Ingredients
Dough
- 1 pound homemade or store-bought pizza dough
Filling
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 Tablespoons chopped fresh chives
- 1 1/2 cups chopped rotisserie chicken
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
Finishing
- 2 Tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- Marinara sauce, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare Dough: Lightly flour your work surface to prevent sticking. Divide the pizza dough into four equal portions and roll each into a circle about 7 inches in diameter, creating the base for each calzone.
- Make Filling: In a small bowl, combine ricotta cheese, half of the Parmesan (1/4 cup), minced garlic, chopped chives, salt, and pepper. Stir in the chopped rotisserie chicken to evenly distribute the flavors.
- Assemble Calzones: Spread the chicken and cheese mixture onto one half of each dough circle, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly over the filling.
- Seal Calzones: Fold the empty half of the dough over the filling to form a half-circle shape. Firmly pinch and seal the edges to enclose the filling completely and prevent leaks during baking. Transfer the calzones to the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about two inches apart.
- Butter and Cheese Topping: Brush the tops of the calzones with the melted unsalted butter. Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese over the tops for an extra cheesy crust.
- Bake: Bake the calzones in the preheated oven for approximately 15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese inside has melted thoroughly.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly. Serve warm with marinara sauce on the side for dipping.
Notes
- You can use either homemade or store-bought pizza dough to save time without compromising flavor.
- Rotisserie chicken provides a convenient and flavorful protein option, but leftover cooked chicken can also be used.
- Ensure the edges of the calzones are well sealed to prevent filling from leaking during baking.
- Marinara sauce can be warmed before serving for enhanced dipping experience.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and add sautéed vegetables like mushrooms and spinach.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
