Spinach and Cheese Calzone Recipe

Ingredients

For the Chicken Filling

500 grams ground chicken thighs

500 grams ground chicken breast

1 egg white

salt to taste

black pepper to taste

dry garlic to taste

We recommend:

For ground chicken thighs:

4.7

(10,234) Just Bare® Natural Fresh Whole Chicken | Antibiotic Free | Bone-In | Without Giblets & Neck | 4.0 LB $9.56 View details

For ground chicken breast:

Prime

4.6

(433) Wild Planet Organic Roasted Chicken Breast with Rib Meat, Skinless and Boneless, No Salt Added, 5 Ounce (Pack of 12) $59.88 View details best seller

4.8

For the Filling

pesto sauce

sun-dried tomatoes

mozzarella cheese

fresh spinach

salt to taste

pepper to taste

Italian herbs to taste

We recommend:

For pesto sauce:

Prime

4.6

(229) Knorr Sauce Mix Pasta Sauce For Simple Meals and Sides Creamy Pesto No Artificial Flavors, No Added Msg 1.2 oz, 24 Count $63.60 View details Prime

(3) Alessi Pesto Di Liguria, 7 Oz (Pack of 6) $37.14 View details Prime

4.1

(83) Seggiano Fresh Basil Pesto, Raw Basil Pesto Genovese - 7 Oz | Pack of 6 $62.96 $66.56 View details

For sun-dried tomatoes:

Prime

(1) Amore Vegan Ready To Eat, Non GMO Verified, Premium Herb Infused Sun-Dried Tomatoes (4.4oz) - 2 Pack $14.94 View details

For mozzarella cheese:

4.7

(12,405) 365 by Whole Foods Market, Mozzarella Shred, 16 Ounce $5.99 View details

4.7

(7,913) 365 by Whole Foods Market, Blend Pizza Shred, 8 Ounce $2.89 $3.49 View details

4.8

(2,960) BelGioioso, Fresh Mozzarella, Sliced, 16 oz $9.69 View details

For fresh spinach:

Food to Live Organic Broccoli Sprouts Powder, 4 Pounds — Grown from Non-GMO Seeds, Kosher, Non-Irradiated, Pure, Vegan Superfood, Bulk, Rich in Sulforaphane

(99) Food to Live Organic Broccoli Sprouts Powder, 4 Pounds — Grown from Non-GMO Seeds, Kosher, Non-Irradiated, Pure, Vegan Superfood, Bulk, Rich in Sulforaphane $272.44 View details

(7) Agrozimi - Vegetable Papardelle (Petoura) with Squid Ink - Greek Traditional Pasta (500g/17.6oz, 2-pack) $24.95 View details Prime

4.7

(3,172) Del Monte Canned Fresh Cut Leaf Spinach, 13.5 Ounce (Pack of 12) $17.76 View details

For the Topping

1 egg yolk

bread crumbs

We recommend:

For bread crumbs:

Prime

4.8

(16) Bread Crumbs - Whole Wheat Premium Panko (6-9 Oz/Bag x 6 Pack) - Natural Grocery & Gourmet Foods - Low Sodium, Vegan, Kosher Certified & Non GMO $34.99 View details Prime

Pereg Bread Crumbs Classic (12 Oz x 6 Pack) – Crispy Breadcrumbs for Coating & Stuffing - Coat Burger, Schnitzel, Vegetables, Meatballs - Kosher Certified - Resealable Packaging

4.7

(7) Pereg Bread Crumbs Classic (12 Oz x 6 Pack) – Crispy Breadcrumbs for Coating & Stuffing - Coat Burger, Schnitzel, Vegetables, Meatballs - Kosher Certified - Resealable Packaging $29.99 View details Prime

4.9

(23) Schär Gluten-Free Bread Crumbs, 8.8 oz (Pack of 2) with By The Cup Swivel Spoon $16.49 View details

Instructions

Step 1

Prepare the Chicken Filling

Begin by placing both types of ground chicken into a blender. Add the egg white along with a pinch of salt, black pepper, and dry garlic. Blend until the mixture is smooth and well combined. Once done, transfer the mixture onto a piece of parchment paper.

Step 2

Shape the Dough

Using the parchment paper, roll out the chicken mixture into a thin layer. Ensure it's even for consistent baking.

Step 3

Add the Filling

On one half of the rolled-out chicken, spread the *pesto sauce* evenly. Layer sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach on top, followed by chunks of mozzarella cheese. Season with salt, pepper, and sprinkle some Italian herbs for added flavor.

Step 4

Fold and Seal

Carefully fold the other half of the dough over the filling, creating a half-moon shape. Ethically press the edges to seal, making sure no filling escapes during baking.

