There’s something so comforting about Chicken Alfredo—its rich, creamy sauce, tender chicken, and gooey melted cheese all come together to create a deliciously indulgent dish. But what if I told you that you could take that beloved flavor combo and transform it into a fun, handheld snack? That’s exactly what these Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones do.

These calzones are a genius way to enjoy the flavors of Chicken Alfredo, but in a crispier, more portable format. The pizza dough bakes to a beautiful golden brown, while the inside stays cheesy, gooey, and loaded with all the creamy goodness of Alfredo sauce and chicken. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner, a game-day snack, or a fun way to switch up your usual comfort food, these calzones check all the boxes.

In this recipe, we’ll walk through each step, from preparing the dough to the perfect air-fried finish. Plus, I’ll share a few tips and tricks to make sure your calzones turn out crispy on the outside and cheesy on the inside.

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

The beauty of this recipe is that you don’t have to make the dough from scratch if you don’t want to. Using store-bought pizza dough is a huge time-saver, and honestly, it’s just as delicious! Of course, if you’re feeling a little adventurous, feel free to use your favorite homemade dough recipe.

Start by dividing the dough into four equal portions. Rolling each portion into a circle about 6–8 inches in diameter will give you the perfect base for your calzones. It’s best to use a lightly floured surface to prevent the dough from sticking as you roll it out. Don’t worry if the circles aren’t perfectly uniform—after all, calzones are meant to be a little rustic!

Step 2: Make the Filling

Now comes the fun part: the filling! In a mixing bowl, combine your cooked, shredded or diced chicken with Alfredo sauce, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and garlic powder. You’ll also want to add a little Italian seasoning to bring some herby flavor into the mix. If you’re feeling extra, you can even throw in some spinach or mushrooms for added texture and taste.

Season everything with salt and pepper to taste, and give it a good stir until everything is well combined. The result should be a creamy, cheesy mixture that’s going to make the inside of your calzones totally irresistible.

Step 3: Fill the Calzones

Once your dough is prepped and the filling is ready, it’s time to assemble the calzones. Take one of your dough circles and spoon a generous portion of the chicken Alfredo mixture right in the center. Be careful not to overfill—leave about an inch of dough around the edges to help seal it.

Now, fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Gently press the edges together to seal the calzone, and then use a fork to crimp the edges for a little extra decorative touch. This step is essential for making sure the filling doesn’t spill out while it’s cooking, so take your time and press those edges together firmly.

Step 4: Prepare for Air Frying

To get that perfectly golden finish, you’ll need to brush the tops of your calzones with a beaten egg. This gives them a lovely, glossy appearance once they’re cooked. If you don’t want to deal with the egg wash, you can also spray the tops with a little cooking spray for a similar effect, but trust me—the egg wash really makes them shine.

Before placing the calzones into the air fryer, don’t forget to spray the air fryer basket with nonstick cooking spray or lightly brush it with oil. This helps prevent any sticking and ensures a crisp finish.

Step 5: Air Fry the Calzones

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 2–3 minutes. Once it’s ready, carefully place the calzones into the basket in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd them—airflow is key for getting that crispy, golden crust. If you have to cook them in batches, that’s totally fine!

Air fry the calzones for about 8–10 minutes, flipping them halfway through. You’ll know they’re done when they’re golden brown and crispy on the outside. The filling should be warm and gooey, just waiting to be enjoyed.

Step 6: Serve

Once they’re cooked to perfection, let the calzones cool for a minute or two before serving. Trust me, you’ll want to let them rest a bit so the filling doesn’t burn your mouth! Serve these crispy, cheesy wonders with marinara sauce or extra Alfredo sauce on the side for dipping—both work beautifully.

Now that you know the basic steps to create these incredible Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones, let’s dive into some additional tips and tricks to make sure they turn out perfectly every time. Whether you’re looking to customize the filling, adjust the cooking method, or just want to be extra sure that your calzones come out crispy and golden, I’ve got you covered. I’ll also share a few ideas for how to elevate this recipe and make it your own.

Step 1: Experiment with the Filling

One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile the filling can be. While the classic Chicken Alfredo filling is already fantastic, there are tons of ways to mix it up to suit your taste.

Add Veggies: For extra nutrition and flavor, consider adding some sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the filling. These veggies not only complement the creamy Alfredo sauce but also give your calzones a burst of color and texture.
Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or even a bit of hot sauce to the filling. This is a great way to balance the richness of the Alfredo sauce with a spicy kick.
Herbaceous Touch: Want to make the flavor even more vibrant? Try adding some fresh basil, oregano, or even a bit of thyme to the filling. Fresh herbs really elevate the flavor and give the calzones a more complex taste.
Cheese Variety: While mozzarella and Parmesan are the go-to choices for this recipe, feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Gouda, fontina, or cheddar would add a nice twist, depending on your preference.

The beauty of calzones is that you can get creative with what goes inside. So, don’t be afraid to play around with different ingredients based on what you have on hand or what you’re in the mood for.

Step 2: Make the Dough Your Own

Though the recipe calls for store-bought pizza dough, you can absolutely make your own if you’re feeling up for the challenge. Homemade pizza dough gives your calzones an extra-special touch and can be adjusted to suit your taste.

If you’re making dough from scratch, I recommend adding a little olive oil and a pinch of sugar to help with flavor and texture. A dash of garlic powder in the dough itself can also give the calzones an aromatic base that complements the filling.

Additionally, if you’re gluten-free, you can easily substitute the dough with a gluten-free pizza dough. Just make sure to check the texture before baking, as gluten-free doughs can sometimes be a bit more delicate.

