1-First step: prepare the slow cooker and season the chicken Coat a 6-quart slow cooker with nonstick spray so the chicken does not stick while it cooks. Then pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning cling to the meat and gives you a better sear later. Season both sides of the 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts with 1/2 teaspoon coarse salt, 1/4 teaspoon pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder. Next, lightly dredge the chicken in 1/4 cup all-purpose flour and shake off the excess. The coating should be thin, not heavy, because you want just enough flour to help with browning and sauce texture.

2-Second step: brown the chicken for extra flavor Melt 1 tablespoon of the 5 tablespoons unsalted butter in a large nonstick pan over medium-high heat. Swirl the pan to coat the bottom. Once the butter is bubbly, add the chicken breasts and cook them for about 3 minutes per side until golden brown. This step does not cook the chicken all the way through. It simply builds flavor and gives the outside a nice color. If you are short on time, you may be tempted to skip it, but the browning really helps this Slow Cooker Italian Lemon Chicken taste richer and more finished.

3-Third step: transfer and season in the slow cooker Move the browned chicken breasts to the prepared slow cooker. Sprinkle 1 packet Italian dressing seasoning mix evenly over each breast. Try to cover all the chicken so every bite gets that savory Italian flavor. Next, slowly pour over 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice and 3/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth. Pour gently around the chicken so the seasoning stays mostly on top. Then place the remaining slices of butter evenly over the chicken breasts. As the butter melts, it blends with the broth and lemon to form a simple, flavorful sauce.

4-Fourth step: cook low and slow Put the lid on the slow cooker and cook on low for 4 hours, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. It is important not to overcook the chicken. Slow cooker chicken can dry out if it stays in too long, especially lean chicken breasts. If your slow cooker runs hot, check the chicken a little early. Every appliance is a bit different, so it is always smart to use a meat thermometer. The chicken should be tender, juicy, and easy to slice or shred when it is done.

5-Final step: serve and enjoy When the chicken is cooked through, gently slice or shred it. Spoon it over cooked rice and add your favorite roasted vegetables on the side. Drizzle some of the lemon broth over the top so the rice or vegetables can soak up the flavor. If you want a full family meal, try serving it with roasted broccoli, carrots, zucchini, or green beans. The lemon sauce also tastes great with mashed potatoes or pasta. That bright, buttery broth gives the whole plate a cozy, finished feel.