If you love both chicken Parmesan and calzones, then this Cheesy Chicken Parmesan Calzone is the perfect recipe for you. Combining two classic comfort foods into one delicious handheld meal, this calzone brings together crispy golden dough, tender chicken, rich marinara sauce, and plenty of melty mozzarella cheese. It’s a satisfying meal that is easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a fun addition to your next pizza night. The best part? You can customize the filling to your liking, making it a versatile dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
The key to making a great Chicken Parmesan Calzone is balance. You want the chicken to be flavorful but not dry, the sauce to be rich without overpowering the other ingredients, and the cheese to be gooey and melted. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe will guide you step-by-step to create a cheesy, delicious calzone your whole family will love.
Ingredients
For this recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
- 1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
- 1 batch pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Preparation
To begin preparing your Cheesy Chicken Parmesan Calzone, start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). If you’re using store-bought pizza dough, roll it out into a circle about 10 inches in diameter. If you’re using homemade dough, divide it into individual portions and roll out each piece into a round shape.
Next, in a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with the marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, oregano, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir everything together until it’s well mixed.
Take one half of the pizza dough and spoon a generous amount of the chicken mixture onto the center. Be careful not to overstuff it, as you’ll need enough room to fold and seal the dough. Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Pinch the edges tightly to seal the calzone, making sure there are no gaps.
Transfer the calzone to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the top with olive oil to give it a golden, crispy finish while it bakes.
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the calzone is golden brown and the cheese inside has melted. Once it’s out of the oven, allow the calzone to cool for a few minutes before cutting into it. Serve with a side of marinara sauce for dipping and garnish with fresh basil if desired.
Mistakes to Avoid
When making this delicious calzone, there are a few common mistakes you’ll want to avoid to ensure your calzone comes out perfect every time.
- Overstuffing the Calzone: It’s tempting to load the calzone with a lot of filling, but too much can make it hard to seal and may cause the filling to spill out while baking. Stick to a moderate amount of filling to ensure that the dough seals well and bakes evenly.
- Not Preheating the Oven: Always make sure your oven is fully preheated before placing the calzone inside. This will ensure that the dough cooks properly and crisps up to a golden brown on the outside.
- Using Cold Dough: If your dough is too cold, it may be difficult to roll out and may shrink back when you try to shape it. Let the dough come to room temperature before working with it for the best results.
- Skipping the Sealing Step: Ensure that you pinch the edges of the dough securely so that the filling doesn’t leak out while baking. Use a fork to crimp the edges if necessary for a tight seal.
- Underbaking: The calzone needs enough time in the oven to fully cook through. If you don’t bake it long enough, the dough may remain doughy in the middle, and the cheese won’t melt properly.
Ingredient Alternatives
This Cheesy Chicken Parmesan Calzone is highly versatile, and you can substitute ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary restrictions. Here are a few options to customize the recipe:
- Chicken Alternatives: If you don’t have chicken breasts or prefer something different, you can use ground turkey, cooked sausage, or even cooked meatballs. For a vegetarian version, try using a combination of roasted vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers.
- Dough Alternatives: If you’re gluten-free, you can substitute the regular pizza dough for a gluten-free version. You can also use a pre-made gluten-free pizza crust if you prefer a quicker option.
- Cheese Substitutes: If you’re not a fan of mozzarella, try using provolone, gouda, or even cheddar cheese. For a lighter option, you could use part-skim mozzarella or a dairy-free cheese alternative.
- Sauce Variations: If you want to switch up the flavor, use a different sauce such as pesto or white Alfredo sauce. You can also add a little extra flavor by mixing in some Italian seasoning or fresh herbs like basil or oregano.
Tips and Tricks
To take your Cheesy Chicken Parmesan Calzone to the next level, here are some expert tips and tricks that will help you achieve the best results every time:
- Use Fresh Mozzarella for Extra Creaminess: While shredded mozzarella works just fine, using fresh mozzarella will give your calzone an extra creamy texture. Simply slice it into small pieces and add it to the filling for a gooey, melt-in-your-mouth experience.
