Chicken Alfredo Airfryer Calzones

These chicken Alfredo air fryer calzones offer a perfect solution for busy evenings when you want a comforting meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. The combination of tender chicken mixed with creamy Alfredo sauce and melted mozzarella cheese wrapped in crispy pizza dough brings all the familiar Italian flavors into a convenient handheld pocket. They cook quickly in the air fryer, making them an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

I first tried this recipe on a hectic night when unexpected guests arrived and barely had time to prepare. The quick cleanup and impressive results won everyone over instantly. Now it’s a Friday night tradition in my house that everyone eagerly anticipates.

Ingredients

• Cooked shredded chicken: choose leftover roasted or rotisserie chicken for juicy, flavorful meat that saves time
• Alfredo sauce: creamy texture is key here, homemade is wonderful but a good quality store bought sauce works well too
• Whole milk mozzarella cheese: shredded fresh from blocks to achieve that ideal gooey melt and satisfying cheese pull
• Garlic powder: evenly infuses garlic flavor without any harshness
• Italian seasoning: a blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme adds authentic Italian aroma and depth
• Extra virgin olive oil: brushed on top to promote golden browning and add a subtle Mediterranean note
• Refrigerated pizza dough: pick dough that is smooth and unbroken for easier rolling and shaping
• Fresh egg: beaten to brush on calzone tops creating a beautiful glossy, golden finish
• Salt and pepper: essential seasonings to balance and enhance every flavor

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics and Prepare Filling:

In a bowl, combine shredded chicken with Alfredo sauce, shredded mozzarella, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure every bite is flavorful and the filling is evenly distributed. This mixture forms the rich, creamy center of your calzones.

Roll and Cut the Dough:

Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out the pizza dough into a rectangle about one quarter inch thick. Cut the dough into four equal squares so each calzone cooks evenly and fits comfortably in your air fryer basket.

Assemble the Calzones:

Spoon approximately one third cup of the chicken Alfredo filling into the center of each dough square. Be careful to keep the filling away from the edges to make sealing easier and avoid leaks.

Seal the Edges:

Fold each dough square over the filling to create a triangle or rectangular pocket. Press edges firmly with your fingers, then crimp with a fork to ensure they are sealed tightly. This step is crucial to keep all the cheesy goodness inside.

Brush with Oil and Egg Wash:

Use a pastry brush to lightly coat the tops of each calzone with extra virgin olive oil. Follow by brushing with beaten egg to achieve a glossy, beautifully browned finish after air frying.

Preheat Air Fryer and Arrange Calzones:

Set your air fryer to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and let it preheat fully to ensure even cooking and perfect crispiness. Place the calzones in the basket with enough space between them so hot air can circulate properly. Cook in batches if your air fryer is small.

Cook Until Golden:

Air fry for about ten to twelve minutes. Look for a deep golden brown color and listen for the delightful popping and steaming sounds indicating the cheese inside is bubbling and the dough is cooked through.

Rest and Serve:

Remove calzones carefully and let them rest for one minute. This brief pause allows the molten filling to set slightly, making them safer and easier to enjoy. Serve warm.

These calzones have a special place in my kitchen because they transformed unexpected leftover chicken into a sought-after meal that brings everyone to the table. Watching my family’s smiles grow as they bite into the crispy shell and gooey filling never fails to warm my heart.

Storage Tips

Store any leftover calzones in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to bring back that irresistible crispiness. You can also assemble and freeze calzones before cooking and cook from frozen in the air fryer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have Alfredo sauce, a cream cheese and milk blend with garlic powder works as a creamy alternative. Shredded provolone or a parmesan mozzarella mix can replace straight mozzarella for a sharper flavor. Fresh spinach or sautéed mushrooms added to the filling are wonderful ways to sneak in extra veggies and boost the flavor.

Serving Suggestions

These calzones pair beautifully with a simple side salad like Caesar or arugula dressed with lemon and olive oil. Marinara sauce on the side makes a fun dipping option giving you that classic pizza parlor experience. Cut into smaller pieces, they make excellent appetizers for parties or game day snacks.

These air fryer chicken Alfredo calzones are a quick, family friendly dinner that turns leftovers into something special. Serve warm with a dipping sauce for the best experience.

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I use homemade pizza dough?

Yes, homemade dough works well. Roll to about ¼ inch thickness and cut into equal squares for even cooking.

→ What if I don't have an air fryer?

Bake the calzones in a 400°F oven for 15-18 minutes on a parchment-lined sheet until golden and crisp.

→ How do I prevent the filling from leaking?

Don't overfill the dough squares and seal the edges tightly, using a fork to crimp the borders for a secure seal.

→ Can these be frozen for later use?

Yes, assemble and freeze unbaked calzones for up to 3 months. Air fry directly from frozen, adding 2-3 minutes to cooking time.

→ What pairs well with these calzones?

Serve with marinara sauce for dipping, a crisp salad, or enjoy on their own as a satisfying meal.