Buffalo Chicken Calzone Recipe

Craving a delicious twist on classic comfort food? This Buffalo Chicken Calzone recipe is packed with bold flavors, featuring tender shredded chicken coated in spicy Buffalo wing sauce, melted mozzarella cheese, and a golden, crispy crust. Perfect for a quick dinner, game-day snack, or party appetizer, this recipe combines the irresistible taste of Buffalo chicken with the convenience of a handheld calzone.

Made with refrigerated pizza dough, this easy-to-make dish is customizable and freezer-friendly, making it a versatile favorite for busy weeknights or meal prep. Whether you serve it with ranch or blue cheese dressing, this spicy and cheesy calzone is guaranteed to please.

Ingredients

• 1 lb skinless, boneless chicken breasts, halved
• 2 tablespoons butter
• ¼ cup Buffalo wing sauce
• 1 refrigerated pizza dough
• 2 tablespoons vegetable or olive oil, divided
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare:
   • Preheat your oven to 410°F (210°C).
   • Cook chicken breasts in a medium-sized saucepan with enough water to cover. Boil for about 15 minutes or until fully cooked. Drain and shred the chicken using two forks.
2. Make the Buffalo Chicken Filling:
   • In a medium skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the shredded chicken and cook for 2 minutes.
   • Stir in the Buffalo wing sauce, mixing well to coat the chicken. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until heated through.
3. Prepare the Dough:
   • On a floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a 12-inch round. Brush one side of the dough with 1 tablespoon of oil.
4. Assemble the Calzone:
   • Spread 1 cup of mozzarella cheese over one half of the dough.
   • Add the Buffalo chicken mixture on top of the cheese.
   • Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the chicken.
   • Fold the other half of the dough over the filling, forming a semi-circle. Seal the edges by pressing them together firmly.
   • Brush the top of the calzone with the remaining tablespoon of oil. Using a sharp knife, cut a few slits in the top of the dough to allow steam to escape during baking.
5. Bake:
   • Place the calzone on a baking sheet and bake uncovered for 20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
   • Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, slice, and serve warm.

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Tips

• Sealing the calzone: Pinch the edges of the dough tightly or use a fork to crimp and seal, preventing any cheese or sauce from leaking.
• Even cooking: Rotate the baking sheet halfway through cooking for even browning.
• Optional glaze: Brush the baked calzone with melted butter mixed with garlic powder for added flavor.

Variations and Substitutions

• Protein options: Substitute chicken breasts with shredded rotisserie chicken or leftover turkey for convenience.
• Cheese swap: Replace mozzarella with cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend of your favorite cheeses.
• Spice level: Adjust the Buffalo sauce quantity or mix in ranch or blue cheese dressing for a milder flavor.
• Dough alternative: Use homemade pizza dough or crescent roll dough for a different texture.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the calzone, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover calzone in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for the best texture.

Can I freeze it?
Absolutely! Freeze the baked calzone after cooling, wrapped in foil or plastic wrap, for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
• Serve alongside a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
• Add celery sticks for a classic Buffalo-style pairing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Buffalo Chicken Calzone is the perfect combination of spicy, cheesy, and hearty. It’s an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing dish that’s great for weeknight dinners, game day gatherings, or any time you crave Buffalo chicken flavors in a comforting, handheld package. With its golden, crispy crust and gooey melted cheese, this calzone is sure to become a family favorite!