Crispy Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Calzones

If you love creamy, cheesy comfort food wrapped in a golden, crispy crust—you’re in for a treat. These Crispy Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Calzones bring together everything we crave in a hearty, homemade dish: tender shredded chicken, rich Alfredo sauce, gooey mozzarella, and a buttery crust that crackles with every bite.

I still remember the first time I made these calzones on a cozy Sunday afternoon—it was one of those moments where the kitchen smelled like an Italian bistro, and everyone kept peeking in, wondering when dinner would be ready. The result? Clean plates and requests for seconds.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen, this recipe delivers on flavor, ease, and versatility. You can prep them ahead, swap out ingredients based on what you have, and even freeze extras for a no-fuss dinner later. These calzones aren’t just a recipe—they’re a game-changer for your weeknight meal rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Irresistibly Crispy and Cheesy

The magic starts with the crust—crisped to golden perfection with a light brush of olive oil, giving it that delightful crunch. But it’s what’s inside that seals the deal. The creamy Alfredo sauce melts into the juicy chicken, wrapping around every bite of gooey mozzarella and sharp parmesan. It’s rich, satisfying, and oh-so cheesy.

Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor

What’s wonderful about this recipe is that it doesn’t require anything fancy. We’re talking about ingredients you probably already have on hand—store-bought or homemade pizza dough, cooked chicken, jarred Alfredo sauce, and a couple of pantry spices. With just a few items, you’re creating something that feels gourmet without the stress.

Quick and Easy Preparation

Even if you’re new to baking calzones, don’t worry—this one’s a breeze. From rolling out the dough to sealing the edges with a fork, it’s a straightforward process that even kids can help with. No complicated techniques, no special equipment—just a little time and a hot oven.

Customizable to Your Taste

The real beauty of these calzones is how easy they are to make your own. Swap in grilled veggies for a vegetarian version, use buffalo sauce instead of Alfredo for a spicy twist, or add in your favorite herbs and cheeses. Once you’ve made them once, you’ll be dreaming up your own variations in no time.

Ingredients

Full List of Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these crispy cheesy chicken Alfredo calzones. Each ingredient plays a key role in building that rich, comforting flavor and perfect texture:

• 1 pound pizza dough (store-bought or homemade) – The golden, crispy shell that holds all the goodness inside.

• 1 ½ cups cooked chicken breast (shredded or chopped) – Tender and protein-packed, it’s the heart of the filling.

• 1 cup Alfredo sauce – Creamy and flavorful, this sauce binds everything together with its luscious richness.

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Provides that melty, stretchy cheese pull we all love.

• ½ cup shredded parmesan cheese – Adds a sharp, salty kick that deepens the flavor profile.

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – A subtle savory boost that complements the chicken and cheese.

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – Brings in warm, herby notes like oregano and basil for that classic Italian touch.

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing) – Helps crisp the dough and gives the calzones a beautiful golden finish.

• Marinara or extra Alfredo sauce (optional, for dipping) – Because dipping sauces make everything better!

How to Make Crispy Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Calzones

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s break this down into easy, manageable steps—perfect whether you’re a kitchen newbie or a seasoned baker:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This sets the stage for that perfect golden crust.

2. Divide the pizza dough into 4 equal portions. Roll each piece into an oval or circle about 6-7 inches wide—think of it as your calzone “canvas.”

3. Prepare the chicken Alfredo filling. In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken, Alfredo sauce, mozzarella, parmesan, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Mix gently until everything is well incorporated.

4. Assemble your calzones. Spoon a generous amount of filling onto one half of each dough round, leaving about a half-inch border around the edges. This little border is crucial for sealing the calzones properly.

5. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together and crimp with a fork to seal everything inside—this prevents leaks and keeps your filling beautifully tucked away.

6. Place the calzones on the prepared baking sheet and brush the tops lightly with olive oil. This step is what gives the crust that gorgeous, crispy finish.

7. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the calzones are puffed up and golden brown. Your kitchen will smell incredible by this point!

8. Let them cool slightly before serving to avoid any molten cheese mishaps. Serve warm with marinara or extra Alfredo sauce on the side for dipping if you like an extra flavor kick.

What to Serve with This Recipe

Suggested Pairings

These calzones are hearty enough to stand on their own, but pairing them with a few simple sides and drinks can make your meal feel extra special:

• Drinks: Sparkling water with a slice of lemon, iced tea, or if you’re feeling fancy, a chilled glass of light white wine pairs beautifully with the creamy richness.

• Sides: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette helps balance the richness, while roasted veggies add warmth and depth. Garlic bread is always a winner for soaking up any extra sauce!

• Desserts: Round out the meal with a classic Italian dessert like tiramisu, silky panna cotta, or a refreshing scoop of gelato to cleanse the palate.

Variations and Substitutions

Variation 1: Vegetarian Option

If you want to skip the chicken, no problem! Swap it out for sautéed mushrooms and fresh spinach. These veggies bring a lovely earthiness and vibrant color, making the calzones just as satisfying without the meat. A quick sauté with garlic and olive oil before mixing with the cheese and Alfredo sauce works perfectly.

Variation 2: Spicy Kick

For those who like a little heat, toss in some red pepper flakes or finely diced jalapeños into the filling. The gentle spice pairs surprisingly well with the creamy Alfredo, giving your calzones a lively twist that wakes up the taste buds.

Variation 3: Gluten-Free Dough

Gluten-free eaters, rejoice! Use your favorite gluten-free pizza dough alternative, either store-bought or homemade. Just be mindful that gluten-free dough may behave a bit differently when rolling and baking, but it’s an easy swap that keeps these calzones accessible to everyone.

Storage Instructions

Room Temperature Storage

If you plan to enjoy your calzones soon after baking, you can store them at room temperature in an airtight container—but keep it brief, no more than 2 hours, to keep that crisp crust fresh.

Refrigeration Tips

For leftovers or prepping ahead, refrigerate your calzones in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When ready, simply reheat in the oven to bring back the crispiness and warm the filling through.

Freezing Instructions

Want to stash some for later? Wrap each calzone individually in plastic wrap or foil, then place in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep nicely for up to 3 months. To reheat, pop them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) until warmed all the way through—about 15-20 minutes—and enjoy that fresh-from-the-oven taste anytime.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

• Use high-quality cheese for a richer, more flavorful filling—it really makes a difference!

• Make sure to seal the edges tightly with a fork to prevent any cheesy, saucy leaks during baking.

• Avoid overfilling the calzones; too much filling can cause bursting and a soggy crust.

• Let your calzones rest for a few minutes after baking—this helps the filling set, making them easier and safer to eat.

These little tips will help your calzones turn out perfectly every time!

FAQs

Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce?
Yes! Store-bought Alfredo sauce is a convenient option and tastes great. However, making your own allows you to control the flavor and richness, especially if you want a lighter or creamier sauce.

Can I cook these in an air fryer?
Absolutely! Air fryers work wonderfully for calzones. Just reduce the cooking time slightly and keep an eye on them to avoid over-browning.

What other cheeses can I use?
Feel free to experiment with provolone, fontina, gouda, or even a sharp cheddar for a different twist. Each cheese brings its own unique flavor and meltability.

Can I make these ahead of time?
Definitely! You can assemble the calzones and refrigerate them for a few hours or freeze them for longer storage. Bake them fresh from chilled or frozen—just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Conclusion

These Crispy Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Calzones are a wonderful way to bring comfort food to your table with minimal fuss. With their golden, crispy crust and indulgent cheesy filling, they’re sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re making them for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat, they deliver on taste, texture, and ease.

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