Chicken, Mushroom & Wild Rice Hot-dish

Directions

Add water and rice in a small heavy saucepan; bring to a boil.

Cover, reduce heat to maintain a simmer, and cook until tender, 35 to 40 minutes. Drain.

Meanwhile, put chicken in a large skillet or saucepan.

Add lightly salted water to cover and bring to a boil.

Cover, reduce heat and simmer gently until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the middle, 10 to 15 minutes.

Transfer to a clean cutting board and let cool.

Heat oil in a Dutch oven or large high-sided skillet over medium heat.

Add leeks and cook, stirring occasionally, until just starting to brown, 4 to 5 minutes.

Stir in mushrooms and cook, stirring occasionally, until their liquid has been released and has evaporated, 12 to 14 minutes.

Stir in sherry, increase heat to high and cook until most of the liquid has evaporated, 5 to 7 minutes.

Sprinkle the vegetables with flour and stir to coat.

Add milk; bring to a simmer and cook for 1 minute, stirring often.

Add Parmesan, sour cream, parsley, salt and pepper.

Remove from the heat.

Preheat oven to 350°F.

Coat a 9-by-13-inch (or similar 3-quart) baking dish with cooking spray.

Cut the chicken into bite-size pieces.

Spread the rice evenly in an even layer in the prepared baking dish.

Top with the chicken, then green beans.

Pour the sauce over the top and spread evenly.

Sprinkle with almonds.

Bake the casserole until it is bubbling and the almonds are golden brown, about 30 minutes.

Let stand for about 8 minutes before serving.

Serve warm and enjoy!