Chicken and Pesto Calzones: Handheld Pizza Pockets with a Flavor Twist

Pizza night is always a hit, but sometimes it’s fun to switch things up. Enter these Chicken and Pesto Calzones—golden pizza pockets stuffed with juicy chicken, fragrant basil pesto, melty cheese, and marinara. They’re portable, customizable, and downright irresistible.

Think of calzones as pizza’s fun cousin—same flavors, different form. Instead of a flat slice, you get a warm, handheld pocket with sealed edges that lock in all the goodness. With every bite, you taste saucy chicken, creamy pesto, fresh basil, and gooey melted cheese—all wrapped in soft, golden-baked pizza dough.

Whether you serve them for dinner, make-ahead lunches, game-day snacks, or even freeze them for later, these calzones are comfort food at its best.

What Makes This Chicken and Pesto Calzones Recipe a Must-Try

A Fun Upgrade to Pizza Night – Love pizza but want something a little different? These calzones wrap up all the cheesy, saucy goodness you crave in a golden, handheld pocket that’s easy to eat and less messy than a traditional slice.

Fresh, Flavor-Packed Filling – The addition of pesto takes these calzones to the next level. Its vibrant, herby flavor pairs beautifully with tender chicken, gooey cheese, and a soft yet crispy crust. Every bite is a burst of freshness and comfort.

Endlessly Customizable – One of the best parts about calzones is their flexibility. Add roasted veggies, swap in mozzarella or provolone, or even try different proteins like sausage or turkey. It’s a recipe that adapts to your cravings.

Convenient for Busy Nights – These calzones are make-ahead friendly. Prepare and refrigerate them for baking later, or freeze a batch for quick, satisfying weeknight dinners. They’re as practical as they are delicious.

Loved by Kids and Adults Alike – Their portable size makes them great for kids, while their bold flavor keeps adults coming back for more. They’re also perfect for game-day spreads, casual gatherings, or even lunchbox surprises.

Chicken and Pesto Calzones Recipe Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make these cheesy, herby pizza pockets:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil – For cooking the chicken.
• 10 ounces boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed – Juicy protein base for the filling.
• 2 garlic cloves, minced – Adds aromatic depth.
• 20-ounce ball of pizza dough (homemade or store-bought) – The crusty, golden wrapper.
• 1 cup marinara sauce, divided – Some for the filling, the rest for dipping.
• ¼ cup basil pesto – Fresh, herby flavor boost.
• 4 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese – Melty, stretchy goodness.
• 1 ounce freshly grated parmesan cheese – Adds salty, nutty sharpness.
• ½ cup roughly chopped fresh basil leaves – Fresh, aromatic lift.
• 1 medium egg, beaten – For a golden egg wash finish.
• Sea salt & freshly ground black pepper – To season perfectly.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and garlic, season lightly, and cook for 5–6 minutes until fully cooked. Transfer to a plate and let cool slightly.

2. Preheat the Oven

Set oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.

3. Prepare the Dough

Divide pizza dough into 4 equal portions. Roll each into a round about ¼-inch thick.

4. Mix the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked chicken, ¼ cup marinara, pesto, mozzarella, parmesan, and fresh basil. Season with salt and pepper.

5. Assemble the Calzones

Spoon filling onto one half of each dough round. Fold over the dough, press edges firmly, and crimp to seal.

6. Bake

Arrange calzones on prepared baking sheet. Brush tops with beaten egg. Bake for 14–16 minutes, until golden brown and puffed.

7. Cool & Serve

Let calzones rest for 10 minutes. Serve warm with the remaining marinara for dipping.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Seal Well – Use a fork or your fingers to press edges tightly so the filling doesn’t leak.

Don’t Overfill – Too much filling makes sealing tricky and can cause bursting.

Golden Finish – An egg wash makes the crust beautifully golden and shiny.

Crispy Bottom – Sprinkle cornmeal on the baking sheet for extra crunch.

Rest Before Serving – This allows the filling to settle and prevents burns from molten cheese.

Recommended Equipment

Medium Skillet – For cooking the chicken.

Large Mixing Bowl – To combine filling ingredients.

Rolling Pin – For evenly rolled dough rounds.

Rimmed Baking Sheet (with parchment) – Ensures even baking and easy cleanup.

Pastry Brush – For applying egg wash.

How to Serve Chicken and Pesto Calzones Recipe

These calzones are adaptable for everyday meals as well as special occasions.

As a Satisfying Dinner Main – Pair the calzones with a crisp side salad and warm garlic bread for a complete meal. A light vinaigrette balances the richness of the filling, while the bread makes it feel like an indulgent Italian feast.

For Parties and Gatherings – Slice the calzones in halves or quarters to create easy-to-hold portions. Arrange them on a platter with extra marinara for dipping, and you’ve got a crowd-pleasing appetizer that disappears fast.

Packed in Lunchboxes – These calzones taste great reheated, but they’re also delicious at room temperature. Their compact, mess-free shape makes them ideal for work or school lunches.

Perfect for Game Day – Serve them hot with a variety of dips—think ranch, garlic butter, marinara, or even a spicy aioli. They’re hearty enough to keep everyone fueled while cheering on their favorite team.

As a Make-Ahead Convenience Meal – Bake a batch and freeze extras for quick grab-and-go dinners. Just reheat in the oven or air fryer for a crispy, fresh-tasting result.

What To Pair With Chicken and Pesto Calzones

Chicken and Pesto Calzones are savory, cheesy, and loaded with herby flavor — basically handheld comfort food with Italian flair. To create a full meal experience, here are 3 perfect pairings from your Cooking Day recipe collection:

Antipasto-Inspired Pasta Salad with Homemade Italian Vinaigrette

Tangy, herby, and full of texture — this salad balances the rich, cheesy calzones while keeping with the Italian theme.

Easy Blackberry Basil Iced Tea – Ready in Minutes with the Instant Pot

A refreshing, lightly sweet drink with herbal notes that complements the pesto beautifully.

3-Ingredient Creamy Mango Ice Cream – No-Churn & No Fuss!

A fruity, creamy finish that cools and contrasts the savory, cheesy calzones.

This trio creates a satisfying and well-balanced meal — bold, fresh, and just the right touch of sweet to end things on a high note.

Diet-Friendly Options

Gluten-Free – Use gluten-free pizza dough.

Low-Fat – Swap mozzarella for part-skim and use less pesto.

High-Protein – Add extra chicken or mix in turkey sausage.

Vegetarian – Replace chicken with mushrooms, zucchini, or roasted peppers.

Best Ways to Store

Fridge – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer – Cool completely, wrap individually, and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheat – Warm in a 375°F oven for best texture, or microwave for convenience.

Recipe Variations

Cheese Swap – Try provolone, gouda, or fontina instead of mozzarella.

Extra Veggies – Add spinach, mushrooms, or roasted peppers to the filling.

Meaty Twist – Use Italian sausage or shredded rotisserie chicken.

Mini Calzones – Make smaller versions for appetizers or snacks.

These Chicken and Pesto Calzones are everything you love about pizza—juicy chicken, zesty marinara, creamy pesto, and gooey cheese—tucked inside golden pizza dough. They’re simple, fun, and endlessly customizable, making them perfect for weeknight dinners, entertaining, or meal prep.

Bring these handheld pizza pockets to the table and watch them disappear—they’re comfort food wrapped up in the most satisfying way.

Common Questions Answered