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1
In a medium saucepan, combine the olive oil with the tomatoes, thyme, bay leaf and half of the garlic and bring to a simmer.
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2
Cook over low heat until the tomatoes are very tender, about 15 minutes.
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3
Discard the thyme and bay leaf.
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4
Using a slotted spoon, transfer the tomatoes to a work surface and coarsely chop them; reserve the olive oil for another use.
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5
In a large saucepan, melt the butter.
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6
Add the onion and a pinch of salt & a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes (if using) and cook over moderate heat, stirring, until softened, 5 minutes.
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7
Add the pasta and cook, stirring, until golden in spots, about 2 minutes.
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8
Add the remaining garlic; cook for 1 minute.
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9
Add 1/2 cup of the chicken stock to the pasta and cook over moderately high heat, stirring constantly, until nearly absorbed.
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10
Continue adding the chicken stock, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring and cooking until it is nearly absorbed between additions.
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11
The pasta is done when it is al dente and suspended in a lightly thickened sauce, about 17 minutes total.
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12
Stir the tomatoes into the pasta.
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13
Off the heat, add the goat cheese and Parmigiano-Reggiano & another pinch of red pepper flakes (if using) and stir until melted.
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14
Season with salt and pepper, stir in the chives and basil and serve right away, passing additional Parmigiano-Reggiano at the table.
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15
M A N G I A !
