Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones

These Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones are a perfect blend of creamy goodness and crispy comfort. Ideal for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings, these calzones are easy to prepare and bursting with flavor. The combination of tender chicken, rich Alfredo sauce, and melted cheese creates a dish that is sure to please everyone. Plus, cooking them in an air fryer makes them healthier without sacrificing taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 10 minutes of prep time, you can have these calzones ready in no time.
• Flavorful Filling: The creamy Alfredo sauce pairs perfectly with shredded chicken and cheese for a deliciously rich taste.
• Versatile Dish: Great as a main course or snack, these calzones can be served at parties or casual dinners.
• Crispy Texture: Air frying gives these calzones a satisfying crunch on the outside while keeping the inside gooey and warm.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or spices to make this dish your own.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather the necessary tools. Having everything on hand will make your experience smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Air fryer
• Rolling pin
• Mixing bowl
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Air fryer: This tool allows for quick cooking while achieving that desired crispy texture without excess oil.
• Rolling pin: Essential for evenly rolling out the pizza dough, ensuring uniform calzone sizes for even cooking.

Ingredients

These Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones are a delightful and easy-to-make dish, packed with creamy Alfredo sauce, shredded chicken, and melted cheese.

For the Calzones

• 1 package pizza dough
• 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
• 1/2 cup Alfredo sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup cooked spinach, drained
• 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
• Olive oil for brushing

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface. Cut it into 4 equal pieces to create individual calzones.

Step 2: Assemble the Calzones

Spread a tablespoon of Alfredo sauce onto each piece of dough. Add shredded chicken, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and spinach on top. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning.

Step 3: Seal the Calzones

Fold each piece of dough over to create a pocket. Pinch the edges firmly to seal them closed. Brush the tops lightly with olive oil for extra crispness.

Step 4: Preheat Your Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is perfect for achieving golden brown calzones.

Step 5: Cook the Calzones

Place the assembled calzones in the air fryer basket. Cook them for about 10-12 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Allow the calzones to cool slightly before serving. They pair wonderfully with extra Alfredo sauce for dipping!

How to Serve Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones

Serving Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones is all about enhancing their creamy, savory goodness. You can enjoy them as a hearty meal or as part of a fun gathering. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dish.

Pair with Dipping Sauces

• Extra Alfredo Sauce: Serve with more Alfredo sauce for dipping to amplify the creamy flavor.
• Marinara Sauce: A tangy marinara complements the rich calzones beautifully.

Add a Fresh Salad

• Caesar Salad: The crunchy romaine and creamy dressing balance the richness of the calzones.
• Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil add a refreshing touch.

Create a Platter

• Mixed Antipasto Platter: Include olives, cured meats, and cheeses for an Italian-inspired spread.
• Vegetable Platter: Fresh veggies with hummus or ranch dip provide a crunchy contrast.

How to Perfect Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones

Perfecting your Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones is simple with the right tips. These strategies will help you achieve golden, crispy calzones every time.

• Bold Dough Rolling: Roll out the pizza dough evenly to ensure consistent cooking throughout.
• Bold Filling Distribution: Distribute fillings evenly on each piece of dough for balanced flavors in every bite.
• Bold Sealing Technique: Pinch the edges firmly to prevent any filling from leaking during cooking.
• Bold Preheating Importance: Always preheat your air fryer for even cooking and crispiness.
• Bold Cooking Time Awareness: Keep an eye on the calzones; they cook quickly and can burn if left too long.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones

Choosing the right side dishes can enhance your meal experience with Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones. Here are some excellent options that pair well.

1. Garlic Bread: This classic pairs perfectly with creamy dishes, offering a buttery garlic flavor.
2. Steamed Broccoli: A nutritious side that adds color and balances richness with its mild taste.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned and roasted veggies provide a smoky depth that complements the calzones.
4. French Fries: Crispy fries add crunch and are always a favorite among diners.
5. Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges make for a hearty side that everyone loves.
6. Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw adds crunch and acidity to cut through the richness of the calzones.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones can be a breeze, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using too much filling: Overstuffing your calzones can lead to spillage during cooking. Keep the filling to a moderate amount to ensure they seal properly.
• Not preheating the air fryer: Skipping the preheating step can result in uneven cooking. Always preheat your air fryer for best results.
• Ignoring dough thickness: If the dough is rolled out too thick, the calzones may not cook through. Aim for a uniform thickness of about 1/4 inch.
• Forgetting to seal edges properly: If you don’t pinch the edges well, the filling might leak out while cooking. Make sure to press down firmly along the edges.
• Using cold ingredients: Cold chicken or sauce can affect how well everything mixes and cooks. Allow your ingredients to come to room temperature before assembling.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Let calzones cool completely before placing them in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones

• Wrap each calzone tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes; however, this may make them soft rather than crispy.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones?

Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones are savory pastries filled with shredded chicken, creamy Alfredo sauce, cheese, and spinach, all cooked in an air fryer for a crispy finish.

Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce?

Yes, using store-bought Alfredo sauce is perfectly fine! It saves time while still delivering great flavor.

How can I customize my Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones?

You can add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms or spice it up with jalapeños. Feel free to mix different cheeses as well!

What dipping sauces pair well with calzones?

You can serve these calzones with extra Alfredo sauce, marinara sauce, or even a spicy ranch dressing for added flavor.

Final Thoughts

These Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones are not only quick and easy to prepare but also versatile enough to suit any palate. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner or a fun gathering, they are sure to impress. Don’t hesitate to customize your filling options based on what you have at home! Enjoy this delicious recipe today!