If you’re craving a meal that feels indulgent but still packs a serious nutritional punch, then this High Protein Chicken and Spinach Calzone Recipe is your new go-to. Imagine a golden, crispy crust enclosing juicy chicken, creamy ricotta, melty mozzarella, and vibrant sautéed spinach — each bite bursting with rich flavors and satisfying textures. This dish blends convenience and hearty ingredients to satisfy your hunger while keeping things light and nourishing. Whether it’s a weekday dinner or a weekend treat, this calzone hits all the right spots for anyone who loves wholesome, protein-filled meals.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients come together simply but are essential to create the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color in your calzone. Each component plays a role, from the hearty whole wheat dough that adds fiber and structure to the fresh spinach that brings color and nutrients.
- Whole wheat pizza dough: Provides a wholesome base with added fiber and a nutty flavor.
- Cooked chicken thighs, chopped: Tender and juicy, delivering a solid protein boost and rich taste.
- Low-fat ricotta cheese: Adds creamy moisture and a mild tang without excess fat.
- Shredded mozzarella (part-skim): Melts beautifully, offering gooey texture and subtle creaminess.
- Fresh spinach, chopped and sautéed: Brings a vibrant green color, freshness, and essential vitamins.
- Garlic powder: Infuses the filling with aromatic depth and warmth.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasoning to balance and enhance all flavors.
- Olive oil: Adds richness and helps sauté the spinach with a silky finish.
- Egg (for egg wash): Gives the crust a beautiful golden-brown shine and crispiness.
How to Make High Protein Chicken and Spinach Calzone Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
First, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a baking sheet or pizza stone inside to heat, which will help achieve a perfectly crispy bottom crust. This step is key to getting that delightful crunch as soon as your calzone hits the oven.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the chopped cooked chicken, ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, sautéed spinach, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Be sure the chicken is well-seasoned and the spinach is nicely cooked down — this mixture forms the flavorful heart of your calzone.
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
On a floured surface, roll out your whole wheat pizza dough into a large circle about 1/4 inch thick. This thickness offers the perfect balance between a sturdy calzone shell and tender bite, allowing room for plenty of filling without overwhelming the dough.
Step 4: Fill and Shape Your Calzone
Spoon the delicious filling onto one half of the dough circle. Carefully fold the other half over to cover the filling, then press the edges together firmly using a fork to seal. Don’t forget to cut a few slits on top — this lets steam escape while baking, preventing sogginess inside.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Transfer your calzone to the preheated baking sheet or pizza stone. Brush the top with beaten egg to give the crust that irresistible golden glow, and bake for 18 to 22 minutes until the calzone is beautifully browned and cooked through.
Step 6: Rest and Slice
Once baked, allow your calzone to rest for about 5 minutes. This pause helps the filling set slightly so that every slice holds together perfectly when you cut it. Serve it warm and watch how quickly it disappears!
How to Serve High Protein Chicken and Spinach Calzone Recipe
Garnishes
Feel free to sprinkle fresh basil or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes on top for a pop of color and an extra layer of flavor. A drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil after baking also adds a lovely sheen and richness.
Side Dishes
Pair your calzone with a crisp side salad featuring tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness. Or, keep the theme Italian-inspired with a bowl of warm marinara or garlic tomato sauce for dipping — it’s a match made in heaven.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve slices on rustic wooden boards with little ramekins of dipping sauces arranged around it. For a fun family meal, offer build-your-own calzone toppings, letting everyone add their favorite ingredients before baking. This High Protein Chicken and Spinach Calzone Recipe is versatile enough to look casual or elegant on any table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover calzone wrapped tightly in aluminum foil or in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days and can make a quick lunch or snack the next day.
Freezing
This recipe freezes wonderfully. Wrap the calzone securely in plastic wrap and then in foil before placing in the freezer. It can last up to 2 months frozen without losing flavor or texture, ready to be baked fresh when you’re craving a protein-packed meal.
Reheating
Reheat your calzone in an oven or toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaves for reheating if you want to maintain that glorious crisp crust.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breast works well if you prefer a leaner protein, but keep in mind thighs add a bit more moisture and richness to the filling.
Is whole wheat dough necessary for this recipe?
While whole wheat adds extra fiber and a nuttier flavor, you can definitely use regular pizza dough if that’s what you have on hand. The calzone will still taste delicious.
Can I substitute fresh spinach with frozen spinach?
Yes, just make sure to thaw and squeeze out as much water as possible from frozen spinach before sautéing to avoid a soggy filling.
How do you know when the calzone is fully cooked?
The crust should be a deep golden brown and crisp to the touch. Also, keep an eye on the filling bubbling through the slits on top as a sign it’s nice and hot inside.
Can this recipe be made vegetarian?
Definitely! Simply omit the chicken and add extra veggies like mushrooms or roasted peppers to keep the filling flavorful and satisfying.
Final Thoughts
This High Protein Chicken and Spinach Calzone Recipe is one of those comforting yet nutritious dishes that you’ll want to keep making again and again. It’s easy to prepare, packed with wholesome ingredients, and utterly delicious. So go ahead and give it a try—you owe it to yourself to savor every warm, cheesy, protein-rich bite.
Print
High Protein Chicken and Spinach Calzone Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
This High Protein Calzone is a delicious and nutritious meal perfect for lunch or dinner. Featuring whole wheat dough filled with a flavorful blend of cooked chicken, low-fat ricotta, mozzarella, and sautéed spinach, this calzone offers a satisfying balance of protein and vegetables. Baked to golden perfection, it’s an ideal option for a wholesome homemade Italian-inspired dish.
Ingredients
Dough
- 1 pound whole wheat pizza dough
Filling
- 1 cup cooked chicken thighs, chopped
- 1/2 cup low-fat ricotta cheese
- 3/4 cup shredded mozzarella (part-skim)
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped and sautéed
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Additional
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and place a baking sheet or pizza stone inside to heat up. This ensures your calzone bakes with a crispy crust.
- Prepare Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine chopped cooked chicken thighs, low-fat ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, sautéed spinach, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to incorporate all flavors evenly.
- Roll Dough: On a floured surface, roll out the whole wheat pizza dough into a large circle about 1/4 inch thick, providing a sturdy base for the filling.
- Assemble Calzone: Spoon the prepared filling onto one half of the dough circle. Fold the dough over the filling and press the edges firmly with a fork to seal, preventing leaks during baking. Cut a few small slits on top to allow steam to escape.
- Bake: Transfer the calzone carefully to the preheated baking sheet or pizza stone. Brush the surface with beaten egg to achieve a shiny, golden crust. Bake for 18–22 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the calzone from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to settle the filling. Slice and serve warm, optionally accompanied by marinara sauce for dipping.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken thighs with cooked turkey or chicken breast for a leaner option.
- Ensure spinach is well sautéed to avoid excess moisture inside the calzone.
- Use whole wheat dough for added fiber and a nuttier flavor.
- Be careful sealing the edges to prevent filling leakage during baking.
- An egg wash helps achieve a beautiful golden crust but can be omitted for an egg-free version.
- Serve with a side of marinara sauce for dipping to enhance flavor.
