There’s an exhilarating moment when the spicy aroma of buffalo sauce fills the kitchen, blending seamlessly with the gooey goodness of melted mozzarella. When I first set out to create my Buffalo Chicken Calzone, I yearned for a dish that captured the scrumptious essence of game-day wings, yet was effortless to whip up for any night of the week. The result? A crispy, golden pocket stuffed with tender, seasoned chicken and a hint of heat, that satisfies cravings and sparks smiles around the dinner table.
Perfect as a quick weeknight dinner or an irresistible snack for gatherings, these calzones are delightfully customizable! You can easily adjust the spice levels, swap in your favorite fillings, or even create a vegetarian option that everyone will love. Join me as we dive into this recipe that elevates comfort food to a whole new level—because who can resist a dish packed with cheesy, spicy goodness, all wrapped in a perfect crust? Let’s get cooking!
Why is the Buffalo Chicken Calzone a Must-Try?
Irresistible Flavor: The balance of spicy buffalo wing sauce and creamy cheese creates a mouthwatering experience that keeps you coming back for more.
Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, these calzones can be whipped up in under 30 minutes.
Customizable Delights: Whether you crave extra heat or want to switch to vegetarian, this recipe allows for endless variations.
Crowd-Pleasing Snack: Serve at parties or game days, and watch them disappear in minutes. Enjoy with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping!
Satisfying Texture: Crisp on the outside with gooey cheese and tender chicken inside, it’s the type of comfort food that wraps you in warmth.
Buffalo Chicken Calzone Ingredients
For the Dough
• Pizza Dough – A sturdy base that holds all the goodness; feel free to use store-bought for convenience!
For the Filling
• Cooked Chicken, shredded – The heart of the calzone; rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut!
• Buffalo Wing Sauce – Adds that punch of heat and flavor; adjust to your spice tolerance!
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – Creates that ooey-gooey texture as it melts; try cheddar for a twist!
• Ranch or Blue Cheese Dressing – Provides a cool contrast; a must-have for dipping!
• Chopped Green Onions (optional) – Adds a pop of freshness and crunch; diced celery works too!
For Cooking
• Egg (for egg wash) – Gives your calzones a beautiful golden shine when baked.
• All-Purpose Flour (for dusting) – Prevents sticking while you’re preparing; a little goes a long way!
Dive into this scrumptiousness and prepare to make your Buffalo Chicken Calzone the star of your next gathering!
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Calzone
-
Mix Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine your shredded chicken with buffalo wing sauce and cream cheese. Stir until everything is well blended and coated in flavor.
-
Prepare Dough: Lay your pizza dough flat on a floured surface. Spoon half of the buffalo chicken mixture onto one side, sprinkle generously with mozzarella cheese, and then fold the dough over to create a calzone. Seal the edges tightly to keep the filling in.
-
Cook Calzones: Heat a skillet over medium heat and brush it with melted butter. Cook the calzones for 2–3 minutes on each side, or until they reach a delightful golden brown hue. For an extra touch, sprinkle some garlic powder on top while they cook.
-
Serve: Once cooked, allow the calzones to cool slightly before slicing them into portions. Top with chopped green onions for some freshness and serve warm with ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side for dipping.
Optional: Garnish with additional buffalo sauce for an extra kick!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Buffalo Chicken Calzone
-
Test for Spice: Before sealing your calzone, taste the chicken mixture. This way, you can adjust the spice level to your liking.
-
Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh or homemade pizza dough if possible; it elevates the overall taste and texture of your Buffalo Chicken Calzone.
-
Seal Properly: Ensure you press the dough edges firmly to avoid any filling leakage during cooking—it can be messy otherwise!
-
Keep It Crispy: Brush the outside with melted butter or an egg wash to achieve that perfect golden, crispy finish.
-
Experiment with Fillings: Don’t hesitate to try different proteins or cheese. Mix in sautéed veggies or spices for unique variations on this classic recipe.
Storage Tips for Buffalo Chicken Calzone
Room Temperature: Allow calzones to cool completely before storing; enjoy within 2 hours after cooking for the best taste.
Fridge: Place leftovers in an airtight container; they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or a skillet for optimal texture.
Freezer: Wrap cooled calzones tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then store in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat frozen calzones, bake from frozen in a preheated oven at 375°F for 25-30 minutes, or until heated through. Enjoy your Buffalo Chicken Calzone at its best!
Buffalo Chicken Calzone Variations
Feel free to take this recipe to new heights by exploring different flavor and texture profiles!
-
Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken for cooked cauliflower or chickpeas, adding a delightful twist while keeping that savory flavor.
-
Cheese Lovers: Mix in a blend of mozzarella, cheddar, and pepper jack for a melty, flavorful experience that’ll satisfy any cheese aficionado.
-
Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to your buffalo sauce for an extra burst of heat that’s sure to thrill.
