Chicken-and-Wild Rice Skillet Casserole

INGREDIENTS

1 1/4 tsp

kosher salt, divided

1 6 ounce container

uncooked wild rice

3 tbsp

butter

1/3 cup

all-purpose flour

1 cup

milk

2 1/2 cups

chicken broth

1 1/2 tsp

dry mustard

3/4 tsp

freshly ground black pepper, divided

1/2 cup

finely chopped country ham or bacon

2 tbsp

olive oil, divided

1 cup

chopped yellow onion

large carrot, finely chopped

8 oz

assorted fresh mushrooms, chopped

garlic cloves, finely chopped

2 tbsp

dry sherry or white wine

skinned and boned chicken breasts (about 1 1/4 lb.)

Garnishes: fresh flat-leaf parsley, sliced almonds