Introduction
Baked Chicken Alfredo Calzones are a delightful twist on the classic Italian dish. These savory pockets of goodness combine the flavors of tender chicken, creamy Alfredo sauce, and gooey cheese, all wrapped in a warm, flaky crust. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party appetizer, these calzones are sure to impress.
The process of making Baked Chicken Alfredo Calzones may seem intricate at first, but with a little patience and attention to detail, you’ll soon master this delicious recipe. In this article, we’ll walk you through the ingredients you’ll need, the steps to prepare these mouthwatering calzones, some variations to customize the recipe to your taste, helpful tips for success, and finally, answer some frequently asked questions to ensure your cooking experience is smooth and enjoyable.
So, roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and let’s dive into the world of Baked Chicken Alfredo Calzones!
Ingredients
Before you begin, gather the following ingredients:
1. Premade pizza dough
2. Cooked chicken breast, shredded
3. Alfredo sauce
4. Mozzarella cheese, shredded
5. Parmesan cheese, grated
6. Garlic powder
7. Olive oil
8. Salt and pepper to taste
Ensure all your ingredients are fresh and at room temperature for optimal results.
Steps
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Divide the pizza dough into equal portions and roll each portion into a circle on a floured surface.
3. In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken with Alfredo sauce, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Spoon the chicken mixture onto one half of each dough circle, leaving a small border around the edge.
5. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling and crimp the edges to seal the calzone.
6. Brush the calzones with olive oil and make small slits on the top to allow steam to escape during baking.
7. Place the calzones on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
Variations
There are endless ways to customize your Baked Chicken Alfredo Calzones:
– Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the filling for extra flavor and nutrients.
– Substitute the Alfredo sauce with marinara sauce for a different twist on the classic calzone.
– Experiment with different types of cheese such as cheddar, provolone, or gouda for a unique taste.
– Incorporate diced vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or zucchini for added texture and color.
Tips
1. Ensure the calzones are well sealed to prevent any filling from leaking during baking.
2. Let the calzones rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the filling to set before serving.
3. Serve the calzones with a side of marinara sauce or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
4. Store any leftover calzones in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven for best results.
Conclusion
Baked Chicken Alfredo Calzones are a delicious and satisfying meal that brings together the flavors of chicken, Alfredo sauce, and cheese in a convenient handheld package. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a gathering of friends, these calzones are sure to be a hit. With a little practice and creativity, you can customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
FAQs
Q: Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce for this recipe?
A: Yes, store-bought Alfredo sauce works great in this recipe, but feel free to make your own homemade sauce if you prefer.
Q: Can I freeze the calzones before baking?
A: Yes, you can assemble the calzones, freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to bake, simply thaw and bake as directed.
Q: How long do the baked calzones stay fresh?
A: Baked calzones can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain their crispness.
Q: Can I make mini calzones for a party?
A: Absolutely! Simply divide the dough into smaller portions and adjust the baking time accordingly for mini-sized calzones.
Baked Chicken Alfredo Calzones
Delightful twist on the classic Italian dish, these savory calzones combine tender chicken, creamy Alfredo sauce, and gooey cheese wrapped in a warm, flaky crust.
Ingredients
- 1 Premade pizza dough
- 2 cups Cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 cup Alfredo sauce
- 1 cup Mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tsp Garlic powder
- 1 tbsp Olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
-
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
-
Divide the pizza dough into equal portions and roll each portion into a circle on a floured surface.
-
Mix shredded chicken with Alfredo sauce, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
-
Spoon chicken mixture onto one half of each dough circle, leaving a small border around the edge.
-
Fold the other half of the dough over the filling and crimp the edges to seal the calzone.
-
Brush the calzones with olive oil and make small slits on the top to allow steam to escape during baking.
-
Place the calzones on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
