If you’re craving the comforting flavors of chicken parmesan wrapped in a golden, cheesy crust, this Chicken Parm Calzone recipe is your perfect match.
It’s a delightful fusion of crispy chicken, rich marinara, and gooey cheese, all encased in a soft, buttery dough.
Ideal for a cozy dinner or a crowd-pleasing party snack, this calzone brings the best of Italian-American cuisine to your table.
❤️ Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Chicken Parm Calzone Recipe brings all the flavors I love from a classic chicken parmesan into a warm, handheld pocket.
I get that crispy chicken, gooey cheese, and tangy marinara all wrapped up in golden pizza dough it’s pure comfort. I love how easy it is to throw together, especially on a busy night. It’s also super versatile.
I can keep it classic or toss in some veggies or spice it up with crushed red pepper. It’s a fun twist on a familiar favorite, and honestly, it’s hard to stop at just one slice.
How To Make Chicken Parm Calzone Recipe?
🕒 Quick Overview
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Course: Main Course
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: Italian-American
Yield: 2 serves
🔧 Equipment Needed
- Oven
- Baking sheet or pizza stone
- Rolling pin
- Pastry brush
- Knife
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
🛒 Ingredients
- 16–20 oz pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 6–7 fully cooked crispy chicken tenders, sliced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3/4 cup pizza or marinara sauce
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- Flour, for dusting
- Optional: fresh basil leaves, egg wash (1 beaten egg)
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). If using frozen chicken tenders, cook them according to package instructions, then slice into strips and set aside.
2. Roll Out the Dough
On a floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a 12-inch circle, about 1/4 inch thick. Ensure the dough isn’t too thin to prevent leakage.
3. Assemble the Filling
On one half of the dough, spread 1/2 cup of pizza sauce, leaving a 1-inch border. Layer with mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and sliced chicken tenders.
4. Fold and Seal
Fold the other half of the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together to seal, and crimp with a fork for extra security.
5. Bake the Calzone
Place the calzone on a greased baking sheet. Brush the top with melted butter or egg wash for a golden finish. Cut three small slits on top to allow steam to escape. Bake for 20 minutes.
6. Add Toppings and Finish Baking
Remove the calzone from the oven. Spread the remaining 1/4 cup of pizza sauce on top, and sprinkle with additional mozzarella cheese. Return to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and the crust is golden brown.
7. Cool and Serve
Let the calzone rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Pair your Chicken Parm Calzone Recipe with a crisp green salad dressed in balsamic vinaigrette for a balanced meal.
For a heartier option, serve alongside roasted vegetables or a bowl of minestrone soup. Don’t forget a side of extra marinara sauce for dipping!
💡 Tips and Variations
- Cheese Options: Swap mozzarella with provolone or add ricotta for a creamier texture.
- Add Veggies: Incorporate sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
- Spice It Up: Sprinkle red pepper flakes into the filling for a spicy kick.
- Mini Calzones: Divide the dough into smaller portions to create individual calzones—perfect for parties or meal prep.
🌿 Health Benefits
While indulgent, this calzone offers protein from the chicken and calcium from the cheese. Using whole-grain dough can increase fiber content. Adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers boosts vitamin and mineral intake.
Opting for baked (not fried) chicken and controlling portion sizes can make this dish a more balanced choice.
🧊 How to Store Chicken Parm Calzone?
After baking, I let the calzone cool completely before storing it. In the fridge, I wrap it tightly in foil or keep it in an airtight container. It stays fresh for up to 4 days.
When I reheat it, I use the oven at 350°F to keep the crust crisp. If I need to freeze it, I wrap individual portions in foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. It lasts up to 2 months frozen.
I thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat it in the oven at 375°F until hot and golden. I always store it without sauce on top to avoid sogginess, then add fresh sauce after reheating.
📝 Note
Ensure the chicken is fully cooked before assembling the calzone to guarantee food safety. Adjust baking times based on your oven and the thickness of the dough. Feel free to customize the filling to suit your taste preferences.
✅ Conclusion
This Chicken Parm Calzone Recipe combines the beloved flavors of chicken parmesan with the convenience of a handheld meal. It’s a versatile dish that’s sure to satisfy comfort food cravings and impress guests alike.
Give it a try, and enjoy the delicious fusion of crispy chicken, savory sauce, and melted cheese wrapped in a golden crust.