Prepare the Chicken:

• Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. If they are particularly thick, slice them in half horizontally to ensure even cooking.

• Season both sides of the chicken with salt and black pepper.

Sear the Chicken:

• In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat.

• Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Sear for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they develop a golden-brown crust and are nearly cooked through.

• Once seared, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Prepare the Honey Garlic Sauce:

• In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter and melt over medium heat.

• Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.

• Stir in the honey, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and red pepper flakes (if using).

• Allow the sauce to simmer for 1-2 minutes, or until it slightly thickens.

Combine Chicken and Sauce:

• Return the seared chicken breasts to the skillet, turning them to coat evenly with the sauce.

• Continue to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, spooning the sauce over the chicken, until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has caramelized.

Serve:

• Remove the skillet from heat.

• Let the chicken rest for a minute, then slice if desired.

• Drizzle any remaining sauce over the chicken before serving.