Introduction
Transform leftover chicken and pantry staples into a cheesy, comforting, and utterly delicious Baked Chicken Alfredo Calzone! This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun weekend project, and it’s guaranteed to be a hit with the whole family. Forget takeout – this homemade version is way tastier and easier than you think!
Why This Works
This recipe works because it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover chicken (or rotisserie chicken for extra ease!), and it combines the creamy goodness of Alfredo sauce with the satisfying crunch of a perfectly baked calzone. The flavors are balanced beautifully, and the recipe itself is surprisingly simple to follow, even for less experienced cooks. Plus, it’s incredibly customizable – let your family’s favorite ingredients shine!
Key Ingredients
- 🍕 1 pound pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 🐔 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 🧀 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 🍝 1 ½ cups Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 🌿 ½ cup chopped fresh parsley
- 🧄 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 🥛 ¼ cup milk
Instructions
1️⃣ Prep the Dough: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out the pizza dough into a large rectangle (about 12×16 inches).
2️⃣ Assemble the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the shredded chicken, Alfredo sauce, mozzarella cheese, minced garlic, and parsley. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly distributed.
3️⃣ Create the Calzones: Spread the chicken Alfredo mixture evenly over half of the dough rectangle. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling, pressing firmly along the edges to seal completely. Use a fork to crimp the edges for a pretty finish.
4️⃣ Bake to Perfection: Place the calzone on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5️⃣ Rest and Serve: Let the calzone rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy!
Handy Tips
- For easier handling, lightly flour your rolling pin and work surface to prevent sticking.
- If your Alfredo sauce is a little thick, thin it out with a splash of milk for a smoother consistency.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; give your calzones enough space to bake evenly.
Heat Control
Baking at 400°F (200°C) ensures the crust gets perfectly golden brown and crispy while the filling is heated through and the cheese melts completely. Avoid over-baking, as this can dry out the crust and burn the cheese.
Crunch Factor
The delightful crunch comes predominantly from the baked pizza dough. A well-baked calzone offers a satisfying contrast between the crisp outer crust and the warm, creamy filling inside.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- For a flavor boost, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the chicken Alfredo mixture for a touch of spice.
- Use pre-shredded mozzarella for convenience.
- If you’re short on time, use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking your own.
Storage Tips
Leftover calzones can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Gift Packaging Ideas
This calzone makes a wonderful gift! Cut it into individual slices and arrange them in a pretty bakery box lined with parchment paper. You can also add a small note with reheating instructions.
Flavor Variations
🌟 Spicy Chicken Alfredo Calzone: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the filling.
🌟 Veggie Alfredo Calzone: Add sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the filling.
🌟 Supreme Alfredo Calzone: Include pepperoni, sausage, or ham along with the chicken for a hearty calzone.
🌟 Creamy Pesto Alfredo Calzone: Swap a portion of the Alfredo sauce with pesto for a fresh twist.
Troubleshooting
- Soggy Crust: Ensure the dough is properly sealed and that the filling isn’t too wet. If the crust is too thick, it might not bake through.
- Burnt Crust: Reduce the oven temperature by 25°F (15°C) and monitor the calzone closely.
- Undercooked Filling: Increase the baking time by a few minutes or bake until the filling is heated through.
FAQ
- Can I freeze this calzone? Yes, you can freeze the unbaked calzone before baking. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. When ready to cook, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
- Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely! Experiment with provolone, parmesan, or a blend of your favorite cheeses.
- What if I don’t have fresh parsley? Dried parsley works as well, but use about a third of the amount.
- Can I make this recipe vegetarian? Yes! Simply omit the chicken and add your favorite vegetables.
Conclusion
This Baked Chicken Alfredo Calzone recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! It’s simple to make, delicious to eat, and perfect for sharing with family and friends. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your creations with us! Happy baking!
Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Calzone Fun!
A delicious calzone filled with creamy chicken Alfredo and gooey cheese, perfect for a fun family meal.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup Alfredo sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 package pizza dough
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 190u00b0C (375u00b0F).
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, Alfredo sauce, mozzarella cheese, ricotta cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface into a large circle.
- Cut the dough into 4 equal-sized circles.
- Place a generous amount of the chicken Alfredo mixture on one half of each dough circle, leaving a border around the edge.
- Fold the other half of the dough over the filling and press the edges to seal. Crimp the edges with a fork for a decorative touch.
- Brush the tops of the calzones with the beaten egg to give them a golden color when baked.
- Place the calzones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm.
Tips
- For added flavor, try mixing in some sautu00e9ed spinach or mushrooms into the filling.
- Serve with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.