Oh my goodness, if you haven’t tried a **buffalo chicken calzone**, you’re seriously missing out! There’s just something magical about biting into that warm, golden crust and finding spicy, tender chicken and gooey cheese waiting inside. It’s like a party for your taste buds! I first discovered this recipe at a friend’s game night, and I couldn’t believe how quickly they disappeared. Everyone was raving about them, and I knew I had to recreate that magic in my own kitchen. Trust me, once you make these, they’ll become a go-to favorite for you too. Perfect for game day, dinner, or even just a cozy night in, these calzones are a crowd-pleaser that you’ll want to whip up again and again!
Ingredients for Buffalo Chicken Calzone Recipe
Gather these simple ingredients to whip up your delicious buffalo chicken calzones! They’re super easy to find, and I promise, the combination is out of this world!
- 1 lb cooked chicken, shredded: I usually use rotisserie chicken for convenience, but any cooked chicken works great!
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce: Adjust this based on your heat preference—more sauce for spice lovers, less for a milder kick!
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: This adds that gooey, melty goodness we all crave.
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese: This is optional, but it makes the filling creamy and rich—totally worth it!
- 1 package pizza dough: You can buy pre-made dough or make your own if you’re feeling adventurous. Just make sure it’s thawed!
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash): This gives the calzones that beautiful golden color when baked.
That’s it! With these ingredients, you’re just a few steps away from making something absolutely scrumptious!
How to Prepare Buffalo Chicken Calzone Recipe
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making those delicious buffalo chicken calzones! Don’t worry, I’ll guide you through each step, and before you know it, you’ll have these beauties in the oven!
Preheat the Oven
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Preheating is super important because it ensures that your calzones bake evenly and get that gorgeous golden brown color. So, go ahead and set that temperature while you prepare the filling!
Mix Chicken and Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine your shredded chicken with the buffalo sauce. Make sure to mix it well so that every piece of chicken is coated in that spicy goodness. I usually use my hands for this—it’s messy but effective! And believe me, the smell is irresistible!
Prepare the Dough
Next up, roll out your pizza dough on a lightly floured surface. You want it to be about ¼ inch thick—thinner than that, and it might tear, thicker and it’ll take longer to bake. Once it’s rolled out, use a round cutter or a bowl to cut out circles about 6 inches in diameter.
Assemble the Calzones
Now, let’s fill those dough circles! Take a spoonful of the buffalo chicken mixture and place it on one half of each dough circle. Don’t overfill, or you’ll have a messy explosion in the oven! Sprinkle that gooey mozzarella and ricotta on top of the chicken, then fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together to seal them, and for a little extra security, use a fork to crimp the edges. This is where the fun happens—get creative with your sealing technique!
Bake the Calzones
Now, it’s time to bake! Place your assembled calzones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush the tops with that beaten egg. This will give them that stunning golden hue. Bake them in your preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until they’re nice and golden brown. The aroma will fill your kitchen, and you’ll know they’re almost ready! To check if they’re done, just look for that beautiful color and a slight puffiness. Trust me, you won’t be able to resist diving into one right away!
Nutritional Information for Buffalo Chicken Calzone Recipe
Let’s talk nutrition! I always like to know what I’m putting into my body, especially when it comes to these delicious buffalo chicken calzones. Here’s a typical breakdown for one calzone:
- Calories: 400
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 25g
These calzones are not just tasty, but they also pack a good amount of protein thanks to the chicken and cheese. So, enjoy them guilt-free at your next meal! Just remember, moderation is key, especially if you’re indulging in that spicy buffalo sauce! Yum!
Tips for Success with Buffalo Chicken Calzone Recipe
Alright, let’s make sure you nail these buffalo chicken calzones! I’ve got some pro tips that will elevate your calzone game and ensure you impress everyone at the dinner table!
- Spice it Up: If you love heat, don’t hesitate to add a little cayenne pepper or extra buffalo sauce to the chicken mixture. But if you want to tone it down, try mixing in some cream cheese to balance that spiciness—it’s a game changer!
- Don’t Skip the Egg Wash: Brushing the tops with beaten egg is essential for that golden, glossy finish. It makes a big difference in presentation, and who doesn’t love a beautiful calzone?
- Experiment with Cheese: While mozzarella is a classic choice, you can mix in other cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for an extra kick. Just make sure to keep the overall cheese amount balanced so the calzones don’t get too soggy.
- Let Them Rest: After baking, let the calzones rest for a few minutes before cutting into them. This helps the filling set a bit and prevents a cheesy explosion when you take that first bite!
- Serve with Dipping Sauces: Don’t forget the dipping sauces! Ranch or blue cheese dressing pairs perfectly with these calzones. You can even make a spicy ranch by mixing ranch dressing with a splash of buffalo sauce for an extra zing!
- Make Ahead: These calzones can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the fridge for a day or two. Just pop them in the oven when you’re ready to bake! You can also freeze them before baking—just thaw and bake as directed when you’re ready for a delicious meal.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re set to create the most amazing buffalo chicken calzones. Have fun with it, and remember that cooking is all about experimenting and finding what you love the most!
Variations on Buffalo Chicken Calzone Recipe
Ready to mix things up a bit? The beauty of buffalo chicken calzones is that they’re super versatile! Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, you can play around with different fillings and flavors to keep things exciting. Here are some of my favorite variations to inspire your culinary creativity:
- BBQ Chicken Calzone: Swap out the buffalo sauce for your favorite BBQ sauce. Mix it with shredded chicken and add some cheddar cheese for a smoky twist. Trust me, this one is a hit at summer gatherings!
