If you’re looking for a comforting, vibrant, and flavorful one-dish meal that’s both easy to prepare and packed with fresh ingredients, this Pesto Orzo Bake with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes is exactly what you need. Creamy, cheesy, and bursting with the sweet acidity of roasted cherry tomatoes, this bake brings together simple pantry staples and fresh produce in a way that feels both indulgent and wholesome. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or planning a casual gathering, this dish hits all the right notes.

Why This Pesto Orzo Bake with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes Stands Out

There are plenty of pasta bakes out there, but what makes this Pesto Orzo Bake with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes special is its combination of textures and vibrant flavors that come from roasting the cherry tomatoes to perfection. The orzo pasta acts as a tender, rice-like base that beautifully absorbs the pesto’s herbal richness and the juices from the roasted tomatoes. Adding shredded chicken makes it a hearty, protein-packed meal that’s perfect for any season. The layering of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top creates a golden, bubbly crust that’s irresistible. Best of all, it’s straightforward to prepare yet impressive enough to serve to guests.

What Goes Into Pesto Orzo Bake with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes

1 cup orzo pasta – small, rice-shaped pasta that cooks quickly and holds sauces well
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved – ripe and juicy, perfect for roasting
1 cup basil pesto – store-bought or homemade for fresh herbal flavor
1 cup shredded chicken – cooked and shredded, adding lean protein
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – sharp and nutty, great for topping
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – melts beautifully for a gooey finish
2 tablespoons olive oil – used to roast the tomatoes and add richness
Salt and pepper to taste – to enhance and balance the flavors
Fresh basil leaves for garnish – optional but adds a burst of color and freshness

Before You Start: Equipment

Baking dish (8×8 inch or similar) – for assembling and baking the dish
Medium saucepan – to cook the orzo pasta
Baking sheet – to roast the cherry tomatoes evenly
Mixing bowl – for combining ingredients before baking
Knife and cutting board – to halve the cherry tomatoes and prep any garnishes
Oven mitts – for safely handling hot dishes

Build Pesto Orzo Bake with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes Step by Step

Step 1: Roast the Cherry Tomatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the halved cherry tomatoes on a baking sheet. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, then toss to coat evenly. Roast in the oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the tomatoes are soft, slightly caramelized, and bursting with flavor. Roasting intensifies their sweetness and adds a smoky depth to the dish.

Step 2: Cook the Orzo

While the tomatoes roast, bring a medium saucepan of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes (check the package instructions). Drain well, then return the orzo to the pot or a large mixing bowl.

Step 3: Combine Pesto, Chicken, and Orzo

To the cooked orzo, stir in the basil pesto until every grain is coated in the vibrant green sauce. Add the shredded chicken and half of the roasted cherry tomatoes, mixing gently to combine. This ensures the flavors meld together and the chicken warms through.

Step 4: Assemble the Bake

Transfer the orzo mixture into your baking dish, smoothing it out evenly. Scatter the remaining roasted cherry tomatoes on top. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella evenly over the surface for that irresistible cheesy crust.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place the baking dish in the oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. This final bake step melds all the layers together and creates a delightful texture contrast between the creamy orzo and the roasted tomatoes.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, let the bake cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and fresh herbal notes. Serve warm and enjoy the comforting flavors of this beautiful meal.

International Equivalents

Italy: Similar to a baked pasta al forno but using orzo instead of traditional penne or rigatoni.
Greece: Orzo is often used in Greek cuisine; this bake echoes a comforting Greek-style casserole with Mediterranean flavors.
France: Comparable to gratins which combine creamy pasta, cheese, and fresh herbs baked until golden.
United States: A modern twist on classic pasta bakes that emphasize fresh pesto and roasted vegetables.

Insider Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the top just before serving.
Use a homemade basil pesto if possible — it really elevates the freshness of the dish.
If you want to add more veggies, roasted broccoli or spinach make excellent additions. You might enjoy Roasted Broccoli Lemon Parmesan Orzo for more inspiration.
Leftover roasted cherry tomatoes can be a delicious topping for other pasta dishes like Roasted Cherry Tomato Burrata Rigatoni.
Use pre-cooked chicken from your favorite recipe or even try shredding some from Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs Over Orzo for a flavor-packed twist.

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

This Pesto Orzo Bake with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container. To reheat, warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and the cheese is bubbly again, or microwave individual portions for a quick meal.

For freezing, portion the bake into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Troubleshooting Q&A

Why is my orzo mushy after baking?

Orzo can become mushy if overcooked before baking or if there is too much liquid in the dish. To avoid this, cook the orzo just until al dente and drain it well. Also, do not add extra water or broth beyond what the pesto and tomatoes provide.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the shredded chicken or replace it with a plant-based protein like chickpeas or tofu for a vegetarian-friendly version that still packs plenty of flavor and texture.

How do I prevent the cheese from burning?

If your cheese tends to brown too quickly, tent the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil halfway through baking. This will allow the orzo to heat through without over-browning the top.

Can I use sun-dried tomatoes instead of fresh cherry tomatoes?

While sun-dried tomatoes offer a concentrated flavor, they won’t provide the juicy burst and roasting effect that fresh cherry tomatoes deliver. For best results, stick with fresh tomatoes or try a mix to add complexity.

Keep Cooking

Discover more pasta delights with Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs Over Orzo for a sweet and savory meal.
Explore fresh tomato pasta ideas like Roasted Cherry Tomato Burrata Rigatoni for a creamy, cheesy twist.
Try vibrant vegetable-forward dishes such as Roasted Broccoli Lemon Parmesan Orzo that highlight simple, seasonal ingredients.

Serve & Enjoy

Serve this Pesto Orzo Bake with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes straight from the oven, garnished with fresh basil leaves. It pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. This dish offers a comforting yet light option that’s perfect for any day of the week. Whether enjoyed as a family dinner or shared with friends, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser that brings warmth and vibrant flavors to your table.

This recipe captures the essence of fresh, flavorful Mediterranean-inspired cooking while being practical and delicious. The combination of tender orzo, fragrant pesto, juicy roasted tomatoes, and melty cheese is a winning formula that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. Give it a try and make it your new go-to pasta bake!

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