Preheat the oven to 375°F if baking the dish.
Pat the chicken dry and season with 1 teaspoon salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
Sear the chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden, then remove it from the skillet.
Add onion to the same skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.
Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Stir in rinsed rice and toast for 1–2 minutes.
Pour in chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
Stir in peas and carrots, remaining ½ teaspoon salt, and butter if using.
Place the chicken on top of the rice. Cover tightly with a lid or foil.
Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the chicken reaches 165°F internally.
Rest covered for 5–10 minutes. Fluff the rice, garnish with parsley and lemon juice if desired, and serve warm.