Chicken and Artichoke Calzones

It’s been a while since we had homemade pizza and even longer for calzones. Calzone (Italian for stocking or trouser) is an Italian turnover made from pizza dough. For more calzone recipes, click here. Of all the calzone recipes out there, I thought the use of artichokes mixed with chicken was a bit suspect at first but after eating these, I’d have to say it was an excellent combination! Artichokes are very high in fiber, potassium, calcium and iron. View this article from Simply Recipes to learn how to cook and eat artichokes.

Serves 6
recipe from Cooking Light

14oz. can artichoke hearts, drained and finely chopped
salt and pepper for seasoning
1-2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
2 cups fresh spinach leaves, chopped
1 1/4 cups shredded provolone cheese
1 cup shredded cooked chicken breast
1 teaspoon olive oil
2 teaspoons cornmeal
refrigerated pizza crust dough

Preheat oven to 425°. Combine artichokes, salt, pepper and garlic in a large bowl. Add spinach, cheese and chicken; toss gently to combine.

Brush oil over a baking sheet; sprinkle with cornmeal. Unroll dough onto prepared baking sheet; cut into 6 equal portions. Cover and let rest 5 minutes. Pat each portion into a 6 x 5-inch rectangle. Spoon 2/3 cup spinach mixture into center of each dough portion. Fold one corner of each dough portion over spinach mixture to form a triangle. Press edges together with fingers to seal. Bake for 12 minutes or until golden.

The Culinary Chase’s Note: Since pizza dough isn’t available here, I made my own dough using Jamie Oliver’s recipe (click here). Instead of using spinach, substitute with rocket for more of a bite. I found the spinach seemed to only give color and not much flavor. Also, add a mixture of cheeses such as Parmesan and mozzarella to the provolone. I used marinated artichokes which also added to the taste. Enjoy!