Buffalo Chicken Calzone

If you’re on the hunt for a flavorful, crowd-pleasing dish that brings the perfect balance of spice, gooey cheese, and comforting dough, then the Buffalo Chicken Calzone is exactly what you need. This delightful Italian-American favorite combines shredded buffalo chicken with melty mozzarella and tangy hot sauce, all wrapped up in a golden, crispy crust. Whether you’re craving a satisfying dinner, hosting a game day party, or just want to spice up your meal routine, the Buffalo Chicken Calzone delivers excitement in every bite. It’s a must-try dish that never fails to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A perfect flavor fusion: The spicy buffalo sauce combined with creamy cheese creates an irresistible taste experience.
• Great for any occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight meal or game day snack, this dish fits perfectly into any setting.
• Customizable ingredients: Easily swap or add fillings to suit your dietary preferences or cravings.
• Simple preparation: With a straightforward recipe, you don’t need to be a chef to nail this dish.
• Perfect portion size: Individual calzones make serving and sharing a breeze.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for Buffalo Chicken Calzone are simple yet essential, coming together to deliver a perfect mix of heat, creaminess, and crunch. Each one plays a vital role in creating texture, flavor, and that classic calzone experience you’ll crave again and again.

• Pre-made pizza dough: Provides a soft, chewy crust that crisps beautifully when baked.
• Cooked shredded chicken: The base protein that soaks up all the tasty buffalo flavors.
• Buffalo sauce: Adds the signature tangy heat that defines this dish.
• Mozzarella cheese: Melts perfectly for the gooey, cheesy center everyone loves.
• Cream cheese: Brings richness and balances the spice with creamy goodness.
• Ranch or blue cheese dressing: Optional for dipping or adding inside for extra flavor depth.
• Olive oil: For brushing the dough to get that golden-brown finish.
• Chopped scallions or celery: Adds a fresh crunch and a pop of color.

Variations for Buffalo Chicken Calzone

One of the best things about the Buffalo Chicken Calzone is how easily it adapts to your tastes, dietary needs, or available ingredients. Feel free to mix and match for a personalized twist on this classic comfort food.

• Spicy level adjustments: Use mild or extra hot buffalo sauce to control the heat intensity.
• Different cheeses: Swap mozzarella for cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a new flavor dimension.
• Vegetarian option: Replace the chicken with roasted cauliflower or mushrooms, keeping the buffalo sauce for that kick.
• Gluten-free crust: Use a gluten-free pizza dough to make the recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive guests.
• Added veggies: Incorporate spinach, bell peppers, or jalapeños inside for extra texture and flavor.

How to Make Buffalo Chicken Calzone

Step 1: Prepare the Buffalo Chicken Filling

Start by mixing freshly shredded cooked chicken with buffalo sauce and a dollop of cream cheese until well combined and creamy. This filling packs the dish’s signature spicy and tangy punch.

Step 2: Roll Out the Dough

On a floured surface, roll your pre-made pizza dough into individual circles about 8 inches in diameter. This will allow enough room for filling without bursting during baking.

Step 3: Fill and Fold

Spoon the buffalo chicken mixture evenly onto one half of each dough circle. Sprinkle generous amounts of shredded mozzarella cheese over the filling. Then fold the empty half of the dough over the filling and pinch the edges tightly to seal the calzone securely.

Step 4: Brush and Bake

Brush the calzones with olive oil for a golden crust, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until the crust is beautifully browned and cooked through.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

Allow your Buffalo Chicken Calzone to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm with ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side for dipping, and garnish with chopped scallions or celery for freshness.

Pro Tips for Making Buffalo Chicken Calzone

• Use cold dough: Chilled dough is easier to handle and less sticky when rolling and folding.
• Don’t overfill: Too much filling makes the calzone hard to seal and prone to leaking.
• Seal edges well: Use a fork to crimp the edges for a tight, secure seal that keeps the filling inside.
• Brush with oil or egg wash: This helps achieve a perfect golden-brown crust and adds shine.
• Rest after baking: Let the calzone sit a few minutes after baking to avoid burning your mouth and to help the filling set.

How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Calzone

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes like chopped scallions, parsley, or thinly sliced celery add a bright, crunchy contrast to the rich calzone filling, lifting the overall flavor and presentation.

Side Dishes

Pair the Buffalo Chicken Calzone with crisp garden salads, roasted vegetables, or classic wedges of fries for a complete meal that balances textures and flavors beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the calzone into smaller portions and serve on individual plates with a side of ranch or blue cheese dip for dipping, making it ideal for parties or informal gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Buffalo Chicken Calzone in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezing

You can freeze unbaked calzones by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then storing in a freezer bag for up to 2 months to enjoy later.

Reheating

Reheat your calzone in an oven preheated to 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes to keep the crust crisp and the filling warm and melty, avoiding sogginess common with microwave reheating.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken makes prep quick and effortless, with tender meat that soaks up the buffalo sauce beautifully.

Is the buffalo sauce very spicy?

The heat level depends on the brand or homemade recipe you use; you can always adjust by mixing in more or less sauce to suit your tolerance.

Can I make this calzone vegetarian?

Yes, replacing chicken with hearty vegetables like roasted cauliflower or mushrooms makes a delicious vegetarian alternative while keeping all the flavors.

What kind of cheese works best in a Buffalo Chicken Calzone?

Mozzarella is preferred for its meltiness and mild flavor, but mixing in cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack can add more depth and spice.

How do I prevent the calzone from getting soggy?

Make sure not to over-stuff and brush the crust with oil or egg wash before baking to create a barrier that keeps the dough crisp.

Final Thoughts

The Buffalo Chicken Calzone is a delightful mix of spicy, cheesy, and comforting flavors that’s easy to make and perfect to share. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or treating yourself, this dish brings warmth and excitement to your table with every bite. Give it a try and watch it become a beloved staple in your recipe collection!

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