Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones

These chicken Alfredo air fryer calzones capture all the cozy, creamy goodness of classic chicken Alfredo pasta but in a fun, handheld form that is ready in just over half an hour. The crisp pizza dough contrasts beautifully with the rich filling of shredded chicken, luscious Alfredo sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese. They are perfect for busy weeknights when you want something comforting but fast, and they also shine during casual gatherings or when serving picky eaters.

I first whipped these up on a hectic evening when unexpected guests showed up and I barely had time to think about dinner. The fact that they turned out golden and delicious with minimal effort completely won everyone over. Since then, our Friday nights rarely pass without making these calzones a centerpiece of the meal.

Ingredients

• Cooked shredded chicken: use leftover roasted or storebought rotisserie chicken for juicy, flavorful protein
• Quality Alfredo sauce: jarred is fine for quick meals but homemade adds extra richness and creaminess
• Whole milk mozzarella cheese: shredding from blocks ensures the best melt and cheesy stretch everyone loves
• Garlic powder: provides mild, evenly distributed garlic notes without the sharp bite of fresh garlic
• Italian seasoning blend: mix of oregano, thyme, and basil adds a classic herby backbone to the filling
• Extra virgin olive oil: brushing on the dough tops adds beautiful browning and a subtle Mediterranean flavor
• Refrigerated pizza dough: select smooth and intact dough for easy rolling and even cooking
• Fresh egg: beaten for the egg wash that creates a shiny, golden finish on the calzones
• Basic salt and freshly cracked black pepper: essential for balancing and enhancing all flavors

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics:

(This step is omitted here as garlic powder is used for flavor. If using fresh garlic, sauté gently until fragrant to avoid bitterness.)

Air Fryer Preparation:

Preheat your air fryer to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. A properly heated air fryer is key to achieving evenly browned and deliciously crisp calzones.

Filling Creation:

In a mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, Alfredo sauce, shredded mozzarella, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well so every bite includes a perfect blend of flavors.

Dough Preparation:

Lightly dust a clean surface with flour. Roll the pizza dough out into a rectangle about onequarter inch thick. Cut the dough into four equal squares ensuring uniform size for even cooking.

Filling Assembly:

Place around one third cup of the chicken Alfredo mixture in the center of each dough square. Keeping the filling centered helps you seal the edges without any spillage.

Sealing Technique:

Fold the dough over the filling to form pockets, either triangular or rectangular shapes depending on preference. Firmly press edges together using your fingers, then crimp with a fork for a secure, decorative seal that prevents leaks.

Surface Treatment:

Brush the tops of the calzones lightly with extra virgin olive oil to enhance flavor and browning. Use a pastry brush to apply beaten egg wash for a beautiful glossy finish.

Air Fryer Arrangement:

Place the calzones in the air fryer basket with enough space between each for good air circulation. If necessary, cook in batches to avoid crowding, which can cause uneven cooking.

Cooking Process:

Air fry for ten to twelve minutes until the dough is golden brown and the filling is hot and bubbling. Watch for steam escaping, which indicates the inside is cooked through.

Final Resting:

Let the calzones rest briefly for approximately one minute after cooking. This helps the filling to set slightly so it does not burn your mouth on the first bite while remaining warm.

I love how the shredded chicken brings such a satisfying heft to these calzones. They feel indulgent but deliver legitimate nourishment, making them a staple I return to often. One of my favorite memories is making these for a small dinner party when everyone kept asking for more. The crunchy crust and molten filling never fail to impress and bring smiles to the table.

Storage Tips

Store leftover calzones in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to bring back that crispy crust. You can also freeze unbaked calzones on a lined tray, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to three months. Cook them straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the air frying time.

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap out mozzarella for provolone or a mix of mozzarella and parmesan for different cheese flavors. Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach into the filling to boost vegetable content and flavor complexity. For spice lovers, toss in diced jalapeños or sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the chicken mixture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with marinara sauce for dipping to create a classic pizza experience. Pair calzones with a crisp Caesar or mixed green salad for a balanced Italian inspired meal. Cut into smaller portions to serve as party appetizers or pack for lunches, delicious even at room temperature.

These chicken Alfredo air fryer calzones make an easy, crowd pleasing weeknight dinner that reheats beautifully. With a golden crust and creamy filling, they strike the perfect balance of comfort and convenience.

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I use homemade pizza dough instead?

Yes! Homemade dough works well. Be sure to roll it to about ¼ inch thick and cut into equal squares for even cooking.

→ What if I don’t have an air fryer?

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

→ How do I prevent the filling from leaking out?

Avoid overfilling and press edges firmly before crimping with a fork to create a secure seal.

→ Can I freeze these for later?

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

→ What can I serve with these calzones?

They pair wonderfully with marinara sauce, a crisp salad, or can be enjoyed on their own as a satisfying meal.