Step 1: Prepare and Coat the Chicken

1. Season the Chicken: In a large bowl, season the chicken pieces with salt and black pepper. Toss to coat each piece evenly.
2. Coat with Cornstarch: Add the cornstarch to the bowl and toss the chicken until each piece is lightly coated. The cornstarch helps create a crispy texture when frying and thickens the sauce as it cooks.

Step 2: Fry the Chicken

1. Heat Oil in a Pan: In a large skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
2. Fry the Chicken: Add the coated chicken pieces to the pan in a single layer, cooking for about 5-6 minutes until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Stir occasionally to ensure even browning. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

1. Combine Sauce Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and chicken broth. Dissolve the cornstarch in a small amount of water to create a slurry and add it to the sauce mixture. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are combined.

Step 4: Cook the Aromatics

1. Add Garlic and Ginger: In the same pan used for the chicken, add a little more oil if needed. Add the minced garlic and ginger, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Add Scallions and Red Pepper Flakes: Add the scallions and red pepper flakes (if using) to the pan. Sauté for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the scallions to soften slightly while maintaining a bit of crunch.

Step 5: Combine the Chicken and Sauce

1. Return Chicken to the Pan: Add the fried chicken back to the pan, tossing with the garlic, ginger, and scallions.
2. Pour in the Sauce: Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and scallions, stirring to coat everything evenly. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken and fully coat the chicken.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish: Sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions or cilantro over the Scallion Chicken for added color and flavor.
2. Serve Hot: Serve the dish immediately, over a bed of steamed rice, noodles, or alongside sautéed vegetables. Enjoy!