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In recent years, air fryers have surged in popularity, transforming the way home cooks approach their favorite fried foods. This innovative kitchen appliance allows you to achieve that coveted crispy texture without the excess oil traditionally associated with frying. From vegetables to proteins, the air fryer offers a versatile solution for quick and healthy meals, making it an indispensable tool for many households.

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Parm Calzones

Discover the joy of making Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Parm Calzones with this simple recipe. Enjoy the classic flavors of chicken Parmesan wrapped in golden, crispy calzones, all made healthier in an air fryer without excess oil. Perfect for a quick dinner or impressing guests, these calzones feature a savory filling of marinated chicken, gooey mozzarella, and rich marinara, making each bite irresistibly delicious. Get ready to elevate your meal experience!
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Ingredients
  

For the Chicken:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1 cup buttermilk

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper to taste

For the Breading:

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 large egg, beaten

1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

For the Calzone Filling:

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1 cup marinara sauce (plus extra for dipping)

2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (optional)

For Assembly:

1 pound pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)

Olive oil spray

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Instructions
 

Prepare the Chicken:

    - In a large bowl, combine buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they are fully submerged. Marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for optimal flavor and tenderness.

      Set Up the Breading Station:

        - In three separate shallow dishes, place the flour in the first, beaten egg in the second, and a mixture of seasoned breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese in the third.

          Bread the Chicken:

            - Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Dredge each breast in flour, dip it into the egg, then coat it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating. Repeat for all chicken pieces.

              Air Fry the Chicken:

                - Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the breaded chicken breasts in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Spray lightly with olive oil to enhance crispiness. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C). Remove and let cool slightly before slicing into strips.

                  Assemble the Calzones:

                    - Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface to about ¼ inch thick. Cut into large circles (about 6-8 inches in diameter).

                      - On one half of each circle, layer a handful of shredded mozzarella cheese, some marinara sauce, a few chicken strips, and sprinkle with fresh basil, if using.

                        - Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and press the edges to seal, crimping with a fork for a decorative touch.

                          Air Fry the Calzones:

                            - Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly spray the outside of each calzone with olive oil. Place them in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not touching. You may need to cook in batches.

                              - Air fry for 8-10 minutes or until the calzones are golden brown and crispy.

                                Serve:

                                  - Allow the calzones to cool slightly. Serve with warmed marinara sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your crispy, cheesy, and delectable Chicken Parm Calzones!

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                                      Prep Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 4 calzones