Save This creamy Alfredo Sundried Tomato Chicken Bake is my answer to any craving for cozy comfort food without a ton of work. Tender chicken breasts are nestled in a rich Alfredo sauce, dotted with tangy sundried tomatoes, and finished with a gooey blanket of cheese. It is one of those satisfying dinners you can prep in advance for guests or toss together on a hectic weeknight and always feel like you did something special.
The first time I made this I was out of fresh tomatoes and needed a quick dinner. The sundried tomatoes ended up being the secret twist that now everyone requests when they visit.
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Look for plump even pieces for juicier results
- Olive oil: Adds richness and helps brown the chicken before baking
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to boost all other flavors
- Garlic powder: Brings depth without needing to mince garlic
- Jarred Alfredo sauce: Choose a high-quality sauce or your favorite brand for best flavor and texture
- Sundried tomatoes in oil: Pick ones that are soft flexible and deep red for maximum tang
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for that classic stretch and bubbling top
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Delivers sharpness and helps the cheese topping turn golden
- Dried Italian herbs: Look for a blend with basil oregano and thyme for real Italian-inspired aroma
- Chopped fresh parsley: Not essential but adds a pop of color and freshness at the end
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Dish:
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit or 200 degrees Celsius and lightly grease a 9 by 13 inch baking dish. This prevents sticking and ensures easier cleanup.
- Season the Chicken:
- Pat your chicken breasts dry using paper towels then generously season both sides with salt black pepper and garlic powder. This step ensures every bite is flavorful.
- Sear the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Place chicken breasts in and sear for two minutes per side just until lightly golden. You are not cooking them through yet only building a delicious crust.
- Arrange in Baking Dish:
- Transfer the seared chicken into your prepared baking dish spacing them evenly for consistent cooking.
- Add Alfredo Sauce and Sundried Tomatoes:
- Pour the Alfredo sauce evenly over the chicken making sure each breast is covered. Sprinkle the sliced sundried tomatoes all over which ensures bursts of tangy flavor in every portion.
- Top with Cheeses and Herbs:
- Scatter shredded mozzarella cheese as evenly as possible followed by grated Parmesan. Sprinkle the dried Italian herbs over everything for that unmistakable Mediterranean aroma as it bakes.
- Bake:
- Place the dish uncovered in your oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. The chicken is done when juices run clear and the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit or 74 degrees Celsius. The cheese should be bubbling and lightly golden.
- Rest and Garnish:
- Remove the baking dish and allow it to rest for five minutes so the juices settle and flavors meld. Finish with a sprinkling of chopped parsley if you like and serve immediately.
Save The sundried tomatoes are truly my favorite part. They wake up the creamy richness and the little bursts of tangy tomato always remind me of special Sunday dinners when my family would riff on classic Italian flavors.
Storage Tips
Leftovers keep well in an airtight container for up to three days in the fridge. You can also portion out and reheat individual servings for quick lunches. For best results reheat gently in the oven or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to maintain that creamy texture.
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap in chicken thighs if you prefer darker juicier meat. For a lighter version use low-fat mozzarella and a lighter Alfredo sauce. If you are out of sundried tomatoes try roasted red peppers chopped for a mild sweetness. For dairy free diets use your favorite non-dairy cheeses and coconut cream-based Alfredo.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or simple roasted vegetables. You can also spoon the creamy sauce over cooked gluten-free pasta or fluffy rice to soak up every drop. Add a side of garlic bread if your crowd is extra hungry.
Cultural and Seasonal Inspirations
Inspired by Italian-American comfort food this bake brings together creamy cheesy textures and sun-drenched Mediterranean flavors. I love making it in late winter and early spring when everyone craves warmth but fresh tomatoes are not quite in season yet.
Seasonal Adaptations
Use baby spinach or thinly sliced zucchini under the chicken for pops of green Try smoked mozzarella for a new layer of flavor Herby homemade Alfredo takes this up a notch if you have fresh basil or parsley on hand
Success Stories
Friends who say they do not like chicken always finish their plates with this recipe. Leftovers have disappeared before I even get a chance. My little cousin once requested the bake for her birthday meal because the sauce is so creamy and the cheese on top so fun to eat.
Freezer Meal Conversion
Assemble the dish up to the stage before baking then cover tightly and freeze for up to two months. When ready to eat thaw fully in the refrigerator overnight and bake as instructed adding a few extra minutes if needed. It is a go-to freezer meal for new parents or easy entertaining.
Save This chicken bake makes any weeknight dinner feel a little more special. Serve hot and enjoy the creamy cheesy goodness and bold tang of sundried tomatoes with every bite.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I ensure the chicken stays juicy?
Searing the chicken before baking helps seal in moisture, while baking with sauce keeps it tender.
- → Can I substitute mozzarella cheese?
You can use provolone, fontina or a blend of Italian cheeses for a different flavor profile.
- → Is this dish gluten-free?
Use a certified gluten-free Alfredo sauce and double-check ingredient labels to keep the dish gluten-free.
- → Can I use different protein?
Chicken breasts work best but turkey cutlets or boneless thighs also pair well with Alfredo and sundried tomatoes.
- → What sides complement this bake?
A crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables make perfect accompaniments.
- → How do I speed up preparation?
Use shredded rotisserie chicken instead of whole breasts and reduce baking time to about 15 minutes.