Buffalo Chicken Calzone

If you have a craving for bold, spicy flavors wrapped in a warm, cheesy fold, the Buffalo Chicken Calzone is your new go-to comfort food. This delicious dish combines tender shredded chicken tossed in tangy buffalo sauce with gooey mozzarella melted inside a perfectly baked dough pocket. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying dinner, a game day snack, or a fun family meal, the Buffalo Chicken Calzone is guaranteed to hit the spot every time. Packed with layers of spicy, cheesy goodness, each bite brings a burst of flavor that’s hard to resist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Spicy Satisfaction: The buffalo sauce adds just the right amount of heat to keep your taste buds lively and wanting more.
• Melty Cheese Heaven: Mozzarella and cream cheese or ricotta combine for oozing cheesy texture that complements the spicy filling perfectly.
• Easy and Fun to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for cooks of any skill level.
• Game Day Favorite: It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to slice and share, making it ideal for parties or casual gatherings.
• Customizable: You can tweak the ingredients to suit your taste, dietary preferences, or whatever you have on hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind this Buffalo Chicken Calzone lies in its simple, quality ingredients. Each one plays a key role in delivering balanced flavor, the perfect texture, and that irresistible appearance.

• Pizza Dough: Use store-bought or homemade for a soft yet sturdy base to hold all the filling together.
• Shredded Chicken: Cooked chicken breast or thighs shredded finely makes the protein star of the dish.
• Buffalo Sauce: This tangy, spicy sauce is the heart of the flavor, giving the calzone its signature kick.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella melts beautifully, creating that gooey, cheesy texture everyone craves.
• Cream Cheese or Ricotta: Adds creaminess and mellows the spice for a balanced bite.
• Green Onions or Chives: Fresh herbs add a mild sharpness and vibrant color contrast inside.
• Butter and Garlic: Used in a quick garlic butter brush over the calzone for extra flavor and golden crust.
• Optional Blue Cheese: For lovers of classic buffalo flavor, a little blue cheese crumbled inside or as a dip on the side is pure magic.

Variations for Buffalo Chicken Calzone

One of the best things about the Buffalo Chicken Calzone is how adaptable it is. Feel free to experiment with these variations to make the dish truly your own.

• Spicy Level: Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce or add hot sauce for extra heat or mild it down with more cheese.
• Cheese Choices: Substitute mozzarella for provolone or add pepper jack for a smoky twist.
• Protein Options: Try shredded turkey, grilled tofu, or even plant-based chicken substitutes for dietary preferences.
• Veggie Boost: Add bell peppers, spinach, or sautéed mushrooms for extra texture and nutrients.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free dough to accommodate gluten sensitivities without sacrificing flavor or texture.

How to Make Buffalo Chicken Calzone

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

In a bowl, combine shredded cooked chicken with buffalo sauce until the pieces are well coated. Mix in chopped green onions, cream cheese, and shredded mozzarella. This mixture should be creamy, spicy, and ready to stuff inside your dough.

Step 2: Roll Out the Dough

On a lightly floured surface, roll out your pizza dough into a roughly 10-inch circle. Make sure it is evenly rolled to ensure consistent thickness and easy folding.

Step 3: Fill and Fold

Spread the buffalo chicken filling over half of the dough circle, leaving about a one-inch margin at the edge. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape, then pinch the edges firmly to seal your calzone.

Step 4: Brush with Garlic Butter

Brush the top of the sealed calzone with melted butter mixed with minced garlic. This will give your crust a beautiful golden color and add a mouthwatering aroma.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Place your calzone on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and crisp.

Pro Tips for Making Buffalo Chicken Calzone

• Use warm chicken: Slightly warm the shredded chicken before mixing to help the cream cheese melt evenly.
• Seal the edges well: To avoid filling leaks, pinch the dough edges tightly and even crimp them with a fork.
• Don’t overstuff: Keep the filling manageable so the dough cooks evenly and doesn’t burst open.
• Chill dough if needed: If your dough feels sticky or too soft, refrigerate for 10-15 minutes to firm up for easier handling.
• Serve with dipping sauce: Blue cheese or ranch dressing elevates the buffalo flavor when paired alongside.

How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Calzone

Garnishes

Fresh chopped chives, sliced green onions, or a drizzle of ranch dressing add a fresh and creamy contrast, balancing the bold buffalo spice beautifully.

Side Dishes

Pair your calzone with crisp celery sticks, carrot sticks, or a simple side salad to lighten the meal and add crunch.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut the calzone into small wedges for a party platter or serve whole for a hearty individual portion. Wrap in parchment paper and tie with twine for a rustic, grab-and-go feel.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Buffalo Chicken Calzone wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days without losing quality.

Freezing

You can freeze uncooked calzones by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and foil. When ready to eat, bake from frozen by adding extra cooking time until golden and cooked through.

Reheating

Reheat leftover calzones in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes to regain that crispy crust and melty filling, or use an air fryer for an even crispier finish.

FAQs

Can I make Buffalo Chicken Calzone without cream cheese?

Absolutely! While cream cheese adds creaminess, you can substitute with ricotta or increase the mozzarella for a similar texture.

Is it possible to make these calzones vegetarian?

Yes! Replace chicken with roasted vegetables, seasoned mushrooms, or a plant-based chicken alternative for a delicious vegetarian twist.

How spicy is the Buffalo Chicken Calzone?

The spice level depends on the buffalo sauce you use. You can tone it down with milder sauces or increase heat by adding extra hot sauce or cayenne pepper.

Can I use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken?

Definitely! Rotisserie chicken is a time-saving and flavorful option that works perfectly in this recipe.

Do I need special equipment to make calzones?

Not at all. You just need a baking sheet, rolling pin, and basic kitchen tools to prepare this dish successfully.

Final Thoughts

Buffalo Chicken Calzone is such a rewarding recipe to make, offering a cozy blend of spicy, cheesy, and savory flavors all wrapped up in a crispy, golden crust. Whether for a family meal or game day extravaganza, it’s sure to become a beloved favorite in your kitchen. Give this recipe a try and enjoy every melty, spicy bite!

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