Step 5

Prepare for Baking

Brush the top of the calzone with egg yolk for a lovely golden color once baked. Finally, sprinkle bread crumbs on top for extra texture and crunch.

Step 6

Bake the Calzone

Preheat your oven to *200°C (about 400°F)*. Place the calzone on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake in the preheated oven for about *25 minutes* or until the crust is golden and crisp. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious creation!

Servings

There's no wrong way to serve your delicious Spinach and Cheese Calzones! ✔️ For a delightful dinner vibe, pair these calzones with a fresh side salad drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette. 🍅 The crisp greens balance out the heartiness of the calzone perfectly! For a fun family twist, set up a calzone bar! Lay out various dipping sauces like marinara, ranch, or even a spicy arrabiata. 🥳 Let each person customize their calzone experience while enjoying the warm, gooey goodness! Don’t forget about presentation—serve your calzones on a rustic wooden board, sprinkled with fresh herbs for that beautiful touch. 🌿 Your friends and family won’t be able to resist snapping a pic before devouring these tasty treats!

Equipment

Stand Mixer or Food Processor

Using a stand mixer or a food processor can save time when blending your chicken and egg whites. Make sure your machine has a strong blade to handle the meat.

Baking Sheet

A non-stick baking sheet makes transferring and baking easier. You can also line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

We recommend:

Prime

Paterson Paper 16" x 24" Full Size Unbleached Chromium-Free Reusable Baking Parchment Paper Sheets Commercial Bun/Sheet Pan Liners - 1000/Case - 425F - Non-Stick/Grease-Resistant

4.3

(98) Paterson Paper 16" x 24" Full Size Unbleached Chromium-Free Reusable Baking Parchment Paper Sheets Commercial Bun/Sheet Pan Liners - 1000/Case - 425F - Non-Stick/Grease-Resistant $169.58 View details Prime best seller

4.7

(62,743) Nordic Ware Naturals Half Sheet, 2-Pack, Natural $37.80 View details Prime

Katbite 16x24 inch Heavy Duty Parchment Paper Sheets, 100Pcs Precut Non-Stick Full Parchment Sheets for Baking, Cooking, Grilling, Frying and Steaming, Full Sheet Baking Pan Liners, Commercial Baking

4.8

(13,822) Katbite 16x24 inch Heavy Duty Parchment Paper Sheets, 100Pcs Precut Non-Stick Full Parchment Sheets for Baking, Cooking, Grilling, Frying and Steaming, Full Sheet Baking Pan Liners, Commercial Baking $18.99 $25.99 View details

Rolling Pin

This essential tool helps you roll out the dough evenly. Dust it with flour to prevent sticking!

We recommend:

Prime best seller

4.7

(20,621) Farberware Classic Wood Rolling Pin, 17.75-Inch, Natural $12.99 $13.99 View details Prime

4.7

(8,146) Fox Run Polished Marble Rolling Pin with Wooden Cradle, 10-Inch Barrel, White $20.88 View details Prime

French Rolling Pin (17 Inches) –WoodenRoll Pin for Fondant, Pie Crust, Cookie, Pastry, Dough –Tapered Design & Smooth Construction - Essential Kitchen Utensil

4.7

(11,010) French Rolling Pin (17 Inches) –WoodenRoll Pin for Fondant, Pie Crust, Cookie, Pastry, Dough –Tapered Design & Smooth Construction - Essential Kitchen Utensil $9.99 View details

Piping Bag (optional)

If you want to get fancy with your filling, a piping bag helps you control the amount and placement of the ingredients.

Variations

Gluten-Free Option: 🥖 You can make this recipe using gluten-free dough available at stores or homemade gluten-free flour blends to accommodate your dietary needs!

Vegan Option: 🌱 Swap the chicken with textured vegetable protein or jackfruit, and use cashew cheese or your favorite plant-based cheese alternative. Don't forget to check if your pesto is vegan-friendly!

Faq

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw and drain the frozen spinach to remove excess moisture.
How do I know when my calzones are done?
Calzones are done when they are golden brown on top and the filling is hot throughout. You can also use a thermometer to check the internal temperature (165°F/75°C is safe for chicken).
What can I add in the filling besides spinach and cheese?
Feel free to get creative! You can add sautéed mushrooms, artichokes, or bell peppers for extra flavor!
How can I reheat leftovers?
The best way to reheat calzones is in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave them, but they won’t be as crispy.
Is it possible to make the dough in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. Just allow it to come to room temperature before rolling it out.
Can I freeze the calzones after baking?
Yes! Once cooled, wrap them tightly in foil or freezer bags. They can be frozen for up to 3 months, and reheated directly from the freezer when you are ready to enjoy!