The Perfect Halal Calzone: Chicken and Mushroom Edition

Halal Chicken and Mushroom Calzones are a tasty and satisfying meal that combines Italian and Middle Eastern flavors. The calzone dough is typically made with flour, yeast, salt, and water, and is then filled with a mixture of seasoned chicken, sautéed mushrooms, cheese, and sometimes vegetables like onions or peppers. The calzone is then baked in the oven until golden brown and crispy.

What makes this dish halal is that the chicken used is prepared according to Islamic dietary laws, which means it has been slaughtered in a specific way and is free from certain contaminants or ingredients that are not allowed in halal food.

The combination of the tender chicken, earthy mushrooms, and gooey cheese makes for a delicious and comforting filling that’s perfect for any meal. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying lunch, a hearty dinner, or a tasty snack, halal Chicken and Mushroom Calzones are a great option.

Ingredients:

• For the Dough:
  • 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1 cup warm water
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
• For the Filling:
  • 2 cups halal chicken breast, cooked and shredded
  • 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • ½ cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • ½ tsp red chili flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil for sautéing
• For Assembly:
  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • Marinara sauce for dipping (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a small bowl, mix the yeast, sugar, and warm water. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy.
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add olive oil and the yeast mixture. Stir until the dough starts to form.
   • Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place it in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it, and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
2. Prepare the Filling:
   • Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté the onions and garlic until soft.
   • Add mushrooms and cook until softened. Season with oregano, basil, chili flakes, salt, and pepper.
   • Stir in the shredded chicken and cook for a couple of minutes to mix all the flavors.
   • Remove from heat and let it cool slightly. Mix in mozzarella and ricotta cheese.
3. Assemble the Calzones:
   • Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
   • Punch down the dough and divide it into 4 equal portions. Roll each portion into a round disc, about ¼ inch thick.
   • Place a generous amount of filling on one half of the dough, leaving a border around the edges.
   • Fold the other half over the filling and press the edges to seal. Crimp the edges with a fork for a decorative finish.
   • Brush the top with beaten egg.
4. Bake the Calzones:
   • Place the calzones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
   • Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and crisp.
5. Serve:
   • Serve hot with marinara sauce for dipping if desired.

Enjoy your delicious halal chicken and mushroom calzones!

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