If you love the combination of spicy, savory, and cheesy flavors wrapped in a golden, crispy crust, this Buffalo Chicken Calzone Recipe will become one of your all-time favorites. It’s the ultimate comfort food that takes the best parts of buffalo chicken wings and melts them inside a perfectly baked calzone for a handheld delight that’s perfect for game day or any cozy night in. Every bite bursts with tangy buffalo sauce, tender chicken, and gooey cheese, all encased in a pillowy dough that bakes up beautifully crispy on the outside. Trust me, once you try this Buffalo Chicken Calzone Recipe, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Buffalo Chicken Calzone Recipe calls for simple, straightforward ingredients that work together to deliver incredible flavor and texture. From the tender chicken and spicy buffalo sauce to the melty cheese mix and soft pizza dough, each component plays its part in making this dish a total crowd-pleaser.
- 1 pound pizza dough at room temperature: The foundation for a soft yet crispy calzone that holds all the fillings perfectly.
- 1 1/2 cups cooked chicken breast shredded or diced: Tender chicken is essential for that hearty, protein-packed center.
- 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce plus extra for serving: Adds that tangy, spicy kick that buffalo lovers crave.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for that classic cheesy stretch inside every bite.
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese: Brings an extra dimension of flavor and creaminess to the filling.
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese softened: Adds richness and helps bind the filling together.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used to brush the dough, giving the crust a gorgeous golden finish.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the savory flavor without overwhelming the other spices.
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder: Provides subtle depth and complexity.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the flavors perfectly.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just a touch of heat and spice.
- 1 large egg beaten for egg wash: Ensures a shiny, inviting crust after baking.
- All-purpose flour for dusting: Prevents sticking while rolling and shaping the calzones.
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping if desired: Classic accompaniments that complement the buffalo sauce perfectly.
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Calzone Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Buffalo Chicken Filling
First things first, preheat your oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Then, in a medium bowl, mix together the shredded or diced cooked chicken with buffalo wing sauce, softened cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. This combination creates a creamy, spicy filling that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for stuffing your calzones.
Step 2: Roll Out the Dough
Lightly dust your work surface with all-purpose flour to keep things from sticking. Divide the pizza dough into 4 equal portions to make perfectly sized calzones. Roll each piece into a circle about 7 to 8 inches wide. Getting the dough thin enough here is key to creating a crispy exterior while still holding in all that delicious filling.
Step 3: Assemble the Calzones
Now comes the fun part! Spoon the buffalo chicken mixture generously onto one half of each dough circle, leaving a border around the edges to seal the calzone properly. Then sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and Monterey Jack (or cheddar) cheese evenly over the filling to ensure every bite has that irresistible melty cheese goodness.
Step 4: Seal and Prepare for Baking
Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape and press the edges firmly together. Crimping the edges with a fork not only seals them tight but also gives your calzones a charming, rustic look. Transfer the sealed calzones onto your prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with the beaten egg and lightly brush or drizzle olive oil over them to achieve that beautiful golden brown after baking. Don’t forget to cut a small slit in the top of each calzone so steam can escape while baking; this keeps your crust crisp and prevents sogginess.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pop the calzones into the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and fully cooked through. The smell filling your kitchen at this stage is unforgettable! Once out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes so the cheesy filling isn’t scorching hot when you dig in.
How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Calzone Recipe
Garnishes
Serve your Buffalo Chicken Calzones with extra buffalo wing sauce drizzled on top or on the side for dipping to amp up the spicy vibe. Ranch or blue cheese dressing is perfect alongside for those who need a creamy cool-down between bites. A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or green onions adds a bright pop of color and a hint of freshness to cut through the richness.
Side Dishes
To make it a full meal, pair these calzones with crunchy celery sticks and carrot sticks—the classic buffalo sidekicks. A simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette can balance the bold flavors and add a vibrant freshness to your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun party platter, slice the calzones into wedges and arrange them on a large board with small bowls of various dipping sauces like buffalo sauce, ranch, blue cheese, or even a cool avocado crema. This makes snacking easy and inviting. You could also serve mini versions for bite-sized game day treats that everyone can enjoy without needing a plate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, and they reheat beautifully, making for an easy next-day meal.
