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
Scale
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.
