Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones – Easy & Crispy Recipe

Craving a delicious, cheesy, and easy-to-make meal? Look no further than Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones! These crispy, golden pockets filled with creamy homemade Alfredo sauce, tender rotisserie chicken, and melted mozzarella are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner, a crowd-pleasing appetizer, or a game-day snack, these calzones are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones

Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones are the ultimate combination of convenience and flavor. By using an air fryer, you get the crispiness of a deep-fried calzone without all the excess oil, making it a healthier option. The air fryer gives these calzones a perfectly golden exterior while keeping the inside soft and gooey, filled with rich Alfredo sauce and juicy chicken. Whether you’re a fan of pizza, pasta, or both, this recipe is a winner.

Ingredients

For the best Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones, gather the following ingredients:

• Premade Pizza Dough: For ease and speed, store-bought dough works wonderfully. You can also find dough at most pizza restaurants.
• Rotisserie Chicken: A rotisserie chicken saves time and adds flavor. You can also use poached or baked chicken breasts.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella adds a gooey, melty texture.
• Butter: Used for both the Alfredo sauce and for brushing on top of the calzones before air frying.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor to the Alfredo sauce.
• Heavy Cream: This is the base of the creamy Alfredo sauce.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves bring a delicious aroma and savory flavor.
• Italian Seasoning: For a bit of seasoning in the Alfredo sauce.
• Salt and Pepper: To season the Alfredo sauce to perfection.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you’re looking for alternatives to suit dietary preferences or what you have on hand, consider the following swaps:

• Dairy-Free Option: Use a dairy-free cream (such as coconut milk) and a plant-based mozzarella to make this recipe dairy-free.
• Low-Carb Option: Swap the premade pizza dough for a cauliflower pizza crust for a low-carb version.
• Chicken Alternatives: If you prefer, use ground turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian twist.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones is easy! Follow these simple steps to create a flavorful, crispy calzone:

1. Prepare the Pizza Dough: Separate your pizza dough into 4-ounce portions. Using floured hands, gently stretch the dough into 6-inch circles.
2. Prepare the Alfredo Sauce: In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Allow it to simmer gently until it thickens. Add Parmesan cheese and stir until smooth and creamy. Let it cool.
3. Assemble the Calzones: Spoon a tablespoon of Alfredo sauce in the center of each dough circle. Top with some shredded rotisserie chicken and a generous pinch of mozzarella cheese.
4. Seal the Calzone: Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Pinch the edges tightly to seal the calzone. For extra security, fold the edges back to create a rustic, sealed edge.
5. Cook in the Air Fryer: Brush the calzones with melted butter and place them in the air fryer basket. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8 minutes, flipping halfway through. Reapply butter as needed for a golden, crispy finish.

Tips & Tricks

• Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer: Depending on the size of your air fryer, you might need to cook the calzones in batches to ensure they cook evenly.
• Use Fresh Mozzarella: Fresh mozzarella yields the best melt and texture in these calzones.
• Cool Before Eating: Be patient when you pull the calzones from the air fryer – the inside can be extremely hot, and waiting a few minutes will save you from burning your mouth on the molten Alfredo sauce.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones are perfect on their own, but you can elevate the meal with a few sides:

• Marinara Sauce: A tangy marinara sauce is perfect for dipping these cheesy calzones.
• Side Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with a light vinaigrette balances out the richness of the calzones.
• Garlic Bread: For an even more indulgent meal, serve these calzones with a side of garlic bread.

If you prefer a spicier version, add red pepper flakes to the Alfredo sauce or incorporate some jalapeños into the calzone filling.

Health Benefits and Seasonal Twist

Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones can be a healthier option compared to traditional fried calzones. By using the air fryer, you cut down on excess oil, making these calzones a great option for those looking to enjoy comfort food with a lighter touch. Plus, the recipe can be easily modified to fit various dietary needs such as gluten-free or dairy-free.

Additionally, these calzones can be adapted for different seasons. For a fall twist, try adding roasted butternut squash or caramelized onions to the filling. In the spring, add fresh spinach or artichokes for a burst of flavor and color.

Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones are a satisfying and versatile meal that can be enjoyed any time of year! Whether you’re serving them as a quick dinner, game-day snack, or party appetizer, they’re sure to be a hit. Enjoy!

Conclusion

Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones are the ultimate comfort food that brings the best of cheesy, creamy, and crispy together in every bite. With the use of an air fryer, you can create a golden, crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft and packed with flavor. These calzones are easy to make, and their versatility allows you to adjust them to suit various dietary needs and flavor preferences. Whether you serve them as a quick dinner, a party snack, or an appetizer for game day, they are sure to be a hit with everyone. Don’t forget to pair them with a tangy marinara sauce or a fresh side salad for the perfect meal!

FAQs

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