Introduction: Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones combine the creamy richness of Alfredo sauce with tender chicken, all wrapped up in a crispy, golden pizza dough. This recipe offers a quick and easy way to enjoy the flavors of a classic Italian dish in a portable, handheld form. Perfect for a family dinner, game day snack, or even a quick lunch, these calzones are sure to become a favorite in your household. Best of all, they come together in under 30 minutes, making them an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
Overview of the Recipe: This Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzone recipe features a creamy, cheesy filling of diced chicken breast mixed with Alfredo sauce, mozzarella, Parmesan, and ricotta cheeses, all seasoned with garlic powder and Italian herbs. The filling is encased in a store-bought pizza dough, making it a breeze to prepare. The calzones are then air-fried to perfection, resulting in a crispy exterior with a gooey, flavorful filling. The air fryer not only speeds up the cooking process but also ensures a healthier, less greasy result compared to traditional frying methods.
History and Origin: Calzones originate from Italy, specifically Naples, and are a type of folded pizza that has become popular worldwide. Traditionally, calzones are baked and can be filled with various ingredients, including meats, cheeses, and vegetables. The name “calzone” means “trouser leg” in Italian, which reflects its portable, easy-to-carry nature. Over time, the calzone has evolved, with numerous variations emerging to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. The introduction of the air fryer has further revolutionized this dish, offering a faster and healthier way to enjoy this Italian classic.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb cooked chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup Alfredo sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 package refrigerated pizza dough
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Begin by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Preheating ensures that the calzones cook evenly and achieve a golden, crispy exterior.
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced chicken breast, Alfredo sauce, shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and ricotta cheese.
- Add garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to the mixture. Stir everything together until well combined, ensuring that the chicken is evenly coated with the creamy sauce and cheese.
- Roll Out the Pizza Dough:
- Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out the refrigerated pizza dough.
- Cut the dough into four equal pieces, using a sharp knife or pizza cutter. Each piece will be used to make one calzone.
- Assemble the Calzones:
- Take one piece of dough and spoon a generous amount of the chicken Alfredo mixture onto one half of the dough. Be sure to leave a small border around the edges for sealing.
- Fold the other half of the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape.
- Press the edges together with your fingers to seal the calzone, then use a fork to crimp the edges, ensuring the filling stays inside during cooking.
- Brush with Olive Oil:
- Lightly brush the top of each calzone with olive oil. This step will help the dough achieve a beautiful golden-brown color and add a slight crispiness to the texture.
- Cook in the Air Fryer:
- Place the calzones in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not touching each other to allow for even cooking. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
- Air fry the calzones for 10-12 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the cooking time to prevent burning.
- Cool and Serve:
- Once cooked, carefully remove the calzones from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set slightly, making them easier to handle and enjoy.
Serving: These Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones are best served warm, straight from the air fryer. You can enjoy them as a standalone meal or pair them with a fresh green salad for a more balanced dinner. They also make a great snack or appetizer for parties or gatherings. If desired, serve with extra Alfredo sauce or marinara sauce for dipping.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions:
- Side Dishes: Serve with a simple Caesar salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Dips: Alongside additional Alfredo sauce, you could also offer marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or pesto as dipping options.
- Beverages: Pair these calzones with a refreshing iced tea, lemonade, or sparkling water.
Variations of the Recipe:
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted vegetables for a delicious vegetarian calzone.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the filling for a bit of heat.
- BBQ Chicken Calzone: Replace the Alfredo sauce with BBQ sauce and add some diced red onions for a smoky, tangy twist on this recipe.
- Buffalo Chicken Calzone: Mix the chicken with buffalo sauce instead of Alfredo and add some crumbled blue cheese for a spicy, tangy variation.
Health Benefits Notes:
- Protein-Rich: This recipe is packed with protein from the chicken and cheeses, making it a satisfying and filling meal.
- Calcium: The cheese provides a good amount of calcium, which is essential for bone health.
- Lower Fat Option: To reduce the fat content, you can use low-fat cheeses and opt for whole wheat pizza dough.
FAQs:
- Can I make these calzones ahead of time?
- Yes, you can assemble the calzones ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook. Just make sure to store them in an airtight container to prevent the dough from drying out.
- Can I freeze these calzones?
- Absolutely! After cooking, let the calzones cool completely, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Reheat in the air fryer or oven until warmed through.
- What other fillings can I use?
- You can get creative with the fillings! Try using different types of cheese, adding cooked vegetables, or experimenting with different sauces.
- How do I prevent the calzones from bursting open while cooking?
- Make sure to seal the edges of the dough well by pressing them together and crimping with a fork. Avoid overfilling the calzones to prevent the filling from leaking out.
Conclusion: Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones are a quick, delicious, and versatile dish that can be enjoyed by the whole family. With a crispy exterior and creamy, cheesy filling, these calzones offer a delightful twist on traditional Italian flavors. Whether you’re looking for a convenient weeknight dinner, a tasty snack, or something special for a gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. Plus, with options to customize the filling to your taste, it’s easy to make this dish your own. Enjoy the convenience of the air fryer and the rich, comforting flavors of Chicken Alfredo in one perfect bite!