- Vegetarian Option: For a meat-free version, use sautéed veggies like bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms. Toss them in buffalo sauce and fill the calzones with a mix of ricotta and mozzarella for a hearty, flavorful treat!
- Buffalo Chicken and Bacon: Because everything’s better with bacon, right? Add cooked, crumbled bacon to your buffalo chicken mixture for an extra layer of flavor that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!
- Spicy Italian Calzone: Mix in some Italian sausage with your buffalo chicken for a spicy kick. You could also add some sliced pepperoni for an extra savory bite. Just make sure to adjust the buffalo sauce to balance the flavors!
- Cheesy Spinach and Artichoke: Combine cooked spinach and chopped artichokes with cream cheese, mozzarella, and a hint of garlic powder for a creamy filling that’s oh-so-delicious. It’s a fun twist on the traditional calzone!
- Buffalo Chicken Pizza Calzone: If you’re a pizza lover, consider adding pizza sauce, pepperoni, or even some olives to your buffalo chicken filling. You’ll get the best of both worlds with this tasty fusion!
The possibilities are endless! So don’t be afraid to experiment and find your favorite flavor combinations. That’s the joy of cooking—making it your own and having fun in the kitchen!
Serving Suggestions for Buffalo Chicken Calzone Recipe
Now that you’ve got those scrumptious buffalo chicken calzones ready to go, let’s talk about how to elevate your meal even further! The right sides and dips can really enhance your dining experience and complement those spicy, cheesy delights. Here are some of my favorite serving suggestions:
- Classic Dipping Sauces: You can’t go wrong with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing! They provide a cool, creamy contrast to the heat of the calzones and are perfect for dunking. If you want to jazz it up, mix a little buffalo sauce into your ranch for a spicy twist!
- Fresh Veggie Platter: Serve a colorful platter of fresh veggies like carrot sticks, celery, and bell peppers alongside the calzones. They add a nice crunch and are a great way to balance out the richness of the filling. Plus, they pair perfectly with your dipping sauces!
- Side Salad: A light, refreshing salad is a great choice to serve with your calzones. Toss together some mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a simple vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad complements the hearty calzones beautifully!
- Sweet Potato Fries: For a fun twist, try serving your calzones with crispy sweet potato fries. Their natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with the spiciness of the buffalo chicken. You can even sprinkle them with a bit of sea salt or cayenne for an extra kick!
- Garlic Breadsticks: If you’re really in the mood for comfort food, serve your calzones with warm garlic breadsticks. The buttery, garlicky flavors are a delicious addition, and who doesn’t love dipping bread into sauce?
- Coleslaw: A tangy, crunchy coleslaw can also make an excellent side. It’s refreshing and adds a nice texture contrast to the calzones. Plus, the acidity in the slaw helps cut through the richness of the cheese and chicken!
With these serving ideas, you’ll create a complete meal that’s not only satisfying but also a feast for the eyes! So gather your friends and family, and get ready for an unforgettable dining experience with these buffalo chicken calzones at the center of it all!
FAQ About Buffalo Chicken Calzone Recipe
Got questions about making these delicious buffalo chicken calzones? You’re not alone! I’ve gathered some of the most common queries to help you out. Let’s dive in!
Can I use raw chicken instead of cooked?
Nope! You’ll want to use cooked chicken for this recipe. If you’re starting with raw chicken, you’ll need to cook it first, then shred it before mixing with the buffalo sauce. It’s just easier and ensures everything cooks evenly!
How can I make these calzones ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the calzones ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days before baking. Just make sure to cover them tightly with plastic wrap. You can also freeze them before baking and pop them in the oven straight from the freezer—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time!
What if I don’t have pizza dough?
No worries! You can use store-bought puff pastry or even crescent roll dough as an alternative. Just be mindful that the texture will be a bit different, but still delicious!
Can I make these calzones gluten-free?
Yes! Just use gluten-free pizza dough, which is widely available at grocery stores. It’s a great way to enjoy these calzones without worrying about gluten!
How do I know when they’re done baking?
Look for that beautiful golden-brown color! They should be puffed up slightly and have a nice crispy exterior. If you want to be extra sure, you can use a meat thermometer—the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
What can I do with leftover calzones?
If you have leftovers (which is rare because these are so good!), you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or an air fryer to get that crispy texture back. Microwaving is fine, but they won’t be as crispy!
Can I add other ingredients to the filling?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative! You can add things like diced jalapeños for extra heat, sautéed onions, or even some black beans for a fun twist. Just keep the overall balance in mind!
Do I need to let the calzones cool before serving?
It’s a good idea to let them rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps the filling set a bit and keeps you from burning your mouth on that deliciously hot cheese! Plus, it makes for easier slicing!
What’s the best way to serve these calzones?
Pair them with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping, and maybe toss in a fresh salad or some veggie sticks on the side. It’s all about balance, right? Enjoy every bite!
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Buffalo Chicken Calzone Recipe: 5 Ways to Wow Your Guests
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 calzones 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious buffalo chicken calzone recipe that combines spicy chicken with cheese in a golden crust.
Ingredients
- 1 lb cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 package pizza dough
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F.
- In a bowl, mix shredded chicken with buffalo sauce.
- Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface.
- Cut the dough into circles.
- Place a spoonful of the chicken mixture on one half of each dough circle.
- Add mozzarella and ricotta cheese on top of the chicken.
- Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape.
- Seal the edges with a fork.
- Brush the tops with beaten egg.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
Notes
- Adjust the spice level by varying the amount of buffalo sauce.
- Serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
- Can be made ahead and frozen before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 calzone
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: buffalo chicken calzone recipe
