Description
Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones
These cheesy calzones are filled with creamy Alfredo chicken and mozzarella—perfect for sharing!
Ingredients:
1 lb pizza dough
1 cup cooked chicken (chopped)
½ cup Alfredo sauce
1 ½ cups mozzarella cheese
1 tsp black pepper
Preparation:
Divide pizza dough, roll out, and flatten.
Combine chicken, Alfredo sauce, mozzarella, and pepper.
Fill dough, seal edges, and pierce tops for venting.
Cook in the air fryer at 375°F for 12 minutes.
#MozzarellaMelts
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect calzones every time. First, ensure your pizza dough is at room temperature for easy handling. On a lightly floured surface, divide the 1 lb dough into four equal portions. Using a rolling pin, roll each portion into a 6-7 inch circle, about 1/4 inch thick. In a mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the chopped cooked chicken, Alfredo sauce, mozzarella cheese, and black pepper. Spoon an equal amount of the filling onto one half of each dough circle, leaving a 1-inch border. Brush the edges lightly with water, then fold the empty dough half over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Crimp the edges firmly with a fork to seal. Use a sharp knife to make 2-3 small slits on the top of each calzone to allow steam to escape during cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these calzones hot from the air fryer for the best experience. A side of warm marinara or extra Alfredo sauce for dipping is highly recommended. For a complete meal, pair with a crisp green salad tossed in a light Italian vinaigrette or a bowl of roasted vegetable soup. They also make excellent party appetizers when cut into smaller wedges after a brief cooling period.
How-to Summary
To summarize: prepare dough circles, mix chicken and Alfredo filling, fill and seal the dough, vent the tops, and air fry at 375°F for 10-12 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use raw chicken in the filling? No, the chicken must be fully cooked and chopped before mixing with the other ingredients. The air fryer cook time is not long enough to safely cook raw poultry.
Can I prepare these calzones ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the calzones, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze for 30 minutes. Then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen, adding 3-5 extra minutes to the air fry time.
My calzone leaked cheese. What happened? This is usually due to overfilling or not sealing the edges tightly enough. Ensure you leave a sufficient border and press the edges firmly with a fork.
Can I use a different cheese? Absolutely. A blend of mozzarella and parmesan works wonderfully. For a stronger flavor, try adding a bit of provolone or fontina.
Why do I need to make slits in the dough? The slits are crucial vents that allow steam to escape during cooking. Without them, pressure can build up and cause the calzone to burst open.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls for the best results: Do not overfill the dough, as it will be difficult to seal and likely leak. Ensure the edges are sealed completely to prevent filling from spilling out. Do not skip the step of preheating your air fryer, as this helps achieve a crispy crust. Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket; cook in batches if necessary to ensure proper air circulation and even cooking.
Conclusion
These Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones are a fantastic fusion of convenience and comfort food. They transform simple ingredients into a delicious, shareable meal with minimal cleanup. The air fryer delivers a beautifully golden and crispy exterior that perfectly complements the rich, creamy interior. This recipe is a versatile base—feel free to experiment with different fillings like spinach, mushrooms, or pepperoni. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for busy weeknights or casual entertaining.
