Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- If making from scratch:
- In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
- Add flour, salt, and olive oil. Mix until a soft dough forms.
- Knead for 5–7 minutes, then cover and let rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- 💡 Pro Tip: Press lightly on the dough — if it springs back slowly, it’s ready.
Step 2: Make the Filling
- In a bowl, mix shredded chicken, Alfredo sauce, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic powder, and black pepper until well combined.
- Set aside — the mixture should be creamy but not runny.
- 💡 Pro Tip: If your sauce is thin, chill the filling for 15 minutes so it’s easier to handle.
Step 3: Assemble the Calzones
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Divide the dough into 4 equal portions. Roll each into a circle about 6–7 inches in diameter.
- Spoon about ¼ cup of filling onto one half of each circle, leaving a ½-inch border.
- Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Press edges with your fingers, then crimp with a fork to seal.
- Place calzones on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 4: Brush & Bake
- Mix melted butter with garlic powder and brush over the tops of each calzone. Sprinkle with Parmesan.
- Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until golden brown and puffed.
- Let cool slightly before serving — the filling will be hot and creamy!
Step 5: Serve
- Serve with extra Alfredo sauce for dipping, or pair with a crisp Caesar salad or roasted veggies for a full meal.
Notes
🧊 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Freeze: Freeze uncooked calzones for up to 2 months; bake straight from frozen for an extra 5 minutes. Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes or air fry until crisp.🥄 Variations
Spinach Alfredo Calzones: Add sautéed spinach for extra color and nutrition. Bacon & Chicken: Stir crispy bacon bits into the filling for a smoky twist. Four-Cheese Delight: Use mozzarella, provolone, Parmesan, and ricotta. Garlic Lovers’ Edition: Mix roasted garlic into the sauce for deeper flavor. Buffalo Alfredo Fusion: Add a splash of buffalo sauce for a spicy, creamy kick. Mushroom Alfredo: Add sautéed mushrooms for an earthy touch. Broccoli Chicken Alfredo: Classic combo that’s hearty and wholesome. Pesto Alfredo: Swirl in a spoon of pesto for a fresh, herbal layer. Mini Calzones: Make smaller ones for appetizers or lunchboxes. Vegan Option: Use plant-based dough, vegan Alfredo, and non-dairy cheese.❓ 10 FAQs
Can I use store-bought pizza dough?Yes — it saves time and works perfectly. What type of chicken works best?
Grilled, baked, or rotisserie chicken all work great — just shred or chop finely. Can I make the Alfredo sauce from scratch?
Yes — simmer butter, cream, garlic, and Parmesan until thick and creamy. Can I air fry these?
Definitely — air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway. Can I make them ahead?
Yes — assemble, refrigerate, and bake when ready (within 24 hours). Can I freeze baked calzones?
Yes — cool completely, wrap well, and freeze. Reheat in oven or air fryer. Can I add veggies inside?
Absolutely — broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers taste fantastic. How do I prevent leaks?
Don’t overfill and make sure edges are sealed tightly with a fork. Can I make them smaller?
Yes — divide dough into 8 pieces for snack-sized calzones. What side sauces go well?
Alfredo, marinara, ranch, or garlic butter dip all pair perfectly.
