Description
Deliciously cheesy and stuffed with crispy chicken, this Chicken Parmesan Calzone is perfect for your next meal!
Ingredients
- Pizza Dough: The foundation of the calzone, high-quality pizza dough ensures a perfectly chewy and golden crust. Opt for fresh or homemade dough for the best results, or use gluten-free dough for dietary restrictions.
- Crispy Chicken Tenders: These provide the calzone with its meaty heartiness and classic Chicken Parmesan flavor. Cook them until crispy for a delightful textural contrast. For a vegetarian twist, try breaded eggplant or zucchini.
- Pizza Sauce: A good quality pizza sauce enhances the calzone’s savory depth. Feel free to make your own for added freshness or opt for a sugar-free version for a healthier choice.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Melty mozzarella provides the quintessential gooey cheese pull. Dairy-free mozzarella or a blend of Italian cheeses are excellent substitutes.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nutty, salty richness that complements the other flavors. A vegan version can be used for those avoiding dairy.
- Melted Butter: Brushing butter on the dough ensures a crispy, golden finish. Substitute with olive oil or vegan butter if preferred.
- Optional Seasonings: Consider adding a sprinkle of Italian herbs or garlic powder to the dough for additional flavor.
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). If the chicken tenders are frozen, cook them according to package instructions and then slice them into bite-sized pieces.
- Prepare the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out your pizza dough into a 12-inch circle. Ensure the dough is evenly rolled for consistent cooking.
- Add the Sauce: Carefully spread 1/2 cup of pizza sauce over one half of the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edge to facilitate sealing.
- Layer the Fillings: Begin layering with 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, followed by 1/3 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and then the sliced chicken. Be mindful not to overfill, which could prevent proper sealing.
- Fold and Seal: Fold the other half of the dough over the fillings, pressing gently. Crimp the edges with your fingers or a fork to ensure the calzone is completely sealed.
- Prepare for Baking: Brush the top of the calzone with melted butter for a rich, buttery crust. Use a sharp knife to cut small slits on top, allowing steam to escape during baking.
- First Bake: Carefully transfer the calzone to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
- Finish Baking: Remove from the oven and add the remaining sauce and mozzarella on top. Return to the oven for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the calzone to cool for 5-7 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with extra pizza sauce on the side for dipping.