-
Savory Additions: Incorporate sautéed spinach or mushrooms to enrich your filling, bringing in earthiness that balances the spice perfectly.
-
Crunchy Surprise: Toss in diced celery or bell peppers for added texture that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy cheese.
-
Herb Infusion: Add dried herbs like oregano or thyme to the filling for a surprise burst of flavor that elevates this comfort food classic.
-
Different Dough: Swap out the traditional pizza dough for whole wheat or gluten-free options to change up the nutritional content while maintaining that satisfying bite.
-
BBQ Alternate: For a unique flavor twist, trade the buffalo sauce for BBQ sauce, giving your calzone a smoky, sweet makeover that’s just as delicious.
What to Serve with Buffalo Chicken Calzone?
Elevate your meal experience with delightful sides that complement the comfort of a cheesy, spicy calzone!
-
Crispy Celery Sticks: A classic pairing that adds crunch and freshness, perfectly refreshing between bites of rich calzone.
-
Homemade Ranch Dressing: Cool and creamy, it balances the heat of the buffalo sauce while inviting indulgent dipping.
-
Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness and crispy texture beautifully contrast with the spicy flavors, adding depth to your plate.
-
Mixed Green Salad: A light, zesty salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a wonderful burst of flavor and freshness alongside the calzone.
-
Garlic Parmesan Breadsticks: These buttery bites are perfect for soaking up leftover dressing and enhancing your meal with a comforting touch.
-
Pickle Chips: Their briny crunch cuts through the richness of the calzone, adding a surprising twist that excites the palate.
-
Cold Beer: A crisp, refreshing lager or a hoppy IPA pairs perfectly, enhancing the spicy experience while providing relaxation.
-
Chocolate Chip Cookies: For dessert, these sweet treats deliver a delightful finish to a savory meal, bringing smiles to everyone at the table.
Make Ahead Options
These Buffalo Chicken Calzones are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the buffalo chicken filling up to 2 days in advance; simply mix the shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, and cream cheese, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to enjoy your calzones, lay out the pizza dough, spoon the filling onto one side, sprinkle with mozzarella, and seal them up. For the best results, cook them right away to ensure the crust remains crispy and the cheese melts beautifully. With these make-ahead tips, you can have a delicious meal ready with minimal effort!
Buffalo Chicken Calzone Recipe FAQs
What is the best type of pizza dough for my Buffalo Chicken Calzone?
Absolutely! You can use either store-bought or homemade pizza dough. If you’re short on time, I recommend grabbing a pre-made dough for ease. However, making your own dough can elevate the taste and texture, giving you a fresh and fluffy result. Aim for a dough that is rolled out to about ¼ inch thick for optimal cooking.
How should I store leftover Buffalo Chicken Calzone?
Very! Once the calzones have cooled completely, wrap them in foil or place them in an airtight container. They will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the oven or a skillet to maintain that crispy texture.
Can I freeze Buffalo Chicken Calzones?
Absolutely! To freeze, make sure the calzones have cooled completely. Wrap each calzone tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply bake from frozen at 375°F for about 25-30 minutes, or until heated through—it’s that simple!
What should I do if my calzones are leaking while cooking?
The more the merrier! If you see some filling leaking, it might be due to improper sealing. Ensure you pinch the edges tightly and create a good seal before cooking. If you’re still having issues, you can add a bit more dough around the edges to reinforce the seal. Also, be mindful of not overfilling your calzone.
Can I make Buffalo Chicken Calzone for my vegetarian friends?
Absolutely! For a vegetarian option, swap out the chicken for cooked cauliflower or plant-based meat. You can also load up on your favorite veggies, like sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach, mixed with the buffalo sauce for that distinct flavor. Just ensure you maintain that delightful buffalo essence!
What if someone in my family has a dairy allergy?
Very! If there’s a dairy allergy to consider, you can use dairy-free cheese alternatives available in most grocery stores. Make sure to check the labels for ingredients and consider using olive oil instead of butter for brushing your calzones. Additionally, for the ranch or blue cheese dressing, there are delicious dairy-free options on the market to serve alongside!
Buffalo Chicken Calzone: Your New Favorite Comfort Food
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine your shredded chicken with buffalo wing sauce and cream cheese. Stir until everything is well blended and coated in flavor.
- Lay your pizza dough flat on a floured surface. Spoon half of the buffalo chicken mixture onto one side, sprinkle generously with mozzarella cheese, and then fold the dough over to create a calzone. Seal the edges tightly to keep the filling in.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and brush it with melted butter. Cook the calzones for 2–3 minutes on each side, or until they reach a delightful golden brown hue. Optionally sprinkle some garlic powder on top while they cook.
- Once cooked, allow the calzones to cool slightly before slicing them into portions. Top with chopped green onions and serve warm with ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side.