1-First step: prep the slow cooker and season the chicken Coat a 6-quart slow cooker with nonstick spray so the chicken and sauce do not stick during cooking. Then season the 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts on both sides with 1/2 teaspoon coarse salt, 1/4 teaspoon pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder. After seasoning, lightly dredge each chicken breast in 1/4 cup all-purpose flour. Shake off any extra flour so the coating stays thin. This light dusting helps the chicken brown in the pan and adds just a little body to the sauce later.

2-Second step: brown the chicken Melt 1 tablespoon of the unsalted butter in a large nonstick pan over medium-high heat. Once the butter is hot, place the chicken breasts in the pan and cook for about 3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown on the outside. This step is worth the extra few minutes because it adds a deeper flavor and gives the chicken a beautiful color. It also helps create a more appetizing texture after the long, gentle cook in the slow cooker. Browning the chicken first is the secret to getting that rich, homemade taste instead of a flat slow cooker chicken dinner.

3-Third step: build the lemon Italian sauce Transfer the browned chicken breasts to the prepared slow cooker. Sprinkle 1 packet of Italian dressing seasoning mix evenly over each piece so every bite gets that familiar herb-forward flavor. Next, pour 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice and 3/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth over the chicken. The lemon adds brightness while the broth keeps the dish savory and moist. Place the remaining butter slices on top of the chicken so they melt slowly as the dish cooks. If you enjoy citrus-forward meals, you may also like the bright flavor in this guide to lemon benefits, which explains why fresh lemon is such a popular ingredient in cooking and wellness.

4-Fourth step: slow cook until tender Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 hours, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. That temperature matters because it means the chicken is safely cooked while still staying juicy. Try not to overcook it. Even in a slow cooker, chicken breasts can dry out if left too long. If your slow cooker runs hot, check the chicken a little early near the end of the cooking time.

5-Final step: slice, shred, and serve When the chicken is done, slice it or shred it with two forks. Spoon some of the lemon broth from the slow cooker over the top before serving. The sauce is simple, but it adds a lot of moisture and flavor to the finished plate. Serve Slow Cooker Italian Lemon Chicken with rice and vegetables for a balanced dinner. It also works nicely with pasta, roasted potatoes, or a simple green salad if you want a different side.