01 -
Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season evenly on both sides with salt and black pepper.
02 -
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken breasts and cook until golden brown and fully cooked, approximately 6 to 8 minutes per side. Transfer chicken to a plate and keep warm.
03 -
In the same skillet, add diced onion and sauté over medium heat until softened and translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes.
04 -
Add minced garlic, honey, soy sauce, ketchup, and red pepper flakes (if desired). Stir well and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
05 -
In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and water until smooth. Slowly pour the mixture into the simmering sauce, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, about 1 to 2 minutes.
06 -
Return cooked chicken breasts to the skillet and turn to coat thoroughly in the honey sesame sauce. Allow chicken to warm through for 1 to 2 minutes.
07 -
Sprinkle sesame seeds over the chicken. Serve immediately over rice or noodles if desired.