Step 3: How to Get the Perfect Golden, Crispy Finish

The air fryer is such an amazing tool for making calzones because it produces that perfect crispy texture without all the oil and fuss of deep frying. However, to get the ideal golden-brown, crispy crust, there are a few key things to keep in mind:

Preheat the Air Fryer: Don’t skip the preheating step! Preheating your air fryer ensures that the calzones cook evenly and get that crispy texture right from the start.
Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Airflow is key to getting a nice crisp on the outside of the calzones. Be sure to place the calzones in a single layer and avoid overcrowding the basket. If you have more calzones than your air fryer can handle in one batch, simply cook them in multiple rounds.
Use the Right Temperature: The ideal temperature for air frying these calzones is 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the crust cooks through and becomes golden without overcooking the filling. If your air fryer runs a bit hot, you may want to reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) for a more even cook.

Step 4: How to Store and Reheat Leftover Calzones

If you’re lucky enough to have any leftover calzones (which, honestly, is rare in my house), don’t worry! These air-fried beauties store and reheat beautifully.

Store: Allow the calzones to cool to room temperature before storing them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Reheat: To bring back that crispy exterior, I recommend reheating them in the air fryer for 3-5 minutes at 375°F (190°C). This will restore the golden crispiness and melt the cheese back to its gooey perfection.

You can also freeze these calzones for a longer storage option. Simply freeze them before cooking (after assembling and sealing). When you’re ready to enjoy, you can air fry them straight from the freezer, adding an extra minute or two to the cooking time.

Step 5: Customizing the Dipping Sauces

A great dipping sauce can take your calzones to the next level, and luckily, there are so many options to choose from! Here are a few suggestions to make your meal even more special:

Classic Marinara: The tangy, tomato-based sauce complements the creamy Alfredo filling and adds a nice contrast in flavor.
Extra Alfredo Sauce: If you’re a true fan of the rich, creamy goodness of Alfredo sauce, why not serve your calzones with a side of extra sauce for dipping?
Ranch Dressing: For a bit of extra indulgence, ranch dressing works surprisingly well as a dipping sauce with the creamy chicken and cheese filling.
Pesto: If you’re in the mood for something a little more vibrant, try a fresh basil pesto dip. The herbal notes will balance out the richness of the calzones.

We’ve covered all the steps, tips, and tricks for making these Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones. But I know that sometimes you still have a few lingering questions before diving in. Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered! Here are some common questions and answers that should help you make sure your calzones come out just right.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce for this recipe?

Absolutely! Using store-bought Alfredo sauce is a great way to save time without sacrificing flavor. There are many high-quality jarred Alfredo sauces available that will work wonderfully in this recipe. Of course, if you have the time, you can always make your own homemade Alfredo sauce for a richer flavor, but store-bought is a perfectly fine shortcut.

2. Can I make these calzones ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep these calzones ahead of time! If you want to assemble them in advance, just follow all the steps up until you’re ready to air fry. Once assembled, you can store them in the fridge for a day or two. When you’re ready to cook them, simply brush them with the egg wash and air fry as directed. If you’d like to freeze them, that’s an option too—just freeze the unbaked calzones and cook them directly from frozen, adding a couple extra minutes to the cooking time.

3. Can I make these calzones in the oven instead of the air fryer?

Yes, you can! If you don’t have an air fryer, you can easily bake these calzones in a regular oven. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the calzones for 12–15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and the filling is hot. Just be sure to place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

4. What kind of chicken should I use?

For the best results, I recommend using cooked, shredded rotisserie chicken. It’s convenient, flavorful, and works perfectly in this recipe. You can also cook chicken breasts or thighs and shred them yourself. Just be sure the chicken is cooked through before adding it to the filling. If you have leftover chicken from a previous meal, this recipe is a great way to use it up!

5. Can I make these calzones without cheese?

While cheese is a big part of the deliciousness in these calzones, you can certainly leave it out if you prefer. The calzones will still have great flavor thanks to the chicken and Alfredo sauce. If you’re looking for an alternative, you could try adding a dairy-free cheese or simply filling them with extra veggies or a different protein.

6. How do I prevent the calzones from spilling open during cooking?

The key to keeping the filling in the calzone is making sure the dough is properly sealed. When you fold the dough over the filling, press the edges together firmly to seal it, and then crimp them with a fork for extra security. If you’re worried about spills, you can even lightly pinch the edges with your fingers to make sure everything is sealed tightly.

7. Can I add other ingredients to the filling?

Definitely! This recipe is versatile, and you can customize the filling however you like. You could add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or even bacon for extra flavor. Just keep in mind that adding more ingredients might require you to adjust the cooking time slightly, so keep an eye on them while they’re air frying.

Conclusion: Time to Enjoy These Crispy Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones!

There you have it—the complete guide to making these mouthwatering Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones. With crispy, golden dough and a rich, creamy filling, these calzones are a guaranteed hit whether you’re feeding the family, hosting a game day, or just craving some comfort food. The best part is how easy they are to make, thanks to the air fryer that gives you that perfect, crispy finish without the mess of deep frying.

I hope you’ve enjoyed learning all the tips and tricks for making these calzones your own. Whether you stick with the classic filling or get creative with add-ins, you can’t go wrong. These calzones are a great way to take the flavors of a beloved pasta dish and transform them into something new and exciting.

I’d love to hear how your calzones turn out! Feel free to share your experience in the comments or let me know if you tried any fun variations. And if you have any other questions, don’t hesitate to reach out. Happy cooking, and enjoy your crispy, cheesy Chicken Alfredo Calzones!