Chicken Pesto Calzone Recipe
Indulge in the flavors of Italy with this hearty and delicious Chicken Pesto Calzone. This calzone is filled with tender chicken, aromatic basil pesto, and gooey melted cheese, all encased in a golden, crispy crust. It’s a perfect option for a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend meal!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
- 1/2 cup basil pesto, homemade or store-bought
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 egg, beaten for egg wash
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Flour for dusting
- Olive oil for brushing
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Dust a baking sheet with a little flour or line it with parchment paper or use a pizza stone.
- On a floured surface, divide the pizza dough into two equal portions and roll each out into a circle about 1/4 inch thick.
- In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken with basil pesto, making sure the chicken is well coated. Season with salt and pepper.
- Spread half the chicken mixture onto one-half of each dough circle, leaving a small border at the edge.
- Top the chicken mixture with ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses.
- Fold the other half of the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Pinch and roll the edges to seal. Make sure the calzone is sealed well to prevent any filling from leaking out.
- Transfer the calzones to the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush the top of each calzone with the beaten egg and make a couple of small slits on the top to let steam escape during cooking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the calzones are golden brown and sound hollow when tapped.
- Optional: Brush the hot calzones with a bit of olive oil for a shiny finish and extra flavor.
- Let the calzones cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy while warm!
Pro Tips:
- If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken is a great alternative for a quick filling.
- For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and onions.
- Additional fillings like olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or artichokes can be included for more variety.
- Pair the calzone with a side salad or your favorite soup for a complete meal.
Whether you’re a calzone aficionado or a newcomer to this Italian delight, this Chicken Pesto Calzone recipe is sure to impress. Buon appetito!