Description
These Chicken and Cheese Calzones feature a delightful combination of shredded chicken, creamy cheeses, and spices, all wrapped in a flaky dough. Perfect for dinner or as a party snack, they are sure to be a hit with everyone!
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 3/4 cup warm water (about 110°F)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Marinara sauce (for dipping)
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine the warm water and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the top and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture along with the olive oil.
- Using a wooden spoon or your hands, mix the ingredients until they come together to form a dough. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
- Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until its smooth and elastic.
- Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, mozzarella cheese, ricotta cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
- Add the garlic powder, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix everything together until well combined.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Transfer it to a floured surface and divide it into 4 equal pieces.
- Roll out one piece of dough into a circle about 6-8 inches in diameter.
- Place about 1/4 of the filling mixture on one half of the dough circle, leaving a small border around the edge.
- Fold the other half of the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together to seal, and crimp the edges with a fork.
- Repeat the process with the remaining pieces of dough and filling until all calzones are assembled.
- Brush the tops of the calzones with the beaten egg.
- Using a sharp knife, make a few small slits on the top of each calzone to allow steam to escape.
- Place the calzones on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each one.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Notes
- Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite ingredients, such as vegetables or different types of cheese.
- Serve with marinara sauce for dipping to enhance the flavor.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes