There’s something magical about biting into a warm, cheesy calzone and feeling that perfect blend of flavors dance on your palate. Imagine the creamy richness of chicken Alfredo wrapped in a golden crust, with each bite giving you a hearty hug on a chilly evening. Now picture this delight coming straight from your air fryer—yes, you heard that right! These Easy Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones are not just tasty; they are also quick to whip up, making them the ideal weeknight dinner or surprise snack for unexpected guests.
I still remember the first time I attempted to make calzones. Let’s just say my kitchen looked like a flour bomb had exploded. But boy, was it worth it! These easy treasures became a staple for family movie nights, where we’d cozy up on the couch with gooey cheese and hearty chicken filling. They’re perfect for any occasion—whether you’re hosting friends or just treating yourself on a lazy Sunday. So, let’s dive into this flavor-packed journey and create some unforgettable Easy Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones together!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The Easy Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones are incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners delightful.
- Their rich flavors and crispy texture will have everyone asking for seconds.
- The vibrant colors of melted cheese and fresh herbs make these calzones visually stunning on any plate.
- Perfect as an appetizer or main dish and customizable based on your preferences!
Ingredients for Easy Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 chicken breasts to ensure plenty of filling; adjust based on your crowd’s appetite.
- Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves for maximum flavor; garlic is the superhero of our sauce!
- Heavy Cream: This adds richness to your Alfredo sauce; feel free to substitute with a plant-based cream if desired.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is best for that authentic flavor; the more cheese, the merrier!
- Pizza Dough: Store-bought or homemade works great; aim for something soft yet sturdy enough to hold all that goodness inside.
For the Seasoning:
- Italian Seasoning: A blend of dried herbs that elevates your filling into something extraordinary.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning your chicken; don’t skip these little guys!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Easy Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Season your boneless chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning for an aromatic kick. Cook them in the air fryer for about 15-20 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Once done, let them rest before shredding.
Step 2: Prepare the Alfredo Sauce
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt some butter and add minced garlic. Stir until fragrant—this should take about one minute! Next, pour in heavy cream while stirring continuously. Add freshly grated Parmesan cheese gradually until it melts into a creamy delight. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Combine Chicken and Sauce
Once your chicken is shredded (and perhaps sampled), mix it into the creamy Alfredo sauce ensuring every piece is coated in cheesy goodness.
Step 4: Assemble Your Calzones
Roll out your pizza dough on a floured surface until it’s about half an inch thick. Cut out circles (about six inches in diameter) from the dough. Spoon some of the chicken Alfredo mixture onto one half of each circle, leaving space around the edges so you can fold them without spillage.
Step 5: Seal and Spray
Fold over the dough like a taco and crimp the edges with a fork to seal them tightly. Lightly spray both sides with cooking oil or brush with melted butter—the crispiness factor will thank you!
Step 6: Air Fry Your Calzones
Place calzones in the air fryer basket in batches (do not overcrowd). Cook at 375°F (190°C) for around 10-12 minutes until they’re golden brown and crispy.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with extra Alfredo sauce if desired for that perfect finishing touch!
Now you’re ready to enjoy your Easy Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones! Whether you devour them solo during binge-watching sessions or share them at gatherings, these cheesy delights will surely impress everyone who takes a bite!
You Must Know
- This amazing chicken marinade offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing your chicken in the air fryer to lock in those delicious juices. While that’s happening, cook your pasta and prepare a creamy Alfredo sauce. Timing is everything for perfect results.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the chicken for turkey or add veggies like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition. Experiment with seasonings such as garlic powder or red pepper flakes to kick up the flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place them back in the air fryer at 350°F for about five minutes, ensuring they stay crispy.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly cooked chicken, ensure it’s not overcrowded in the air fryer basket to allow even cooking.
- Use fresh ingredients whenever possible for vibrant flavors that pop.
- Don’t skip letting your calzones rest before serving; it enhances their texture and flavor!
Sharing this recipe at a family gathering led to rave reviews—my aunt even asked me to host Thanksgiving! It was heartwarming to see everyone enjoy a dish I created with love and laughter.
FAQs
What are Easy Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones?
Easy Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones are savory stuffed pockets made with soft dough filled with creamy chicken Alfredo sauce, cheese, and vegetables. Cooking them in an air fryer gives these calzones a crispy exterior while keeping the inside warm and melty. They are perfect for a quick meal or snack option that your whole family will enjoy.
How can I customize my Easy Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones?
You can easily customize Easy Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones to suit your taste. Add different vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition. You can also swap out chicken for beef, turkey, or lamb if preferred. Additionally, experimenting with different cheeses such as mozzarella, cheddar, or even vegan options can enhance the taste and texture.
Can I prepare Easy Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones in advance?
Yes, you can prepare Easy Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones in advance. Assemble the calzones and refrigerate them until you are ready to cook. This is a great time-saving option for busy weeknights. Just ensure to let them come to room temperature before placing them in the air fryer for even cooking.
How long do I cook Easy Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones in the air fryer?
Cooking Easy Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones typically takes about 10-15 minutes at 375°F (190°C). Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes to achieve the perfect golden-brown crust. Cooking times may vary based on your specific air fryer model, so adjust accordingly for best results.
Conclusion for Easy Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones
Easy Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones offer a delicious and simple way to enjoy a comforting meal at home. With customizable filling options and quick cooking times, they make mealtime enjoyable and stress-free. Whether you’re serving them for dinner or as a snack, these calzones are sure to be a hit with everyone. Try making them today and experience their delightful flavors!
Easy Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones
Easy Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones offer a delicious twist on a classic comfort food. These golden, crispy pockets are filled with creamy chicken Alfredo, melty cheese, and aromatic herbs, making them perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive snack for unexpected guests. Enjoy the rich flavors and satisfying textures in just minutes with this easy air fryer recipe that the whole family will love.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4 (4 calzones) 1x
Ingredients
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 lb pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook in the air fryer for 15-20 minutes until fully cooked (165°F/74°C). Shred the cooled chicken.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add heavy cream and stir continuously; gradually mix in Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
- Combine shredded chicken with the Alfredo sauce until well-coated.
- Roll out pizza dough to about half an inch thick and cut into six-inch circles. Place filling on one half of each circle, fold, and crimp edges to seal.
- Lightly spray each calzone with cooking oil or brush with melted butter. Cook in batches in the air fryer for 10-12 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 calzone (150g)
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 85mg