Heavenly Baked Chicken Alfredo Calzones Recipe
If you are craving a cozy meal that bursts with creamy goodness and cheesy delight, then you have to try this Heavenly Baked Chicken Alfredo Calzones Recipe. Imagine tender chicken enveloped in luscious Alfredo sauce, with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses oozing out from perfectly baked pockets of golden dough. Each bite offers a warm, satisfying hug that feels like home, making it an ultimate comfort food that’s as impressive as it is easy to prepare.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The secret to making the Heavenly Baked Chicken Alfredo Calzones Recipe so irresistible lies in its simple yet thoughtfully selected ingredients. Every component plays its part in delivering that creamy, flavorful filling wrapped in a crisp, golden crust.
- 1 lb pizza dough (homemade or store-bought): Provides the perfect soft yet crispy base that holds all the delicious fillings inside.
- 1 1/2 cups cooked chicken breast (shredded or chopped): Tender and protein-packed, this is the star protein that adds heartiness.
- 1 cup Alfredo sauce: Rich, creamy, and full of garlic and cheese flavor to marry all ingredients perfectly.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully, adding gooeyness and stretch to each calzone.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty depth that complements the creamy sauce.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Enhances the savory flavor with an aromatic punch.
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning: Brings herby warmth, rounding out the filling.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Simple seasonings that bring balance and enhance all other flavors.
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash): Ensures a glossy, golden crust that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
- Flour (for rolling): Keeps the dough from sticking, allowing easy shaping.
- Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish): Adds a fresh pop of green and mild herbaceous flavor.
How to Make Heavenly Baked Chicken Alfredo Calzones Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Dough
Begin by preheating your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit and lining your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and promote even browning. Lightly dust your work surface with flour to keep the dough manageable, then divide your pizza dough into four equal portions. Roll each piece into a circle approximately 6 to 7 inches in diameter, setting the stage for perfectly sized calzones that bake evenly.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the cooked chicken, creamy Alfredo sauce, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Make sure to mix everything thoroughly to create a flavorful, cheesy filling that will be the centerpiece of your calzones. Every bite will be packed with irresistible richness thanks to this harmonious blend.
Step 3: Assemble the Calzones
Spoon an equal amount of the filling onto one half of each dough circle, leaving about a half-inch border around the edges. Carefully fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape, then press the edges firmly to seal in all that delicious goodness. For an extra secure seal and a pretty pattern, crimp the edges with the prongs of a fork.
Step 4: Egg Wash and Bake
Transfer your calzones to the lined baking sheet and generously brush the tops with the beaten egg. This step not only helps your calzones develop that gorgeous golden-brown finish but also lends a slight crispness to the crust. Bake them in the preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the crust is beautifully golden and crisp to the touch.
Step 5: Cool and Garnish
Allow the calzones to cool for just a few minutes once out of the oven—you want to enjoy them warm but avoid burning your mouth on lava-hot filling! If you like, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top before serving to add a touch of color and freshness that balances the creamy richness inside.
How to Serve Heavenly Baked Chicken Alfredo Calzones Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing your calzones with a sprinkle of chopped parsley or even a dusting of extra Parmesan cheese lifts their presentation and adds a pop of fresh flavor. For an extra hint of indulgence, drizzle a little more Alfredo sauce over the top or serve it on the side for dipping.
Side Dishes
These heartwarming calzones pair beautifully with simple sides like a crisp Caesar salad or sautéed garlic spinach. Fresh veggies provide a refreshing contrast to the richness, balancing out your meal perfectly without overshadowing the main star.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve these calzones sliced into smaller wedges for a friendly gathering or party platter. Alternatively, you can customize the filling with add-ins like sautéed mushrooms or fresh spinach before folding, making each calzone a personalized bite of joy. They also look fantastic arranged on a rustic wooden board garnished with fresh herbs.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’ve got any leftovers (which can be rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to three days, keeping that creamy cheesy filling intact while the crust remains pleasantly soft.
Freezing
These calzones freeze beautifully, making them great for meal prep or busy weeknights. Wrap each calzone tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to two months without sacrificing quality.
Reheating
To enjoy your Heavenly Baked Chicken Alfredo Calzones Recipe leftovers at their best, reheat them in a 350-degree Fahrenheit oven for about 10-12 minutes until warmed through and the crust regains its crispness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as this can make the crust soggy and detract from that freshly baked feel.
FAQs
Can I make the dough from scratch for this recipe?
Absolutely! Homemade pizza dough adds a personal touch and can elevate the texture and flavor of your calzones, but store-bought dough works perfectly fine, especially when you’re short on time.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Yes! Simply swap out the chicken for sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or your favorite vegetables to create a delicious vegetarian variation without losing the creamy, cheesy goodness.
Can I prepare the calzones in advance and bake later?
You sure can. Assemble your calzones and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking; just add a minute or two extra baking time to compensate for the chill.
What’s the best cheese combination to use?
Mozzarella is essential for its meltiness and stretch, while Parmesan adds a sharp, savory kick. Feel free to experiment with provolone or fontina for a slightly different flavor profile, but the original combo in this recipe is tried and true.
Can I add other seasonings or herbs?
Definitely! Fresh basil, rosemary, or thyme can be great additions, depending on your taste preferences. Just remember to balance the seasoning to keep the creamy Alfredo sauce shining through.
Final Thoughts
This Heavenly Baked Chicken Alfredo Calzones Recipe is a real crowd-pleaser that’s both comforting and elegant in its simplicity. Whether it becomes your go-to dinner on busy nights or your star dish for weekend gatherings, it promises satisfying flavors wrapped in a perfectly baked crust. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy chicken Alfredo!
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Heavenly Baked Chicken Alfredo Calzones Recipe
- Total Time: 38 minutes
- Yield: 4 calzones 1x
- Diet: Nut-Free
Description
Heavenly Baked Chicken Alfredo Calzones are a delicious Italian-American main course featuring a golden, crisp calzone filled with tender cooked chicken, creamy Alfredo sauce, and a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Easy to prepare and perfect for a comforting meal, these calzones combine classic flavors wrapped in homemade or store-bought pizza dough and baked to perfection.
Ingredients
Dough
- 1 lb pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
- Flour (for rolling)
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
Filling
- 1 1/2 cups cooked chicken breast (shredded or chopped)
- 1 cup Alfredo sauce
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Garnish
- Chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Dough: Lightly flour a clean surface and divide the pizza dough into 4 equal portions. Roll each piece into a circle approximately 6 to 7 inches in diameter.
- Make Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, Alfredo sauce, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the mixture is well blended.
- Assemble Calzones: Spoon an equal amount of the chicken Alfredo filling onto one half of each dough circle, making sure to leave a small border around the edges.
- Seal Calzones: Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Firmly press the edges together, then crimp them with a fork for a secure seal and decorative finish.
- Apply Egg Wash: Place the calzones on the prepared baking sheet and brush the tops with the beaten egg to help achieve a glossy, golden crust.
- Bake: Bake the calzones in the preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and the crust is crisp.
- Serve: Allow the calzones to cool slightly, garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve warm. Optionally, serve with extra Alfredo sauce or marinara for dipping.
Notes
- Rotisserie chicken can be used for convenience to save prep time.
- Adding spinach or cooked mushrooms to the filling will enhance the flavor and nutritional value.
- Serve with additional Alfredo sauce or marinara sauce for dipping to add moisture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
