Baked Chicken Alfredo Calzones: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Dish
Are you looking for a creative and mouthwatering way to enjoy the flavors of chicken alfredo? Look no further than these irresistible Baked Chicken Alfredo Calzones. This recipe takes the classic combination of tender chicken, creamy alfredo sauce, and melty cheese and encases it in a golden-brown, flaky crust. With each bite, you’ll experience a harmonious blend of flavors that will leave you craving more.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There’s so much to love about these Baked Chicken Alfredo Calzones. First and foremost, they are incredibly delicious. The combination of the rich and creamy alfredo sauce with the savory chicken creates a flavor profile that is simply irresistible. The calzone crust adds a satisfying crunch and acts as the perfect vessel for all the delectable fillings.
Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, hosting a casual get-together, or looking for a satisfying lunch option, these calzones fit the bill. They can be enjoyed as a main course or served in smaller portions as appetizers or party snacks.
Additionally, these Baked Chicken Alfredo Calzones are surprisingly easy to make. While they may look impressive, the preparation is straightforward, making them accessible even for novice home cooks. With a few simple ingredients and some basic kitchen skills, you’ll have a batch of delectable calzones ready to enjoy in no time.
Ingredients
To make these Baked Chicken Alfredo Calzones, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound pizza dough
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 cup alfredo sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Feel free to get creative with the ingredients and customize the recipe to your liking. You can add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for an extra burst of flavor and nutrition. If you prefer a different type of cheese, such as cheddar or fontina, go ahead and use it. The possibilities are endless!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Baked Chicken Alfredo Calzones:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Divide the pizza dough into equal portions, depending on how many calzones you want to make. Roll out each portion into a circle or oval shape on a lightly floured surface.
- In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken, alfredo sauce, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Place a generous amount of the chicken alfredo mixture onto one half of each dough circle, leaving a small border around the edges. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling and press the edges together to seal. You can crimp the edges with a fork for a decorative touch.
- Transfer the calzones to the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with olive oil to help them achieve a golden-brown color during baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the calzones are puffed up and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let the calzones cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
These Baked Chicken Alfredo Calzones are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven when the crust is still warm and crispy. Serve them as a main course alongside a fresh salad or a side of roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
Expert Tips for Success
Here are some expert tips to ensure your Baked Chicken Alfredo Calzones turn out perfectly:
- Make sure to fully seal the edges of the calzones to prevent any filling from leaking out during baking.
- If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought pizza dough instead of making your own from scratch.
- For an extra flavor boost, you can brush the crust with melted garlic butter before baking.
- Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor of the calzones. Fresh basil or thyme can add a delightful aromatic touch.
Variations and Substitutions
While the classic combination of chicken alfredo is undeniably delicious, there are endless ways to put your own spin on these calzones. Here are a few ideas:
1. Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and add a variety of sautéed vegetables, such as bell peppers, onions, and zucchini, to the filling.
2. Spicy Twist: Add some heat by incorporating diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes into the filling. You can also drizzle some hot sauce over the calzones before serving.
3. Seafood Lover’s Delight: Swap the chicken for cooked shrimp or crab meat for a luxurious seafood version of these calzones. Serve with a squeeze of lemon for a burst of freshness.
Serving Suggestions
These Baked Chicken Alfredo Calzones are a complete meal on their own, but you can enhance the dining experience by pairing them with complementary side dishes and beverages. Here are a few serving suggestions:
1. Side Salad: Serve the calzones with a crisp and refreshing side salad. A simple mix of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and a tangy vinaigrette will complement the richness of the calzones perfectly.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables, such as asparagus, carrots, or Brussels sprouts, make a flavorful and nutritious side dish. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast in the oven until tender and caramelized.
3. Refreshing Drink: Pair these calzones with a refreshing beverage like iced tea, lemonade, or a crisp white wine. The acidity and lightness of these drinks will balance out the richness of the calzones.
FAQs
Q: Can I freeze these calzones?
A: Absolutely! These calzones freeze well, making them a convenient make-ahead option. Once baked, let them cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in freezer bags. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in a preheated oven until warmed through.
Q: How long do leftovers last?
A: Leftover calzones can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Q: Can I use a different sauce instead of alfredo?
A: Absolutely! While alfredo sauce complements the chicken perfectly, you can experiment with different sauces to suit your taste preferences. Marinara sauce, pesto, or even barbecue sauce can all work well as alternative options.
Final Thoughts
These Baked Chicken Alfredo Calzones are the perfect marriage of comforting flavors and satisfying textures. With their flaky crust and creamy filling, they are sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or hosting a casual gathering, these calzones are a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for seconds. So, go ahead and give this recipe a try. Your taste buds will thank you!
Baked Chicken Alfredo Calzones
Enjoy a delicious twist on the classic chicken alfredo with these irresistible Baked Chicken Alfredo Calzones. Tender chicken, creamy alfredo sauce, and gooey cheeses enclosed in a golden-brown, flaky crust create a harmonious blend of flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 pound pizza dough
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 cup alfredo sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Directions
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
-
Divide the pizza dough into equal portions and roll out each portion into a circle or oval shape on a floured surface.
-
Combine shredded chicken, alfredo sauce, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
-
Place chicken alfredo mixture on half of each dough circle, fold over, press edges to seal, and crimp with a fork.
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Transfer calzones to the baking sheet, brush with olive oil, and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
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Let calzones cool, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.
