Creating Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice is straightforward when you follow these steps:

1. Prepare Ingredients: Gather all ingredients, measuring and chopping as necessary.

2. Heat Oil: In a large skillet or pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

3. Sear Chicken: Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and paprika. Add them to the hot pan and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until browned. Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.

4. Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.

5. Add Rice: Stir in the rice, allowing it to toast for 1-2 minutes while mixing with the onions and garlic.

6. Create Sauce: Pour in the cream of chicken soup along with the chicken broth. Mix thoroughly to ensure there are no lumps.

7. Return Chicken: Place the seared chicken back into the skillet, ensuring it sits on top of the rice mixture.

8. Add Veggies: If using frozen mixed vegetables, sprinkle them on top of the chicken now.

9. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once it boils, cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes until the rice is tender and the chicken is cooked through.

10. Finishing Touch: Once cooked, remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

These steps provide a clear pathway to creating a delicious Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice dish that will impress everyone at your table.