If you’re craving something indulgent yet surprisingly simple, the Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones Recipe is an absolute game changer. Imagine tender, juicy shredded chicken swimming in creamy Alfredo sauce, all wrapped inside a golden, crispy calzone that’s perfectly baked in your air fryer. This dish combines comfort and convenience in the best way possible, delivering that luscious cheesy goodness with a satisfying crunch that will have you coming back for more. It’s a delightful twist on the classic calzone, perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers when you want to impress without the fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but essential, each contributing to the flavor, texture, and charm of the Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones Recipe. From the creamy Alfredo sauce to the melty mozzarella and fresh spinach, every element plays a vital role.
- Chicken breasts: Use 2-3 boneless, skinless pieces for tender, protein-packed filling.
- Alfredo sauce: Homemade or store-bought, it gives the calzones their creamy, dreamy base.
- Pizza dough: Store-bought dough ensures ease and a perfect sturdy crust for folding.
- Mozzarella cheese: Two cups, shredded, for that ooey-gooey, golden melt inside and on top.
- Fresh spinach (optional): Adds a vibrant green color and a fresh, subtle earthy flavor.
- Garlic powder: For a gentle aromatic boost that complements the Alfredo sauce beautifully.
- Olive oil spray: Helps achieve a crisp, golden crust in the air fryer without added mess.
How to Make Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones Recipe
Step 1: Cook and Shred the Chicken
Start by cooking the chicken breasts in your air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 15 to 20 minutes until the exterior turns a golden brown. This method ensures juicy, flavorful chicken without any added oil. Once cooked, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces to create the perfect texture for your filling.
Step 2: Prepare the Alfredo Sauce
If you’re making Alfredo sauce from scratch, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic to sauté briefly for a fragrant base, then whisk in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until the sauce is ultra smooth and decadently creamy. This fresh sauce will elevate your calzones beyond the store-bought kind.
Step 3: Mix the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with your Alfredo sauce and half of the shredded mozzarella. If you’re adding spinach, fold it in now for a splash of vibrant green and a nutritional boost. This mixture will be rich, cheesy, and ready to stuff into your dough.
Step 4: Shape the Calzones
Lightly flour your surface and roll out the pizza dough into circles around 6 inches wide. Spoon the creamy chicken mixture onto one half of each circle, sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella cheese, then fold the dough over the filling. Seal the edges firmly by pressing with a fork to prevent any filling from escaping during cooking.
Step 5: Air Fry to Golden Perfection
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray each calzone with olive oil spray. This will help achieve a crispy, golden crust that’s not greasy. Air fry for 10 to 12 minutes, keeping an eye on them as every air fryer varies. You’ll know they’re done when they’re puffed up and have a beautiful golden brown color.
How to Serve Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones Recipe
Garnishes
Keep it simple with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil to add a pop of color and fresh aroma. A light dusting of Parmesan cheese on top after cooking works beautifully for extra cheesiness. For a little zing, a drizzle of garlic-infused olive oil makes a fantastic finishing touch.
Side Dishes
Complement your Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones Recipe with crisp garden salad or roasted vegetables for balance. Garlic bread sticks or a tangy marinara dipping sauce make classic partners, bringing out the richness of the Alfredo filling and adding layers of flavor to your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond the plate! Serve your calzones in rustic wooden boards or colorful platters for a cozy feel that invites sharing. Slice them in half to show off the creamy filling inside. For parties, offer bite-sized calzone pockets, perfect finger food that everyone will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let leftover calzones cool completely before storing. Wrap each calzone individually in plastic wrap or foil, then place in an airtight container. Refrigerated properly, they will stay delicious for up to 3 days, making for an easy and tasty next-day meal.
Freezing
This Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones Recipe freezes beautifully. Prepare and assemble your calzones but do not cook them. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before air frying to crisp up the crust and warm the filling evenly.
Reheating
Reheat your calzones in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 to 7 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid the microwave if you want to retain that irresistible crunch and melty filling sensation.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken works great and saves time—just be sure to shred it finely and mix well with the Alfredo sauce for that perfect filling.
Is it necessary to use fresh spinach?
Fresh spinach adds a lovely flavor and color, but if you prefer, you can omit it or substitute with kale or arugula. Just make sure to chop it finely to avoid overpowering the calzone.
Can I make these calzones gluten-free?
Yes! Use a gluten-free pizza dough available at many stores or homemade if you have your own recipe. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
What’s the best way to prevent the calzones from leaking filling during air frying?
Make sure to seal the edges tightly with a fork and avoid overfilling. Also, folding gently but firmly creates a sealed pocket that locks the delicious filling inside.
Can I add other cheeses to the filling?
Definitely! While mozzarella melts beautifully, mixing in fontina, provolone, or even a touch of Parmesan adds nuanced flavor and richness to your calzones.
Final Thoughts
The Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that combines creamy, cheesy, and crispy elements in one satisfying bite. Whether you’re making a quick dinner or feeding a small gathering, these calzones are bound to impress and delight. Give this recipe a try—you’ll love how easy it is and how incredibly tasty every single calzone turns out!
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Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
These Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones are a delicious twist on classic Italian flavors, combining tender air-fried chicken, creamy Alfredo sauce, and melty mozzarella cheese all wrapped in crispy, golden pizza dough. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal, this recipe is easy to prepare with an air fryer, making it both convenient and flavorful.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2–3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Sauce and Filling
- 1 cup homemade or store-bought Alfredo sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- 1 cup fresh spinach (optional)
Dough and Finishing
- 1 pound pizza dough (store-bought)
- Olive oil spray
Instructions
- Cook the chicken: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the air fryer basket and cook for 15-20 minutes until they are golden brown and cooked through. Once done, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces using two forks.
- Prepare Alfredo sauce (if homemade): In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Whisk in heavy cream followed by grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Set aside to cool slightly. Alternatively, use store-bought Alfredo sauce.
- Mix the filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, Alfredo sauce, and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. If using, gently fold in fresh spinach leaves for added freshness and nutrition.
- Prepare the dough: On a floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into circles approximately 6 inches in diameter.
- Assemble the calzones: Spoon a generous portion of the chicken Alfredo mixture onto one half of each dough circle. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the filling. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling and press the edges together firmly. Seal the edges by pressing down with a fork to prevent filling leakage during cooking.
- Air fry the calzones: Lightly spray each calzone with olive oil spray. Place them in the air fryer basket (arranging in a single layer without overcrowding). Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until the calzones turn golden brown and crisp.
Notes
- Ensure chicken is cooked through before shredding to avoid undercooked meat.
- If using store-bought Alfredo sauce, you can enhance the flavor by adding a pinch of garlic powder and freshly grated Parmesan.
- Make sure to seal the calzone edges properly to prevent the filling from leaking during cooking.
- Cooking times may vary depending on your air fryer model; check for doneness and adjust time as needed.
- For a vegetarian option, omit the chicken and add extra spinach or mushrooms.
