Chicken Parmesan Calzone

This recipe combines the beloved elements of Chicken Parmesan into a handheld delight. It’s simple too—using either store-bought or homemade chicken cutlets and pizza dough, you can whip this up without breaking a sweat. And let’s not forget the gooey cheese pull that everyone goes crazy for. Seriously, it was so good that everyone’s plate was empty in a flash, with requests for seconds before the first round was even done.

If you’re looking for a dish that’s easy to make yet feels like a special treat, you’ve got to give this Chicken Parmesan Calzone a try. It’s perfect for a casual family meal, a quick weeknight dinner, or even a game night with friends. Trust me, once you make it, this calzone will become a staple in your home, just like it has in ours. So, grab your ingredients and let’s get cooking!

How to Make Chicken Parmesan Calzone

Click here to get printable version

Ingredients:

• Pizza Dough (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/2 cup Tomato Sauce
• 4 slices Provolone Cheese
• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• 1 1/2 cups Mozzarella Cheese, shredded
• 2 Crispy Chicken Cutlets or Chicken Tenders (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese
• Fresh Basil leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F. Place a pizza stone or an inverted baking sheet inside to warm up with the oven.
2. Chop the chicken cutlets into small strips or cubes and keep them aside for later use.
3. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into either a large circle or rectangle. Ensure it’s thick enough to support the toppings.
4. Spread the tomato sauce evenly in the center of the dough, leaving a 2-inch border for sealing. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Lay down the Provolone cheese slices over the sauce.
6. Evenly distribute the sliced crispy chicken over the cheese.
7. Sprinkle the Mozzarella cheese generously over the chicken.
8. Top off with grated Parmesan cheese.
9. Scatter torn fresh basil leaves over the filling.
10. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and seal the edges by pressing with a fork to ensure they are tightly closed.
11. Beat the egg to make an egg wash and brush it over the calzone for a glossy finish.
12. Transfer the calzone carefully onto the preheated pizza stone or baking sheet in the oven.
13. Bake for around 15-20 minutes until the calzone is a lovely golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
14. Once done, let the calzone sit for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with additional fresh basil if desired.
15. Serve with extra tomato or pizza sauce on the side for dipping and enjoy!

Creative Substitutions to Suit Your Taste

Get creative with your calzone by using cheddar instead of Mozzarella for a different flavor. You might also try swapping Provolone for Swiss cheese. For a spicier kick, incorporate pepperoni slices with the chicken. Vegetarians can replace chicken with roasted vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers.

Best Ways to Store Leftover Chicken Parmesan Calzone

If you find yourself with leftovers, don’t fret! Allow the calzone to cool fully before wrapping it tightly in aluminum foil or sealing it in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, use an oven or toaster oven to maintain the crust’s crispness.

From Sides to Drinks: What Complements Chicken Parmesan Calzone

Enhance your meal with a simple green salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette, or serve alongside roasted vegetables for a hearty dinner. A glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Pinot Noir, pairs perfectly, while kids and non-drinkers might enjoy sparkling water with lemon.

Cooking Hacks to Elevate Chicken Parmesan Calzone

Ensure your calzone is perfectly cooked by not overfilling it, which can lead to soggy dough. Use a pizza peel or parchment paper to transfer the calzone to the oven easily. For extra flavor, sprinkle some garlic powder and oregano on top before baking.

Adding a Seasonal Spin to Chicken Parmesan Calzone

In the summer, add sun-dried tomatoes or grilled eggplant to the filling. Autumn calls for butternut squash or caramelized onions. During winter, incorporate sautéed spinach for a comfort twist. Spring’s fresh asparagus or artichokes can brighten up the calzone beautifully.

FAQs:

Can I make the calzone dough from scratch?

Absolutely! Making your own dough can be a rewarding process. You’ll need flour, yeast, salt, and water. Combine and knead until smooth, let it rise, and then roll out as needed. Homemade dough can enhance the flavor and texture of the calzone.

How do I prevent my calzone from opening during baking?

To avoid the calzone opening up, ensure the edges are sealed well. Press firmly with a fork around the edges and avoid overfilling the calzone. The egg wash helps to glue the dough edges together, providing an extra secure seal.

What if I don’t have a pizza stone?

No pizza stone? No problem! An upside-down baking sheet works just as well. Preheat it in the oven as you would with a stone. This helps to mimic the stone’s ability to bake the crust evenly and achieve that crispy texture.

Can I freeze the calzone for later use?

Yes, you can freeze the calzone either before or after baking. For unbaked calzones, wrap them tightly and freeze. When ready to eat, bake from frozen, adjusting the time as needed. For baked calzones, cool completely before freezing; reheat in the oven.

What’s the best way to reheat a calzone?

For the best results, reheat your calzone in an oven or toaster oven at 375°F until warmed through. This method helps maintain the crispy crust and ensures the filling heats evenly. Microwaving can make the dough chewy, so it’s less recommended.

How can I make my calzone vegetarian?

Turning this calzone into a vegetarian delight is easy! Simply replace the chicken with hearty vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, artichokes, or zucchini. You can also add chickpeas or tofu for protein, ensuring a satisfying and flavorful meal.