Baked Chicken Alfredo Calzones

If you love the creamy richness of Alfredo pasta and the cheesy, golden perfection of calzones, this recipe combines both in one irresistible dish: Baked Chicken Alfredo Calzones. Imagine tender chicken mixed with creamy Alfredo sauce, gooey mozzarella, and fresh spinach, all wrapped inside golden pizza dough. This family-friendly dinner is easy to make, budget-friendly, and perfect for weeknight meals or weekend gatherings.

Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner recipe, a make-ahead freezer meal, or an impressive dish for guests, these calzones deliver flavor, texture, and comfort in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Family-Friendly: A hit with both kids and adults.
• Budget-Conscious: Uses simple, affordable ingredients.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Can be made ahead and frozen.
• Customizable: Easily swap fillings to fit your taste.
• Restaurant-Style at Home: Save money while enjoying a gourmet-quality dish.

Ingredients Breakdown

Understanding the ingredients helps you get the best results every time.

• Pizza Dough (1 pound): The base of every calzone. Store-bought or homemade both work.
• Cooked Chicken Breast (1 cup): Shredded chicken adds lean protein and keeps the filling hearty.
• Alfredo Sauce (1 cup): Provides the creamy, indulgent flavor that makes this recipe unique.
• Mozzarella Cheese (1 cup): Melts beautifully for that irresistible cheese pull.
• Parmesan Cheese (¼ cup): Adds a salty, nutty flavor that enhances the Alfredo.
• Garlic Powder (1 teaspoon): Brings out savory depth without overpowering.
• Italian Seasoning (1 teaspoon): A mix of oregano, basil, and thyme for authentic Italian flavor.
• Fresh Spinach (¼ cup, chopped): Adds freshness and a boost of nutrition.
• Egg (1, beaten): Used as an egg wash for a golden, bakery-style crust.
• Olive Oil: Adds flavor and helps crisp up the dough.
• Flour: Used for dusting to prevent sticking while rolling.

Tips and Tricks

• Let pizza dough rest at room temperature for 15 minutes before rolling. This makes it easier to stretch.
• Do not overfill the calzones; too much filling may cause them to burst open.
• Always cut a small slit in the dough before baking to let steam escape.
• For extra crispiness, brush the top with a mix of olive oil and egg wash.
• Serve with extra Alfredo or marinara sauce for dipping.

Variations and Customizations

• Meat Lovers: Add crispy bacon or Italian sausage.
• Vegetarian: Skip the chicken and load up on mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.
• Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in crushed red pepper flakes or use spicy Alfredo sauce.
• Cheese Lovers: Mix in ricotta or provolone for even more gooey goodness.
• Whole Wheat Option: Use whole wheat pizza dough for added fiber.

Pairing Suggestions

• Side Salad: A fresh Caesar salad or garden salad balances the richness.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, asparagus, or zucchini make perfect sides.
• Soups: Pair with tomato basil soup or minestrone for an Italian-inspired dinner.
• Wine Pairing: A crisp Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio complements the creamy Alfredo sauce.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store cooled calzones in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Wrap each calzone tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving as it may make the dough soggy.

Popular Questions

1. Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time.

2. Can I make these calzones ahead of time?
Absolutely. Prepare them, refrigerate, and bake when ready to serve.

3. Can I air-fry calzones instead of baking?
Yes. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 12–15 minutes until golden.

4. Can I use homemade Alfredo sauce?
Definitely. Homemade sauce will make the dish even richer and fresher.