Calzones filled with creamy chicken Alfredo are a comforting, satisfying, and easy-to-make meal that delivers all the flavors of Italian-inspired cuisine with minimal effort. Cooking them in the air fryer gives you that irresistible golden, crisp exterior while keeping the inside warm, cheesy, and flavorful. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, cozy dinners, or anytime you want something deliciously hearty without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzone recipe brings together rich Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, and gooey cheese wrapped in soft pizza dough that crisps beautifully when air-fried. It’s versatile, easy to customize, and great for meal prep or using leftovers. Plus, the air fryer makes the process quick and fuss-free while still delivering that bakery-style finish.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 pound pizza dough, divided into 4 equal pieces
1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
1/2 cup Alfredo sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional)
1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)
Directions
In a mixing bowl, combine the diced chicken, Alfredo sauce, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix until fully incorporated and creamy.
On a lightly floured surface, roll each dough portion into a 6–8-inch circle, keeping the thickness even.
Spoon the chicken Alfredo mixture onto one half of each dough circle, leaving about 1 inch of space around the edge.
Fold the dough over to enclose the filling and press the edges firmly to seal. Crimp with a fork if desired.
Brush the tops of each calzone lightly with olive oil to encourage browning.
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Arrange the calzones in the air fryer basket without overcrowding. Cook in batches if necessary.
Air fry for 12–15 minutes, or until golden brown and crisp.
Remove and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 4 calzones.
Preparation time: about 15 minutes
Cook time: 12–15 minutes
Total time: approximately 30 minutes
Variations
Swap the chicken for sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or mixed vegetables for a vegetarian version.
Add ricotta cheese for extra creaminess.
Replace Alfredo sauce with pesto or marinara for a completely different flavor profile.
Mix in red pepper flakes for a subtle kick of heat.
Use whole-wheat pizza dough for a more wholesome option.
Storage/Reheating
Refrigeration: Store cooled calzones in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze individually wrapped calzones for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Warm in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 4–6 minutes, or in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the crust crisp.
FAQs
How do I prevent the calzones from leaking while cooking?
Make sure the edges are sealed firmly by pinching tightly or crimping with a fork. Avoid overfilling.
Can I make these calzones ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble them and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking. Brush with oil just before air frying.
Can I use homemade Alfredo sauce?
Absolutely. Homemade sauce will give the calzones an even richer, fresher taste.
What type of chicken works best?
Any cooked chicken breast works—leftovers, pan-seared, grilled, or rotisserie.
Can I bake these instead of air frying?
Yes. Bake at 400°F (205°C) for 18–20 minutes or until golden.
How do I keep the dough from tearing?
Let the dough rest at room temperature for 20 minutes before rolling. This prevents elasticity and tearing.
Why is my crust not browning well?
Brush with olive oil generously and ensure the air fryer is fully preheated.
Can I add vegetables to the filling?
Yes—spinach, bell peppers, broccoli, or mushrooms work well. Sauté them first to remove excess moisture.
How do I know when the calzones are done?
They should be evenly golden and slightly puffed, with no doughy spots.
What dipping sauces go well with these calzones?
Extra Alfredo, marinara, creamy garlic sauce, or even ranch complement them beautifully.
Conclusion
Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones are an easy, comforting, and customizable meal that delivers big flavor with minimal prep. With their crispy exterior and luscious filling, they’re perfect for weeknight dinners or sharing with friends and family. Try different fillings, sauces, or cheeses to personalize the recipe and enjoy endless variations of this delicious dish. Happy cooking!