Description
This High-Protein Keto Calzone is a delicious and satisfying dinner option that combines ground chicken, mozzarella, and pepperoni into a low-carb, keto-friendly calzone. Cooked to crispy perfection in the air fryer, this recipe is quick, flavorful, and perfect for anyone following a ketogenic diet or looking for a protein-packed meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 4 oz ground chicken
- 6–10 pepperoni slices
- 2 slices mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, beaten
- Italian seasonings (to taste)
Optional Add-Ins
- Keto-friendly marinara sauce
- Sliced mushrooms
- Spinach leaves
- Red pepper flakes
- Garlic powder
- Basil leaves
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F and allow it to fully preheat while you prepare the calzone mixture to ensure even cooking.
- Prepare the filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken with Italian seasonings and any optional add-ins like mushrooms, spinach, or garlic powder. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Form the calzone base: Lay a piece of parchment paper flat, then shape the chicken mixture into a circle approximately 1/2 inch thick to act as the calzone dough base.
- Add the cheese and pepperoni: Place the mozzarella slices and pepperoni on one half of the chicken circle, allowing enough space to fold the calzone over.
- Shape and seal the calzone: Fold the uncovered half of the chicken circle over the filled side to form a half-moon shape. Press the edges firmly together to seal the filling inside.
- Brush with egg wash: Brush the beaten egg evenly over the top of the calzone to promote a golden and appetizing finish when cooked.
- Cook in the air fryer: Carefully transfer the calzone, along with the parchment paper, into the air fryer basket. Cook at 375°F for 10 minutes, or until the chicken is completely cooked and the outer crust is crispy and golden brown.
- Cool briefly: Remove the calzone from the air fryer and let it rest for a minute to allow the filling to set and to make slicing easier.
- Serve: Slice the calzone and serve warm with keto-friendly marinara sauce on the side for dipping if desired.
Notes
- You can customize the filling by adding or omitting optional ingredients based on your preferences and dietary needs.
- Use parchment paper in the air fryer basket to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
- Ensure the ground chicken is cooked through by checking that its internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Adjust cooking time slightly depending on your air fryer model and the thickness of your calzone.
- This recipe is perfect for meal prep and can be refrigerated or frozen for later use.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Keywords: keto calzone, high-protein dinner, air fryer recipes, low carb meal, keto dinner, ground chicken recipes
