If you’ve been dreaming of the ultimate comfort food that’s as fun to eat as it is to make, this recipe for Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones is about to become your new favorite. Picture pillowy pizza dough stuffed with creamy Alfredo-mozzarella chicken, air-fried until golden with a crisp exterior and melty, cheesy center. It’s the kind of meal that makes weeknights feel extra special and leaves everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, prepping for game night, or just craving something savory and satisfying, Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones deliver knockout flavor with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones come together with a handful of ingredients you probably already have, each bringing something distinct to the table. Good dough forms the perfect pocket, the filling is rich with flavor, and a quick brush of oil ensures that irresistible golden finish.
- Pizza dough (1 lb): The foundation—whether homemade or store-bought, it brings all the elements together in a soft, chewy crust.
- Cooked chicken (1 cup, shredded or diced): Rotisserie or leftover chicken makes this step quick and easy, and the neutral flavor soaks up the Alfredo beautifully.
- Alfredo sauce (1/2 cup): This creamy sauce is what makes the filling irresistibly rich—use your favorite jarred brand or homemade if you’re feeling fancy!
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 cup): Melty, gooey, and oh-so-stretchy when you pull the calzone apart—absolutely essential for that classic calzone experience!
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup): Adds a salty, nutty kick and helps enhance the depth of the creamy filling.
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Brings in bold, aromatic notes that highlight both the chicken and the sauce.
- Italian seasoning (1/2 teaspoon): A medley of herbs gives these calzones a classic Italian-American flavor spin.
- Chopped parsley (1 tablespoon, optional): A pop of green freshness for garnish that lifts the whole dish both visually and in taste.
- Olive oil or cooking spray: A quick brush on top is the secret to that perfectly golden and crisp finish from the air fryer.
How to Make Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones
Step 1: Prep Your Air Fryer
Start by preheating your air fryer to 375°F. This ensures an even, crispy result every time. A few minutes of preheating is all it takes to get that hot, circulating air ready for your calzones!
Step 2: Divide and Roll Out the Dough
Lightly flour your work surface, then divide your pizza dough into four equal pieces. Roll each one into a round, roughly 6 to 7 inches across. Aim for an even thickness so they cook up beautifully and hold all that delicious filling without splitting.
Step 3: Mix the Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Filling
In a bowl, combine the cooked chicken, Alfredo sauce, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Stir it all together so every bite gets creamy, cheesy goodness with just the right herby hit.
Step 4: Fill and Seal the Calzones
Spoon the chicken Alfredo mixture onto half of each dough round, making sure to leave a small border at the edge. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape, then firmly press the edges. Use a fork to crimp and fully seal, trapping all that glorious filling inside.
Step 5: Air Fry to Golden Perfection
Brush the tops with olive oil or give them a quick spray with cooking spray. Arrange 1 or 2 calzones in the air fryer basket (don’t crowd!) and cook for 8–10 minutes, or until they’re golden-brown, crisp, and puffed. Work in batches if needed for even browning.
Step 6: Cool and Garnish
Let the calzones cool for a few minutes—those cheesy centers are piping hot! Sprinkle with optional chopped parsley for a bright, fresh finish. They’re now ready to plate and devour.
How to Serve Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones
Garnishes
A light sprinkle of chopped parsley or fresh basil adds not just color but a fresh twist that balances the richness of the filling. For extra flair, add a dusting of Parmesan or a crack of black pepper just before serving.
Side Dishes
Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones are filling on their own, but pairing them with a crisp Caesar salad, a simple mixed greens salad, or roasted veggies creates a balanced meal. A little bowl of extra Alfredo or marinara sauce on the side for dipping is pure bliss.
Creative Ways to Present
Set up a “pocket pizza” platter for parties by cutting calzones into halves or quarters. Add small dipping bowls of sauces and pile them on a wooden board for finger-friendly fun. Or wrap them in parchment and twine for a hearty grab-and-go lunch!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just let them cool to room temperature first so condensation doesn’t make the crust soggy.
Freezing
These calzones freeze beautifully! Place cooled calzones individually in freezer-safe bags or containers. When you’re ready for a quick meal, just reheat straight from frozen—no need to thaw.
Reheating
The best way to bring your calzones back to life is in the air fryer—just 5 to 6 minutes at 350°F gives you that signature crisp outer crust. Microwaving works in a pinch, though the crust won’t be as crispy as the air-fried version.
FAQs
Can I make Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones with other types of meat?
Absolutely! While chicken is classic, cooked and crumbled sausage, diced ham, or even turkey all work well. Just keep the pieces bite-sized so the filling stays evenly mixed.
What kind of Alfredo sauce should I use?
Any good-quality jarred Alfredo sauce works, or whip up a quick homemade version if you prefer. The sauce is the backbone of flavor, so go for one you love—or experiment with lighter or extra-cheesy varieties!
Can I add vegetables to the filling?
Yes! Stir in a handful of chopped spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or even sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and color. Just pat veggies dry to keep the filling creamy, not watery.
Do I need to flip the calzones in the air fryer?
No flipping required—the hot air circulates for an even golden finish. Just be sure not to overcrowd the basket, and your Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones will crisp up beautifully on all sides.
Is it possible to make these calzones gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap in your favorite gluten-free pizza dough, which is widely available in stores or easily made at home. Check that your Alfredo sauce is gluten-free as well, and you’re good to go!
Final Thoughts
Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones truly bring the best of both worlds: creamy, cheesy comfort inside and a crispy, golden crust outside. They’re fun to make, even more fun to eat, and always a hit whether you’re serving picky kids or hungry adults. Give them a try—you’ll want to make these again and again!
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Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes per batch
- Total Time: 25–35 minutes
- Yield: 4 calzones
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These delicious Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones are a fun twist on traditional calzones, featuring a creamy Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, and gooey cheese all wrapped up in a crispy crust. Perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal!
Ingredients
Dough:
- 1 lb pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
Filling:
- 1 cup cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
- 1/2 cup Alfredo sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional)
- olive oil or cooking spray (for brushing)
Instructions
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3–5 minutes.
- Prepare Dough: Divide the pizza dough into 4 pieces and roll each into a 6–7-inch circle.
- Make Filling: Combine chicken, Alfredo sauce, cheeses, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Mix well.
- Fill Dough: Spoon filling onto half of each dough circle, fold over, and crimp edges.
- Cook in Air Fryer: Brush calzones with oil, air fry 1–2 at a time for 8–10 minutes.
- Serve: Let cool, garnish with parsley, and serve with extra sauce for dipping.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Customize with spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes.
- Calzones can be frozen and reheated in the air fryer.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 calzone
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
