Imagine biting into a warm, golden-brown calzone filled with tender shredded chicken, rich Alfredo sauce, melty mozzarella, sharp Parmesan, and perfectly cooked spinach—all made in your air fryer for a crisp, delicious finish. Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones bring together the best of Italian flavors and modern convenience, making them the ultimate comfort meal for busy weeknights, family dinners, or weekend treats.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through every step to create these scrumptious calzones from scratch. I’ll share detailed instructions, essential tips, variations, and kitchen equipment needed, along with storage ideas and perfect food and drink pairings. Whether you’re an experienced home cook or just starting out, these calzones will quickly become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.

Why You’ll Love Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones

These calzones offer a unique twist on classic Italian comfort food. Here are some compelling reasons to give them a try:

Speed and Convenience: Using an air fryer significantly reduces cooking time while delivering a crispy exterior and a perfectly melted interior.
Rich, Creamy Filling: The combination of Alfredo sauce, shredded chicken, and cheeses creates a decadent filling that’s both hearty and satisfying.
Customizable: You can easily tweak the ingredients—add extra vegetables, switch up the cheese, or experiment with different seasonings to suit your taste.
Modern Take on a Classic: This recipe modernizes the traditional calzone by incorporating a beloved Alfredo flavor, making it a delightful fusion of Italian classics and contemporary cooking.
Less Mess, More Flavor: The air fryer not only cuts down on cooking time but also minimizes cleanup, leaving you with more time to enjoy your delicious creation.

Who Is This Recipe For?

Busy Home Cooks: Perfect for those hectic weeknights when you want a homemade meal that doesn’t require a lot of time or effort.
Comfort Food Lovers: If you’re a fan of creamy pasta sauces and cheesy delights, these calzones will hit the spot.
Family Gatherings: A crowd-pleaser that can easily be scaled up for parties or casual family dinners.
Innovative Cooks: Ideal for foodies who love putting a twist on traditional dishes and experimenting with modern cooking techniques like air frying.

Ingredients and Essential Kitchen Equipment

Ingredients

For these Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones, you’ll need:

1 package pizza dough
The base of our calzones, offering a soft, pillowy interior with a slight crisp when baked.
1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
Use leftover chicken or freshly cooked for tender, flavorful protein.
1/2 cup Alfredo sauce
A creamy, rich sauce that infuses every bite with classic Italian flavor.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Provides that satisfying, melty stretch that calzones are known for.
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Adds a sharp, savory note to the filling.
1/2 cup cooked spinach, drained
Boosts nutrition and adds a subtle earthy flavor.
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
A blend of herbs such as basil, oregano, and rosemary that elevates the overall flavor profile.
Olive oil for brushing
Ensures a golden, crispy finish on the calzone crust.

Essential Kitchen Equipment

Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following equipment:

Air Fryer: Preheated to 375°F for a quick, crispy bake.
Rolling Pin: To roll out your pizza dough evenly on a floured surface.
Cutting Board and Knife: For shredding the chicken (if needed) and prepping any additional ingredients.
Mixing Bowls: One for combining the filling ingredients.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: To accurately measure the Alfredo sauce, cheeses, and seasonings.
Pastry Brush: For brushing olive oil on the dough.
Baking Sheet or Tray: Optional, if you prefer to warm the dough in the oven before transferring to the air fryer.
Cooling Rack: For letting the calzones cool slightly after air frying.
Spatula or Tongs: For handling the calzones safely out of the air fryer.

Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions

1. Roll Out the Dough

Start by lightly dusting your work surface with flour. Unroll the package of pizza dough and divide it into 4 equal pieces. Using a rolling pin, roll each piece into a rectangular shape. Aim for an even thickness so that your calzones cook uniformly and the filling is well enclosed.

2. Prepare the Filling

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the filling ingredients:

Spread 1 tablespoon of Alfredo sauce over each piece of dough, leaving about a 1-inch border around the edges.
Distribute 1 cup of shredded chicken evenly on top of the sauce.
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese over the chicken.
Add the 1/2 cup of cooked spinach and sprinkle 1 teaspoon of dried Italian seasoning on top.

This combination creates a rich and flavorful filling that is both hearty and indulgent.

3. Assemble the Calzones

Fold each dough rectangle over the filling to create a pocket, resembling a half-moon or envelope shape. Pinch the edges firmly to ensure the calzone is well sealed. This step is crucial to keep the delicious filling inside during the cooking process. Once assembled, brush the tops of the calzones lightly with olive oil. This not only helps them achieve a golden, crispy exterior but also adds a subtle, aromatic flavor.

4. Preheat Your Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to preheat. Preheating is key to ensuring that your calzones cook evenly and develop that desirable crispy crust.

5. Air Fry the Calzones

Place the calzones in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook them for 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden brown and the dough is cooked through. The air fryer will work its magic, giving you a calzone with a crispy exterior and a warm, melty filling in a fraction of the time it would take in a conventional oven.

