Creating the Best Smothered Chicken and Rice is a straightforward process when you follow these simple steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare Chicken: Season the chicken thighs with salt, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and pepper.
3. Sear Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken thighs skin-side down for about 5 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook for another 5 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
4. Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add Rice: Stir in the long-grain rice and toast it with the onions and garlic for about 1 minute.
6. Combine Sauce: In a bowl, mix the cream of chicken soup with chicken broth until well combined. Pour this over the rice in the skillet.
7. Nestle Chicken: Return the seared chicken thighs to the skillet, placing them on top of the rice mixture.
8. Bake: Cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and cooked through.
9. Rest: Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for about 5 minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to meld.
10. Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped parsley for a pop of color and added flavor before serving.

Following these steps will ensure that you create a delightful dish that embodies the comforting essence of the Best Smothered Chicken and Rice.