Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole: Comfort Food Bliss!

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup (200g) long-grain white rice, uncooked
• 2 cups (475ml) chicken broth, low sodium
• 1/2 cup (120ml) dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc, optional)
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup (115g) sliced cremini mushrooms
• 4 tablespoons (57g) unsalted butter
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups (475ml) milk, whole or 2%
• 1/2 cup (113g) sour cream or crème fraîche
• 1/4 cup (6g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup (6g) chopped fresh parsley
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup (50g) Panko bread crumbs
• 2 tablespoons melted butter