Chicken Alfredo Air Calzones

These chicken Alfredo air fryer calzones turn the creamy, comforting flavors of chicken Alfredo pasta into a handheld delight that's ready in just about half an hour. They combine tender chicken, rich Alfredo sauce, and melty mozzarella wrapped in crispy, golden pizza dough, making them perfect for quick dinners or casual get togethers where convenience and flavor matter equally.

I remember pulling these together on one hectic evening when guests dropped by unexpectedly. The ease and impressive result instantly won everyone over and now they are a regular Friday night treat in our house. Watching everyone's faces light up as they bite into that crisp outside and gooey center never gets old.

Ingredients

• Cooked shredded chicken: use leftover roasted or rotisserie chicken for great flavor and ease
• Quality Alfredo sauce: choose a creamy jarred variety or homemade for best taste and texture
• Whole milk mozzarella: shred from blocks to get a superior melt and that stretchy cheese effect
• Garlic powder: adds a gentle, evenly distributed garlic flavor without overpowering
• Italian seasoning: look for oregano thyme and basil to build authentic herby depth
• Extra virgin olive oil: brushed over the tops for beautiful browning and Mediterranean flavor
• Refrigerated pizza dough: select smooth unbroken dough for best handling and results
• Fresh egg: beaten for that golden shiny finish which makes the calzones look professionally made
• Salt and pepper: balance and enhance all the filling flavors

Instructions

Preheat the Air Fryer:

Heat your air fryer to 375 degrees Fahrenheit so it’s fully hot before cooking. This ensures the calzones develop that perfect crispy exterior and the filling melts evenly.

Make the Filling:

In a mixing bowl combine shredded chicken Alfredo sauce mozzarella garlic powder Italian seasoning salt and pepper. Stir thoroughly so every bite bursts with flavor.

Prepare the Dough:

Lightly flour a surface and roll out the pizza dough to about one quarter inch thickness in a large rectangle. Cut it into four equal squares for even cooking and portion control.

Assemble the Calzones:

Spoon about one third cup of filling in the middle of each square keeping the mixture concentrated to make sealing easier and prevent leaks.

Seal the Edges:

Fold the dough over the filling forming triangular or rectangular pockets. Press the edges firmly with your fingers then crimp with a fork to create a secure seal and a decorative border.

Brush with Oil and Egg Wash:

Lightly brush olive oil onto the tops to enhance browning. Then add a beaten egg wash using a pastry brush for a glossy golden finish.

Arrange in the Air Fryer:

Place calzones in the air fryer basket spaced out to allow hot air circulation. Cook in batches if they don’t all fit in one go.

Air Fry the Calzones:

Cook for ten to twelve minutes until the dough is golden brown and fully cooked. The melting cheese and escaping steam signal they are done.

Let Them Rest:

Remove from the air fryer and let the calzones rest for one minute so the filling sets slightly and is safe to eat without burning your mouth.

These calzones quickly became my favorite because the quality shredded chicken combined with creamy Alfredo sauce delivers comfort and protein in every bite. One family night stands out when everyone gathered laughing around the table eating these pockets of joy. They have a way of turning any casual meal into something special and memorable.

Creative Serving Ideas

Pair these calzones with marinara sauce for dipping for that true pizza parlor experience or serve alongside a crisp Caesar salad for a full Italian inspired meal. They make great appetizers when cut into smaller pieces and are delicious at room temperature making them perfect for lunches on the go.

Flavor Variations

Try sautéed mushrooms or fresh spinach folded into the filling for some extra greens and added flavor complexity. Swap out mozzarella partially for provolone or parmesan to change the cheese profile. If you like heat add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for a little kick.

Storage Tips

These calzones taste best fresh but leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to bring back their crispiness. For convenience assemble uncooked calzones and freeze them solid; air fry straight from frozen with an extra two to three minutes added to cook time.

These calzones are quick to assemble and even quicker to disappear. Serve hot with a dipping sauce and enjoy the gooey center and crisp exterior.

FAQs About This Recipe

→ Can I use homemade pizza dough instead?

Yes, homemade dough works well. Roll it to about ¼ inch thickness and cut into equal squares for best results.

→ What if I don't have an air fryer?

You can bake these 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 seal the edges tightly by pressing firmly and crimping with a fork to secure the filling.

→ 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 extra minutes to the cooking time.

→ What can I serve with these calzones?

They pair wonderfully with marinara sauce for dipping, a crisp Caesar salad, or can be enjoyed on their own.