Spicy Buffalo Chicken Calzone Recipe: A Fiery Twist on a Classic Favorite

The fusion of bold, spicy flavors with comfort-food classics has become a staple in modern kitchens, and few combinations achieve this harmony better than buffalo chicken and calzones. A calzone — the iconic, folded Italian turnover stuffed with cheese, meats, and vegetables — is already a satisfying meal on its own. But when you add the tangy heat of buffalo sauce and the tender bite of shredded chicken, the result is an irresistible twist on tradition that satisfies cravings and sets tastebuds alight.

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This Spicy Buffalo Chicken Calzone recipe goes beyond the basics, offering a carefully balanced, flavor-packed experience. It’s perfect for those who love the fiery zing of buffalo wings but crave the portability and doughy goodness of a calzone. Whether you’re cooking for game night, a casual dinner, or looking to spice up your weekly meal rotation, this recipe delivers on all fronts.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to master this dish — from crafting the perfect homemade dough to selecting the right chicken, cheese, and hot sauce blend. You’ll also find tips on baking techniques, side pairings, variations for different dietary needs, and even make-ahead options for busy schedules.

Let’s dive into this bold and flavorful journey — and learn how to make the ultimate Spicy Buffalo Chicken Calzone from scratch.

How to Make a Spicy Buffalo Chicken Calzone – Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating the perfect Spicy Buffalo Chicken Calzone from scratch requires attention to detail, quality ingredients, and a bit of patience — but the result is more than worth it. This step-by-step guide ensures that both novice and experienced home cooks can follow along and produce delicious results.

Step 1: Prepare the Dough (Homemade or Store-Bought Option)

Homemade Calzone Dough

Making your own dough gives you complete control over the flavor and texture of the crust. Here’s a basic but reliable recipe.

Ingredients:

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour (plus more for kneading)

• 1 tablespoon sugar

• 2 teaspoons salt

• 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast

• 1 ¼ cups warm water (around 110°F/43°C)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. Activate the Yeast:

   • In a small bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Stir in the yeast and let it sit for 5–10 minutes, or until the mixture becomes frothy. This indicates the yeast is active.

2. Mix the Dough:

   • In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer, combine the flour and salt.

   • Add the activated yeast mixture and olive oil to the dry ingredients.

   • Mix until a shaggy dough forms.

3. Knead the Dough:

   • Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes by hand, or use the dough hook attachment on a stand mixer for about 5 minutes.

   • The dough should become smooth and elastic.

4. First Rise:

   • Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1 ½ hours, or until it has doubled in size.

5. Punch Down and Rest:

   • Once risen, punch down the dough to release air. Let it rest for another 10–15 minutes before shaping.

Tip: If you’re short on time, store-bought pizza dough can be a convenient substitute. Look for fresh or frozen dough in grocery store delis or freezer sections.

Step 2: Prepare the Buffalo Chicken Filling

The filling is the star of this dish, combining spicy heat, creamy richness, and savory protein.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or chopped)

• ½ cup buffalo wing sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot or your preferred brand)

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for added depth)

• ½ cup ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing (your preference)

• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• ½ cup crumbled blue cheese (optional)

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for freshness and color)

Instructions:

1. Cook or Shred the Chicken:

   • Use leftover cooked chicken, rotisserie chicken, or quickly poach two chicken breasts in salted water until cooked through (about 15–20 minutes). Let cool slightly and shred using two forks.

2. Make the Sauce:

   • In a saucepan over low heat, melt the butter.

   • Stir in buffalo sauce, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Heat until well combined.

3. Combine Chicken and Sauce:

   • Add the shredded chicken to the sauce and stir to coat evenly.

   • Let simmer for 2–3 minutes to absorb the flavors, then remove from heat.

4. Add Cheese and Dressing:

   • Stir in half the shredded mozzarella and optional blue cheese to the chicken mixture while it’s still warm.

   • Add a few tablespoons of ranch or blue cheese dressing to add creaminess and mellow the heat, if desired.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a few dashes of hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the filling.

Step 3: Assemble the Calzones

Once the dough and filling are ready, it’s time to assemble.

1. Preheat the Oven:

   • Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat as well.

2. Divide the Dough:

   • On a floured surface, divide the dough into 2 or 4 equal portions depending on your preferred calzone size.

3. Roll Out the Dough:

   • Roll each dough portion into a circle about 8–10 inches in diameter and about ¼-inch thick.

4. Add Filling:

   • Spoon the buffalo chicken mixture onto one half of each dough round, leaving about a 1-inch border around the edges.

   • Sprinkle extra mozzarella on top, and drizzle with a little more dressing if desired.

5. Seal the Calzones:

   • Fold the dough over the filling to create a half-moon shape.

   • Pinch the edges together tightly to seal. Crimp with a fork or roll the edge over itself for a decorative finish.

   • Cut a few small slits or poke holes on top to allow steam to escape.

6. Brush with Egg Wash (Optional):

   • For a glossy, golden crust, brush the tops of the calzones with a beaten egg mixed with 1 tablespoon of water.

Step 4: Bake the Calzones

1. Prepare the Baking Surface:

   • Place the calzones on a parchment-lined baking sheet or a preheated pizza stone.

2. Bake:

   • Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the calzones are golden brown and the dough is cooked through.

   • Watch closely toward the end to prevent overbrowning.

3. Cool Slightly:

   • Let the calzones rest for 5 minutes after baking. This allows the filling to set and prevents burns from hot steam inside.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Garnish and Cut:

   • Sprinkle chopped parsley or green onions on top for a pop of color.

   • Slice each calzone in half or serve whole.

2. Serve with Dipping Sauce:

   • Offer a side of ranch, blue cheese dressing, or extra buffalo sauce for dipping.

3. Pair with Sides (Optional):

   • Great accompaniments include celery sticks, carrot slaw, or a crisp garden salad to balance the spice.