Crispy Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones

One of the things I absolutely love about cooking is experimenting with new ways to make familiar dishes exciting. It’s like adding a twist to a childhood classic, making it even better than you remember. Take these crispy cheesy chicken Alfredo air fryer calzones, for example.

They’re a perfect combination of rich, creamy chicken Alfredo and crispy, golden crust—all made easily in the air fryer. The idea came about when I was looking for a quick weeknight meal that felt indulgent yet light enough to enjoy without guilt.

The initial time I made them, I couldn’t stop marveling at how perfectly they came out—crispy on the outside, with a melty, cheesy interior that’s bursting with flavor. The air fryer, which is often my go-to for simple cooking, worked wonders. It allowed the calzones to get that golden crunch without needing a ton of oil, making them lighter than traditional fried calzones but still packing all the deliciousness.

Every bite of these calzones is a mini celebration: savory chicken Alfredo, gooey mozzarella, and that satisfying crunch from the air fryer. They make the perfect meal for busy nights, but they’re also fancy enough for a dinner party. I’ve made them for everything from family gatherings to casual get-togethers, and they always disappear fast!

Short Description

Crispy cheesy chicken Alfredo air fryer calzones are an easy, delicious twist on a classic comfort food. These calzones are filled with creamy chicken Alfredo, melted mozzarella, and a crispy golden crust—perfect for a quick meal or a fun appetizer.

Key Ingredients

For the Chicken Alfredo Filling:

• 1 lb chicken breast or thighs, cooked and shredded (boneless, skinless for convenience)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 medium potatoes, cubed
• 3 carrots, sliced
• 2 cups chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (for filling and topping)

For the Calzone Dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup water (adjust as needed)

For the Topping:

• 1 tbsp butter, melted
• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Tools Needed

• Air fryer
• Mixing bowls
• Rolling pin
• Knife and cutting board
• Grater (for cheese)
• Small bowl for melted butter

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Alfredo Filling

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until soft. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Stir in the carrots and potatoes, cooking for about 5-7 minutes until they start to soften. Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes, stirring to combine. Add the thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.

Bring to a simmer, then cover and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. Remove the bay leaf. Stir in the shredded chicken and heavy cream, letting it heat through for 5-10 minutes. Set the mixture aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Calzone Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, sugar, and baking powder. Slowly add water and olive oil, stirring until the dough starts to form.

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 3-4 minutes until smooth and elastic. Divide the dough into small portions, rolling each into a ball. Roll each ball out into a small, flat circle (about 6-8 inches in diameter).

Step 3: Assemble the Calzones

Spoon a generous amount of the chicken Alfredo filling into the center of each dough circle. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top of the filling.

Fold the dough over the filling, pinching the edges to seal each calzone securely. Repeat until all calzones are assembled.

Step 4: Air Fry the Calzones
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Brush each calzone with melted butter and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.

Place the calzones in the air fryer basket, making sure they’re not touching. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once the calzones are crispy and golden, remove them from the air fryer. Let them cool slightly before serving.

Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm with a side of marinara sauce for dipping or enjoy them as is!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy: The air fryer makes the process simple and fast, with a crispy result every time.

Cheesy and comforting: Rich, creamy chicken Alfredo wrapped in a golden crust is pure indulgence.

Versatile: Customize the filling with your favorite vegetables or meats for a personal touch.

Healthier twist: Using the air fryer helps reduce the amount of oil, making these calzones lighter than traditional fried versions.

Mistakes to Avoid & Solutions

Dough too sticky? If your dough is too sticky to work with, add a little flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the right consistency.

Filling too runny? Make sure to simmer the stew long enough to reduce excess liquid before adding the chicken. This will prevent the filling from being too soggy.

Calzones won’t stay sealed? Press the edges of the dough firmly to ensure a tight seal. If necessary, use a fork to crimp the edges for extra security.

Uneven cooking? Make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket. Calzones need space to cook evenly, so air flow is essential.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

• As a main: Serve with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables to make a complete meal.

• As an appetizer: These calzones make a fun and easy appetizer for a party or gathering. Serve with marinara sauce or ranch for dipping.

• Pairings: A light white wine, such as Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio, pairs beautifully with these cheesy calzones. You could also serve with a side of crispy fries for a more indulgent experience.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Storage: Let the calzones cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes to regain that crispy texture. You can also reheat them in a standard oven at 375°F for 8-10 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought dough?
Yes, store-bought pizza dough works perfectly if you’re short on time.

2. Can I make these ahead of time?
You can assemble the calzones and store them in the fridge until ready to air fry. Just make sure to cook them fresh for the best texture.

3. Can I freeze these?
Absolutely! Once assembled, freeze the calzones on a baking sheet. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer bag. Air fry from frozen at 375°F for about 15 minutes.

4. Can I use a different filling?
Yes, feel free to swap out the chicken Alfredo for other fillings like Italian sausage, veggies, or even a pepperoni version!

5. How do I make them spicier?
For an extra kick, add red pepper flakes to the chicken Alfredo mixture or sprinkle some hot sauce on top before air frying.

Tips & Tricks

– Use a silicone mat or parchment paper in the air fryer basket to prevent sticking.
– If you want an extra crispy finish, give the calzones one final brush of butter before air frying.
– Experiment with adding some herbs or spices to the dough for added flavor—garlic powder, basil, or even oregano can elevate the crust.

Recipe Variations

Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken for sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and ricotta cheese for a delicious vegetarian calzone.

Spicy Chicken Alfredo: Mix in some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the Alfredo filling for a spicy kick.

Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour to make the dough, and make sure your filling ingredients are all gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

Creating crispy, cheesy chicken Alfredo calzones in the air fryer has become one of my favorite cooking experiences. The air fryer really gives them a delightful crunch without the guilt of frying. I love how customizable this recipe is—whether you’re making them for a casual family dinner or a fun get-together, these calzones will surely impress.

They’re easy enough for a weeknight meal but fancy enough to serve to guests. Every time I make them, they bring comfort, flavor, and a little bit of joy into my kitchen. I hope you enjoy making these as much as I do, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turn out!