Easy Air Fryer Chicken Alfredo Calzones Recipe

If you’re craving something both crispy and comforting, look no further than these Air Fryer Chicken Alfredo Calzones. They bring together tender chicken, rich Alfredo sauce, and gooey cheese all sealed in a golden, crispy crust. Made quickly and effortlessly in your air fryer, these pockets of flavor make the perfect meal for busy nights or anytime you want a delicious, cheesy treat without the fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Convenient: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy schedules or last-minute cravings.
• Flavorful and Rich: Combines creamy Alfredo sauce with savory chicken and melted cheese for a mouthwatering bite.
• Healthier Crispy Alternative: Air frying gives you that golden crunch with less oil, making it a lighter indulgence.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love these cheesy calzones, making mealtime stress-free.
• Versatile and Customizable: Easy to swap ingredients or add extras based on your own favorite flavors.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this recipe is simple but essential, adding to the perfect balance of creaminess, crunch, and flavor. From the tender chicken to the creamy Alfredo sauce and stretchy mozzarella, every component plays an important role.

• Pre-cooked Chicken: Use shredded or diced rotisserie chicken for convenience and juicy flavor.
• Alfredo Sauce: Creamy and rich, it binds the filling and adds that iconic Italian touch.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Provides gooey, melty goodness that holds the calzone together.
• Pizza Dough: Store-bought or homemade, it becomes the crispy, golden shell.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty kick to the filling and topping.
• Garlic Powder and Italian Seasoning: For that extra boost of warm, herb-infused flavor.
• Olive Oil: A light brush before air frying to get the perfect golden crust.

Variations for Air Fryer Chicken Alfredo Calzones

One of the best parts of this recipe is how easy it is to customize. Whether you want to accommodate dietary needs or mix up the flavors, here are some tasty ideas to make it yours.

• Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and artichoke hearts for a veggie-packed filling.
• Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños into the Alfredo mixture for a little heat.
• Different Cheeses: Swap mozzarella with provolone, fontina, or even a bit of sharp cheddar for unique cheese blends.
• Gluten-Free Dough: Use your favorite gluten-free pizza crust to keep it friendly for gluten-sensitive diets.
• Herb-Infused Alfredo: Stir in fresh basil or parsley into the sauce for an herby, bright flavor.

How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Alfredo Calzones

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

In a bowl, combine shredded cooked chicken with creamy Alfredo sauce, shredded mozzarella, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Mix gently until everything is evenly coated for a rich, flavorful filling.

Step 2: Roll Out the Dough

Divide your pizza dough into equal portions, then roll each piece into a 6-7 inch circle on a lightly floured surface, creating the perfect base for stuffing.

Step 3: Assemble the Calzones

Spoon a generous amount of the chicken Alfredo filling onto one half of each dough circle, leaving a small border around the edges for sealing. Fold the dough over the filling, then pinch the edges tightly to seal in all the goodness.

Step 4: Brush with Olive Oil and Season

Lightly brush each calzone with olive oil and sprinkle a little grated Parmesan on top. This step ensures a golden, crispy crust once air fried.

Step 5: Air Fry to Perfection

Place the calzones in the air fryer basket in a single layer and cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes, until they are puffed, golden, and crispy on the outside and heated through inside.

Pro Tips for Making Air Fryer Chicken Alfredo Calzones

• Even Filling: Avoid overfilling the calzones to prevent the dough from bursting during cooking.
• Preheat the Air Fryer: Always preheat for optimal crispiness and even cooking.
• Use Parchment Paper: Place a small square under each calzone to prevent sticking without blocking air flow.
• Check Early: Start checking for doneness at 10 minutes to avoid burning and adjust time as needed depending on your air fryer model.
• Rest Before Serving: Let calzones cool for a few minutes to let the cheese set for a cleaner slice and fewer sauces oozing out.

How to Serve Air Fryer Chicken Alfredo Calzones

Garnishes

Top with fresh chopped parsley or basil and a light dusting of Parmesan cheese to add brightness and a pop of color that complements the creamy, cheesy interior.

Side Dishes

Serve with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal that cuts through the richness of the calzones perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut into wedges and arrange on a wooden board with small bowls of marinara or extra Alfredo sauce for dipping, making it a fun and shareable meal for any occasion.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover calzones in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, preserving their flavor and texture for quick meals later.

Freezing

Wrap cooled calzones individually in plastic wrap followed by foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat calzones in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy on the outside to bring life back to the crust and filling.

FAQs

Can I make Air Fryer Chicken Alfredo Calzones ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the calzones and refrigerate them for a few hours before air frying, or freeze them for longer storage and cook when you’re ready.

What type of dough works best for these calzones?

Store-bought pizza dough works wonderfully, but homemade dough gives an extra touch of freshness and chew. Gluten-free dough can also be used for special diets.

Can I use leftover chicken instead of cooking fresh?

Yes! Using leftover chicken is a perfect way to reduce prep time and add flavor depth, especially if it’s seasoned well.

Is Alfredo sauce necessary, or can I substitute it?

The Alfredo sauce provides the creamy signature flavor, but you can substitute with cream cheese mixed with garlic and Parmesan or even a béchamel sauce for a twist.

How do I prevent the calzones from getting soggy?

Make sure not to overfill and preheat your air fryer. Also, brushing the dough with olive oil helps create a crispy barrier to keep sogginess at bay.

Final Thoughts

These Air Fryer Chicken Alfredo Calzones truly bring together the best of comfort food with a modern twist on cooking method. They are easy, fast, and incredibly satisfying packed with creamy, cheesy, and crispy goodness. Give this recipe a try and elevate your weeknight dinners with a warm hug in a golden pocket of flavor that everyone will love.

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