Creamy Chicken Spinach Calzone Recipe

If you are on the lookout for a comforting, homemade delight that bursts with flavor and creaminess, this Creamy Chicken Spinach Calzone Recipe is an absolute must-try. Imagine tender, juicy chicken mingling with fresh spinach, ricotta cheese, and fragrant herbs, all tucked inside a perfectly golden, pillowy dough that crisps up just right. It’s a dish that’s as satisfying as it is impressive, blending creamy, cheesy richness with wholesome greens and a touch of garlic and oregano for that extra pop. Once you make this, it’s going to be one of your favorite go-to meals for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this recipe is delightfully simple, yet each component is vital in creating the perfect harmony of flavors and textures. From the creamy goodness of ricotta to the fresh spinach’s vibrant color and the sturdy pizza dough that brings it all together, every ingredient has a starring role.

• Cooked chicken (1 cup, diced): Leftover, rotisserie, or breast chicken works wonderfully for protein and meaty texture.
• Fresh spinach (½ cup, chopped): Adds a fresh, earthy note and beautiful green flecks inside the calzone.
• Large eggs (2, divided): One yolk enriches the filling while the white, combined with the remaining egg, creates a shiny egg wash for baking.
• Ricotta cheese (½ cup, full fat): Brings creamy, smooth texture and mild tang to the filling.
• Garlic powder (¼ teaspoon): Lends a savory warmth without overpowering the other flavors.
• Dried oregano (½ teaspoon): Offers a classic Italian herb aroma that ties the filling together.
• Dried basil (½ teaspoon): Introduces a sweet, aromatic touch for depth.
• Salt (¼ teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors beautifully.
• Pizza dough (12 ounces): Use store-bought or homemade, this forms the sturdy yet tender calzone shell.
• Flour (2 tablespoons, for rolling dough): Keeps the dough from sticking and ensures easy handling.
• Mozzarella cheese (½ cup, shredded): Melts perfectly inside, creating that gooey, cheesy pull everyone loves.
• Marinara sauce (optional, for serving): Adds a tangy, tomato-rich dip that complements the calzone’s creaminess wonderfully.

How to Make Creamy Chicken Spinach Calzone Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheets

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or foil, and lightly spray them with cooking spray. This setup ensures your calzones bake evenly without sticking, providing that perfect golden crust.

Step 2: Prep the Chicken and Spinach

Dice the cooked chicken into about half-inch pieces to create bite-sized chunks that spread evenly throughout the filling. Roughly chop the fresh spinach to distribute those vibrant greens throughout each calzone without overwhelming the texture.

Step 3: Mix the Ricotta Filling

Separate one egg, placing the yolk in a medium bowl and the white in another bowl for later use. To the yolk, add ricotta cheese, garlic powder, dried oregano, dried basil, and salt. Mix well until smooth and creamy. Then gently fold in the chopped spinach, marrying the creaminess with fresh herbal brightness.

Step 4: Shape the Dough Circles

Divide the pizza dough into four equal pieces. Lightly flour your work surface and roll each piece into a 7-inch circle. This size ensures there’s enough room to fold over and seal all that delicious filling inside without any spillover.

Step 5: Assemble the Calzones

Spread the ricotta-spinach mixture evenly over half of each dough circle, leaving about a 1-inch border to allow sealing. On top of the ricotta layer, evenly distribute the diced chicken and shredded mozzarella for a creamy, cheesy, protein-packed interior.

Step 6: Seal and Shape

Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges firmly to seal and then fold and roll the edge to create a neat ridge. This extra step helps ensure your calzones hold their shape and keep the filling inside as they bake.

Step 7: Egg Wash Time

Transfer the calzones to your prepared baking sheets. Whisk together the reserved egg white with the remaining whole egg and gently brush this mixture over the tops of the calzones. This glaze will give them a beautiful, golden shine once baked.

Step 8: Bake Until Golden

Bake the calzones in the preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes, or until they turn a warm, golden brown color and smell irresistible. This step locks in moisture while creating a crispy, delicious crust on the outside.

Step 9: Optional Finishing Touches

For those who love an extra flavor kick, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top right out of the oven and serve with warmed marinara sauce for dipping. This adds a zesty and cheesy finish that’s simply delicious.

How to Serve Creamy Chicken Spinach Calzone Recipe

Garnishes

Simple garnishes like a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan or chopped fresh basil can elevate the visual appeal and flavor of your calzones. These touches bring out the Italian flair and invite you to dig in with anticipation.

Side Dishes

Pair your calzones with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. A light vinaigrette salad complements the richness of the creamy chicken filling perfectly, while roasted veggies add texture and color to your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, slice the calzones into smaller wedge-shaped pieces and arrange them on a large platter with bowls of marinara and ranch dip. This presentation makes for a fantastic appetizer or party dish that’s easy to share and enjoy.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover calzones can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes them perfect for packing lunches or reheating for a quick dinner the next day without any loss in flavor or texture.

Freezing

You can freeze unbaked calzones by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, bake them from frozen by adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. Freezing helps you always have a homemade meal on hand.

Reheating

Reheat leftover calzones in a 350°F oven for 10 to 15 minutes to restore their crisp crust and warm the filling evenly. Avoid the microwave if possible to keep the dough from getting soggy, ensuring that delightful texture stays intact.

FAQs

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried oregano and basil?

Absolutely! Fresh oregano and basil will bring a brighter, more vibrant flavor to the filling. Use about one tablespoon combined, finely chopped, to replace the dried herbs in this Creamy Chicken Spinach Calzone Recipe.

Is the pizza dough recipe flexible?

Yes, feel free to use store-bought dough for convenience or homemade dough for a more personalized touch. Both options work beautifully and will yield a delicious, tender crust for this recipe.

Can I add other vegetables to the filling?

Definitely! Sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or caramelized onions would be great additions that complement the creamy chicken-spinach filling perfectly.

What can I serve instead of marinara sauce?

If you want to switch things up, a garlic butter dip or a creamy ranch dressing can also pair nicely with the calzones, giving a different but equally tasty experience.

Is it okay to use frozen spinach?

Yes, just be sure to thaw and squeeze out all excess moisture before adding it to the ricotta mixture. This prevents the filling from becoming watery and keeps the textures perfect in the Creamy Chicken Spinach Calzone Recipe.

Final Thoughts

Making this Creamy Chicken Spinach Calzone Recipe at home is truly a rewarding experience that combines simple ingredients with big flavors and comforting textures. Whether you’re feeding a family or just treating yourself, these calzones are a delicious way to enjoy a classic Italian-inspired meal with a creamy, fresh twist. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a beloved dish in your kitchen!

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