Creamy Chicken Calzone

There’s something truly special about the comforting embrace of a Creamy Chicken Calzone. I remember the first time I made calzones from scratch; it was a chilly evening, and the aroma that filled my kitchen made my heart swell with anticipation. The joy of biting into a golden, crispy shell filled with warm, cheesy goodness was unparalleled. Every bite of the Creamy Chicken Calzone transports me to those cozy nights spent with loved ones, sharing stories and laughter. It’s one of those recipes that can easily turn a regular weeknight into an unforgettable dinner experience. The best part? You can tailor the filling to your preference, making it a versatile dish for any occasion.

What You’ll Need for Creamy Chicken Calzone

Gathering the right ingredients is essential for making a delicious Creamy Chicken Calzone. Each component plays a critical role in delivering flavor and texture. The harmony of chicken, ricotta cheese, and spinach creates a satisfying filling, while the pizza dough provides the perfect crispy exterior. Let’s dive into the key players that make this dish shine.

• 1 cup cooked chicken – leftover chicken, diced chicken breast, or diced rotisserie chicken can also be used.
• ½ cup fresh spinach – chopped, adds a nice touch of color and nutrients.
• 2 large eggs – divided, for richness and binding.
• ½ cup ricotta cheese – I used full-fat ricotta cheese for creaminess.
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder – for subtle flavor enhancement.
• ½ teaspoon oregano – dried, a classic herb for Italian dishes.
• ½ teaspoon basil – dried, complements the other flavors perfectly.
• ¼ teaspoon salt – to enhance the taste of all ingredients.
• 12 ounces pizza dough – store-bought or homemade; both work great.
• 2 tablespoons flour – for rolling dough, doesn’t have to be exact.
• ½ cup mozzarella cheese – for that gooey, melty factor.
• Marinara – for serving, optional but delicious!

Recipe Steps for Creamy Chicken Calzone

Ready to make your own Creamy Chicken Calzone? Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be enjoying this delicious treat in no time! Making calzones is easier than you think, and the end result will leave you craving more.

1. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or aluminum foil sprayed with cooking spray.
2. Chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces, about ½ inch wide. Roughly chop the spinach into smaller pieces to ensure even distribution.
3. Separate one egg and add the yolk to a medium-sized bowl. Place the egg white in a small bowl to the side for later use. To the egg yolk, add ricotta cheese, garlic powder, oregano, basil, and salt. Mix well until combined.
4. Add the chopped spinach to the mixture and mix again until everything is well incorporated.
5. Divide the dough into four even pieces. Lightly flour the counter to prevent sticking. Roll each piece of pizza dough into a circle about 7 inches wide.
6. Spread the ricotta cheese mixture on half of each circle of dough, leaving about an inch border around the edge, dividing evenly between the calzones.
7. Add the chopped chicken on top of the ricotta cheese mixture, ensuring equal distribution across all calzones. Then, sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top of the chicken.
8. Fold the dough in half over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Starting in the center of the curve, press the edges together firmly to seal the filling inside.
9. Take a little bit of the dough along the edge from the bottom and roll and fold it over the top to seal the edges and give it a nice ridge.
10. Carefully transfer the unbaked calzones to the prepared baking sheets in a single layer.
11. In the bowl with the reserved egg white, crack the second egg and beat them together with a fork. Lightly brush the edges and the tops of the calzones with the egg wash.
12. Bake in the preheated oven until golden brown, about 15 to 18 minutes, or until they are cooked through. Optionally, top with some parmesan cheese and enjoy them hot, served with warmed marinara sauce for dipping.

Recipe Variations about Creamy Chicken Calzone

If you’re looking to mix things up, here are some great variations for your Creamy Chicken Calzone. This dish invites creativity, so feel free to experiment!

• Vegetable Calzone: Add sautéed veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for a hearty twist.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some hot sauce to the filling for a spicy version.
• Different Cheeses: Try using feta or gouda for a different flavor profile.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or parsley to enhance the flavor.
• Personalized Dipping Sauce: Create a unique dipping sauce by mixing marinara with a bit of pesto or garlic aioli.
• Make It Mini: Use smaller rounds of dough to create bite-sized calzones for parties or snacks.

