Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones

These golden, crispy-edged pockets deliver all the comfort of chicken Alfredo pasta in a handheld format that's perfect for busy weeknights or casual entertaining. The air fryer creates that perfect contrast between the crunchy exterior and the gooey, creamy interior filled with tender chicken, rich Alfredo sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese. Each bite provides that satisfying combination of familiar Italian flavors wrapped in perfectly crisp pizza dough that makes these irresistible to both kids and adults.

The first time I made these was during one of those chaotic evenings when unexpected guests arrived and I had almost nothing planned for dinner. The combination of convenience and impressive results completely won everyone over, and now these calzones have become our anticipated Friday night tradition. Watching my family's faces light up when they bite into that crispy exterior and discover the molten cheese center never gets old.

Essential Components

• Cooked shredded chicken: Use leftover roasted chicken or rotisserie chicken for convenience and rich, developed flavor
• Quality Alfredo sauce: Choose a creamy jarred variety or make homemade if time allows for the best taste and texture
• Whole milk mozzarella: Shred from blocks for superior melting and that coveted cheese stretch everyone loves
• Garlic powder: Provides even distribution of garlic flavor throughout the filling without raw garlic bite
• Italian seasoning blend: Look for mixes containing oregano, thyme, and basil for authentic herby depth
• Extra virgin olive oil: Brushed on tops for beautiful browning and added Mediterranean flavor
• Refrigerated pizza dough: Choose smooth, unbroken dough from the refrigerated section for best handling and results
• Fresh egg: Creates that professional-looking golden, shiny finish on the baked calzones
• Basic seasonings: Salt and pepper enhance and balance all the other flavors in the filling

Detailed Assembly Process

Air Fryer Preparation:

Preheat your air fryer to 375 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it's hot and ready for optimal browning and crisping. The proper temperature is crucial for achieving that perfect contrast between crispy exterior and melted interior.

Filling Creation:

Combine shredded chicken, Alfredo sauce, mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl. Stir thoroughly until every component is evenly distributed, ensuring consistent flavor in every bite of the finished calzones.

Dough Preparation:

On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a large rectangle approximately one-quarter inch thick. Cut into four equal squares, which will create uniformly sized calzones that cook evenly in the air fryer.

Filling Assembly:

Place about one-third cup of the chicken Alfredo mixture in the center of each dough square, keeping the filling concentrated in the middle to allow for proper sealing around the edges without overflow.

Sealing Technique:

Fold each dough square over the filling to create triangular or rectangular pockets, then press edges firmly with fingers and crimp with a fork. This double-sealing method prevents leaks while creating an attractive decorative border.

Surface Treatment:

Brush each calzone top lightly with olive oil for flavor enhancement, then apply beaten egg wash using a pastry brush for that beautiful golden, shiny finish that makes them look professionally made.

Air Fryer Arrangement:

Place calzones in the air fryer basket with adequate space between each for proper air circulation. Cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding, which can result in uneven cooking and browning.

Cooking Process:

Air fry for ten to twelve minutes until calzones develop deep golden brown color and the dough is completely cooked through. The aromatic steam escaping indicates they're nearly ready.

Final Resting:

Allow cooked calzones to rest for about one minute after removing from the air fryer. This brief cooling period helps the molten filling set slightly, preventing burns while maintaining optimal serving temperature.

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These handheld calzones have become my favorite way to create a satisfying meal that keeps everyone happy and full. The substantial protein from the chicken means they're actually quite filling, and I love knowing that we're getting quality nutrition along with all that comfort food satisfaction. Even my health-conscious friends appreciate how these deliver indulgent flavors while providing genuine nourishment.

Creative Serving Ideas

Serve these golden calzones with marinara sauce for dipping, creating that classic pizza parlor experience, or pair with a crisp Caesar salad for a complete Italian-inspired meal. They work beautifully as appetizers for parties when cut into smaller portions, or pack them for lunches where they're delicious even at room temperature.

Flavor Variations

Transform these basic calzones by adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the filling for extra vegetables and flavor complexity. Different cheese combinations like provolone or parmesan create new taste profiles, while adding sun-dried tomatoes introduces Mediterranean flair. For spice lovers, incorporate diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for gentle heat.

Storage Solutions

These calzones are definitely best enjoyed fresh and hot from the air fryer, but leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days and reheated in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore crispiness. They can also be assembled and frozen before cooking, then air fried directly from frozen with slightly extended cooking time.

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This recipe has taught me that some of the most successful comfort foods come from taking familiar flavors and presenting them in creative, convenient formats. The air fryer technology allows us to achieve that perfect crispy-chewy texture that makes calzones so appealing while cutting down significantly on cooking time. Every time I make these, I'm reminded that the best family recipes are often the ones that combine convenience with genuine satisfaction, creating meals that everyone looks forward to and memories that last long after the last bite.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use homemade pizza dough instead?

Yes! Homemade dough works great. Just make sure it's rolled to about ¼ inch thick and cut into equal squares.

→ What if I don't have an air fryer?

You can bake these in a 400°F oven for 15-18 minutes until golden brown. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

→ How do I prevent the filling from leaking out?

Don't overfill the calzones and make sure to seal the edges tightly. Crimping with a fork helps create a secure seal.

→ Can I freeze these for later?

Yes! Assemble and freeze unbaked calzones for up to 3 months. Air fry from frozen, adding 2-3 extra minutes to cooking time.

→ What can I serve with these calzones?

They're great with marinara sauce for dipping, a side salad, or just eaten on their own as a complete meal.