Another thing to watch out for is not preheating the air fryer. I’ve skipped this step a few times, thinking it wouldn’t matter, but the results were always a bit underwhelming. Preheating ensures that they cook evenly and get that lovely golden brown color we’re all striving for!
Lastly, don’t forget to seal those edges well! Failure to do so can lead to leakage, which can be a messy affair. I find that gently crimping the edges with a fork not only makes the calzones look prettier but also ensures they stay shut during the cooking process.
Serving Suggestions
These Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones are fantastic on their own, but I love serving them with a fresh side salad for a well-rounded meal. A simple Caesar salad or a mixed greens salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette complements the richness of the calzones perfectly. The crunch of the greens adds an enjoyable texture contrast!
I also enjoy pairing them with steamed broccoli or roasted vegetables. It makes for an easy meal that feels a bit gourmet without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, once you smell the roasted veggies mingling with the aroma of the calzones, you’ll have everyone at the dinner table in no time!
And, of course, don’t forget the dipping sauce! I like to set out a small bowl of marinara, but you could get creative with a garlic sauce or even ranch dip. Having a few options lets everyone customize their experience, making it even more fun!
Variations & Customizations
One of the best things about making calzones is that they are so versatile! If you’re looking to change things up, why not try different proteins? I’ve made these calzones with shredded rotisserie turkey and even leftover beef, and each variation brought something unique to the table. Using up leftovers is a great way to be resourceful in the kitchen!
For a vegetarian twist, I sometimes swap out the chicken for sautéed mushrooms and spinach. Adding a blend of cheeses like ricotta or goat cheese creates a rich filling that is just as satisfying—my friends love it, and they don’t even miss the meat!
And if you’re a spice lover like I am, throw in a pinch of crushed red pepper or some chopped jalapeños for a kick! These little alterations leave the door wide open for creativity, making it feel like a new dish every time.
How to Store, Freeze & Reheat
If you happen to have any leftover calzones (which is rare in my house!), they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. I love taking them for lunch, and they reheat beautifully in the microwave or air fryer. Just a couple of minutes in the air fryer brings back that crispy texture!
You can also freeze the calzones before cooking if you’d like a quick meal on hand for busy nights. Just assemble them, but don’t cook them; place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake them straight from frozen—just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time!
Reheating is a breeze too! If they are already cooked, the air fryer works wonders to bring back that fresh-out-of-the-fryer crunch. Simply warm them up at 350°F for about 5 to 7 minutes, and they’ll be ready to go.
Conclusion
So here you have it—my Chicken Alfredo Air Fryer Calzones that are sure to become a family favorite! I hope you enjoy making these as much as I do, and I can’t wait to hear how they turn out for you. There’s just something heartwarming about seeing those calzones puff up in the air fryer and knowing they’ll bring smiles around the dinner table. Happy cooking!