Irresistible Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzone Recipe
Discover a crispy, cheesy Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzone recipe that’s quick, flavorful, and perfect for a satisfying meal anytime! This dish combines tender chicken, creamy Alfredo sauce, and gooey cheese wrapped in golden, crunchy dough — all cooked effortlessly in an air fryer for that unbeatable texture and taste. Whether you’re craving something indulgent yet easy or want to impress guests with minimal effort, this Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzone has got you covered.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Convenient: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute cravings.
- Perfectly Crispy Crust: The air fryer creates a golden, crunchy exterior that beats traditional baking every time.
- Rich and Creamy Filling: The classic Alfredo sauce pairs flawlessly with shredded chicken and melted mozzarella for a comforting yet elevated flavor.
- Customizable and Fun: Easy to tweak ingredients or add veggies to suit your personal taste or dietary needs.
- Less Oil, More Flavor: Enjoy a healthier alternative without sacrificing richness and satisfaction.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzone recipe relies on simple, essential ingredients that together create a balanced dish full of flavor, texture, and color. Each component plays a role from gooey cheese to tender chicken and flaky dough.
- Pizza Dough: Use store-bought or homemade dough as the perfect base to hold all the delicious fillings.
- Cooked Chicken: Shredded or diced, cooked chicken brings hearty protein and pairs beautifully with Alfredo sauce.
- Alfredo Sauce: Creamy, garlicky sauce that adds richness and moisture to the filling.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Freshly shredded for melty, stringy goodness inside.
- Parmesan Cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor for depth and complexity.
- Garlic Powder and Italian Seasoning: Boost the savory profile with aromatic spices.
- Olive Oil or Cooking Spray: Helps achieve that golden, crisp crust in the air fryer.
Variations for Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzone
Feel free to make this recipe your own — it’s incredibly easy to personalize based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences. Here are some creative ideas to inspire you.
- Vegetable Medley: Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for an extra veggie boost.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to turn up the heat.
- Low-Carb Option: Use cauliflower crust instead of traditional dough for a lighter version.
- Cheese Lover’s Delight: Include provolone, fontina, or ricotta for varied cheesy layers.
- Herb Infusion: Fresh basil or parsley sprinkled inside or on top gives a fresh, fragrant note.
How to Make Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzone
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
In a bowl, combine shredded cooked chicken with Alfredo sauce, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning until everything is evenly coated and mixed together.
Step 2: Roll Out the Dough
Lightly flour your surface and roll your pizza dough into a circular shape about 8 inches in diameter, large enough to fold into a calzone pocket.
Step 3: Assemble the Calzone
Place the filling on one half of the dough, leaving a small border around the edge. Fold the other half over and press the edges firmly to seal, crimping with a fork to ensure it stays closed during cooking.
Step 4: Prepare for Air Frying
Brush or spray the calzone lightly with olive oil to encourage a golden crust. Optionally, sprinkle a little extra Parmesan on top for added flavor.
Step 5: Air Fry to Perfection
Place the calzone in a preheated air fryer at 375°F (190°C) and cook for 12-15 minutes until the crust is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese inside is melted.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Let the calzone cool for a few minutes before slicing to prevent the filling from spilling out. Serve hot and enjoy!
Pro Tips for Making Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzone
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: This helps the filling blend smoothly and heats evenly in the air fryer.
- Don’t Overfill: Leaving a border for sealing ensures the calzone stays closed and cooks perfectly.
- Light Oil Coating: A little olive oil on the dough surface is key for crispiness without greasiness.
- Check Early: Air fryer models vary, so start checking for doneness around the 10-minute mark.
- Rest Before Cutting: Allows the filling to set so it won’t spill out when sliced.
How to Serve Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzone
Garnishes
Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or basil on top for a burst of color and freshness that brightens the rich flavors of the calzone.
Side Dishes
Pair with a crisp green salad, garlic roasted veggies, or classic marinara dipping sauce to complement and balance the creamy filling.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice into quarters and serve as finger food at parties or alongside a bowl of soup for an elegant lunch. You can also wrap leftovers in parchment paper for an on-the-go meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place cooled calzones in an airtight container or wrap tightly with foil and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
Freeze assembled, uncooked calzones on a parchment-lined tray then transfer to freezer bags; cook from frozen by adding a few extra minutes to the air frying time.
Reheating
Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 4-6 minutes to restore crispiness, or use a conventional oven for about 10 minutes.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut that adds excellent flavor and saves prep time.
What type of dough is best for making calzones in the air fryer?
Store-bought pizza dough works wonderfully, but homemade dough made with bread flour will give you a slightly chewier texture.
Is it necessary to use Alfredo sauce, or can I substitute something else?
While Alfredo sauce gives this calzone its signature creamy taste, you can substitute with a white garlic sauce or even a béchamel for a different twist.
How do I prevent the calzone from getting soggy?
Be careful not to overfill and make sure to brush the dough with olive oil for a crisp crust. Cooking it at the proper temperature in the air fryer also helps.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the chicken and add your favorite vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or artichokes to preserve the hearty, cheesy filling.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about a warm, cheesy calzone filled with creamy chicken Alfredo, especially when it’s so quick and easy to make in the air fryer. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzone brings flavor, crunch, and creamy goodness together in one irresistible package. Give it a try and watch it become an instant favorite in your recipe collection!
Related Posts
- Easy Beef Steak and Pasta Cooking Ideas to Try
- Easy Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe to Try
- Easy Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Salmon Recipe
Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzone
A quick and flavorful Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzone featuring tender chicken, creamy Alfredo sauce, and melted cheese wrapped in a golden, crispy dough. Ready in under 30 minutes, this easy-to-make dish offers a perfectly crunchy crust and rich, comforting filling—ideal for a satisfying meal or sharing with guests.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 1 calzone (serves 1-2) 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Not Gluten Free
Ingredients
Base
- 1 store-bought or homemade pizza dough, about 8 inches diameter when rolled
Filling
- 1 cup cooked shredded or diced chicken
- 1/3 cup Alfredo sauce
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
For Cooking
- Olive oil or cooking spray, for brushing or spraying
- Additional Parmesan cheese (optional, for sprinkling on top)
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, Alfredo sauce, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Mix thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated and well incorporated.
- Roll Out the Dough: Lightly flour your work surface and roll the pizza dough into a circular shape about 8 inches in diameter, providing enough size to fold into a calzone pocket.
- Assemble the Calzone: Place the prepared filling on one half of the dough, leaving a small border around the edge. Fold the other half over the filling, then press and crimp the edges firmly with a fork to seal properly and prevent leaks during cooking.
- Prepare for Air Frying: Lightly brush or spray the calzone with olive oil to help create a golden, crispy crust. Optionally, sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor.
- Air Fry to Perfection: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the calzone in the basket and cook for 12 to 15 minutes until the crust turns golden brown and crispy and the cheese filling is melted and bubbly.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the calzone and allow it to cool for a few minutes before slicing. This resting time helps prevent the filling from spilling out. Serve warm for best enjoyment.
Notes
- Use room temperature ingredients to ensure smooth blending and even heating.
- Don’t overfill the calzone to avoid spills and ensure a good seal.
- Apply a light coating of olive oil on the dough to achieve a crispy, non-greasy crust.
- Start checking the calzone at 10 minutes as air fryer models vary in cooking times.
- Let the calzone rest before slicing to allow the filling to set properly.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 calzone
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 750 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg
Keywords: Chicken Alfredo Calzone, Air Fryer Calzone, Quick Chicken Recipes, Cheesy Calzone, Air Fryer Dinner