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Homemade Pesto Orzo Bake with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes recipe photo

Pesto Orzo Bake with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes

This Pesto Orzo Bake with Roasted Cherry Tomatoes is a comforting, cheesy one-dish meal bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors and roasted tomato sweetness.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup orzo pasta small, rice-shaped pasta
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1 cup basil pesto store-bought or homemade
  • 1 cup shredded chicken cooked
  • 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese grated
  • 0.5 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish, optional

Equipment

  • Baking dish (8x8 inch or similar)
  • Medium saucepan
  • Baking sheet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Oven mitts

Method
 

  1. 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.
  2. 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. Drain well, then return the orzo to the pot or a large mixing bowl.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. Once out of the oven, let the bake cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve warm and enjoy.

Notes

  • For an extra layer of flavor, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving.
  • Use homemade basil pesto to elevate freshness.
  • Roasted broccoli or spinach can be added for extra veggies.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze portions for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.