My hubby and his friends frequently ask them to make this for them!

In the heart of the Midwest, where the fields stretch on for miles and the air is crisp with the promise of a good harvest, we find comfort in hearty, flavorful dishes that bring the family together. This Easy Baked Buffalo Chicken Calzone recipe is a modern twist on a classic favorite, inspired by the spicy, tangy flavors of Buffalo chicken wings. It's a dish that combines the warmth of homemade bread with the zesty kick of Buffalo sauce, perfect for a cozy evening meal or a game day treat. This recipe is a nod to the days when my grandmother would bake fresh bread every Sunday, filling the house with the most wonderful aroma. Now, with a bit of Buffalo flair, it's a dish that bridges the past with the present, offering a taste of nostalgia with every bite.

These calzones pair beautifully with a crisp, fresh salad, perhaps with a tangy vinaigrette to complement the spicy Buffalo sauce. A side of celery and carrot sticks with a cool ranch or blue cheese dressing is a classic choice, echoing the traditional accompaniments to Buffalo wings. For a heartier meal, consider serving with a side of roasted potatoes or a warm, creamy soup to round out the flavors.

Servings: 4

1 pound pizza dough
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
1/2 cup Buffalo sauce
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup blue cheese crumbles
1/4 cup green onions, chopped
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Flour, for dusting

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a large rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick.

In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken and Buffalo sauce until the chicken is well coated.

Cut the dough into four equal squares.

Place a portion of the Buffalo chicken mixture onto one half of each dough square, leaving space around the edges.

Sprinkle mozzarella cheese, blue cheese crumbles, and green onions over the chicken.

Fold the dough over the filling to create a triangle or rectangle, and press the edges together to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges.

Brush the tops of the calzones with the beaten egg to give them a golden finish.

Place the calzones on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Allow to cool slightly before serving.

For a milder version, use less Buffalo sauce or substitute with barbecue sauce for a sweeter flavor. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to the filling for extra texture and nutrition. If blue cheese isn't to your liking, swap it out for feta or omit it altogether. For a more rustic touch, try using whole wheat pizza dough for a heartier crust. These calzones are also great for using up leftover rotisserie chicken or turkey, making them a versatile option for any time of year.