In large saucepan, melt butter; sauté onion until tender.
Blend in flour; gradually add broth.
Cook, stirring constantly, until mixture comes to a boil; boil and stir 1 minute.
Stir in rice, carrots, ham (or shredded chicken), almonds and salt; simmer about 5 minutes.
Blend in half-and-half and sherry; heat to serving temperature.
Garnish with snipped parsley or chives.
