1. Prepare the Chicken: Start by patting your boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning adhere better and promotes a nicer sear. If your chicken breasts are very thick, you might want to slice them horizontally to create thinner cutlets, ensuring more even cooking.

2. Create the Spice Blend: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, dried thyme, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Stir well until all the spices are thoroughly mixed into the oil, forming a fragrant paste.

3. Season the Chicken: Place the patted-dry chicken pieces in a large bowl or a resealable bag. Pour the spice and oil mixture over the chicken. Use your hands (or shake the bag) to thoroughly coat each piece of chicken with the seasoning blend. Ensure every surface is covered for maximum flavor.

4. Preheat Your Cooking Surface: Heat a large skillet (cast iron or non-stick works great) over medium-high heat. You want the pan to be hot enough to create a nice sear without burning the spices. If you prefer to bake, preheat your oven to 400 F (200 C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

5. Cook the Chicken: If pan-frying, place the seasoned chicken in the hot skillet in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan (cook in batches if necessary). Cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. If baking, arrange the chicken on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 F (74 C).

6. Check for Doneness: The most reliable way to ensure your chicken is cooked through is to use an instant-read meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the chicken; it should read 165 F (74 C). The chicken should also be opaque throughout with no pink visible.

7. Rest the Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan or oven and transfer it to a cutting board. Cover it loosely with foil and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This crucial step allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken.

8. Slice and Store: After resting, slice the chicken into strips, cubes, or shred it, depending on how you plan to use it for your meal prep. Allow it to cool completely before portioning into meal prep containers.