Ziti With Chicken and Broccoli

• 2 skinless boneless chicken breasts, about 1 pound
• 1 bunch broccoli, about 1 1/4 pounds
• Salt to taste
• 3/4 pound cut ziti
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Freshly ground pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped garlic
• 3 red ripe tomatoes, about 1 pound, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes
• 2 teaspoons chopped fresh rosemary or 1 teaspoon dried
• 2 teaspoons chopped fresh oregano or 1 teaspoon dried
• 18 teaspoon red hot pepper flakes, optional
• 3/4 cup heavy cream
• 4 tablespoons coarsely chopped Italian parsley
• 4 tablespoons grated Parmesan or pecorino cheese

1. Place the chicken breasts one at a time on a flat surface.
2. Using a sharp knife, cut the breasts in half, then lengthwise into thin strips, about 1/2-inch thick.
3. Cut the broccoli into florets, peel the stems and cut them into thin slices.
4. Bring 4 quarts of salted water to a boil and add the broccoli.
5. Cook for 3 minutes.
6. Do not overcook; the broccoli must remain crisp.
7. Drain and reserve the cooking liquid.
8. Bring the reserved cooking liquid to a boil and add the ziti.
9. Stir and cook according to package directions.
10. The pasta should be al dente.
11. Drain and reserve 1/2 cup of the cooking liquid.
12. Heat the oil in a large skillet.
13. Add the chicken breasts, salt and pepper.
14. Cook and stir over medium high heat for 1 minute.
15. Add the garlic, stir and cook briefly; do not brown.
16. Add the tomatoes, rosemary, oregano, pepper flakes and cook, stirring, for 1 minute.
17. Add the cream, bring to a boil and simmer for 2 minutes.
18. Add the broccoli and the pasta into the tomato mixture.
19. Add the reserved 1/2 cup of cooking liquid, salt and pepper.
20. Bring to a simmer, add the parsley and cheese and toss well for 1 minute while cooking.
21. Serve immediately.

chicken breasts, broccoli, salt, olive oil, freshly ground pepper, garlic, red ripe tomatoes, fresh rosemary, fresh oregano, red hot pepper, heavy cream, italian parsley, pecorino cheese

Taken from cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1268 (may not work)