Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial for achieving that perfectly crispy skin or tender edges, depending on your choice of thighs.

Prepare the Marinade
In a bowl, whisk together the minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, chopped herbs, salt, and pepper. This vibrant blend serves as the culinary love note to your chicken, infusing it with bright, zesty flavors.

Marinate the Chicken
Place your chicken thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the thighs, ensuring every piece is generously coated. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature (or in the fridge for up to 2 hours for deeper flavor). If you’re short on time, just jump right into cooking!

Sear the Chicken
Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken thighs, skin-side down if using bone-in. Sear for 5 minutes until golden and crunchy, then flip and sear the other side for another 3 minutes. This step locks in flavors and creates a mouthwatering crust.

Bake to Perfection
Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. If you’re using boneless thighs, cook for about 20 minutes. For bone-in, allow around 30 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Make a Glaze
While the chicken bakes, pour the remaining marinade into a small saucepan. Bring it to a simmer for about 5 minutes until it thickens. Drizzle this glaze over the chicken when it’s done for an added flavor kick.

Serve and Enjoy
Once cooked through, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. This resting time is key for juicy meat! Serve with a side of steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.