Creamy Chicken Alfredo Calzones

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Ingredients (Makes 4 Calzones)

For the Dough (or use store-bought pizza dough):

• 2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
• 1 tsp sugar
• ¾ cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp olive oil

(Optional: Use 1 lb store-bought pizza dough to save time.)

For the Filling:

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
• 1 cup Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade — recipe below)
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 cup fresh baby spinach (optional, chopped)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Homemade Alfredo Sauce (optional):

• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste

To Finish:

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Grated Parmesan and parsley for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

1. Make the Dough (Skip if using store-bought):

1. In a bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2. Stir in flour, salt, and olive oil. Mix and knead for about 5–7 minutes until smooth.
3. Cover with a towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

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2. Make the Alfredo Sauce (Skip if using store-bought):

1. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
2. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
3. Add Parmesan, whisk until smooth. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until thickened.

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3. Prepare the Filling:

1. In a bowl, mix cooked chicken, Alfredo sauce, mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, spinach (if using), salt, and pepper.
2. Stir until fully combined. Set aside.

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4. Assemble the Calzones:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Divide dough into 4 equal portions. Roll each into an 8-inch circle on a floured surface.
3. Spoon about ½ cup of filling on one half of each dough circle, leaving a 1-inch border.
4. Fold the dough over to make a half-moon shape. Pinch the edges to seal, then crimp with a fork.
5. Transfer calzones to the baking sheet. Brush tops with egg wash.

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5. Bake:

1. Bake for 15–18 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.
2. Let cool slightly before serving. Sprinkle with extra Parmesan and parsley, if desired.

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