Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my latest obsession: chicken alfredo air fryer calzones! These little pockets of joy are not only super convenient to whip up, but they also pack a flavor punch that’s simply irresistible. Imagine biting into a warm, golden calzone filled with creamy Alfredo sauce, tender shredded chicken, and gooey mozzarella cheese – it’s like a hug for your taste buds! I love how the air fryer gives them that perfect crispy exterior while keeping the inside deliciously melty. Plus, they’re perfect for a quick lunch or a fun dinner with friends. Trust me, once you try these calzones, you’ll want to make them again and again!
Ingredients List
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (I love using rotisserie chicken for extra flavor and convenience!)
- 1 cup Alfredo sauce (store-bought works great, but homemade is even better if you have the time!)
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded (the gooeyness factor is key here!)
- 1 cup pizza dough (store-bought or homemade, just make sure it’s rolled out nice and thin)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (this adds a nice depth of flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning (for that classic Italian touch)
- 1 egg, beaten for egg wash (this will give your calzones that beautiful golden finish)
How to Prepare Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones
Alright, let’s dive into the fun part—making these chicken alfredo air fryer calzones! Don’t worry; I’ll walk you through each step so it’s as easy as pie (or should I say calzone?). First things first, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This is a crucial step because it ensures your calzones cook evenly and get that golden-brown crust we all love!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken, 1 cup of Alfredo sauce, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Mix it all together until well combined. It should look creamy and delicious!
- Now, roll out your pizza dough on a floured surface until it’s nice and thin—about 1/4 inch thick. Then, use a round cutter or a glass to cut out circles. Aim for about 5-6 inches in diameter.
- Place a generous spoonful of the chicken mixture on one half of each dough circle. Be careful not to overfill; you want to leave enough edge to seal it up!
- Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Use a fork to crimp the edges, sealing in all that deliciousness. This step is super important to prevent any gooey goodness from leaking out during cooking!
- Brush the tops of your calzones with the beaten egg for that shiny, golden finish. This is where they start to look really appetizing!
- Place the calzones in your air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd them. Cook them for 10-12 minutes, or until they’re beautifully golden brown and crispy. Your kitchen will smell amazing at this point!
And just like that, you’ve made yourself some scrumptious chicken alfredo air fryer calzones! Enjoy every bite, and don’t forget to dip them in extra Alfredo sauce if you’re feeling indulgent!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: These calzones come together in just about 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute cravings.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of creamy Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, and melty mozzarella creates a flavor profile that’s downright addictive!
- Air Fryer Magic: Cooking these in the air fryer means you get that crispy, golden crust without the excess oil. It’s a win-win!
- Customizable: Feel free to switch up the fillings! You can add veggies, different cheeses, or even swap out the chicken for another protein.
- Kid-Friendly: These calzones are a hit with the whole family. They’re fun to eat and perfect for dipping in extra Alfredo sauce!
- Healthier Option: With lower calories and fat compared to traditional fried calzones, you can indulge without the guilt.
Tips for Success
Okay, friends, let’s make sure your chicken alfredo air fryer calzones turn out absolutely perfect! Here are my top tips that I swear by:
- Dough Handling: When rolling out your pizza dough, make sure it’s on a lightly floured surface to prevent sticking. If it’s too sticky, it can be tough to work with. Also, keep the dough covered with a kitchen towel while you’re working to prevent it from drying out!
- Filling Amount: Don’t go overboard with the filling! A generous spoonful is perfect, but if you overfill, it can ooze out during cooking. Trust me, you want to avoid a calzone mess!
- Cooking Time: Every air fryer is a little different, so keep an eye on those calzones as they cook. If they’re not quite golden after 12 minutes, add a couple more minutes, but watch closely to avoid burning!
- Spacing: Make sure to place the calzones in a single layer without crowding them in the air fryer basket. This ensures they cook evenly and get that crispy texture all around.
- Resting Time: After cooking, let your calzones rest for a couple of minutes before diving in. This helps the filling set a bit, making them easier to eat and allowing those flavors to meld!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set for calzone success! Enjoy the process and don’t forget to savor every delicious bite!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional side of these delicious chicken alfredo air fryer calzones! Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary depending on the specific ingredients you use and portion sizes. Here’s a breakdown per calzone:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 20g
These calzones strike a nice balance between indulgence and a healthier option, making them a great choice for a satisfying meal. Enjoy every cheesy bite without the guilt!
FAQ Section
Can I use different proteins in my calzones?
Absolutely! While I love using shredded chicken for these chicken alfredo air fryer calzones, you can easily swap it out for cooked turkey, ham, or even a plant-based protein if you’re looking for a vegetarian option. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning to match your chosen protein!
What if I don’t have an air fryer?
No worries! You can bake these calzones in a conventional oven. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the calzones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until they’re golden brown. They’ll still be delicious, just without that air fryer magic!
Can I make these calzones ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the calzones and fill them, then store them in the fridge for a few hours before cooking. Just make sure to let them come to room temperature before popping them in the air fryer. This way, they’ll cook evenly and taste just as fresh!
How do I know when my calzones are done?
You’ll know they’re ready when they’re beautifully golden brown on the outside and feel firm to the touch. If you’re unsure, you can always cut one open to check that the filling is hot and melty. Trust your instincts—if they look delicious, they probably are!
What should I serve with my calzones?
I recommend serving these chicken alfredo air fryer calzones with a side of extra Alfredo sauce for dipping. A fresh salad or some roasted vegetables also makes a great accompaniment, adding a nice balance to the meal. Enjoy your cozy, comforting dinner!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made a batch of these delightful chicken alfredo air fryer calzones, and now you’re wondering how to store the leftovers? No problem! First off, if you have any calzones left, let them cool completely before storing. This helps prevent sogginess, which we definitely want to avoid!
Once cooled, place the calzones in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to layer them with a bit of parchment paper between each calzone to keep them from sticking together. If you want to keep them for longer, you can freeze them! Wrap each calzone tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll be good for up to 2 months in the freezer.
Now, when it comes to reheating, you’ve got a couple of great options. If you’re reheating from the fridge, the air fryer is still your best friend! Preheat it to 350°F (175°C), then pop in the calzones for about 5-7 minutes, or until they’re heated through and crispy again. If you’re reheating from frozen, you’ll want to cook them a bit longer—about 10-12 minutes should do the trick.
Alternatively, you can also use the oven. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the calzones on a baking sheet. Bake for about 10-15 minutes if they’re from the fridge or 15-20 minutes if they’re frozen. This method will also help maintain that lovely crispy texture!
Whichever method you choose, just be sure to keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking. Enjoy those tasty leftovers just as much as the first time around!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got your delicious chicken alfredo air fryer calzones ready to go, let’s talk about what to serve alongside them for an unforgettable meal! These calzones are so flavorful on their own, but a few tasty sides can really elevate the experience.
- Fresh Salad: A light, crisp salad is a perfect complement. Think mixed greens with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a zesty vinaigrette. The freshness balances the richness of the calzones beautifully!
- Garlic Bread: Who can resist warm, buttery garlic bread? It’s an indulgent side that pairs perfectly with the creamy Alfredo sauce in the calzones. You can even use it for dipping!
- Steamed Vegetables: For a healthier option, serve some steamed broccoli, asparagus, or green beans. They add a pop of color to your plate and provide a nice crunch!
- Extra Alfredo Sauce: Always a winner! Serve a small bowl of warm Alfredo sauce on the side for dipping. It enhances the flavors and gives you that extra creamy goodness!
- Italian Roasted Potatoes: These crispy, herb-seasoned potatoes are a hearty side that pairs well with any Italian dish. They bring a comforting element to your meal!
Mix and match these sides based on your cravings and what you have on hand. Trust me, whatever you choose, it’ll make for a cozy and satisfying meal that everyone will love!
Print
Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones: 6 Irresistible Bites
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 calzones 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
Delicious chicken alfredo calzones made in an air fryer.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup Alfredo sauce
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup pizza dough
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 egg, beaten for egg wash
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix shredded chicken, Alfredo sauce, mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
- Roll out the pizza dough and cut into circles.
- Place a spoonful of the chicken mixture on one half of each dough circle.
- Fold the dough over and seal the edges with a fork.
- Brush the tops with beaten egg.
- Place calzones in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Cook for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
Notes
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket.
- Adjust cooking time based on your air fryer model.
- Serve with extra Alfredo sauce for dipping.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 calzone
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Keywords: chicken alfredo air fryer calzones
