Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper on both sides. If desired, lightly pound the chicken to ensure even cooking.
Sear the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to low and add the garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, then add the honey, soy sauce, water, and optional ingredients (rice vinegar, ground ginger, sesame oil) for extra flavor. Stir to combine.
Simmer the Sauce: Allow the sauce to simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
Coat the Chicken: Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the chicken to coat evenly. Let it simmer for another 1-2 minutes to ensure the chicken absorbs the sauce.
Garnish and Serve: Transfer the chicken to a serving plate and drizzle any remaining sauce over the top. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for an extra pop of flavor and texture. Serve with steamed rice or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.