Chicken Pesto Calzone Braid
There’s something magical about making a dish that combines cozy flavors and an enticing presentation, and that’s precisely what the Chicken Pesto Calzone Braid offers. Picture this: it’s a lazy Sunday afternoon, and you’re craving something hearty but not too labor-intensive. That’s when I decided to whip up this delightful calzone braid that features a beautiful intertwining of gooey cheese, savory chicken, and aromatic pesto. The smell fills the kitchen, and it’s hard to resist sneaking a taste before it even hits the table!
Each bite of the Chicken Pesto Calzone Braid creates a delightful experience. The soft and crisp dough wraps around a delicious filling that includes ricotta, mozzarella, and a burst of flavor from garlic. It’s a dish that brings family and friends together, perfect for game nights, cozy dinners, or even a casual lunch. And let me tell you, it also makes for fantastic leftovers, if there are any left!
Making this dish is as therapeutic as it is satisfying. As you roll out the dough and fill it with that mouthwatering chicken mixture, you can’t help but smile at how simple yet impressive it looks. The braid becomes a stunning centerpiece on your dining table, and when your loved ones take their first bite, you’ll see their eyes light up in delight. If you’ve never made a calzone before, this is the perfect recipe to start with—easy to follow, rewarding, and oh-so-delicious!
Recipe Snapshot
35 mins
10 mins
25 mins
Medium
450 kcal
25 g
Keto, Gluten-Free
20 g
Chef Knives, Cutting Board, Rotary Cheese Grater, Mixing Bowls, Rimmed Baking Sheet
Why This Chicken Pesto Calzone Braid Is So Good
It’s All About the Flavors
The Chicken Pesto Calzone Braid stands out because of its wonderful combination of flavors. The fusion of juicy, shredded chicken paired with aromatic pesto creates a heavenly filling that bursts with every bite. This dish makes it easy to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen!
Perfect for Gatherings
This braid is not just a meal; it’s an experience. When hosting friends or family, it serves as a perfect centerpiece, inviting everyone to dig in. It’s an interactive dish; everyone can grab a piece and enjoy it together, fostering a warm atmosphere.
Simple Yet Impressive
Despite its stunning appearance, the Chicken Pesto Calzone Braid is surprisingly easy to make. The braided design might look intricate, but once you’ve rolled the dough and filled it, the assembly is straightforward. You’ll feel like a culinary artist without needing fancy skills!
Endless Customization
What I love most about this dish is its versatility. You can easily customize the filling based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Whether you want to add extra vegetables or switch up proteins, the braid can adapt to your needs. It’s a blank canvas that allows your creativity to shine!
Great for Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, the Chicken Pesto Calzone Braid tastes amazing the next day. It reheats beautifully, maintaining its deliciousness. Just pop it in the oven for a few minutes, and you’re good to go!
Family-Friendly Fun
This recipe is also a fantastic way to engage kids in the kitchen. They’ll enjoy helping with the assembly, creating their unique braided shapes. It’s a fun way to get them involved in cooking, making mealtime more enjoyable for everyone!
Chicken Pesto Calzone Braid Shopping List
Gathering the right ingredients makes all the difference in creating a delightful Chicken Pesto Calzone Braid. Each component plays a crucial role in bringing this dish to life. The soft, golden pizza dough serves as the foundation, while the combination of chicken, pesto, and cheeses creates a creamy, flavorful filling that will leave everyone craving more. Let’s explore the key players!
- 1 (13.8-oz) can pizza dough: The base of your calzone, providing that delightful crunch and soft interior.
- 1½ cups chopped cooked chicken: Juicy and tender, this adds protein and heartiness to your braid.
- â…“ cup pesto: This aromatic spread brings a fresh, herby flavor that elevates the overall dish.
- 1 clove minced garlic: A fragrant addition that adds depth and richness to the filling.
- â…“ cup ricotta cheese: Creamy and smooth, it binds all the ingredients together and adds a luscious texture.
- 5 tbsp pizza sauce, divided: For that classic pizza flavor; it’s used in the filling and as a topping.
- ¼ cup parmesan cheese: This adds a salty nuttiness and a lovely cheese pull to the braid.
- ¾ cup shredded mozzarella, divided: The star cheese that melts perfectly, giving the braid that gooey cheesiness!
Preparation Steps for Chicken Pesto Calzone Braid
Preparing the Chicken Pesto Calzone Braid is an enjoyable journey that combines the joy of cooking with delicious results. Follow these steps closely, and you’ll be rewarded with a beautiful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Let’s get started!
- Preheat your oven to 375ºF (190ºC). This ensures your calzone will bake evenly and reach that perfect golden brown hue. While the oven heats, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, pesto, minced garlic, ricotta cheese, 1 tablespoon of pizza sauce, parmesan cheese, and ¼ cup mozzarella cheese. Make sure to season with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Next, unroll the can of refrigerated pizza dough onto the prepared parchment paper. Roll it into a long rectangle, about 12 inches wide and 16 inches long. This will give you enough surface area for the filling.
- Using a sharp knife, make cuts along the long sides of the dough, about 12 wide strips on each side. These strips will create the braid effect when you fold them over the filling.
