Southwest Chicken Calzones

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, savory Southwest Chicken Calzones. Picture this: it’s a busy weeknight, and I’m looking for a quick yet satisfying dinner option for my family. The kids are back to school, and I want something that will not only fill them up but also excite their taste buds. That’s where these calzones come into play! With their crispy crust and flavorful filling, they’re like little pockets of joy. I love the versatility they offer, and you can customize them based on what you have on hand. These calzones are not just a meal; they’re a way to bring everyone together around the table after a long day.

What’s In This Southwest Chicken Calzones

The ingredients for these Southwest Chicken Calzones are not only simple but also work wonderfully together to create a balanced and flavorful dish. Each ingredient plays a role in enhancing the overall taste and texture. The key players here are the pizza dough, which provides that satisfying crust, and the filling, which combines savory and creamy elements to create a delightful experience.

• 1/2 cup salsa: A tangy base that adds moisture and flavor.
• 4 oz cream cheese: Creamy and rich, it brings a luscious texture to the filling.
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese: A gooey, melty goodness that binds everything together.
• 1 1/2 cups cooked chicken: A protein-packed star that keeps you satisfied.
• 1/2 cup canned black beans: Earthy and nutritious, they add depth to the filling.
• Prepared pizza dough: The perfect vessel for all the deliciousness. You can use homemade or store-bought.
• Olive oil: For brushing on top to achieve that golden-brown finish.

Southwest Chicken Calzones Instructions

Making Southwest Chicken Calzones is a fun and rewarding process! Let’s dive into the steps. It all starts with preheating your oven and preparing a flavorful filling that will make your kitchen smell heavenly.

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This step is crucial for getting that perfect golden-brown crust on your calzones!

2. In a medium bowl, combine salsa, cream cheese, and shredded cheese. Mix until well blended. The creamy texture of the cream cheese will help marry the flavors.

3. Next, stir in the cooked chicken and black beans, mixing thoroughly. This will be your delicious filling, so make sure everything is evenly coated.

4. Divide the pizza dough into six equal portions. Roll each portion into a circle on a lightly floured surface. The thickness should be about a quarter of an inch for the best texture.

5. Spoon 1/2 cup of the chicken mixture onto one half of each dough circle, leaving a clean border around the edges. This is where the magic happens!

6. Carefully fold the dough over the filling, creating a half-moon shape. Pinch the edges together to seal. Make sure there are no openings, or the filling may spill out during baking.

7. Slice two steam vents into the top of each calzone. This allows steam to escape and keeps them from getting soggy.

8. Brush the tops with olive oil for that golden finish. It’s also an inviting touch that enhances flavor.

9. Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until golden brown. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-baking!

10. Once baked, remove from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve with additional salsa and sour cream if desired for dipping.

Customization Ideas

There’s always room for creativity with Southwest Chicken Calzones. Here are some tips on how to make them uniquely yours!

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
• Freezing: You can freeze uncooked calzones. Just bake them straight from the freezer, adding an extra 5 to 10 minutes to the baking time.
• Pairing: Serve with a fresh garden salad or crispy tortilla chips for a complete meal.
• Flavor Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a kick.
• Veggie Add-Ins: Add in diced bell peppers or corn to the filling for extra texture and nutrition.
• Spice it Up: Add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for those who like an extra kick.

Great Combinations for Southwest Chicken Calzones

When serving Southwest Chicken Calzones, think about what complements the meal and enhances the flavors:

• Fresh Salads: A light, refreshing salad with lime vinaigrette pairs wonderfully with the rich calzones.
• Vegetable Sides: Roasted or grilled vegetables can add a nice contrast to the hearty calzone.
• Dip Options: Serve with sour cream, guacamole, or a spicy salsa for dipping.
• Occasions: Perfect for casual dinners, game days, or even family movie nights!
• Storage Tips: Keep leftovers sealed in the fridge, and reheat in the oven for the best texture.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Southwest Chicken Calzones truly bring the joy of cooking and sharing food with loved ones to the forefront. They’re not just a meal; they’re an experience that can be enjoyed any night of the week. I encourage you to whip up a batch and embrace the delightful combination of flavors and textures. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become a family favorite!

Southwest Chicken Calzones

The ultimate comfort food, Southwest Chicken Calzones bring a burst of flavor in every bite. With a crispy crust and a savory filling of chicken, cheese, and beans, these calzones are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Try them tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Mexican

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1/2 cup salsa
• 4 oz cream cheese
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese
• 1 1/2 cups cooked chicken
• 1/2 cup canned black beans
• prepared pizza dough
• olive oil

Equipment

• Chef's Knife
• Blender
• Wooden Spoon
• Mixing Bowl
• Baking Sheet
• Oven

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine salsa, cream cheese, and shredded cheese. Mix until well blended.
3. Stir in the cooked chicken and black beans, mixing thoroughly.
4. Divide the pizza dough into six equal portions and roll out into circles.
5. Spoon 1/2 cup of the chicken mixture onto each piece of dough, leaving a clean border.
6. Fold the dough over the filling and pinch the edges together to seal.
7. Slice two steam vents into the tops of the calzones and brush with olive oil.
8. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until golden brown.
9. Serve with salsa and sour cream if desired.

Notes

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
• Freezing: You can freeze uncooked calzones. Just bake them straight from the freezer, adding an extra 5 to 10 minutes to the baking time.
• Pairing: Serve with a fresh garden salad or crispy tortilla chips for a complete meal.
• Flavor Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a kick.
• Veggie Add-Ins: Add in diced bell peppers or corn to the filling for extra texture and nutrition.
• Spice it Up: Add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for those who like an extra kick.

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Meet Delilah Moon

We eat with our eyes first, and I strive to capture the energy of our food through photography. I am deeply involved in the cooking process, styling our dishes to show you exactly how appetizing they can be. I hope this recipe inspires you to get creative and confident in your own kitchen.