- Pre-cook the Chicken: If you’re using raw chicken breast, ensure that you cook it thoroughly before shredding it. You can bake, grill, or pan-fry the chicken for the best results. Season it well with salt, pepper, and a bit of garlic powder for extra flavor.
- Brush with Garlic Butter: For a flavorful golden crust, brush the outside of the calzone with a mixture of melted butter and garlic before baking. This will infuse the dough with a savory taste and give it an extra rich finish.
- Let the Calzone Rest: After baking, allow the calzone to rest for a few minutes before cutting into it. This helps the cheese set and prevents the filling from spilling out when you slice it.
- Make it Spicy: If you love a little heat, consider adding red pepper flakes to both the filling and the dough. You can also drizzle some spicy marinara sauce over the calzone after it’s baked for an added kick.
- Cutting the Dough: For a perfect-sized calzone, use a pizza cutter or sharp knife to divide the dough evenly. If you want mini-calzones, simply divide the dough into smaller portions and follow the same procedure.
Suggestions
This Cheesy Chicken Parmesan Calzone is a versatile dish that pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Here are some serving suggestions to complete your meal:
- Serve with a Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette is the perfect complement to a cheesy, rich calzone. Try a Caesar salad, mixed greens, or a tomato and cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast.
- Pair with Extra Marinara Sauce: For dipping, serve your calzone with a side of marinara sauce. You can also add some Parmesan cheese or crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce to give it more flavor.
- Garlic Bread on the Side: If you’re looking to make the meal even more indulgent, serve your calzone with some garlic bread. The crisp, buttery bread will be perfect for dipping into extra sauce or enjoying on its own.
- Top with Fresh Herbs: After baking, top your calzone with freshly chopped basil or parsley. This not only adds a burst of color but also brings a fresh, aromatic flavor to the dish.
- Pair with a Glass of Wine: If you’re enjoying this meal as part of a special dinner, consider pairing it with a glass of red wine like a Chianti or a light Pinot Noir. The acidity of the wine complements the cheesy, savory calzone beautifully.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions that can help clarify any doubts you may have about making this Cheesy Chicken Parmesan Calzone:
- Can I make the calzone ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the calzone ahead of time. Assemble it completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to bake it for an extra few minutes if it’s chilled. - Can I freeze the calzone?
Absolutely! After assembling the calzone, freeze it before baking. Once frozen, wrap it tightly in plastic and store it in an airtight container. When ready to bake, you can either thaw it in the fridge overnight or bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. - How do I prevent the dough from getting soggy?
To avoid soggy dough, be sure not to overstuff the calzone. Also, make sure the filling is not too watery. Drain any excess liquid from the marinara sauce, and if using fresh mozzarella, pat it dry before adding it to the filling. - Can I use a different sauce other than marinara?
Yes, you can use a variety of sauces. Alfredo sauce, pesto, or even a creamy ranch sauce would all work well as an alternative to marinara. Just keep in mind that the sauce should complement the chicken and cheese. - What type of dough is best for calzones?
Traditional pizza dough is ideal, but you can also use store-bought calzone dough or even crescent roll dough for a quicker, more buttery option. Just make sure the dough is rolled out thinly enough to allow the filling to cook evenly.
Conclusion:
Making a Cheesy Chicken Parmesan Calzone is easier than you might think, and the results are always delicious. With its crispy, golden crust, gooey cheese, and savory chicken filling, it’s a meal that is sure to satisfy both your cravings and your appetite. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy weeknight dinner or serving it up at a casual get-together, this calzone is a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your fillings, dough, or sauces, as this dish is versatile and can be easily customized to suit any taste.
PrintCheesy Chicken Parmesan Calzone Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
- 1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
- 1 batch pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Dough: Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface into a large circle, about 12 inches in diameter.
- Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, oregano, garlic powder, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
- Assemble the Calzone: Spread the chicken mixture evenly over one half of the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape.
- Seal the Edges: Press the edges of the dough together firmly, then crimp with a fork to seal the calzone completely.
- Brush with Olive Oil: Lightly brush the top of the calzone with olive oil to help it turn golden and crispy as it bakes.
- Bake the Calzone: Place the calzone on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and the filling is hot and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove the calzone from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Slice and garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired. Serve with extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping.