Take the classic flavors of Chicken Parmesan and wrap them up in a delicious, golden calzone! This Chicken Parmesan Calzone is stuffed with crispy chicken, tangy marinara sauce, and a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, all wrapped in a soft pizza dough. It’s a fun and easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or a quick weeknight fix. Let’s get started with this satisfying and cheesy recipe!
Table of Contents
- Ingredients for Chicken Parmesan Calzone
- Instructions for Chicken Parmesan Calzone
- Tips & Notes
- Recipe Variations & Substitutions
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients for Chicken Parmesan Calzone
- 1 lb pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup cooked chicken, diced or shredded
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)
- Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)
Instructions for Chicken Parmesan Calzone
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Stir until well combined.
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a large circle or rectangle, about 1/4-inch thick. If the dough is too stretchy, let it rest for a few minutes before rolling again.
Step 4: Fill the Calzone
- Spoon the chicken mixture onto one half of the dough, leaving about a 1-inch border around the edges. Be careful not to overfill to prevent the calzone from bursting during baking.
Step 5: Fold and Seal
- Fold the empty half of the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together to seal, then crimp the edges with a fork to ensure it’s tightly sealed.
Step 6: Brush and Bake
- Transfer the calzone to the prepared baking sheet. Brush the top with olive oil to help it bake up golden and crisp.
- Cut a few small slits in the top of the calzone to allow steam to escape during baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and cooked through.
Step 7: Serve
- Let the calzone cool for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil if desired, and serve with extra marinara sauce for dipping.
Tips & Notes
- Dough Temperature: Let the pizza dough sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before rolling it out. This makes it easier to work with.
- Crispy Crust: For an extra crispy crust, bake the calzone on a preheated pizza stone instead of a baking sheet.
- Don’t Overfill: Be careful not to overfill the calzone, as it can cause the dough to tear or prevent it from sealing properly.
Recipe Variations & Substitutions
- Buffalo Chicken Calzone: Replace the marinara sauce with Buffalo sauce and add a little blue cheese for a spicy twist.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and bell peppers for a vegetarian version.
- Different Cheese: Use provolone or cheddar cheese instead of mozzarella for a different flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make Chicken Parmesan Calzone ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the calzone up to the point of baking, then refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Bake it directly from the refrigerator, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
2. How do I store leftover calzone?
Store any leftover calzone in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until heated through.
3. Can I freeze the calzone?
Absolutely! Wrap the unbaked or baked calzone tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. If baking from frozen, add extra time to ensure it’s cooked through.
4. What can I serve with Chicken Parmesan Calzone?
Serve the calzone with extra marinara sauce for dipping, a green salad, or even garlic bread for a complete meal.
This Chicken Parmesan Calzone is a comforting, cheesy, and hearty meal that combines all the flavors of classic Chicken Parmesan into a convenient, handheld dish. Whether it’s for a family dinner or a game night treat, this calzone is sure to impress with its crispy crust and delicious filling. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the comforting flavors in every bite!
Happy cooking, and enjoy this tasty twist on a classic favorite!
