Easy Air Fryer Chicken Pockets
I stumbled on this recipe when looking for new ways to use my air fryer and it's become our favorite quick dinner. These calzones come out perfectly crispy on the outside with the most amazing creamy chicken filling inside. My kids call them pizza pockets and always ask for seconds.
Why These Work So Well
The air fryer gives these pockets the perfect crispy crust without any messy oil. Inside that golden exterior you'll find the creamiest combination of alfredo chicken and melted cheese. They're so much easier than you'd think perfect for busy weeknights.
What You'll Need
- Pizza dough: Fresh from the store works great.
- Chicken: Rotisserie saves so much time.
- Garlic: Fresh adds the best flavor.
- Heavy cream: Makes it extra rich.
- Parmesan: Grate it fresh if you can.
- Mozzarella: Gets perfectly melty.
- Butter: For that golden finish.
Let's Make Them
- Start with Dough
- Split into four pieces make circles.
- Add Filling
- Layer sauce chicken cheese on one side.
- Seal Them Up
- Fold over press edges really well.
- Air Fry Time
- Brush with butter cook until golden.
- Cool a Bit
- Let them rest the filling's super hot.
My Best Tips
Rotisserie chicken makes this so easy. Don't overfill or they'll leak. That extra butter brush halfway through makes them extra golden. Always let them cool a few minutes the filling is like lava.
Mix It Up
Try mushrooms and spinach instead of chicken. Add some spice with red pepper flakes. Switch up the cheeses for different flavors. Sprinkle Italian herbs on the crust.
Quick Answers
No air fryer? Regular oven works too. Freeze them uncooked for easy meals later. Double seal the edges to prevent leaks. Leftovers reheat great in the air fryer.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I bake these in a regular oven?
Yes, bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes until golden brown. Brush with herb butter halfway through.
- → Can I make the components ahead?
The chicken and alfredo sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- → Why let the sauce cool before assembling?
Hot sauce can make the dough difficult to work with and may cause the calzone to leak during cooking.
- → Can I freeze these calzones?
Assemble and freeze before cooking. Thaw completely before air frying or baking. The sauce may separate slightly when thawed.
- → What if my calzone leaks?
Make sure to seal edges well by pinching firmly. Don't overfill and ensure sauce is cooled to prevent leaks.
Conclusion
These calzones combine homemade alfredo sauce with chicken and cheese in a golden-brown crust, brushed with herb butter and air fried until crispy.