6. Cool, Garnish, and Serve

Once the calzones are done, carefully remove them from the air fryer and let them cool slightly on a cooling rack. This cooling period allows the filling to set just a bit, making them easier to handle. Serve your Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones warm, with extra Alfredo sauce on the side for dipping if desired.

Tips, Shortcuts, and Recipe Variations

Important Notes:

Dough Temperature: If the pizza dough is too cold, it can be difficult to work with. Allow it to come to room temperature for easier rolling.
Sealing the Edges: Make sure to press the edges firmly when folding the dough to prevent any filling from escaping during cooking.
Even Filling Distribution: Spread the filling ingredients evenly to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.

Tips and Shortcuts:

Use Pre-Cooked Chicken: This recipe works wonderfully with leftover or rotisserie chicken. It saves time and enhances the flavor as the chicken melds with the other ingredients.
Air Fryer Basket Space: Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. If necessary, cook the calzones in batches to ensure even cooking.
Extra Crispy Crust: For an even crispier crust, lightly dust the calzones with a bit of semolina flour before brushing with olive oil.
Customizable Filling: Feel free to experiment with additional ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little extra heat.

Recipe Variations:

Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or a mix of roasted vegetables, and use a vegetarian Alfredo sauce.
Different Cheeses: Try substituting some of the mozzarella or Parmesan with provolone or fontina for a unique twist on the flavor profile.
Spice It Up: If you enjoy a bit of spice, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the filling or a dash of hot sauce to the Alfredo sauce.
Herb Boost: Add freshly chopped basil or parsley into the filling for an extra layer of herbaceous freshness.
Dipping Sauce Alternatives: Experiment with a garlic aioli or a spicy marinara sauce as an alternative dipping sauce for your calzones.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Storing Leftovers:

If you have any leftovers (though these calzones are so delicious, they might disappear quickly!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep for up to 3 days. For the best texture, store them unassembled if possible or wrap them loosely in foil.

Reheating Instructions:

Air Fryer: For best results, reheat in your air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes to regain crispiness.
Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F, place the calzones on a baking sheet, and heat for about 8-10 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: If you’re in a hurry, you can microwave a calzone on a microwave-safe plate for 1-2 minutes. Note that this method might make the dough a bit softer, so the air fryer or oven is recommended for retaining crispiness.

Food and Drink Pairings

Ideal Food Pairings:

Salads: A crisp Caesar salad or mixed greens with a light vinaigrette pairs wonderfully with the rich, cheesy calzones.
Dipping Sauces: Serve with extra Alfredo sauce, garlic aioli, or even a marinara sauce to complement the flavors.
Sides: Consider pairing with steamed broccoli, roasted vegetables, or a bowl of hearty soup for a complete meal.

Beverage Pairings:

White Wine: A glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio enhances the creamy, cheesy flavors of the dish.
Iced Tea: A refreshing iced tea with a slice of lemon is a great non-alcoholic option.
Sparkling Water: For a light, palate-cleansing beverage, serve with sparkling water with a twist of lime.
Craft Beer: A crisp, light beer such as a pilsner or lager pairs nicely with the savory elements of the calzones.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use store-bought pizza dough for this recipe?

A: Yes, store-bought pizza dough works perfectly for this recipe. Just make sure it is at room temperature before rolling it out, which will make it easier to handle and shape.

Q: What if I don’t have an air fryer?

A: You can bake the calzones in a conventional oven. Preheat the oven to 415°F and bake the calzones on a lined baking sheet for 17-20 minutes until golden and crispy.

Q: Can I add more vegetables to the filling?

A: Absolutely! You can incorporate additional vegetables such as sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, or even a handful of baby spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.

Q: How can I make the calzones spicier?

A: For a spicy twist, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling or a dash of hot sauce to the Alfredo sauce. You can also use a spicy Italian sausage instead of plain chicken if you prefer.

Q: What are some good dipping sauces to serve with these calzones?

A: In addition to extra Alfredo sauce, consider serving with garlic aioli, marinara sauce, or even a spicy ranch dressing for an extra flavor kick.

Q: Can I freeze these calzones for later?

A: Yes, you can freeze the calzones. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap each calzone tightly in plastic wrap and place in an airtight freezer bag. Freeze for up to 1 month. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat in an air fryer or oven until warmed through.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones are a delightful fusion of creamy Alfredo goodness and the convenience of air frying, all encased in a soft, delicious pizza dough. Their perfect balance of tender chicken, melty cheeses, and flavorful spinach makes them an irresistible dish for any occasion. Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests at a casual gathering, these calzones are sure to be a hit.

I hope you enjoyed this detailed guide to making Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones and found the tips, variations, and pairing suggestions helpful. If you decide to try out this recipe, please share your experience and any creative twists you’ve added in the comments below. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family, and subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes, expert cooking tips, and culinary inspiration.

Happy cooking, and here’s to savoring every cheesy, flavorful bite of your homemade calzones!

Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones: A Quick, Cheesy Twist on Italian Comfort Food