These Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones are the epitome of comfort food made modern. With golden, flaky crusts achieved through air frying and a luscious interior of creamy Alfredo chicken and melted cheese, each bite delivers both nostalgia and excitement. It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel like you’re indulging at your favorite Italian-American eatery, but it’s surprisingly quick and fuss-free.
Perfect for busy weeknights or when you need to whip up something impressive with minimal effort, these calzones combine classic Italian flavors with the convenience of modern cooking tools. The air fryer ensures a crisp finish without needing to deep fry, while the filling can be customized easily with vegetables, extra cheese, or different sauces to suit your cravings.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 package refrigerated pizza dough
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1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded
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1/2 cup Alfredo sauce
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1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
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1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
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1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional)
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Olive oil spray or melted butter for brushing
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Marinara sauce for dipping (optional)
Directions:
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Roll out the pizza dough and cut it into 4 equal rectangles.
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In a bowl, mix shredded chicken with Alfredo sauce, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
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Spoon the filling onto one half of each dough piece, leaving room around the edges.
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Fold the dough over to form a calzone and press edges with a fork to seal.
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Brush the tops with olive oil or melted butter.
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Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
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Place 1–2 calzones in the air fryer basket at a time, depending on size.
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Cook for 8–10 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
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Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with marinara sauce on the side, if desired.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 4 calzones
The Story Behind Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones
Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones are a modern twist on a beloved Italian-American classic. Traditional calzones, originating from Naples, are folded pizza pockets filled with cheese, meat, and vegetables. In this innovative version, the comforting flavors of creamy chicken Alfredo are encased in golden, crispy dough and cooked to perfection in an air fryer, making the dish lighter and quicker without sacrificing flavor or texture.
This recipe is a celebration of balance—where indulgence meets convenience. The rich Alfredo filling—made with tender shredded chicken, creamy sauce, and two kinds of cheese—is balanced by the crispy exterior, which offers the perfect bite every time. It brings together the bold, familiar flavors of a classic pasta dish and the portability and fun factor of a calzone.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
There are plenty of calzone recipes out there, but this one excels for several reasons. First, the use of the air fryer eliminates the need for deep frying or baking in a hot oven, reducing both the fat content and the overall cooking time. That’s a win-win for those looking to eat a little healthier while still enjoying rich, cheesy meals. You still get the crispy golden crust that traditional calzones are known for—just with less oil and mess.
Second, the Alfredo filling is irresistibly creamy and flavorful. The combination of Alfredo sauce, mozzarella, Parmesan, and seasoned chicken brings a luxurious depth that’s satisfying without being overly heavy. The inclusion of Italian herbs and garlic powder enhances the overall aroma and taste, making every bite deliciously comforting.
Lastly, it’s incredibly customizable. You can throw in some spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, mushrooms, or even spicy sausage if you want to change things up. It also adapts well to dietary needs—swap in gluten-free dough or dairy-free cheese, and it’s still a hearty, crowd-pleasing meal.
The Benefits of Cooking in an Air Fryer
Air fryers have revolutionized the home-cooking scene, and for good reason. They use hot air circulation to mimic the results of deep frying—achieving that desired crisp texture on the outside—without the need for excessive oil. This method is perfect for calzones, which can often become too greasy or unevenly cooked in traditional frying or baking methods.
Using the air fryer also dramatically cuts down on cooking time. In under 10 minutes, your calzones go from raw dough to crispy perfection. For busy weeknights, this time-saver is invaluable. You can even prep the calzones ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer, then toss them straight into the air fryer when ready.
And the cleanup? A breeze. There’s no splattered oil or baking trays to scrub. Just one basket and you’re done.
Perfect for Families, Meal Prep, and Entertaining
Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting a casual gathering, these Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones are always a hit. They’re kid-approved thanks to their cheesy goodness and handheld format, and adults love them because they feel indulgent without being too heavy.
You can easily double the recipe for meal prepping. Make a batch, let them cool, and store them in the fridge or freezer. They reheat beautifully in the air fryer, maintaining that crisp crust and gooey center.
Serving them with a side of marinara sauce or a green salad makes them even more complete. They’re versatile enough for lunch, dinner, or even a hearty snack.
A Calzone That Combines the Best of Two Classics
At its core, this dish is a hybrid: part calzone, part chicken Alfredo pasta. It combines the best of both worlds in one compact, satisfying meal. The creamy, garlicky richness of Alfredo sauce—typically associated with comfort food pasta dishes—is reimagined inside a crispy pizza dough pocket. This reinvention makes it fun, unique, and a standout among weeknight dinner options.
The ease of using store-bought pizza dough also takes away any intimidation factor. You don’t need to be a baking expert to achieve great results. Just roll, fill, seal, and fry—it’s that simple.
How to Elevate This Dish Even Further
While the basic recipe is already delicious, you can elevate it in several ways:
- Add Vegetables: Spinach, caramelized onions, mushrooms, or even steamed broccoli add color, nutrition, and texture.
- Use Homemade Dough: If you have time, making your own dough can add a personal touch and elevate the flavor.
- Try Different Sauces: Swap out Alfredo for pesto, tomato cream, or even buffalo sauce for a spicy twist.
- Switch the Protein: Instead of chicken, try cooked shrimp, turkey, or rotisserie-style shredded beef.
This makes the recipe a versatile template that you can personalize to your family’s taste or what’s available in your pantry.
Serving Suggestions
To turn these calzones into a full meal, pair them with:
- A crisp Caesar or Italian salad
- Garlic knots or cheesy breadsticks
- Roasted vegetables or a bowl of hearty soup
- A glass of chilled white wine or a sparkling water with lemon
These pairings keep the meal light and fresh while still being comforting and indulgent.
Final Thoughts
Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones are proof that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. With minimal prep and simple ingredients, you can serve up something that feels both restaurant-worthy and deeply satisfying. They’re crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, and packed with flavor in every bite.
If you’re looking for a creative and convenient meal idea that your whole household will enjoy, this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your weekly rotation.
Whether you’re a fan of chicken Alfredo pasta, a calzone connoisseur, or simply someone looking to try something new with your air fryer—this dish ticks all the boxes.
Conclusion
Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones offer the perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and creativity. With their golden, crispy exterior and creamy, cheesy filling, they deliver all the satisfaction of a hearty Italian meal in a fun, handheld format. This recipe stands out for its quick cook time, minimal cleanup, and endless customization options—making it ideal for busy weeknights, meal prep, or even casual entertaining. Whether you’re a long-time fan of Alfredo pasta or new to air fryer cooking, this calzone brings something fresh to the table while keeping the flavors you love. It’s a must-try for anyone who enjoys effortless meals that don’t compromise on taste.