BBQ Chicken Calzones

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Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm, flaky pastry filled with tender chunks of smoky barbecue chicken, melted cheese, and a burst of tangy sauce.

BBQ Chicken Calzones
Prep
20 min
Cook
40 min
Total
1 hr
Servings
4

Method

  1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).

  2. In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium-high heat, turning occasionally, until it is evenly browned. This should take around 10 minutes. Drain the bacon slices on paper towels and crumble them.

  3. In the same skillet, with the bacon grease, add the shredded chicken and onion. Cook and stir over medium heat until the onion becomes tender. Stir in 1/3 cup of barbeque sauce and then remove from heat. Mix in the crumbled bacon.

  4. Take the pizza crust dough and roll it onto a greased cookie sheet. Press it out to an even thickness and then cut it in half.

  5. Divide the chicken mixture between the two pieces of dough, spreading it over half of each piece. Leave a 1/2 inch border around the edge.

  6. Drizzle the remaining barbeque sauce over the filling. Sprinkle with cheese and cilantro.

  7. Fold the uncovered portion of the dough over the filling. Press the edges together with a fork to seal.

  8. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes or until it is nicely browned.

  9. Allow it to cool for a few minutes, then cut each calzone in half to make 4 servings.

  10. Serve with additional barbeque sauce if desired.

About this recipe

BBQ Chicken Calzones: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Dish

Introduction

Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm, flaky pastry filled with tender chunks of smoky barbecue chicken, melted cheese, and a burst of tangy sauce. Sounds heavenly, doesn't it? Well, that's exactly what you get with BBQ chicken calzones. This delightful twist on a classic dish combines the comfort of a calzone with the irresistible flavors of barbecue. Whether you're a fan of traditional calzones or a barbecue enthusiast looking to try something new, BBQ chicken calzones are sure to satisfy your cravings.

The Anatomy of a BBQ Chicken Calzone

At first glance, a BBQ chicken calzone may seem like a simple creation, but there's more to it than meets the eye. Just like any great dish, it's all about the layers of flavors and textures. Picture a golden-brown crust that's crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, encasing a filling that's a harmonious blend of tender chicken, gooey cheese, and zesty barbecue sauce. It's a symphony of tastes and sensations that come together to create a truly unforgettable eating experience.

The Perfect Balance of Sweet and Savory

One of the reasons BBQ chicken calzones are so popular is the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. The tangy barbecue sauce adds a hint of sweetness that complements the smoky, savory notes of the chicken. It's a match made in culinary heaven. The sweetness of the sauce cuts through the richness of the cheese, while the savory chicken adds depth and substance to every bite. It's a flavor combination that will leave your taste buds dancing with delight.

The Ultimate Comfort Food

Calzones have always been known as a comfort food, and BBQ chicken calzones take that comfort to a whole new level. There's something incredibly satisfying about biting into a warm, cheesy calzone after a long day. It's like a hug for your taste buds. The combination of the flaky crust, melty cheese, and hearty filling creates a sense of warmth and contentment that can't be beaten. It's the kind of meal that brings people together and leaves them feeling nourished and satisfied.

Customize to Your Heart's Desire

One of the great things about BBQ chicken calzones is that they're highly customizable. You can add your favorite toppings and ingredients to make them truly your own. Want some caramelized onions to add a touch of sweetness? Go for it. Craving some jalapenos for a spicy kick? Feel free to pile them on. The possibilities are endless, and you have the freedom to create a BBQ chicken calzone that suits your taste preferences perfectly. It's like having your own personal pizza chef at your fingertips.

Conclusion

BBQ chicken calzones are a delightful twist on a classic dish that brings together the best of both worlds: the comfort of a calzone and the irresistible flavors of barbecue. With their perfect balance of sweet and savory, they're sure to please even the most discerning palates. Plus, the ability to customize them to your liking makes them a versatile and fun meal option. So why not give BBQ chicken calzones a try? Your taste buds will thank you.

Frequently asked questions

. Can I use store-bought barbecue sauce for my BBQ chicken calzones?

Yes, absolutely! Store-bought barbecue sauce works perfectly fine and saves you time in the kitchen. However, if you're feeling adventurous, you can also try making your own homemade barbecue sauce for a personalized touch.

. Can I make BBQ chicken calzones ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling and dough in advance and assemble the calzones just before baking. This makes BBQ chicken calzones a great option for meal prepping or entertaining guests.

. Can I use different types of cheese in my BBQ chicken calzones?

Definitely! While mozzarella is a classic choice, you can experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of cheeses to add extra flavor and richness.

. Can I freeze BBQ chicken calzones?

Yes, you can freeze BBQ chicken calzones for future enjoyment. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in the freezer. To reheat, simply bake them in a preheated oven until heated through.

. Are BBQ chicken calzones kid-friendly?

Absolutely! Kids love the combination of barbecue sauce, cheese, and chicken. BBQ chicken calzones make for a fun and delicious meal that the whole family can enjoy.

. Can I add vegetables to my BBQ chicken calzones?

Yes, you can add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms to your BBQ chicken calzones for added flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to sauté or roast them before adding them to the filling to ensure they're cooked through.

. What is the best way to serve BBQ chicken calzones?

BBQ chicken calzones are delicious on their own, but you can also serve them with a side of coleslaw or a fresh green salad to balance out the flavors. They pair well with a cold beverage like iced tea or a refreshing beer.

. Can I use leftover BBQ chicken in my calzones?

Absolutely! Leftover barbecue chicken is a great way to add extra flavor to your calzones. Simply shred the chicken and mix it with the barbecue sauce before filling the calzones. It's a tasty way to repurpose leftovers.

Now that you know all about BBQ chicken calzones, it's time to roll up your sleeves and get cooking. Enjoy the deliciousness!

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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