Imagine biting into a warm, crispy calzone filled with tender, juicy Chicken Parmesan, marinara sauce, and gooey mozzarella cheese. The Chicken Parmesan Calzone is a mouthwatering fusion of two Italian favorites—Chicken Parmesan and traditional calzones. This easy-to-make dish combines the best of both worlds, providing you with a hearty, satisfying meal that will quickly become a family favorite.
In this blog post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making the perfect Chicken Parmesan Calzone. From ingredients to detailed step-by-step instructions, variations, serving suggestions, and storage tips, this guide has it all. We’ll also explore nutritional benefits and answer some frequently asked questions to ensure you master this dish.
What Is a Chicken Parmesan Calzone?
A Chicken Parmesan Calzone is a calzone filled with the key ingredients of Chicken Parmesan: crispy breaded chicken, marinara sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Wrapped in dough and baked until golden brown, the calzone creates a handheld meal that’s perfect for dinner, parties, or even a grab-and-go lunch.
Ingredients for Chicken Parmesan Calzone
To make the best Chicken Parmesan Calzone, you’ll need fresh, quality ingredients. Here’s what you need:
For the Chicken
- Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless.
- Breadcrumbs: Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs work best for flavor.
- Flour: To coat the chicken before breading.
- Eggs: To dip the chicken and help the breadcrumbs stick.
- Olive oil: For frying or baking the chicken.
the Calzone Dough
- Dough: You can use store-bought pizza dough or make your own. For a homemade touch, check out this homemade pizza dough recipe.
For the Filling
- Mozzarella cheese: Freshly shredded or sliced mozzarella will give you the best results.
- Parmesan cheese: Grated Parmesan adds an extra layer of cheesy goodness.
- Marinara sauce: Opt for a rich, thick sauce to avoid a soggy calzone. You can make your own or use store-bought.
- Basil and parsley: Fresh herbs add brightness and flavor.
Nutritional Benefits of Chicken Parmesan Calzone
Although the Chicken Parmesan Calzone is indulgent, it offers some nutritional perks. Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, providing essential amino acids that help in muscle building and repair. If you opt for grilled or baked chicken instead of fried, you can significantly reduce the fat content.
Cheese, especially mozzarella and Parmesan, is rich in calcium, which supports strong bones. For those looking to make this dish healthier, consider using whole-wheat dough and low-fat cheese alternatives. This small swap can increase fiber content and lower overall calorie intake.
If you’re curious about how to make chicken even healthier and juicier, don’t forget to explore the Ultimate Chicken Brine Recipe for some great tips.
How to Make Chicken Parmesan Calzone: Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s a detailed guide on how to prepare and bake your Chicken Parmesan Calzone. Follow these steps carefully for a perfectly golden, delicious calzone.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Pound the Chicken: Start by pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. This ensures the chicken cooks evenly.
- Dredge the Chicken: Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls—one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with seasoned breadcrumbs. Dredge each chicken breast in flour, dip it in the egg, and coat it in breadcrumbs.
- Cook the Chicken: Fry the chicken in hot olive oil for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown. Alternatively, for a healthier option, bake the chicken in the oven at 375°F for 20-25 minutes. Once cooked, set the chicken aside to cool slightly, then slice into strips.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
Roll out your calzone dough on a floured surface until it’s about 1/4 inch thick. This will be the base that wraps around your Chicken Parmesan filling. If using store-bought dough, let it rest at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before rolling to make it easier to handle.
For a gluten-free version, substitute with a gluten-free dough and check out the Gluten-Free Pizza Guide for tips on how to work with gluten-free dough.
Step 3: Assemble the Calzone
- Layer the Marinara Sauce: Spread a layer of marinara sauce over one half of the dough.
- Add the Chicken and Cheese: Place the sliced chicken on top of the marinara, followed by mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. For extra flavor, sprinkle fresh basil or parsley.
- Fold the Dough: Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and crimp the edges to seal the calzone.
Step 4: Bake the Calzone
Place the assembled calzone on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush the top with olive oil or egg wash for a shiny, golden crust. Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese inside is bubbling.
Air Fryer Variation for a Healthier Calzone
Using an air fryer is a great way to make a healthier Chicken Parmesan Calzone with less oil and a crispier result. Here’s how to make it in the air fryer:
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F.
- Cook in Batches: Place the calzones in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning.
- Check for Doneness: The calzones are ready when they are golden brown and crispy on the outside, and the cheese is melted inside.
The air fryer method offers a quicker cooking time and a crispier texture. It’s also a great way to reduce the fat content in your recipe without sacrificing flavor.
Recipe Variations: Customize Your Chicken Parmesan Calzone
The beauty of the Chicken Parmesan Calzone is its versatility. Here are some popular variations you can try to suit different tastes and dietary preferences:
1. Vegetarian Calzone
For a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with breaded eggplant or portobello mushrooms. You can prepare the eggplant or mushrooms in the same way as the chicken—breaded and fried or baked. The result is just as satisfying and flavorful.
2. Extra Cheesy Calzone
If you’re a cheese lover, don’t hesitate to add more varieties of cheese. Ricotta, fontina, and provolone all make excellent additions to the filling, creating a gooey, extra-cheesy calzone.
3. Whole-Wheat Dough for a Healthier Option
Swap the regular dough for whole-wheat dough. This will increase the fiber content and make the calzone more nutritious, while still retaining that satisfying, chewy texture.
4. Protein-Packed Calzone
Looking for more protein? You can add slices of grilled turkey or lean ham for extra protein, making it a perfect post-workout meal.
Serving Suggestions
Your Chicken Parmesan Calzone can be a complete meal on its own, but here are some side dishes and garnishes to elevate your dining experience:
- Side Salad: A fresh Caesar or garden salad complements the rich, cheesy calzone perfectly.
- Garlic Bread: Serve with crispy garlic bread or breadsticks for a hearty Italian feast.
- Dipping Sauces: Offer marinara, ranch, or even garlic aioli as dipping options to enhance the flavor.
- Herbs and Spices: Garnish the calzone with fresh basil, oregano, or parsley for added flavor and a pop of color.
How to Store and Reheat Chicken Parmesan Calzone
If you have leftovers (which is unlikely!), here’s how you can store and reheat your Chicken Parmesan Calzone:
In the Refrigerator
- Store: Place leftover calzones in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: To reheat, place the calzone in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-12 minutes. This ensures the crust stays crispy and the filling is evenly heated.
In the Freezer
- Freeze: If you want to freeze your calzones, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Calzones can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Reheat from Frozen: You can reheat the frozen calzones by baking them in a 375°F oven for 20-25 minutes, or until fully heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions about Chicken Parmesan Calzones:
1. Can I Make Calzones Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the calzones ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. This is a great option if you’re preparing for a party or meal prepping for the week.
2. What’s the Best Way to Make the Calzone Dough Crispy?
To get a crispy crust, make sure your oven is fully preheated to 425°F before baking. You can also brush the dough with olive oil or an egg wash to promote even browning. Using a pizza stone or preheating your baking sheet can also help achieve a crispy bottom.
3. Can I Use Store-Bought Dough?
Absolutely! Store-bought pizza dough works just as well and saves time. Just make sure to let it rest at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before rolling it out. This makes the dough easier to handle.
4. Can I Freeze Calzones?
Yes, calzones freeze well and are a great meal to make in bulk. Just follow the instructions for freezing and reheating mentioned above.
Conclusion: Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Chicken Parmesan Calzone offers the perfect balance of crispy, cheesy, and savory flavors, making it an instant crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re looking for a comforting family dinner or a fun recipe for a gathering, this calzone is guaranteed to be a hit. The best part? It’s highly customizable, so you can make it healthier, cheesier, or vegetarian depending on your preference.
So, what are you waiting for? Give this Chicken Parmesan Calzone a try and enjoy the flavors of Italy in every bite. And don’t forget to experiment with the variations and serving suggestions to make it truly your own.