Description
Chicken Parmesan Calzone brings together crispy chicken, tangy marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese inside a golden, flaky pizza dough crust. This easy, handheld meal is perfect for lunch or dinner, offering the classic flavors of chicken parm in a convenient, baked calzone.
Ingredients
- 16–20 ounces pizza dough
- 6–7 fully cooked crispy chicken tenders, sliced
- ¾ cup pizza sauce
- 8 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese
- ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- Flour, for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set the oven to 400°F (200°C). If using frozen chicken tenders, bake them according to the package instructions, then slice into smaller pieces.
- Roll Out the Dough: Lightly flour a surface and roll out the pizza dough into a 12-inch circle. Ensure it’s evenly spread.
- Assemble the Calzone: Spread ½ cup of pizza sauce over half of the dough, leaving a 1-inch border. Layer with 1 cup shredded mozzarella, Parmesan, and sliced chicken tenders.
- Seal the Calzone: Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together firmly and crimp with your fingers or a fork.
- Prepare for Baking: Transfer the calzone to a greased baking sheet. Brush the top with melted butter and cut three ½-inch slits to allow steam to escape.
- Bake: Bake for 20 minutes, then remove from the oven and spread the remaining ¼ cup of pizza sauce on top. Sprinkle with the remaining ½ cup of mozzarella. Return to the oven for another 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and the crust is golden brown.
- Serve: Let the calzone rest for 5-7 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with extra pizza sauce for dipping.
Notes
- Vegetarian Version: Swap chicken for sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, and spinach.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the filling.
- Cheese Variations: Use provolone or fontina for a different flavor profile.
- Whole Wheat Option: Use whole wheat pizza dough for a healthier alternative.
- Prevent Sogginess: Avoid excess sauce and ensure any added veggies are pre-cooked to reduce moisture.
