Slow Cooker Italian Lemon Chicken

This Slow Cooker Italian Lemon Chicken recipe is perfect for those busy nights when you want something comforting and flavorful without spending hours in the kitchen. Tender chicken breasts slowly cook in a bright lemon broth infused with zesty Italian seasonings, making it an easy, satisfying meal that pairs wonderfully with rice or your favorite vegetables.

I first made this when I was craving a light but hearty chicken dish and now it’s a regular in our weeknight rotation because it’s so fussfree and satisfying

Ingredients

• Chicken breasts: Four boneless skinless chicken breasts about 6 ounces each for even cooking and tenderness
• Coarse salt: to season and enhance flavors choose a quality sea salt if you can
• Ground black pepper: offers mild heat and depth to the chicken
• Garlic powder: for a gentle garlicky background note opt for fresh garlic powder for best aroma
• Allpurpose flour: light coating to create a subtle crust which helps lock in juices and for a slight thickening when cooked
• Unsalted butter: sliced to layer richness and to control salt levels
• Good Seasons Italian Dressing Seasoning Mix: One packet delivers a blend of herbs and spices essential to the recipe for authentic Italian taste
• Fresh lemon juice: for brightness and acidity choose fresh lemons not bottled for vibrant flavor
• Lowsodium chicken broth: balances the citrus with savory depth and keeps the chicken moist

Instructions

Prepare slow cooker:

Coat a 6quart slow cooker with nonstick spray

Season and dredge chicken:

Season the chicken breasts on both sides with coarse salt pepper and garlic powder then dredge lightly in allpurpose flour shaking off any excess flour for a thin coating that crisps slightly while cooking

Brown the chicken:

Melt one tablespoon of butter in a large nonstick skillet over mediumhigh heat swirl the pan so the surface is coated and once the butter bubbles carefully add the chicken breasts cook for three minutes on each side until they develop a golden brown crust this browning builds a rich flavor base

Transfer to slow cooker:

Transfer the browned chicken to the slow cooker arranging the breasts evenly

Season with Italian mix:

Sprinkle the Italian dressing seasoning mix evenly across each chicken breast to ensure every bite has that herbaceous punch

Add liquids and butter:

Slowly pour over the fresh lemon juice followed by the lowsodium chicken broth then evenly scatter the remaining sliced butter on top which melts into the broth and adds a silky finish

Cook:

Cover and cook on low for four hours or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit taking care not to overcook as that will dry it out

Finish and serve:

Once done gently slice or shred the chicken and serve it over cooked white rice and your favorite roasted vegetables

Finish with broth:

Drizzle some of the luscious lemon broth from the slow cooker over the top to make every bite juicy and flavorful

The lemon juice is my favorite part because it brightens and lifts the entire dish making it feel fresh and light despite its richness. I fondly remember the first time I served this to friends during a chilly weeknight and everyone kept going back for seconds quoting how tender and flavorful the chicken was.

Storage Tips

Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days to enjoy within the week This dish also freezes great in portioned containers for up to three months just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently

Ingredient Substitutions

Chicken thighs can be used for a slightly juicier and more forgiving alternative though cooking times may vary If you do not have Italian seasoning mix blend dried basil oregano parsley and thyme as a quick swap Butter can be replaced with olive oil if you prefer a lighter fat or dairyfree option

Serving Suggestions

Serve over fluffy white rice or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the lemon broth Add a side of steamed green beans or roasted asparagus for some fresh green crunch Top with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a pretty finishing touch and a burst of herbal flavor

A bright easy slow cooker dinner that yields tender flavorful chicken. Perfect for weeknight meal prep and family dinners.

Your Recipe Questions Answered

→ What cut of chicken works best for this dish?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal as they cook evenly and absorb the lemon broth flavors well.

→ Can I use fresh Italian herbs instead of seasoning mix?

Yes, a combination of dried oregano, basil, and parsley can replace the seasoning mix for a fresh herby flavor.

→ How can I prevent the chicken from drying out?

Slow cooking on low heat and monitoring the cooking time helps keep the chicken tender and juicy.

→ What side dishes complement the citrus chicken?

Steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or sautéed greens pair wonderfully with the lemon-infused chicken.

→ Is it necessary to brown the chicken before slow cooking?

Browning adds a richer flavor and appealing color but can be skipped for convenience if preferred.