Indulge in the delicious flavors of Chicken Parmesan in a portable and fun format with this Chicken Parmesan Calzone. Perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this calzone is filled with tender chicken, rich marinara sauce, and gooey cheese, all encased in a golden-brown crust.
Ingredients
1 lb pizza dough
1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
1/2 cup marinara sauce
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1 tbsp olive oil
Fresh basil for garnish
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the pizza dough into a large circle on a lightly floured surface. Spread marinara sauce over half of the dough, leaving about an inch around the edges.
- Layer the shredded chicken, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and garlic powder over the sauce.
- Carefully fold the dough over the filling, ensuring the edges are aligned. Pinch the edges to seal the calzone tightly.
- Brush the top of the calzone with olive oil for a golden finish. Place it on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the calzone is golden brown and cooked through.
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil before slicing and serving hot.
Servings and Timing
This recipe serves 4 people. The total time required is approximately 40-45 minutes, including prep and cooking time.
Variations
- Vegetable Additions: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.
- Cheese Variations: Use different cheeses such as provolone or cheddar for a unique twist.
- Sauce Alternatives: Swap marinara for pesto or Alfredo sauce for different flavor profiles.
- Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning for a bit of heat and extra flavor.
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftover calzone in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
10 FAQs
- Can I use store-bought pizza dough?
Yes, store-bought pizza dough works perfectly for this recipe and saves time. - What kind of chicken should I use?
You can use rotisserie chicken or any leftover cooked chicken for convenience. - Can I freeze the calzone?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked calzone. Just assemble, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. - How do I know when the calzone is done?
The calzone should be golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. - Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute chicken with your favorite vegetables or meat alternatives. - What do I serve with calzones?
Serve with extra marinara sauce for dipping, alongside a salad for a complete meal. - How can I get a crispier crust?
Baking on a preheated pizza stone can help achieve a crispier crust. - Can I make mini calzones?
Yes, simply divide the dough into smaller portions and adjust the filling accordingly. - What if I don’t have fresh basil?
You can use dried basil or simply omit it; the calzone will still be delicious. - How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, but it’s best when fresh.
Conclusion
This Chicken Parmesan Calzone is a delightful way to enjoy the classic flavors of Chicken Parmesan in a new form. Whether for a quick weeknight meal or a fun weekend treat, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table. Enjoy the comforting combination of cheese, chicken, and marinara all wrapped up in a delicious crust!
PrintChicken Parmesan Calzone
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Description
This Chicken Parmesan Calzone is a delicious twist on a classic dish, filled with tender chicken, rich marinara, and gooey cheeses, all encased in golden-brown pizza dough.
Ingredients
- 1 lb pizza dough
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the pizza dough into a large circle. Spread marinara sauce over half the dough, leaving the edges clean.
- Layer shredded chicken, mozzarella, Parmesan, and garlic powder over the sauce.
- Fold the dough over the filling and pinch the edges to seal.
- Brush the top of the calzone with olive oil and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot.
Notes
For extra flavor, consider adding spices or herbs to the filling, such as oregano or Italian seasoning.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes