The 44-year-old will be a series regular on writer Tim Kring's 13-episode revival of "Heroes", reported Entertainment Weekly.
Character details are being kept tightly under wraps for the time being.
Kihlstedt had a recurring role as Dr Michelle Ross in the Showtime psychological drama series "Dexter".
She has also made memorable appearances in "Nashville", "Masters of Sex" and "Early Edition".
Kihlstedt is among a crop of new additions to the "Heroes" franchise, along with Zachary Levi, Robbie Kay and Ryan Guzman.
"Heroes" veterans Jack Coleman, Masi Oka and Jimmy Jean-Louis are also on board.