Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice with Savory Garlic Cream Sauce

Ingredients

• 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 pounds)
• 1 cup rice, uncooked
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream (or substitute with half-and-half or a non-dairy product)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Parsley (fresh or dried, for garnish)