Next, take your pizza dough out of the package and roll it out on a lightly floured surface. You want it to be about ¼ inch thick. Using a round cutter (or a cup), cut out circles from the dough. Each circle will be one calzone. After that, it’s time to fill! Place a generous spoonful of your chicken Alfredo mixture onto one half of each dough circle. It’s important not to overfill them, or you’ll have a little explosion in your air fryer!
Once filled, fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and press the edges to seal them tightly. I love using a fork to crimp the edges for that classic calzone look, plus it ensures everything stays tucked inside. Brush the tops of each calzone with the beaten egg for that lovely golden finish. A light spritz of olive oil will help with browning too!
Now it’s time to cook! Place the calzones in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd it. I usually do this in batches. Air fry them for about 12-15 minutes, until they’re golden brown and cooked through. They will be bubbling and so tempting! Your kitchen will smell heavenly, and I can’t wait for you to dig in.
Pro Tips for Best Results
I tested this recipe three ways: with homemade pizza dough, store-bought dough, and even with crescent dough. While all were tasty, I found that the store-bought pizza dough offered the best texture and convenience without compromising flavor. Trust me, it’s all about making your life easier while still enjoying a delicious meal!
Another thing I learned is to let the calzones rest for a few minutes after they come out of the air fryer. This helps to seal in all the cheesy goodness and allows the filling to cool just enough so you don’t burn your mouth. I usually set a timer for about 5 minutes and use that time to set the table or whip up a quick salad.
Lastly, feel free to play around with the filling! I’ve added spinach and roasted red peppers for a veggie kick, and the flavors mixed beautifully with the Alfredo. Experimenting is half the fun in my kitchen!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake I’ve encountered is overcrowding the air fryer, thinking that I could fit all the calzones at once. This actually results in uneven cooking and soggy bottoms. Trust me, giving them space to breathe makes all the difference. So take your time and cook in batches!
Another mistake is skipping the egg wash. I know it might seem tedious, but that shiny, golden finish is what transforms these calzones from everyday to spectacular. Plus, it helps with the texture as they cook! Make sure to brush each calzone generously.
Don’t forget about sealing the calzones properly. I’ve had experiences where I didn’t press them tightly enough, and I ended up with a calzone that burst open during cooking. No one wants a calzone disaster! Take a moment to ensure everything is well-sealed before placing them in the air fryer. (See the next page below to continue…)