Cheesy Chicken Parmesan Calzone is a delicious fusion of two favorite Italian dishes—Chicken Parmesan and calzones. This handheld delight wraps tender, breaded chicken, rich marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese inside a golden, crispy dough. The result is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, with a gooey, cheesy center and a crisp outer shell.
For a perfect meal, pair this calzone with a side of Garlic Bread Rolls and a fresh salad. This hearty calzone is ideal for a quick weeknight dinner, a game-day snack, or even a casual dinner party.
What Makes Cheesy Chicken Parmesan Calzone So Special?
This Cheesy Chicken Parmesan Calzone is a unique take on the traditional calzone. While a classic calzone typically contains ricotta and mozzarella, this version incorporates the savory elements of Chicken Parmesan—breaded chicken cutlets, marinara sauce, and Parmesan cheese—into the filling. The mozzarella melts perfectly inside, creating a gooey, cheesy center, while the Parmesan adds a tangy bite.
The calzone is both hearty and convenient, making it a versatile meal. It’s easy to customize with different fillings, such as adding spinach, mushrooms, or even pepperoni.
For those who enjoy Italian-inspired dishes, try pairing this calzone with our Garlic Shrimp Pasta for a complete Italian-themed dinner.
Ingredients for Cheesy Chicken Parmesan Calzone
To make this savory Cheesy Chicken Parmesan Calzone, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Dough
- Pizza dough (homemade or store-bought): Enough for one large calzone.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: To brush the dough and add a golden, crispy texture.
The Filling
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced: You can use leftover rotisserie chicken or breaded chicken cutlets.
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce: For a rich, tomato-based filling.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Adds gooey, melted goodness to the calzone.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Provides a sharp, salty flavor.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the flavor of the filling.
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme): Adds an herby kick.
For the Egg Wash
- 1 large egg, beaten: To brush on the calzone for a golden, glossy finish.
Optional Additions
- Spinach: Add a handful of fresh spinach for extra greens.
- Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms add a meaty, earthy flavor.
- Pepperoni: For a spicy kick, add slices of pepperoni.
For a lighter side, try serving the calzone with a crisp salad, like our Caesar Salad, which pairs perfectly with the cheesy, savory calzone.
Tools and Equipment Needed
Before starting, make sure you have the following tools ready:
- Rolling pin: To roll out the pizza dough into a thin, even layer.
- Baking sheet: For baking the calzone until golden and crispy.
- Pastry brush: To apply the egg wash for a shiny, golden crust.
- Mixing bowls: For preparing the chicken filling and egg wash.
- Sharp knife or pizza cutter: To cut slits in the dough and slice the calzone once baked.
Having the right tools will make it easy to create a perfectly baked, golden calzone with a gooey, cheesy center.
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
1. Prepare the Pizza Dough
- First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface to about 1/4-inch thick. Shape it into a large circle or oval, depending on your preference. If using store-bought dough, let it rest at room temperature for 15-20 minutes to make it easier to stretch.
2. Make the Chicken Parmesan Filling
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, marinara sauce, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, and Italian herbs. Mix until the chicken is evenly coated with sauce and cheese.
- If you’re adding spinach or mushrooms, stir them into the mixture as well.
3. Assemble the Calzone
- Spoon the chicken mixture onto one half of the dough, leaving about 1 inch of space around the edges. Be careful not to overfill the calzone, as it will be difficult to seal.
- Fold the other half of the dough over the filling, creating a half-moon shape. Press the edges together firmly to seal the calzone. Use a fork to crimp the edges for extra security.
4. Apply the Egg Wash
- In a small bowl, whisk the egg with a splash of water to make the egg wash. Brush the top of the calzone with the egg wash to help it brown and become shiny as it bakes.
5. Bake the Calzone
- Transfer the calzone to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cut a few small slits in the top of the dough to allow steam to escape while baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the calzone is golden brown and crispy on the outside. The cheese inside should be melted and bubbly.
6. Serve and Enjoy
- Remove the calzone from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve hot, with extra marinara sauce on the side for dipping.
