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Get ready to savor the irresistible combination of creamy Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, and melty mozzarella cheese all wrapped up in a golden, crispy pocket with these Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones! This recipe takes the classic Italian calzone and gives it a modern twist by using an air fryer for a perfectly crisp exterior without the hassle of deep frying. Stuffed with a rich filling of shredded chicken, Alfredo sauce, and Italian seasoning, these calzones are a quick and delicious meal option for busy weeknights, game-day snacks, or a fun family dinner. With just 10 minutes of prep and 10 minutes of cooking, you’ll have a batch of these cheesy, flavorful calzones ready to enjoy in no time. Let’s dive into this comforting recipe that’s sure to become a household favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones are the perfect fusion of creamy, cheesy goodness and a crispy, golden crust. The air fryer makes them lighter than traditional fried calzones while still delivering that satisfying crunch, and the Alfredo filling adds a luxurious twist to the classic pizza pocket. They’re versatile, easy to customize with your favorite ingredients, and quick to prepare, making them ideal for busy days or casual gatherings. Serve them with extra Alfredo or marinara sauce for dipping, and watch them disappear in minutes!

Ingredients (Serves 4)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used to brush the calzones for a crispy, golden finish in the air fryer.
• 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded or diced: Provides a hearty, protein-packed filling. Rotisserie chicken works great for convenience.
• ½ cup Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade): The creamy, garlicky base that makes this filling so indulgent.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Adds a gooey, melty texture to the filling.
• 1 package refrigerated pizza dough (or homemade, about 13-16 ounces): The foundation for the calzone, offering a soft, chewy interior.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Infuses the filling with herbaceous flavor, reminiscent of classic Italian dishes.
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash): Gives the calzones a shiny, golden exterior.
• Optional toppings: Garlic powder, red pepper flakes, or grated Parmesan for extra flavor on the crust.
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a pop of color and freshness.

Homemade Alfredo Sauce (Optional):

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it preheat while you prepare the calzones. Preheating ensures even cooking and a crispy crust. If your air fryer doesn’t require preheating, you can skip this step.
2. Prepare the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the refrigerated pizza dough into a large rectangle, about ¼ inch thick. Use a knife or pizza cutter to divide the dough into 4 equal rectangles or circles, depending on your preference. Each piece should be large enough to hold a generous amount of filling and fold over easily.
3. Mix the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the 1 cup of shredded or diced cooked chicken, ½ cup of Alfredo sauce, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Stir until well mixed, ensuring the chicken is evenly coated with the creamy sauce. If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling.
4. Assemble the Calzones: Spoon the chicken Alfredo filling onto one half of each dough piece, leaving a ½-inch border around the edges to seal. Be generous but avoid overfilling to prevent leakage. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling to create a pocket, pressing the edges together firmly. Use a fork to crimp the edges, sealing the calzone securely and creating a decorative pattern.
5. Add the Finishing Touches: Brush the tops of the calzones with the beaten egg to create a glossy finish. Then, lightly brush with olive oil to enhance crispiness in the air fryer. Sprinkle with optional toppings like garlic powder, red pepper flakes, or grated Parmesan for extra flavor.
6. Air Fry the Calzones: Place the calzones in the air fryer basket in a single layer, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, or until the calzones are golden brown and crispy. Halfway through cooking, flip the calzones to ensure even browning on both sides.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Remove the calzones from the air fryer and let them cool for 2-3 minutes, as the filling will be very hot. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color. Serve warm with extra Alfredo sauce or marinara sauce on the side for dipping.

Prep Time: 10 Minutes | Cook Time: 10 Minutes | Total Time: 20 Minutes

• Calories: Approximately 320 kcal per calzone (varies based on dough and sauce used)
• Servings: 4 calzones, perfect for a small family or a meal for two with leftovers

Serving Suggestions

• Dipping Sauces: Serve with extra Alfredo sauce, marinara, or even a garlic butter dip for a variety of flavors.
• Side Dishes: Pair with a fresh Caesar salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
• Beverages: Enjoy with a glass of chilled white wine like Pinot Grigio or a refreshing iced tea to complement the creamy filling.

Tips for Success

• Chicken Shortcut: Use rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken to save time on prep.
• Homemade Alfredo Sauce: If making your own, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan, sauté 1 minced garlic clove, then add 1 cup of heavy cream and ½ cup of grated Parmesan. Stir until thickened, season with salt and pepper, and let cool slightly before using.
• Add-Ins: Mix in chopped spinach, mushrooms, or crispy bacon bits to the filling for extra flavor and texture.
• Freezing Option: Assemble the calzones, freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, air fry from frozen at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, adding a few extra minutes as needed.
• Storage: Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes to restore crispiness.

Variations to Try

• Spicy Alfredo Calzones: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the filling for a spicy kick.
• Veggie-Packed Option: Include sautéed bell peppers, onions, or broccoli for a more veggie-forward calzone.
• Cheese Lover’s Twist: Swap half the mozzarella for provolone or fontina for a different cheesy profile.

Nutritional Notes

Each calzone provides a good balance of protein from the chicken and calcium from the cheese, but it’s also rich in fats due to the Alfredo sauce and mozzarella. For a lighter version, use a reduced-fat Alfredo sauce or cut back on the cheese. Pairing with a fresh salad can help balance the meal.

A Recipe with a Story

These Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones were inspired by a love for Italian-American classics like chicken Alfredo pasta and traditional calzones, but reimagined for the modern kitchen with the convenience of an air fryer. The idea was to combine the creamy, garlicky flavors of Alfredo with the portable, crispy nature of a calzone, creating a dish that’s both comforting and easy to make. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner solution or a fun twist on pizza night, these calzones bring together the best of both worlds in a single, delicious package.

So, fire up your air fryer, gather your ingredients, and whip up a batch of these Crispy Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Calzones. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy the burst of flavors in every bite! 🍗🧀

Tags

chickenalfredo #airfryerrecipes #calzones #comfortfood #easydinner #cheesyrecipes #italianinspired #quickmeals #familyfavorites

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