- Spoon the chicken mixture down the center of the dough, lengthwise. Be generous but avoid overstuffing, as this could make sealing the braid challenging.
- Now, take the strips of dough you cut earlier, and lift them one by one to crisscross over the filling. Start at one end and alternate sides, creating a beautiful braided effect. It’s okay if it doesn’t look perfect; homemade is always best!
- Carefully transfer the braid to the lined baking sheet or a large pizza pan. This is where it will bake to golden perfection.
- Bake for 25 to 28 minutes. You’re looking for a golden-brown crust that is slightly firm to the touch. This is when all those wonderful flavors meld together.
- Once baked, remove the braid from the oven. Top it with the remaining ¼ cup of pizza sauce and the other ½ cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Return it to the oven until the cheese melts, about 5 minutes.
- Let the braid cool for 5 minutes before cutting it into slices. Use a serrated knife or a pizza cutter for the best results. Finally, sprinkle with fresh basil for that perfect finish!
Things Worth Knowing
- Temperature Matters: Make sure your oven is completely preheated before putting the braid in. This ensures even cooking.
- Watch the Dough: If you’re using homemade dough, it can be slightly more unpredictable. Keep an eye on the color to ensure it doesn’t overbake.
- Don’t Skip the Cooling: Allowing the braid to cool slightly before cutting helps maintain its structure and prevents it from falling apart.
- Experiment with Fillings: The filling is versatile—feel free to use different proteins or even veggies to customize your braid!
Variations to Try
There’s no end to the creative possibilities when it comes to the Chicken Pesto Calzone Braid. Here are some fun variations you can experiment with to keep things exciting!
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This braid tastes great reheated!
- Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked braid for later. Just wrap it tightly in foil and freeze. Bake from frozen when you’re ready to enjoy!
- Vegetarian Option: Swap out the chicken for sautéed spinach or roasted vegetables for a delicious vegetarian version.
- Spicy Twist: Add some red pepper flakes to the filling for a spicy kick!
- Cheese Lovers: Mix in more cheeses like feta or goat cheese for extra flavor.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs in the filling, like thyme or oregano, for a unique taste.
What Goes Well With This Chicken Pesto Calzone Braid
Pairing the Chicken Pesto Calzone Braid with the right sides and drinks can elevate your meal experience. Here are some ideas to enhance your dining:
- Fresh Salad: A crisp garden salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the braid.
- Garlic Bread: Serve alongside warm garlic bread for that classic Italian experience.
- Soup: Pair it with a light soup, like minestrone or tomato basil, for a comforting meal.
- Wine Pairing: A glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay, enhances the flavors without overpowering them.
- Casual Gatherings: This braid is perfect for potlucks or casual get-togethers. It’s easy to share and always a hit.
- Game Day Snacks: Serve it during game nights, as it’s easy to pick up and enjoy while watching the game!
FAQ
Conclusion
The Chicken Pesto Calzone Braid is a delightful fusion of flavors, combining tender chicken and aromatic pesto wrapped in a crispy, golden crust. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings people together. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; I promise it will become a family favorite. You’ll be amazed at how a simple dish can create such joy in your kitchen!
Chicken Pesto Calzone Braid
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375ºF (190ºC). This ensures your calzone will bake evenly and reach that perfect golden brown hue. While the oven heats, line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, pesto, minced garlic, ricotta cheese, 1 tablespoon of pizza sauce, parmesan cheese, and ¼ cup mozzarella cheese. Make sure to season with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Next, unroll the can of refrigerated pizza dough onto the prepared parchment paper. Roll it into a long rectangle, about 12 inches wide and 16 inches long. This will give you enough surface area for the filling.
- Using a sharp knife, make cuts along the long sides of the dough, about 12 wide strips on each side. These strips will create the braid effect when you fold them over the filling.
- Spoon the chicken mixture down the center of the dough, lengthwise. Be generous but avoid overstuffing, as this could make sealing the braid challenging.
- Now, take the strips of dough you cut earlier, and lift them one by one to crisscross over the filling. Start at one end and alternate sides, creating a beautiful braided effect. It’s okay if it doesn’t look perfect; homemade is always best!
- Carefully transfer the braid to the lined baking sheet or a large pizza pan. This is where it will bake to golden perfection.
- Bake for 25 to 28 minutes. You’re looking for a golden-brown crust that is slightly firm to the touch. This is when all those wonderful flavors meld together.
- Once baked, remove the braid from the oven. Top it with the remaining ¼ cup of pizza sauce and the other ½ cup of shredded mozzarella cheese. Return it to the oven until the cheese melts, about 5 minutes.
- Let the braid cool for 5 minutes before cutting it into slices. Use a serrated knife or a pizza cutter for the best results. Finally, sprinkle with fresh basil for that perfect finish!
Notes
- Tip 1: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Tip 2: You can freeze the unbaked braid for later. Just wrap it tightly in foil and freeze.
- Tip 3: Swap out the chicken for sautéed spinach or roasted vegetables for a delicious vegetarian version.
- Tip 4: Add some red pepper flakes to the filling for a spicy kick!
- Tip 5: Mix in more cheeses like feta or goat cheese for extra flavor.