Freezing
You can freeze assembled but unbaked calzones by wrapping each one tightly in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake them straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time until golden and hot throughout.
Reheating
To reheat leftovers, the oven is your best friend—pop them in at 350°F for about 10-12 minutes to restore the crispy crust and warm the filling without drying it out. If you’re in a hurry, a microwave works but expect a softer crust.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this Buffalo Chicken Calzone Recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that saves time and adds great flavor. Just shred or dice it and toss with the buffalo sauce and seasonings as the recipe directs.
How spicy is this Buffalo Chicken Calzone Recipe?
The spice level is moderate, thanks to the buffalo wing sauce. If you prefer more heat, use a hot buffalo sauce or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling. For a milder version, use a milder sauce or reduce the amount.
Can I make the dough from scratch?
Yes, if you want to make your own pizza dough, go for it! Just make sure to let it come to room temperature before rolling it out. Otherwise, store-bought dough works wonderfully and speeds up the process.
Is it possible to make these calzones vegetarian?
Definitely! Swap the chicken for a mix of sautéed veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, and spinach, then toss with buffalo sauce and cheese for a delicious vegetarian twist.
What’s the best way to reheat without soggy crust?
The oven or toaster oven is your best bet to keep the crust crisp when reheating. Avoid the microwave unless you don’t mind a softer exterior.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like a homemade calzone filled with spicy buffalo chicken and gooey cheeses to brighten up any meal or party. This Buffalo Chicken Calzone Recipe combines the best of comfort food and bold, tangy flavors in a way that’s fun to make and even more fun to eat. Once you try it, I’m sure it will become a staple in your recipe collection, perfect for those moments when you want a satisfying, crowd-pleasing meal with minimal fuss. So roll up your sleeves and get ready to enjoy a taste sensation that’s truly unforgettable!
Print
Buffalo Chicken Calzone Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 38 minutes
- Yield: 4 calzones
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Buffalo Chicken Calzone recipe combines tender shredded chicken tossed in spicy buffalo wing sauce with creamy cheeses, all wrapped in golden, flaky pizza dough. Perfect for game day or a flavorful main course, these calzones are baked to perfection and served with extra buffalo sauce or ranch/blue cheese dressing for dipping.
Ingredients
For the Dough and Filling
- 1 pound pizza dough, at room temperature
- 1 1/2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce, plus extra for serving
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- All-purpose flour, for dusting
For Assembly and Baking
- 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing, for dipping (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and to ensure easy cleanup.
- Mix Chicken Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken with buffalo wing sauce, softened cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the mixture is evenly blended and creamy.
- Roll Out Dough: Lightly flour your work surface. Divide the pizza dough into 4 equal portions. Roll each piece into a circle approximately 7 to 8 inches in diameter.
- Fill Calzones: Spoon the buffalo chicken mixture onto one half of each rolled dough circle, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese evenly over the chicken filling.
- Seal Calzones: Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Press the edges together firmly and crimp them with a fork to seal completely, preventing leaks during baking.
- Prepare for Baking: Transfer the sealed calzones to the prepared baking sheet. Brush each calzone’s top with the beaten egg wash for a golden finish, then lightly brush or drizzle with olive oil. Cut a small slit on the top of each calzone to allow steam to escape while baking.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until the calzones are golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let the calzones cool for a few minutes. Serve warm with extra buffalo wing sauce or your choice of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping, if desired.
Notes
- For an extra spicy kick, use a hot buffalo wing sauce or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken mixture.
- Leftover rotisserie chicken works great and saves cooking time.
- Make sure to seal the calzones properly to avoid filling leakage during baking.
- Adjust cheese types to your preference or use a blend for varied texture and flavor.
- These calzones can be frozen before baking for easy future meals; just bake from frozen adding a few extra minutes to the bake time.
