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Crispy Cheesy Chicken Calzones: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe


  • Author: Dottie
  • Total Time: 105 minutes
  • Yield: 4 calzones 1x

Description

Enjoy these homemade chicken calzones, featuring a delicious blend of mozzarella, ricotta, and Parmesan cheese, all encased in a crispy golden crust. Perfect for family dinners or as a tasty appetizer, these calzones are sure to please everyone!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
  • 3/4 cup warm water (about 110°F)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • Marinara sauce (for dipping)

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture along with the olive oil.
  3. Mix the ingredients until they form a dough. If too sticky, add more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
  4. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
  6. While the dough rises, prepare the filling by combining shredded chicken, mozzarella, ricotta, Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and red pepper flakes in a bowl. Mix well and set aside.
  7. Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 4 equal pieces.
  8. Roll each piece into a circle about 6-8 inches in diameter.
  9. Spoon filling onto one half of each circle, leaving a 1-inch border.
  10. Fold the other half over the filling and press edges to seal. Use a fork to crimp edges if desired.
  11. Place calzones on a parchment-lined baking sheet and brush tops with beaten egg.
  12. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake calzones for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
  13. Let cool for a few minutes before serving with marinara sauce for dipping.

Notes

  • Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite vegetables or additional spices.
  • Leftover filling can be served on the side or used in other dishes.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes