Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones
Introduction
Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones are a delicious and easy-to-make meal that combines the flavors of a classic chicken Alfredo dish with the convenience of a handheld calzone. These calzones are baked in an air fryer, resulting in a crispy and golden crust that perfectly complements the creamy chicken Alfredo filling. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, these calzones are sure to satisfy your cravings. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones, providing detailed instructions, variations for keto and low-carb diets, helpful tips, and a conclusion to wrap it all up.
Ingredients
To make Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones, you will need the following ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken
– 1 cup Alfredo sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 pound pizza dough
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Steps by Step Instructions
1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, Alfredo sauce, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir until well combined.
3. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick. Cut the dough into 4 equal-sized rectangles.
4. Spoon the chicken Alfredo filling onto one half of each rectangle, leaving a border around the edges. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling and press the edges together to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.
5. Brush the tops of the calzones with the beaten egg wash. This will give them a golden and shiny appearance when baked.
6. Carefully transfer the calzones to the preheated air fryer basket. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook them in batches.
7. Cook the calzones in the air fryer for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is heated through.
8. Once cooked, remove the calzones from the air fryer and allow them to cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
9. Serve the Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones warm and enjoy!
KETO and Low Carbs Variations
If you’re following a keto or low-carb diet, you can still enjoy the delicious flavors of Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones with a few modifications. Here are some suggestions:
– Replace the pizza dough with a low-carb alternative, such as cauliflower crust or fathead dough. These options are lower in carbs and can be found in many grocery stores or made at home.
– Use a keto-friendly Alfredo sauce that is low in carbs and free from added sugars. You can find pre-made options or make your own using ingredients like heavy cream, butter, and Parmesan cheese.
– Opt for a combination of shredded mozzarella and low-carb, high-fat cheeses, such as provolone or cheddar, instead of traditional mozzarella cheese.
– Increase the amount of shredded chicken or add cooked bacon or sausage for extra protein and flavor.
– Season the filling with keto-friendly herbs and spices, such as garlic powder, onion powder, and dried basil, instead of Italian seasoning.
By making these simple substitutions, you can create a keto or low-carb version of Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones that fits into your dietary preferences.
Tips
– Make sure to fully cook the chicken before shredding it for the filling. This will ensure that the calzones are heated through and safe to eat.
– If you don’t have an air fryer, you can still make these calzones in a traditional oven. Simply preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the calzones on a baking sheet for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
– Customize the filling by adding your favorite vegetables, such as sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted red peppers. Just make sure to chop them finely so they don’t interfere with the sealing of the calzones.
– Serve the Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones with a side of marinara sauce for dipping, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
– Leftover calzones can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer or oven until warmed through.
Conclusion
Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones are a tasty and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or a party appetizer. With a crispy crust and a creamy chicken Alfredo filling, these calzones are sure to become a family favorite. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or make keto and low-carb variations, the flavors and textures of these calzones are sure to impress. So grab your air fryer and get ready to indulge in this delicious and satisfying meal. Bon appétit!
FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought pizza dough for the calzones?
– Yes, you can use store-bought pizza dough for convenience. Just make sure to follow the instructions on the package for the best results.
2. Can I freeze the calzones for later?
– Yes, you can freeze the calzones before baking them. Place the assembled calzones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. When ready to bake, simply place the frozen calzones in the air fryer and adjust the cooking time as needed.
3. Can I use a different type of meat for the filling?
– Absolutely! While this recipe calls for shredded chicken, you can experiment with other proteins such as cooked ground beef, turkey, or even vegetarian options like tofu or mushrooms.
4. Can I add extra cheese to the filling?
– Of course! Feel free to add more cheese to the filling if you prefer a cheesier calzone. Just keep in mind that the calzones may be more prone to oozing out cheese during the cooking process.
5. Can I reheat the calzones in the microwave?
– While you can reheat the calzones in the microwave, the crust may become soft and lose its crispiness. It is recommended to reheat them in the air fryer or oven for the best results.
