Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Cheesy Alfredo Chicken Tender Bake Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.2 from 42 reviews
  • Author: Beverly
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Cheesy Alfredo Chicken Tender Bake is a cozy and creamy casserole perfect for a comforting meal. Tender chicken tenders are seasoned and baked in a rich Alfredo sauce, then topped with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for a golden, bubbly finish. Optional fresh spinach and bacon bits add extra flavor and texture, making it a versatile dish to serve alongside mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or pasta.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Seasonings

  • 1 ½ lbs chicken tenders
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Italian seasoning, to taste
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp dried basil

Sauces and Cheeses

  • 2 cups Alfredo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Optional Add-ins

  • 1 cup fresh spinach (optional)
  • 1/4 cup cooked bacon bits (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Heat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.
  2. Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels to help the seasonings stick. Season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
  3. Make the Sauce Base: Spread ½ cup of the Alfredo sauce evenly over the bottom of the baking dish. This creates a creamy base layer for the chicken.
  4. Layer the Chicken: Arrange the seasoned chicken tenders in a single layer on top of the sauce, fitting them snugly if needed.
  5. Add the Sauce: Pour the remaining Alfredo sauce over the chicken, spreading it gently so every piece is well coated.
  6. Add the Cheeses: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the dish, then top with grated Parmesan. Dust the surface lightly with dried basil for extra flavor.
  7. Add Optional Mix-Ins: If using, scatter fresh spinach leaves or cooked bacon bits over the top of the cheese layer.
  8. Bake: Place the casserole uncovered in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
  9. Optional Broil: For a golden and bubbly cheese crust, broil the casserole for 2–3 minutes at the end of baking. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
  10. Rest & Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after removing it from the oven to allow the sauce to thicken. Serve warm with your choice of mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or pasta.

Notes

  • Use fresh chicken tenders for the best texture and flavor.
  • You can use store-bought Alfredo sauce to save time or make your own for a richer, homemade taste.
  • Optional spinach and bacon bits add extra flavor and texture but can be omitted for a simpler dish.
  • Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
  • Broiling at the end is optional but adds a nice golden crust to the cheese topping.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated before serving.

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can't wait to see what you've made!

Find it online: https://onepotmealideas.com/cheesy-alfredo-chicken-tender-bake-recipe/