Sweet and Savory Chicken: A Flavor-Packed, Easy Weeknight Dinner

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Calzone Pocket Pizza: BBQ Chicken Twist + The Easiest Way to Level Up Pizza Night!

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Craving pizza but want something a little more exciting? Meet the Calzone Pocket Pizza, a deliciously portable twist on everyone’s favorite comfort food. Stuffed with juicy rotisserie chicken, tangy BBQ sauce, spicy pepperoni, and gooey melted cheese, these calzones are the perfect balance of savory and satisfying. Whether you’re meal-prepping or hosting a casual dinner, these golden pockets bring joy to every bite. Plus, they’re easy to customize and even easier to devour.

Did you know that calzones originated in Naples, Italy, as a portable alternative to pizza? Perfect for busy days or on-the-go meals, this folded pizza packs all the flavors of a traditional pie into a convenient handheld form. My version combines smoky BBQ chicken with spicy pepperoni and melty cheese for a mouthwatering fusion of flavors. Calzones are also freezer-friendly, so you can make a batch ahead of time for quick weeknight dinners. Pair with a fresh salad or dipping sauces like ranch or marinara for the ultimate comfort meal experience!














Recipe Details

Serving Size: Makes 3 calzones (serves 2–3)

 

Ingredients

  • Pizza dough: 375 g (13 oz), store-bought or homemade
  • Pizza sauce: 80 ml (1/3 cup)
  • Rotisserie chicken: 130 g (4.6 oz), shredded
  • BBQ sauce: 2 tbsp
  • Pepperoni slices: 50 g (1.8 oz)
  • Shredded pizza cheese: 1 cup (100 g / 3.5 oz)
  • Egg (optional): 1, for egg wash

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
  2. Prepare Chicken Filling:
    • Mix shredded rotisserie chicken with BBQ sauce in a bowl. Set aside.
  3. Divide and Roll Dough:
    • Divide the pizza dough into three equal portions. Roll each piece into a 20 cm (8-inch) round.
  4. Assemble Calzones:
    • Spread 1–2 tbsp of pizza sauce on one half of each dough round, leaving a 2 cm (1-inch) border.
    • Layer with pepperoni slices, BBQ chicken, and shredded cheese.
    • Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape, pressing the edges firmly together to seal. Ensure there are no gaps.
    • Using a sharp knife, make three small slits on the top of each calzone to allow steam to escape during baking.
  5. Optional Egg Wash:
    • Brush the top of each calzone with beaten egg for a golden crust.
  6. Bake:
    • Transfer calzones to the prepared tray. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.
  7. Serve:
    • Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce!

Tips for the Dish

  • Ingredient Substitutions: Use turkey or tofu instead of chicken for a different protein. Swap BBQ sauce with pesto or marinara for a unique twist.
  • Make Ahead: Prepare and freeze uncooked calzones on a tray. Once frozen, transfer to a zip-top bag and bake directly from frozen (add 5–7 minutes to cooking time).
  • Dietary Modifications: Opt for gluten-free pizza dough or dairy-free cheese for dietary needs.
  • Add Vegetables: Include sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or capsicum (bell peppers) for added nutrients.

Wrap-Up

This Calzone Pocket Pizza with Rotisserie Chicken is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, combining bold flavors and gooey cheese into a handy, golden crust. Whether it’s for dinner, meal prep, or a casual gathering, these calzones are guaranteed to be a hit. Try this recipe today and let your creativity shine with your favorite fillings! Share your calzone creations in the comments—I’d love to see your delicious twists.

Keywords: calzone recipe, chicken calzone, pocket pizza, homemade calzone, BBQ chicken pizza
키워드: 칼조네 레시피, 치킨 칼조네, 포켓 피자, BBQ 치킨 피자, 홈메이드 칼조네

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