Great Combinations for Creamy Chicken Calzone

Serving your Creamy Chicken Calzone can be just as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to elevate your dining experience:

• Fresh Salad: Pair your calzones with a crisp garden salad drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette.
• Soup: Serve alongside a hot bowl of tomato soup for a comforting meal.
• Dipping Sauce: A side of homemade or store-bought marinara sauce is perfect for dipping.
• Occasions: These calzones are great for casual dinners or even as a fun party appetizer.
• Seasonal Pairing: In summer, serve with fresh, seasonal vegetables to enhance the dish. In winter, add roasted root vegetables.
• Storage Tips: Store leftover calzones in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Creamy Chicken Calzone is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. With its crispy exterior and creamy filling, it’s not just a recipe but a wonderful experience to share with family and friends. I encourage you to try making these calzones yourself; they’re easier than you might think and will surely impress! Your loved ones will appreciate the effort, and you’ll love how delicious they are!

Creamy Chicken Calzone

The ultimate comfort food, Creamy Chicken Calzone features a crispy crust filled with creamy ricotta, flavorful chicken, and fresh spinach. This easy weeknight dinner is sure to become a family favorite. Make it tonight and enjoy every cheesy, delicious bite!

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup Cooked Chicken leftover chicken, diced chicken breast, or diced rotisserie chicken can also be used.
• ½ cup Fresh Spinach chopped
• 2 large Eggs divided
• ½ cup Ricotta Cheese I used full fat ricotta cheese
• ¼ teaspoon Garlic Powder
• ½ teaspoon Oregano dried
• ½ teaspoon Basil dried
• ¼ teaspoon Salt
• 12 ounces Pizza Dough store-bought or homemade; both work great
• 2 tablespoons Flour for rolling dough, doesn't have to be exact
• ½ cup Mozzarella Cheese
• Marinara for serving, optional

Equipment

• Chef's Knife
• Mixing Bowl
• Cutting Board
• Baking Sheet
• Oven

Method

 

1. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or aluminum foil sprayed with cooking spray.
2. Chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces, about ½ inch wide. Roughly chop the spinach into smaller pieces to ensure even distribution.
3. Separate one egg and add the yolk to a medium-sized bowl. Place the egg white in a small bowl to the side for later use. To the egg yolk, add ricotta cheese, garlic powder, oregano, basil, and salt. Mix well until combined.
4. Add the chopped spinach to the mixture and mix again until everything is well incorporated.
5. Divide the dough into four even pieces. Lightly flour the counter to prevent sticking. Roll each piece of pizza dough into a circle about 7 inches wide.
6. Spread the ricotta cheese mixture on half of each circle of dough, leaving about an inch border around the edge, dividing evenly between the calzones.
7. Add the chopped chicken on top of the ricotta cheese mixture, ensuring equal distribution across all calzones. Then, sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top of the chicken.
8. Fold the dough in half over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Starting in the center of the curve, press the edges together firmly to seal the filling inside.
9. Take a little bit of the dough along the edge from the bottom and roll and fold it over the top to seal the edges and give it a nice ridge.
10. Carefully transfer the unbaked calzones to the prepared baking sheets in a single layer.
11. In the bowl with the reserved egg white, crack the second egg and beat them together with a fork. Lightly brush the edges and the tops of the calzones with the egg wash.
12. Bake in the preheated oven until golden brown, about 15 to 18 minutes, or until they are cooked through. Optionally, top with some parmesan cheese and enjoy them hot, served with warmed marinara sauce for dipping.

Notes

• Tip: Pizza dough can be rolled out on a silicone baking mat without adding extra flour.

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Meet Isla Banks

We eat with our eyes first, so I strive to make every dish look as bountiful as it tastes. I work on every stage of the process, from sourcing the freshest ingredients to styling the final shot. I tested this recipe repeatedly to provide you with the visual inspiration and reliability you need to cook with confidence.