For a complete meal, serve this Cheesy Chicken Parmesan Calzone with a side of Garlic Bread Rolls and a fresh Caesar salad. This makes for a satisfying, Italian-inspired dinner.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Parmesan Calzone
- Don’t Overfill the Calzone: Too much filling can cause the dough to tear or leak during baking. Stick to the recommended filling amount to ensure your calzone stays intact.
- Let the Dough Rest: If the pizza dough is too elastic and difficult to stretch, let it rest at room temperature for 10-15 minutes. This will make it easier to roll out.
- Brush with Olive Oil: If you don’t want to use egg wash, brushing the dough with olive oil will also give the calzone a nice golden color and added flavor.
Variations of Cheesy Chicken Parmesan Calzone
1. Spinach and Ricotta Calzone
Swap the chicken for sautéed spinach and ricotta cheese. This vegetarian version is lighter but still packed with flavor.
2. Buffalo Chicken Calzone
For a spicy twist, use shredded buffalo chicken instead of marinara sauce. Add blue cheese crumbles or ranch dressing inside the calzone for extra flavor.
3. BBQ Chicken Calzone
Use BBQ sauce in place of marinara and add red onions and cilantro to the filling for a smoky, tangy flavor.
4. Meat Lover’s Calzone
Add pepperoni, sausage, and ham to the filling for a hearty, protein-packed version of the calzone. Top with extra mozzarella and Parmesan for an indulgent treat.
For more unique filling ideas, try our Taco-Stuffed Grilled Cheese for a Mexican-inspired version of a classic sandwich that would work great as a calzone filling too!
How to Serve Cheesy Chicken Parmesan Calzone
This calzone is best served hot, straight from the oven. Here are some serving suggestions:
- With a Side Salad: A fresh Caesar salad or a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the calzone.
- With Extra Sauce: Serve with a side of marinara or Alfredo sauce for dipping.
- As Part of an Italian Feast: Serve alongside Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole for a filling and flavorful Italian-inspired meal.
Garnishing Ideas
- Fresh Basil: Add fresh basil leaves on top for a burst of color and freshness.
- Red Pepper Flakes: Sprinkle red pepper flakes on the calzone for a spicy kick.
- Grated Parmesan: Dust the top of the calzone with extra grated Parmesan for added flavor.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Storing
- Store leftover calzones in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating
- Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-12 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual slices for 1-2 minutes, but the dough may lose its crispness.
Freezing
- Cheesy Chicken Parmesan Calzones freeze well. Wrap each calzone tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overfilling the Calzone: Too much filling can cause the calzone to burst during baking. Stick to the recommended filling amounts.
- Not Sealing the Edges Properly: Make sure to press the edges firmly together to avoid any filling leakage.
- Skipping the Egg Wash: The egg wash helps the calzone develop a golden, crispy crust. Don’t skip this step if you want a bakery-quality finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the dough from scratch?
Yes, you can make homemade pizza dough. However, store-bought dough works just as well for convenience.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Mozzarella and Parmesan are classic, but you can experiment with provolone, cheddar, or even gouda for different flavors.
Can I freeze the calzones before baking?
Yes, assemble the calzones as directed but don’t bake them. Freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Bake from frozen, adding 10-15 minutes to the bake time.
How do I prevent the calzone from becoming soggy?
Ensure the chicken filling is not too watery. If using marinara sauce, avoid adding too much to prevent the dough from becoming soggy.
Conclusion
Cheesy Chicken Parmesan Calzone is a delightful, flavor-packed dish that combines the best of Chicken Parmesan and classic Italian calzones. With its golden, crispy crust and cheesy, savory filling, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving it for dinner, as a game-day snack, or for a casual gathering, this calzone is sure to please.
For more tasty meal ideas, try our Garlic Shrimp Pasta or our comforting Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole for your next Italian-inspired feast!
Chicken Parmesan Calzone Recipe – Taste of Home
Enjoy your delicious Cheesy Chicken Parmesan Calzone, and if you give it a try and like it, we’d love to hear how it turned out—share your experience with us!