The moment I pull a freshly baked Chicken Parmesan Calzone from the oven, the entire kitchen fills with the comforting scent of melted cheese and savory chicken, teasing everyone nearby. There’s something so satisfying about a dish that wraps crispy chicken tenders and gooey mozzarella in a golden crust—it’s like a hug for your taste buds! Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a casual get-together with friends, this calzone elevates traditional Italian flavors into a fun, handheld treat.
What sets this recipe apart is its simplicity—you don’t have to be a culinary wizard to create something so delightful. With just a handful of ingredients and a bit of time, you can impress your guests or satisfy those late-night cravings. Imagine slicing into that warm, cheesy goodness and unleashing a burst of flavor with every bite! Ready to roll up your sleeves and dive into this crowd-pleaser? Let’s get cooking!
Why will you love this Chicken Parmesan Calzone?
Irresistible Flavor: Each bite delivers the perfect blend of crispy chicken and gooey cheese, topped with a rich tomato sauce that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in no time, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings.
Perfect for Sharing: Cut this calzone into strips for a fun appetizer or serve it whole at your next party.
Customizable Goodness: Feel free to swap in your favorite ingredients to tailor it to your taste—like adding spinach or using a different cheese!
Homemade Comfort: It’s a satisfying escape from fast food, delivering that homemade goodness right to your table, where it belongs.
Give this crowd-pleaser a try and see how quickly it becomes a family favorite!
Chicken Parmesan Calzone Ingredients
• Get ready to create deliciousness!
For the Dough
- Pizza Dough – The base of your calzone; use pre-made or homemade, but avoid rolling it too thin for best results.
- Flour – Essential for dusting the surface while rolling out the dough; be careful not to overuse to keep the dough airy.
For the Filling
- Crispy Chicken Tenders – Provides flavorful protein; you can opt for frozen for convenience or whip up homemade tenders for a personal touch.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – Offers that gooey creaminess; consider fresh mozzarella for a richer flavor experience.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese – Adds a salty, savory kick; Pecorino can be swapped for a sharper taste if desired.
- Pizza Sauce – The heart of your calzone; select your favorite jar or a homemade version for authentic Italian flair.
For the Finish
- Melted Butter – Brings a golden hue and enhances flavor; olive oil is a lighter option if preferred.
How to Make Chicken Parmesan Calzone
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Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is vital for achieving that perfectly golden and crispy crust.
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Cook chicken tenders: Prepare the crispy chicken tenders by baking or frying them according to package instructions. Once they’re cooked, slice them into bite-sized pieces.
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Roll the dough: Lightly flour your surface and roll the pizza dough into a 12-inch circle. Remember to keep the dough edges slightly thicker for a sturdy calzone.
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Layer the filling: On one half of the dough, spread ¾ cup of pizza sauce. Add 1 cup of mozzarella, all the grated Parmesan, and a generous layer of sliced chicken, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
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Seal the calzone: Fold the other side of the dough over the filling, creating a half-moon shape. Pinch the edges securely to seal your delicious ingredients inside.
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Prepare for baking: Place the calzone on a greased baking sheet. Brush the top with melted butter for extra flavor and a beautiful shine. Make three small slits in the top for steam to escape.
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Bake to perfection: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After that, remove it once to add more pizza sauce and mozzarella on top, then return to the oven for an additional 10 minutes.
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Cool and slice: Once baked, let the calzone cool for about 5-7 minutes before slicing it into strips for serving, allowing the flavors to settle.
Optional: Serve with extra pizza sauce for dipping!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken Parmesan Calzones are wonderful for meal prep, allowing you to save time on busy nights! You can prepare them up to 24 hours in advance by assembling the calzones, sealing them tightly, and then refrigerating them. To keep the crust from becoming soggy, place a piece of parchment paper between the calzones and any cover. When you’re ready to cook, just preheat your oven and bake them directly from the fridge, increasing the baking time by about 5 minutes to ensure they are heated through. This way, you’ll enjoy all the cheesy goodness of a freshly baked calzone with minimal effort!
Chicken Parmesan Calzone Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity and tailor this calzone to your taste buds!
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Vegetarian: Swap crispy chicken for sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for a delightful meat-free option. The earthy flavors will shine through every bite.
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Cheese Blend: Mix different cheeses, like provolone or gouda, for a flavor upgrade—each addition brings its own unique twist to the classic taste.
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Spicy Touch: Add crushed red pepper flakes to your sauce or filling for a kick of heat. It’s a simple change that will awaken your senses and leave you wanting more!
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Herb-Infused: Incorporate fresh herbs, such as basil or oregano, into the filling or sprinkle them atop before baking. Aromatic herbs brighten the flavors and add a fresh finish.
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Pesto Twist: Replace pizza sauce with pesto for a rich, herby alternative that pairs beautifully with chicken and cheese. This swap offers a refreshing Mediterranean flair.
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Sweet & Savory: Add caramelized onions or roasted red peppers for a touch of sweetness that complements the savory ingredients beautifully. It’s a surprise that elevates your calzone to new heights!
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Different Dough: Experiment with whole wheat or gluten-free dough for a healthier choice without sacrificing flavor. The texture variations can lend an exciting new dimension to your recipe.
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Cheesy Dip: Serve with a side of warm marinara or ranch dressing for dipping. It’s a fun way to enhance each bite and make your gathering even more special!
Expert Tips for Chicken Parmesan Calzone
- Cook Chicken Thoroughly: Ensure your chicken is fully cooked before using it in the calzone to ensure food safety and a delicious outcome.
- Don’t Over-Roll Dough: Roll the pizza dough evenly, ensuring edges are slightly thicker to hold the filling without splitting during baking.
- Use Flour Sparingly: A lightly floured surface is essential to prevent sticking, but avoid using too much flour to keep the dough light and airy.
- Steam Release: Always make slits on top of the calzone before baking to prevent steam buildup, which could lead to an overly soggy crust.
- Customize Your Fillings: Feel free to swap in different cheeses or introduce vegetables for a unique take on the Chicken Parmesan Calzone that suits your taste!
What to Serve with Chicken Parmesan Calzone?
Let’s make your meal complete with some delicious pairings that will elevate your Chicken Parmesan Calzone experience.
- Fresh Garden Salad: A blend of crunchy vegetables, drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette, balances the richness of the calzone perfectly.
- Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and buttery with a hint of garlic, these are perfect for dipping in extra pizza sauce.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly seasoned, the bright green color and crunch offer a fresh contrast to the warm calzone.
- Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons add a sophisticated touch and pair beautifully with cheesy flavors.
- Antipasto Platter: Offer an assortment of cured meats, olives, and cheeses for a delightful appetizer that sets the stage for your meal.
- Sangiovese Wine: A glass of this medium-bodied red complements the flavors of the calzone, enhancing the Italian experience.
- Tiramisu: End the meal on a sweet note with this classic Italian dessert, rich in coffee and mascarpone, delighting all your guests.
- Lemonade: A refreshing, zesty drink that cuts through the richness and adds a bright, uplifting touch to the meal.
These pairings not only enhance the dining experience but also bring a delightful variety of flavors and textures to the table!
How to Store and Freeze Chicken Parmesan Calzone
- Room Temperature: Keep any leftover calzones at room temperature for up to 2 hours; after that, refrigerate to prevent spoiling.
- Fridge: Store refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will help maintain the moisture and flavor of your Chicken Parmesan Calzone.
- Freezer: You can freeze uncooked calzones for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil; bake directly from the freezer, adding extra time.
- Reheating: Reheat baked calzones in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to maintain crispness.
Chicken Parmesan Calzone Recipe FAQs
What type of pizza dough should I use?
You can use either pre-made or homemade pizza dough for this Chicken Parmesan Calzone. If you’re making it from scratch, just ensure it’s not rolled too thin, as a slightly thicker edge will provide structure and avoid splitting during baking.
How should I store leftover Chicken Parmesan Calzone?
Store any leftover calzones in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will stay fresh for up to 3 days. For best results, allow them to cool completely before sealing. If you plan to eat them later, reheating them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes will help maintain their crispiness and flavor.
Can I freeze Chicken Parmesan Calzone?
Absolutely! You can freeze uncooked calzones for up to 3 months. To do this, wrap each calzone tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. When you’re ready to bake, you can cook them straight from the freezer; just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
Why did my calzone burst while baking?
This can happen if the edges were not sealed tightly or if there wasn’t enough steam release. Make sure to pinch the edges securely to avoid any leaks, and don’t forget to make a few small slits on top before baking to allow steam to escape and keep your crust crispy!
Is it safe to feed Chicken Parmesan Calzone to my pet?
While the ingredients are generally safe for humans, you should avoid sharing calzone with your pets. The cheese and seasonings could upset their stomachs, particularly if they are lactose intolerant.
Can I use different types of cheese in my calzone?
Very! Feel free to experiment with various cheese combinations. Adding fresh mozzarella or a blend of mozzarella and provolone can give your Chicken Parmesan Calzone a unique twist. Just keep in mind that different cheeses may melt at different rates, so it might alter the cooking time slightly.
Mouthwatering Chicken Parmesan Calzone for Happy Gatherings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the crispy chicken tenders according to package instructions and slice into bite-sized pieces.
- Lightly flour your surface and roll the pizza dough into a 12-inch circle.
- On one half of the dough, spread ¾ cup of pizza sauce. Add 1 cup of mozzarella, all the grated Parmesan, and the chicken.
- Fold the other side of the dough over the filling and pinch the edges to seal.
- Place the calzone on a greased baking sheet. Brush with melted butter and make three slits on top.
- Bake for 20 minutes, remove to add more pizza sauce and mozzarella, and return for 10 more minutes.
- Let it cool for 5-7 minutes before slicing into strips.