a pizza oven.
What makes this calzone stand out is how customizable it is. You can swap ingredients to suit your dietary preferences, making it a versatile dish for everyone in the family. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters, trying to stick to a gluten-free diet, or looking for a vegetarian version, this recipe is adaptable and easy to tweak.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy and Quick: Using an air fryer drastically cuts down on cooking time, meaning you can have these calzones ready in under 30 minutes!
- Cheesy Goodness: Who doesn’t love melty mozzarella, rich ricotta, and a dash of Parmesan? Every bite is a cheesy dream.
- Versatile: From chicken to veggies, you can customize the filling however you like. It’s a great way to use up leftovers, too!
- Kid-Friendly: This dish is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike. It’s fun to eat, satisfying, and always delicious.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: These calzones store well and make a great lunch or dinner for the next day. Plus, they freeze beautifully!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1/2 cup Alfredo sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 store-bought pizza doughs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, Alfredo sauce, mozzarella cheese, ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well, making sure all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
Roll out the pizza doughs on a lightly floured surface, creating two even circles about 8 inches in diameter. If the dough feels sticky, sprinkle a little more flour on the surface to make rolling easier.
Step 3: Assemble the Calzones
Spoon a generous amount of the chicken Alfredo mixture into the center of each dough circle, being careful not to overfill. Leave about an inch of space around the edges to ensure the dough seals properly.
Step 4: Fold and Seal
Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges firmly together, sealing the calzone. You can use a fork to crimp the edges for added decoration and a stronger seal.
Step 5: Brush with Olive Oil
Brush the tops of the calzones with olive oil to help them become golden and crispy during cooking.
Variation Ideas
This recipe is incredibly flexible! Here are some ideas for customizing your calzones to suit different dietary needs and preferences:
- Vegetarian: Swap the chicken for sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted vegetables. You could even add some ricotta cheese and spinach for a classic vegetarian filling.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pizza dough to make the recipe suitable for those avoiding gluten.
- Spicy: Add some red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the filling for an extra kick.
- Vegan: Use dairy-free Alfredo sauce, vegan mozzarella cheese, and a plant-based ricotta substitute for a completely vegan version of this calzone.
- Meat Lover’s: Add crispy bacon or sausage to the chicken filling for an extra savory bite.
How to Serve Crispy Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones
These calzones are delicious on their own, but here are a few ideas for serving them with complementary sides and garnishes:
- With a Side Salad: A fresh salad with a light vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the calzones. A Caesar or mixed green salad would be a perfect pairing.
- With Marinara Sauce: Serve with a side of marinara or pizza sauce for dipping. The tangy tomato sauce complements the creamy Alfredo inside the calzone.
- With Garlic Bread: For an indulgent treat, serve the calzones alongside crispy garlic bread for the ultimate Italian-inspired meal.
Recipe Tips
- For a Crispier Crust: If you want an even crispier crust, try brushing the calzones with melted butter instead of olive oil before air frying. This will give them a golden, buttery finish.
- Meal Prep: If you’re planning to meal prep, you can assemble the calzones ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to a day before cooking. Just be sure to let them come to room temperature before air frying.
- Storage: Leftover calzones can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Just reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore the crispy texture.
- Reheating: If reheating in the microwave, the calzones won’t be as crispy, but they will still be delicious! To re-crisp them, place them back in the air fryer for 3-4 minutes.
Cooking Note
- Avoid Overfilling: When assembling the calzones, make sure not to overfill them. If you add too much filling, they might burst open during cooking. You want to leave enough space at the edges to create a good seal.
- Don’t Skip the Olive Oil: Brushing the tops with olive oil (or melted butter) is key to achieving that crispy, golden crust. Don’t skip this step!
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 400 per calzone (approximate)
- Protein: 25g
- Sodium: 650mg
Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 2 calzones
FAQs
Can I use store-bought chicken for the filling?
Absolutely! You can use rotisserie chicken or any leftover cooked chicken you have on hand. Just shred it up, and you’re good to go!
Can I freeze the calzones?
Yes! After assembling the calzones, place them on a baking sheet in the freezer until they’re solid. Then transfer them to a freezer bag or container for long-term storage. To cook from frozen, air fry them for an extra 5-7 minutes.
Can I make these without an air fryer?
Yes, you can bake them in the oven! Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 15-18 minutes or until golden and crispy.
What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?
If you don’t have ricotta, you can substitute with cottage cheese or even cream cheese for a different texture.
Conclusion
There’s something truly special about Crispy Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones they combine all the flavors and textures you love, from the creamy Alfredo sauce to the crispy, golden crust. Whether you’re cooking for your family on a busy weeknight or looking for an easy yet impressive dish for guests, these calzones will certainly be a hit. The air fryer takes the traditional calzone to the next level, making it easier and quicker to prepare while still delivering that irresistibly crispy texture.
What’s even better is how customizable these calzones can be. You can swap in different fillings like sautéed veggies, different cheeses, or even a variety of sauces, making them perfect for any occasion and catering to different tastes. The best part is the satisfaction that comes from biting into that crispy crust and experiencing the warm, gooey goodness inside.
If you’ve been looking for a fun, creative way to bring something new to the dinner table, this recipe is your answer. It’s not only a crowd-pleaser but also a comforting and filling meal that your loved ones will crave over and over again. So, give these Crispy Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones a try, and don’t forget to share your experience! We’d love to hear how you made them your own. Be sure to explore other mouthwatering recipes on the site and keep the deliciousness coming!
Let us know what you think, and happy cooking
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Crispy Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 2 calzones 1x
Ingredients
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1/2 cup Alfredo sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 store-bought pizza doughs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, Alfredo sauce, mozzarella cheese, ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well, making sure all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
Roll out the pizza doughs on a lightly floured surface, creating two even circles about 8 inches in diameter. If the dough feels sticky, sprinkle a little more flour on the surface to make rolling easier.
Step 3: Assemble the Calzones
Spoon a generous amount of the chicken Alfredo mixture into the center of each dough circle, being careful not to overfill. Leave about an inch of space around the edges to ensure the dough seals properly.
Step 4: Fold and Seal
Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges firmly together, sealing the calzone. You can use a fork to crimp the edges for added decoration and a stronger seal.
Step 5: Brush with Olive Oil
Brush the tops of the calzones with olive oil to help them become golden and crispy during cooking.
Nutrition
- Calories: 400
- Sodium: 650
- Protein: 25