Indulge in the Best Buffalo Chicken Calzone Recipe Today!

Spicy, cheesy, and oh-so-delicious, the Buffalo Chicken Calzone is a beloved twist on traditional pizza night. This crowd-pleasing hand-held feast combines the bold flavors of buffalo chicken with the comforting, portable appeal of a calzone. Whether you’re hosting game day, a family gathering, or just craving an indulgent homemade meal, this recipe is sure to be a hit!

Table of Contents

Ingredients for Buffalo Chicken Calzone

• 1 pound pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 1/2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup ranch or blue cheese dressing
• 1 tablespoon chopped green onions (optional)
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• All-purpose flour (for dusting)

The beauty of this Buffalo Chicken Calzone recipe is its simplicity. The key ingredients are cooked chicken, buffalo wing sauce, and plenty of melty mozzarella cheese. Feel free to customize the calzone by swapping in your favorite cheese, adding extra veggies, or trying different sauce flavors. The possibilities are endless!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s get started on making this delectable Buffalo Chicken Calzone!

1. Preheat Oven: To 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly dust with flour.
2. Prepare Filling: In a bowl, mix shredded chicken with buffalo wing sauce until evenly coated. Stir in mozzarella cheese, dressing, and green onions if using.
3. Roll Out Dough: On a floured surface, roll pizza dough into a large oval or circle about ¼ inch thick.
4. Fill and Fold: Spoon the buffalo chicken mixture onto one half of the dough, leaving a 1-inch edge. Fold the other half over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press and crimp the edges with a fork to seal.
5. Egg Wash: Brush the top of the calzone with beaten egg for a golden crust.
6. Bake: Place the calzone on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15–18 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
7. Cool and Serve: Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with extra ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping!

The key to a perfect Buffalo Chicken Calzone is ensuring the filling is well-seasoned and the dough is rolled out thin enough to fold over without tearing. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a piping hot, flavor-packed calzone ready to enjoy.

Nutritional Information

A single serving of this Buffalo Chicken Calzone packs a satisfying punch, with approximately 400 calories, 25g of protein, 18g of fat, and 35g of carbohydrates. The buffalo sauce and cheese provide a delightful balance of spicy and creamy flavors, while the chicken and dough offer heartiness and substance.

For a healthier twist, you can experiment with using low-fat mozzarella, Greek yogurt-based dressing, and adding extra veggies like diced celery or carrots to the filling. Paired with a fresh salad, this calzone makes for a well-rounded and nutritious meal.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

The Buffalo Chicken Calzone is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of sides and beverages. Serve it alongside a crisp, cool salad or creamy coleslaw for a balanced meal. For dipping, provide extra ranch or blue cheese dressing, as well as celery sticks or carrot sticks for a refreshing contrast to the spicy calzone.

To complement the bold flavors, consider pairing the Buffalo Chicken Calzone with a cold beer, a light white wine, or a refreshing iced tea. For a heartier meal, you can also serve it with a side of fries or tater tots.

When it comes to presentation, the Buffalo Chicken Calzone is best served hot and fresh from the oven. Slice it into wedges and arrange on a platter or cutting board, garnished with chopped green onions or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Variations on Buffalo Chicken Calzone

While the classic Buffalo Chicken Calzone is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on this recipe. Try swapping the buffalo sauce for barbecue or honey mustard for a different flavor profile. You can also experiment with alternative fillings, such as shredded pork, roasted vegetables, or even a vegetarian option with sautéed mushrooms and spinach.

To change up the dough, consider using a whole wheat or garlic-infused version for added texture and taste. For a spicier calzone, you can increase the amount of buffalo sauce or add diced jalapeños to the filling. The possibilities are endless when it comes to customizing this versatile dish to suit your personal preferences.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Leftover Buffalo Chicken Calzone can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When ready to reheat, simply place the calzone on a baking sheet and warm it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

For longer-term storage, the calzone can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To freeze, allow the calzone to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. When ready to enjoy, thaw the calzone in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is in a buffalo chicken calzone?

A Buffalo Chicken Calzone typically contains the following ingredients: cooked and shredded chicken, buffalo wing sauce, mozzarella cheese, ranch or blue cheese dressing, and optional green onions. The filling is wrapped in a homemade or store-bought pizza dough and baked until golden brown.

How to know when a calzone is done?

The Buffalo Chicken Calzone is done baking when the crust is golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). You can also check for a fully cooked and set filling by gently pressing on the top of the calzone. If it feels firm and the juices are not runny, it’s ready to be removed from the oven.

Is a calzone a pizza folded in half?

Yes, a calzone is essentially a pizza that has been folded in half to create a savory, hand-held pastry. The dough is rolled out and filled with various ingredients, then sealed and baked until crispy on the outside and hot and melty on the inside. The Buffalo Chicken Calzone follows this classic calzone structure, with the added twist of the spicy, creamy buffalo chicken filling.

Do calzones have sauce inside?

Calzones can have a variety of fillings, including sauces. In the case of the Buffalo Chicken Calzone, the buffalo wing sauce is incorporated directly into the filling, providing a flavorful and saucy interior. Some calzones may also have a separate marinara or other dipping sauce served on the side for extra flavor and moisture.

Conclusion

The Buffalo Chicken Calzone is a delightful fusion of bold, spicy flavors and comforting, portable goodness. Whether you’re serving it as a game day snack, a family-friendly dinner, or a indulgent lunch, this recipe is sure to impress. With its easy-to-follow instructions and endless customization possibilities, you can make this calzone a new household favorite. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a mouthwatering Buffalo Chicken Calzone that will have everyone coming back for more!

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Chicken Bacon Ranch Calzone
• Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese Casserole
• BBQ Pulled Pork Mac Attack Bombs
• Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Shells

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