Rice and Chicken Calzone
What Started it all:
Rice and chicken calzone
This unique twist on a classic calzone combines the comforting flavors of chicken and rice with the cheesy goodness of a traditional calzone. Perfect for a family dinner or a fun gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped onions (optional)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 packages of pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- Flour (for dusting)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, shredded chicken, marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, bell peppers, onions, garlic powder, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out each package of pizza dough into a large circle, approximately 12 inches in diameter. Cut each circle in half to create 4 semi-circles.
- Fill the Calzones: Place an equal amount of the filling mixture on one half of each semi-circle, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Seal the Calzones: Fold the other half of the dough over the filling to create a semi-circle shape. Press the edges together to seal, and then crimp the edges with a fork to ensure they are tightly sealed.
- Prepare the Egg Wash: In a small bowl, beat the egg with a tablespoon of water. Brush the tops of each calzone with the egg wash to give them a golden, shiny finish.
- Bake: Place the calzones on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious rice and chicken calzones with a side of marinara sauce for dipping, if desired.
This rice and chicken calzone recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that will surely become a family favorite. It's a versatile dish that can be customized with your favorite vegetables or cheeses, making it a fun and easy meal to prepare. Enjoy!