There’s something undeniably magical about the aroma of BBQ Chicken Calzone wafting through your kitchen. Imagine biting into a golden-brown crust, only to discover a savory filling of tender, smoky chicken mingled with tangy barbecue sauce, gooey cheese, and a hint of garlic that dances on your taste buds. It’s comfort food at its finest, perfect for cozy nights in or gatherings with friends.
Now, every time I whip up this delightful dish, I’m transported back to summer barbecues at my grandma’s house. I can still hear her laughter and the sizzle of chicken on the grill, creating memories that linger long after the last bite. Whether it’s game day or a casual family dinner, this BBQ Chicken Calzone always steals the show and leaves everyone coming back for seconds.
Why You'll Love This BBQ Chicken Calzone
- This incredible BBQ Chicken Calzone transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely
- Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly
- Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion
- Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly
I still remember the first time I made this calzone; my friends’ eyes widened as they took their first bites—pure bliss!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 pieces, adjusting based on how many people you’re feeding; tender chicken makes all the difference.
BBQ Sauce: Choose your favorite brand or homemade variety; it adds that signature sweet and tangy flavor we love.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Go for whole milk mozzarella for a creamier texture; it melts beautifully inside the calzone.
Fresh Garlic: Use firm cloves for maximum flavor impact; you can never have too much garlic!
Pizza Dough: Homemade is best if you have time; otherwise, store-bought works perfectly and saves you precious minutes.
Olive Oil: A drizzle enhances flavor and helps achieve that crispy golden crust when baking.
Onion Powder: A dash adds depth to your filling; it blends seamlessly with other ingredients without being overpowering.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings; don’t forget them to balance out all those flavors.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Calzone
Prepare Your Oven and Dough: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). While that’s heating up, roll out your pizza dough on a lightly floured surface until it’s about ¼ inch thick.
Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Add seasoned chicken breasts and cook until no longer pink inside (about 7-10 minutes). The aroma will have you drooling!
Create the Filling: In a bowl, shred cooked chicken and mix with BBQ sauce until well-coated. Stir in shredded mozzarella cheese and fresh minced garlic for an extra kick.
Assemble the Calzone: Divide dough into two portions. Place half of the filling on one side of each dough circle. Fold over and crimp edges tightly using a fork to seal in all that deliciousness.
Bake to Perfection: Place calzones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush tops with olive oil and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown. The smell will drive everyone wild!
Serve Hot!: Let cool slightly before slicing into these beauties. The gooey interior combined with that crispy exterior is pure perfection on your plate!
This BBQ Chicken Calzone not only satisfies hunger but also fills your home with mouthwatering scents that’ll have everyone gathering around the table in no time! Enjoy every cheesy bite!
You Must Know About BBQ Chicken Calzone
- This showstopping BBQ Chicken Calzone delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home
- The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds
- Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest
- Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken in BBQ sauce for at least 30 minutes. While it marinates, prepare your dough and preheat the oven to 475°F. Once ready, cook the chicken on medium heat until fully cooked, then shred it. Roll out your dough into circles and fill them with chicken and cheese before sealing. Bake for about 15-20 minutes until golden brown and bubbling.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your calzone by experimenting with different BBQ sauces or cheeses. If you’re feeling adventurous, add some sautéed onions or jalapeños for a spicy kick! You can also swap in pulled pork or grilled vegetables if you’re looking for a unique twist. The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility—make it your own!
Storing & Reheating
To store leftover calzones, let them cool completely and place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For reheating, simply pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid using the microwave if you want to keep that lovely crunch!
Chef's Helpful Tips for BBQ Chicken Calzone
- This professional-quality BBQ Chicken Calzone relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently
- Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters
- The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth
- Tip let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly
Nothing beats the joy of hearing my friends rave about how they can’t believe I made these BBQ Chicken Calzones from scratch! Their smiles were priceless as they devoured every last bite.
FAQ
What type of barbecue sauce is best for a BBQ Chicken Calzone?
Choosing a barbecue sauce depends on your taste preferences! Sweet sauces pair well with chicken, while tangy options can enhance flavors too. Experiment with different brands or even make your own for a personal touch!
Can I use store-bought dough for my calzones?
Absolutely! Store-bought pizza dough is a great shortcut to save time without sacrificing taste. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before rolling it out for easier handling.
How do I know when my calzones are done baking?
Your calzones are ready when they turn golden brown on top and feel firm to the touch. If you want extra assurance, use a thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F.
Can I freeze BBQ Chicken Calzones for later use?
Yes! To freeze, wrap each calzone tightly in plastic wrap or foil after baking and cooling them completely. They will last up to three months in the freezer; just reheat directly from frozen at 375°F until heated through.
Conclusion for BBQ Chicken Calzone
BBQ Chicken Calzones are not only delicious but also incredibly fun to make! With customizable ingredients and easy storage options, they fit perfectly into any meal plan or occasion. Remember to enjoy the process and share these tasty creations with friends and family—they might just become your new favorite dish!
BBQ Chicken Calzone
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 2 (2 calzones) 1x
Description
BBQ Chicken Calzone is a mouthwatering delight that combines tender, smoky chicken with tangy barbecue sauce and gooey cheese, all enveloped in a golden-brown crust. Perfect for game nights or cozy dinners, this dish is not only comforting but also a crowd-pleaser. With its enticing aroma and customizable ingredients, you’ll be whisked away to summer barbecues with every bite. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner, this recipe guarantees an impressive meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 lb pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (plus extra for brushing)
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- 1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- 2. In a skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Cook seasoned chicken breasts for about 7-10 minutes until no longer pink inside. Shred the cooked chicken.
- 3. In a bowl, combine shredded chicken with BBQ sauce, mozzarella cheese, and minced garlic.
- 4. Roll out the pizza dough into two circles on a floured surface. Place half of the filling on one side of each circle.
- 5. Fold over the dough and crimp edges with a fork to seal.
- 6. Brush the tops with olive oil and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- 7. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 calzone (approx. 200g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
