Step 1: Season the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder on both sides.
Step 2: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Step 3: Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the hot skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and thoroughly cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
Step 4: In the same skillet, add the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer, making sure to scrape up any delicious browned bits from the bottom of the pan – these add immense flavor!
Step 5: Stir in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, dried thyme, and paprika. Continue to simmer the sauce for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly to a beautiful, velvety consistency.
Step 6: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the creamy sauce. Spoon the sauce over the chicken, and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes to ensure the chicken is heated through and coated in that wonderful flavor.
Step 7: Serve your magnificent Creamy Smothered Chicken immediately over a bed of your favorite cooked rice. Drizzle extra sauce on top, and garnish with fresh chopped parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice for a bright finish.