Let’s dive into creating an original, mouthwatering Chicken Parmesan Calzone, perfect for a cozy night in or a delightful culinary adventure. This recipe marries the crispy, savory goodness of chicken tenders with the melty joy of mozzarella and the sharp kick of Parmesan, all enveloped in a golden-brown pizza dough crust. It’s a symphony of flavors that brings the essence of Italian-American cuisine right into your kitchen.
Ingredients:
- Pizza Dough: 16-20 ounces, your canvas for this culinary masterpiece.
- Crispy Chicken Tenders: 6-7 pieces, sliced. For convenience and flavor, Tyson Crispy Chicken Strips are recommended, but feel free to use your favorite brand or homemade version.
- Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: 8 ounces, for that gooey, cheesy pull we all love.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: 1/3 cup, adding a sharp, salty contrast.
- Pizza Sauce: 3/4 cup, for that tangy tomato flavor that ties everything together.
- Butter: 2 tablespoons, melted, to brush on your calzone for a golden finish.
- Flour: For dusting your dough and ensuring it doesn’t stick to your work surface.
Preparation:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your calzone cooks evenly and acquires that desired golden-brown crust.
2. Prepare the Workspace:
Dust a clean work surface with flour to prevent the pizza dough from sticking. This will make it easier to shape and fill your calzone.
3. Roll Out the Dough:
Take your pizza dough and roll it out into a circular shape, about 1/4 inch thick. If the dough springs back, let it rest for a few minutes before rolling again.
4. Assemble the Calzone:
- Spread the pizza sauce evenly over one half of the dough circle, leaving a 1-inch border around the edge.
- Layer the sliced chicken tenders on top of the sauce.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheeses over the chicken.
- Fold the other half of the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape. Pinch and roll the edges together to seal your calzone.
5. Bake to Perfection:
- Transfer the calzone to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Brush the top of the calzone with melted butter, ensuring a crisp, golden crust.
- Make a few small slits on top of the calzone to allow steam to escape during baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese inside is bubbly.
6. Serving Your Masterpiece:
Let the calzone cool for a few minutes before slicing. This rest period allows the cheeses to set slightly, making it easier to slice and serve.
Culinary Tips:
- Customization: Feel free to add additional ingredients inside your calzone, such as sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or slices of pepperoni, to tailor it to your taste preferences.
- Dipping Sauce: Serve your Chicken Parmesan Calzone with a side of warm pizza sauce for dipping. It doubles down on that tangy tomato flavor and makes for a fun, interactive eating experience.
- Reheating: If you have leftovers, reheat your calzone in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. This method helps maintain the crust’s crispiness.
Embarking on the journey of creating this Chicken Parmesan Calzone is not just about following a recipe; it’s about crafting an experience that delights the senses, brings people together, and celebrates the joy of cooking. With each step, you’re not just cooking; you’re creating memories. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and prepare to indulge in a dish that’s as rewarding to make as it is to eat. Buon Appetito!