If you're craving a crispy, golden crust filled with creamy Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, and gooey melted cheese, then these Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones are exactly what you need. Perfect for weeknight dinners, game-day snacks, or anytime you want something indulgent and satisfying, these calzones are easy to make and packed with flavor.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to make these delicious air fryer calzones from scratch, share tips for getting the perfect texture, and explore why air frying is a healthier alternative to traditional frying.
Why You’ll Love Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones
Here’s why these calzones are bound to become a new favorite:
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, thanks to the air fryer.
- Creamy and Flavorful: Filled with rich Alfredo sauce, juicy chicken, and savory cheese.
- Healthier Alternative: Air frying uses less oil, resulting in a lighter yet crispy crust.
- Customizable: Add your favorite ingredients, like spinach, mushrooms, or bacon.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make these delicious Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 package of pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup of cooked, shredded chicken
- 1/2 cup of Alfredo sauce
- 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Olive oil spray (optional)
Step-by-Step Recipe: How to Make Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones
Follow these steps to create the perfect air fryer calzones:
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface and cut it into equal-sized circles (about 6-8 inches in diameter).
Step 2: Mix the Filling
- In a bowl, combine the cooked chicken, Alfredo sauce, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Mix until well combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Calzones
- Place a generous scoop of the chicken Alfredo mixture onto one half of each dough circle.
- Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape.
- Press the edges together and crimp them with a fork to seal.
Step 4: Apply Egg Wash
- Beat the egg in a small bowl and brush it over the top of each calzone for a golden, glossy finish.
Step 5: Air Fry the Calzones
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the calzones in the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t overlap.
- Air fry for 10-12 minutes, or until the calzones are golden brown and crispy.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
- Allow the calzones to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy them hot, with extra Alfredo sauce for dipping if desired.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Calzones
To ensure your calzones turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:
- Don’t Overfill: Overfilling the calzones can cause them to burst open while cooking.
- Seal the Edges Well: Use a fork to crimp the edges securely and prevent leaks.
- Cook in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket for even cooking.
- Reheat Easily: Leftover calzones can be reheated in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore their crispiness.
Why Use an Air Fryer?
Air frying is a game-changer when it comes to making crispy, delicious food with less oil. Here are some benefits of using an air fryer:
- Healthier Cooking: Air frying reduces the amount of oil needed, resulting in lower-fat dishes.
- Faster Cooking Time: The hot air circulation cooks food quickly and evenly.
- Less Mess: No need to deal with hot oil splatters or greasy pans.
Variations and Add-Ins
Want to switch things up? Try these tasty variations:
- Spinach and Mushroom: Add sautéed spinach and mushrooms to the filling for extra veggies.
- Bacon Lover’s Calzones: Sprinkle crispy bacon bits into the Alfredo mixture.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy twist.
Storage and Reheating
To keep your Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones fresh, follow these storage tips:
- Refrigeration: Store leftover calzones in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze uncooked calzones on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Air fry directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
- Reheating: Reheat cooked calzones in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes, or until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use whole wheat dough? Yes, whole wheat pizza dough works well and adds extra fiber.
2. Can I make these calzones dairy-free? Absolutely! Use dairy-free cheese and a plant-based Alfredo sauce.
3. What’s the best way to prevent soggy calzones? Make sure the filling isn’t too liquidy, and avoid overloading the calzones.
Conclusion
Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones are the perfect combination of crispy, cheesy, and creamy. They’re easy to make, customizable, and packed with flavor, making them a fantastic option for family dinners, parties, or meal prep.
With the convenience of air frying and the irresistible taste of homemade calzones, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen. So, grab your air fryer and get ready to indulge in these delicious, golden-brown pockets of goodness!
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