Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Prepare the Garlic Herb Butter: In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, dried thyme, dried rosemary, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs (or breasts) dry with paper towels. Rub the garlic herb butter mixture generously over the chicken, making sure to coat both sides and under the skin if using thighs.

Sear the Chicken (Optional): Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step and bake the chicken directly.

Bake the Chicken: Transfer the skillet (or a baking dish if not using a skillet) to the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear.

Garnish and Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh lemon wedges and herbs before serving.

Enjoy: Serve the juicy, flavorful baked lemon chicken with your favorite sides for a delicious, aromatic meal!