Chicken Alfredo Calzones Airfryer

Chicken Alfredo calzones combine pillowy pizza dough with creamy garlicky Alfredo sauce and plenty of juicy shredded chicken for the ultimate comfort dinner. These calzones turn classic pasta night on its head and are so easy thanks to store-bought dough and the help of an air fryer this recipe is a go-to for busy weeknights when you want big flavor fast.

My family fell in love with these on a chilly Sunday when we had extra chicken to use up now they appear in our dinner rotation all year long and even the pickiest eaters fight for seconds

Ingredients

• Unsalted butter: this keeps the Alfredo sauce rich and silky always use fresh unsalted butter for the cleanest flavor
• Garlic: fresh garlic brings bold aroma and depth slice or mince just before cooking for best results
• Heavy cream: the foundation for a luscious Alfredo sauce thicker than milk and makes the calzone filling truly special
• Italian seasoning: look for a quality blend with real dried herbs as this infuses the sauce with flavor
• Parmesan cheese: use fresh grated Parmesan over pre-shredded for better melting and flavor
• Salt and black pepper: season with care to let the other flavors shine
• Pizza dough: homemade or store bought both work well make sure it is fresh and at room temperature for easier rolling
• Cooked chicken breast: shred or dice for faster assembly using rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: mozzarella melts beautifully and gives the calzone a stretchy cheesy bite
• Fresh parsley: gives a burst of color and freshness always use flat-leaf parsley and chop just before using

Instructions

Make the Alfredo Sauce:

Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat then add minced garlic. Cook the garlic gently for one minute until fragrant but not browned. Pour in the heavy cream and Italian seasoning and allow to gently simmer for two to three minutes until it slightly reduces. Lower the heat and gradually stir in the Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the sauce is silky smooth then season with a touch of salt and pepper. Remove from the heat and let the sauce cool enough to thicken slightly.

Prepare the Dough:

Divide pizza dough into four equal pieces. Place each piece on a lightly floured surface. Use a rolling pin to gently flatten and roll each into a six inch round about one quarter inch thick. Be sure not to stretch too thin as this will prevent leaks.

Assemble the Calzones:

Spoon one quarter of the Alfredo sauce onto half of each dough round leaving about half an inch for a border. Layer with half a cup of shredded chicken and a quarter cup of mozzarella cheese. Fold the plain half of the dough over the filling. Carefully press and crimp the edges with a fork for a tight seal.

Mix and Brush Parsley Butter:

Combine softened butter with chopped parsley in a small bowl. Stir well. With a pastry brush lightly coat the tops of each uncooked calzone with the buttery mixture. This gives flavor and golden color.

Cook in the Air Fryer:

Place the calzones in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Use oil spray or parchment paper to prevent sticking. Air fry at three hundred seventy five degrees Fahrenheit for eight minutes flipping halfway through until the crust is golden brown. Brush tops again with any leftover parsley butter.

Rest and Serve:

Let your calzones rest for five minutes to finish steaming inside. This helps everything set and prevents cheese from spilling out. Slice or serve whole. With warm marinara sauce for dipping they are even better.

My favorite part is always the first bite when gooey mozzarella mixes with warm Alfredo it brings me right back to Sunday family suppers and sparks instant nostalgia

Storage Tips

Store leftover calzones in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days For longer keeping wrap tightly and freeze up to three months Reheat in the air fryer or oven to restore the crisp crust avoid microwaving if possible as it makes the dough chewy

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap cooked turkey for chicken if available Try smoked gouda or provolone in place of mozzarella if you want a twist Do not use low fat dairy as the sauce will not have the right texture

Serving Suggestions

These calzones are great paired with a simple green salad or roasted broccoli Serve with extra Alfredo or marinara for dipping For parties slice them into strips for an easy shareable appetizer

Cultural and Historical Context

While calzones started in Naples as a portable pizza pocket this American Italian twist showcases how comfort classics adapt to busy kitchens Alfredo sauce itself was invented in Rome but gained its creamy fame here in the States

Seasonal Adaptations

Add roasted vegetables such as spinach or red peppers in the filling during summer Use leftover holiday turkey in place of chicken for winter gatherings Stir pesto into the sauce for a spring version

A reader told me her teens made these by themselves on pizza night and raved they were better than any takeout Another family preps these ahead to keep stashed in the freezer for hectic days when dinner must happen fast It is a weeknight hero

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I make the Alfredo sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the Alfredo sauce in advance and refrigerate it. Reheat gently before assembling the calzones to keep it smooth and creamy.

→ What type of chicken is best for the filling?

Use cooked, shredded chicken breast for the filling. Rotisserie or leftover chicken works well for added convenience and flavor.

→ How do I keep the calzones from leaking while cooking?

Seal the edges firmly by pressing with a fork after folding the dough. This prevents the creamy filling from oozing out during air frying.

→ Do I need to preheat the air fryer?

Preheating helps achieve an even golden crust. Set your air fryer to 375°F for a few minutes before adding the calzones for best results.

→ Can the calzones be frozen for later?

Yes, cooled calzones can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Reheat in the air fryer or oven until hot throughout.

→ Is marinara sauce necessary for serving?

While optional, offering warm marinara for dipping adds a tangy contrast to the creamy filling and enhances flavor.