Creamy Chicken Calzone Recipe

If you’ve been on the hunt for a soul-satisfying dinner that feels like a warm hug, you’re about to fall in love with this Creamy Chicken Calzone Recipe. Imagine tender pieces of chicken nestled inside a luscious ricotta and spinach filling, all wrapped up in golden, flaky pizza dough and baked to perfection. It’s comfort food elevated with simple ingredients that come together effortlessly, making every bite a dreamy experience. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this dish will quickly become your go-to for an inviting, savory meal that’s rich, creamy, and utterly delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To bring this Creamy Chicken Calzone Recipe to life, you’ll want ingredients that are straightforward yet full of character. Each one plays a role in creating the perfect balance of flavors—from the fresh, vibrant spinach to the melty mozzarella that gives each calzone a gooey finish. Here’s what you’ll gather:

• Cooked chicken, diced (1 cup): Using leftover or rotisserie chicken is a great timesaver and infuses the filling with juicy, tender bites.
• Fresh spinach, chopped (½ cup): Adds a nice pop of green color and a subtle earthiness that lifts the filling.
• Large eggs (2, divided): Egg yolk enriches the creamy filling, and the egg white mixed with the remaining egg makes a perfect golden egg wash for the crust.
• Ricotta cheese (½ cup): Full fat is key here for that rich, luxuriously creamy texture that binds everything together.
• Garlic powder (¼ teaspoon): A sprinkle enhances the flavor without overpowering.
• Dried oregano (½ teaspoon): Offers aromatic, herbaceous notes essential to that classic Italian vibe.
• Dried basil (½ teaspoon): Adds a sweet, slightly peppery touch to the filling mix.
• Salt (¼ teaspoon): Just enough to bring all the ingredients into a harmonious flavor chorus.
• Pizza dough (12 ounces): You can go store-bought or homemade — this is your canvas for wrapping up the creamy, cheesy filling beautifully.
• Flour (2 tablespoons): For dusting the surface to keep the dough from sticking while you roll it out.
• Mozzarella cheese, shredded (½ cup): Melts perfectly inside for that irresistible, gooey finish.
• Marinara sauce (optional): For dipping, if you want to add a fruity, tangy contrast to your creamy creation.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Calzone Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheets

Start by heating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While the oven warms up, line two baking sheets with parchment paper or foil, and give them a light spray of cooking spray to prevent sticking. Having these ready creates the perfect environment for your calzones to bake into golden, crisp pockets of goodness.

Step 2: Prep Your Filling Ingredients

Dice your cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces—about half an inch each is perfect to ensure even distribution in every bite. Chop your spinach roughly; you want it to mix well with the creamy ricotta but still maintain a nice texture.

Step 3: Make the Ricotta Mixture

Carefully separate one egg, placing the yolk in a medium bowl and the white in a separate one for later. Add the ricotta cheese, garlic powder, oregano, basil, and salt to the yolk. Mix everything thoroughly until smooth and creamy. Now fold in the chopped spinach, and give it another good stir. This mixture is the heart of your calzone, bursting with herbal depth and rich, creamy texture.

Step 4: Roll Out the Dough

Divide your pizza dough into four equal parts to shape four calzones. Lightly flour your work surface—that little touch keeps your dough from sticking and torn edges at bay. Roll each piece into a neat 7-inch circle; not too thin or thick, just right to hold all that wonderful filling without breaking.

Step 5: Fill Your Calzones

Spread the ricotta mixture on one half of each dough circle, leaving about a one-inch border around the edge. This border is crucial for sealing your calzone perfectly. Next, sprinkle the diced chicken evenly over the ricotta, then top with shredded mozzarella cheese. This layering ensures every bite is loaded with creamy, melty, and savory flavors.

Step 6: Seal and Shape

Fold the dough over the filling to create a happy half-moon shape. Press the edges firmly to seal, then fold and roll the edge again to form a sturdy ridge. This step locks in the filling, so it won’t escape during baking—and gives your calzones a beautiful, rustic look.

Step 7: Egg Wash for a Gorgeous Finish

Whisk together the reserved egg white with the remaining egg, creating a glossy egg wash. Brush this gently over each calzone to give them that irresistible shiny golden crust that makes you want to dig right in.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Place your calzones on the prepared baking sheets and pop them into the oven for 15 to 18 minutes. You’re looking for a stunning golden brown crust, signaling that everything inside is perfectly cooked and bubbly.

Step 9: Optional Finishing Touches

Once baked, sprinkle a bit of Parmesan cheese on top for an extra savory kick if you like. Serve the calzones hot, and optionally with warmed marinara sauce for dipping—a fresh, tangy contrast that pairs like a dream with the creamy filling.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Calzone Recipe

Garnishes

Keep garnishes simple to complement, not overpower, the rich filling. A light sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan or chopped fresh basil adds a lovely touch of elegance and freshness that enhances the overall dish. A dash of cracked black pepper on top right after baking can also elevate the flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

Pair your Creamy Chicken Calzone Recipe with crisp, bright salads—think a zesty arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette or a crunchy Caesar. Roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or asparagus also make great companions, adding texture and a healthy balance to the creamy delights inside your calzones.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress when serving? Cut the calzones in half diagonally to reveal the gooey, cheesy filling, placing them artfully on a wooden board. Add a small ramekin of marinara or pesto dip on the side to encourage everyone to get a little saucy with it. For a fun twist, top with a drizzle of balsamic glaze to add a hint of sweetness and color contrast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover calzones are a blessing, and storing them right keeps that creamy magic intact. Place cooled calzones in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Be sure to keep them in a single layer if possible to preserve their crust integrity.

Freezing

If you want to prep ahead or save some for later, freezing is your friend. Wrap each calzone tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months without losing their creamy deliciousness.

Reheating

To enjoy leftovers or frozen calzones, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This helps crisp the crust back up while gently warming the filling. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make the dough chewy and the filling less creamy.

FAQs

Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?

Absolutely! While mozzarella and ricotta are classic choices for creaminess and meltiness, feel free to experiment with fontina, provolone, or even sharp cheddar to add your own twist on the flavor profile.

Is it necessary to cook the chicken beforehand?

Yes, the chicken should be cooked before adding to the filling. Using leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken makes this recipe quick and easy, ensuring the filling tastes flavorful and safe to eat.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Definitely! Simply omit the chicken and add extra spinach or mushrooms, artichokes, or roasted vegetables to keep the filling just as delicious and satisfying.

What type of pizza dough works best?

Both store-bought and homemade doughs work beautifully for this recipe. Choose a dough with a good stretch and softness for the best sealing and crust texture.

Is marinara sauce necessary for serving?

Marinara sauce is optional but highly recommended. It adds a bright, tangy counterpoint to the rich and creamy filling, making for a wonderful dipping experience.

Final Thoughts

Thanks for sticking with me through this delightful journey of making the Creamy Chicken Calzone Recipe. It’s one of those dishes that feels special yet is so wonderfully simple you’ll find yourself making it again and again. Whether it’s for a busy weeknight or a casual weekend treat, I hope you enjoy every cheesy, savory, creamy bite as much as I do. Go ahead, dive in and share the love!

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