Looking for a new way to wow your holiday table or Sunday dinner? The Cranberry-Orange Glazed Turkey Breast is a dazzling main dish that combines juicy, tender turkey with a sweet-tart glaze bursting with fresh citrus and cranberries. This recipe walks the perfect line between festive and fuss-free, making it just as suitable for a small Thanksgiving or a crowd-pleasing weeknight meal. Every bite is loaded with seasonal flavor, a glossy finish, and irresistible aroma—you’ll find yourself coming back for seconds and planning when you’ll make it again!
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about this Cranberry-Orange Glazed Turkey Breast is how easy the ingredient list is, yet every component does heavy lifting when it comes to flavor and color. Each ingredient brings something special, whether it’s richness, tang, fragrance, or a pop of brightness.
- Boneless turkey breast: Super juicy and quicker to cook than a whole bird, this is the centerpiece of your meal.
- Fresh cranberries: The real secret to a vibrant glaze that’s both tart and eye-catching.
- Orange juice (fresh squeezed): This brings a natural sweetness and citrus zing that pairs perfectly with turkey and cranberries.
- Orange zest: Don’t skip the zest—it’s the brightest way to coax out bold citrus flavor.
- Honey or maple syrup: For just the right amount of sticky-sweetness and beautiful caramelization in the glaze.
- Chicken broth: Keeps the turkey breast moist and adds savory depth to every bite.
- Dijon mustard: A must for that subtle, tangy bite in the final glaze.
- Garlic cloves (minced): Adds savory backbone and that mouthwatering aroma to both turkey and glaze.
- Rosemary (fresh or dried): Lends an earthy, herbal note that ties the flavors together.
- Salt and pepper: The simplest way to bring out every other ingredient’s best qualities.
- Olive oil or melted butter: For brushing the turkey so it roasts up golden, tender, and flavorful.
How to Make Cranberry-Orange Glazed Turkey Breast
Step 1: Prepare the Turkey Breast
Begin by patting your turkey breast completely dry with paper towels, then season it generously with salt, pepper, and a light brush of olive oil or melted butter. This simple step is your foundation for succulent, flavorful meat and ensures the beautiful golden brown crust you want.
Step 2: Make the Cranberry-Orange Glaze
In a saucepan, combine fresh cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, honey (or maple syrup), Dijon mustard, rosemary, and minced garlic. Let the mixture simmer on medium heat until the cranberries burst and the sauce starts to thicken, about 10-12 minutes. The transformation is magical: tart berries, tangy juice, and aromatic herbs blend into a glossy, fragrant glaze.
Step 3: Roast the Turkey
Place the seasoned turkey breast in a roasting pan and pour some chicken broth around it to keep things juicy while roasting. Brush about half of the cranberry-orange glaze over the turkey, saving the rest for later. Roast at 350°F (175°C), basting occasionally, until the internal temperature hits 160°F. This method guarantees both moisture and flavor in every bite.
Step 4: Glaze and Rest the Turkey
In the last 10 minutes of roasting, brush the remaining cranberry-orange glaze liberally over the turkey breast for a sticky, lacquered finish. Once done, let the turkey rest, tented with foil, for at least 10 minutes. This crucial step locks in juices for ultra-tender slices.
Step 5: Slice and Serve
After resting, carve the Cranberry-Orange Glazed Turkey Breast into thick, juicy slices. Spoon a little extra glaze over the top and admire that glossy, jewel-toned finish. Your guests will be hooked from the very first slice.
How to Serve Cranberry-Orange Glazed Turkey Breast
Garnishes
Embrace the colorful, festive spirit of this dish by garnishing with extra fresh cranberries, orange slices, and a sprinkle of chopped fresh rosemary. Not only does this make your Cranberry-Orange Glazed Turkey Breast pop visually, but the aromatics set the scene for a truly special meal.
Side Dishes
This turkey breast shines next to a heap of creamy mashed potatoes, roasted sweet potatoes, or even a wild rice pilaf. For veggies, try honey-glazed carrots, sautéed green beans, or roasted Brussels sprouts. The sweet-tart glaze is heaven with earthy and starchy sides!
Creative Ways to Present
Take presentation up a notch by fanning turkey slices over a platter with extra glaze drizzled over the top. For mini celebrations, serve atop toasted brioche as an open-faced sandwich, or toss leftovers into a vibrant fall salad with arugula, nuts, and goat cheese for a next-day meal that tastes brand new.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store Cranberry-Orange Glazed Turkey Breast leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The glaze helps keep the turkey breast moist, and the flavors even deepen as they meld.
Freezing
Wrap any fully cooled turkey slices tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or store in a freezer-safe bag. For best quality, use frozen leftovers within 2 to 3 months—just remember to freeze any extra glaze separately for easy reheating!
Reheating
To reheat, place turkey slices in a baking dish with a splash of chicken broth and cover tightly with foil. Warm at 300°F until heated through, then spoon reserved glaze on top. The moist heat helps preserve that just-roasted taste and tenderness.
FAQs
Can I use bone-in turkey breast instead of boneless?
Absolutely! Just adjust the roasting time: bone-in pieces take a bit longer to cook, but the overall flavor will be just as delicious. Always check that the internal temperature hits 160°F for safe, juicy results.
What if I can’t find fresh cranberries?
Frozen cranberries work perfectly well in this recipe—no need to thaw. In a pinch, you might also use a good-quality cranberry sauce, but you’ll want to adjust the sweetness to balance the fresh orange juice.
Can I make the cranberry-orange glaze in advance?
Yes, the glaze can be made up to 3 days ahead. Store it in the fridge and gently rewarm before using so you can easily brush it on the turkey during roasting.
Do I need to marinate the turkey breast?
It’s not required, but a quick dry brine (rubbing the turkey with salt and letting it sit overnight, uncovered in the fridge) can intensify the flavor and make the turkey even juicier. Just be sure to rinse off any excess salt before cooking.
Can I double this recipe for a larger gathering?
Definitely! Just scale all ingredients accordingly, and if you’re roasting two turkey breasts, ensure they aren’t overcrowded in the pan. Watch the roasting time closely as larger cuts take longer, but the results will be every bit as stunning.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a show-stopping main dish that’s both easy and crowd-pleasing, you truly can’t go wrong with this Cranberry-Orange Glazed Turkey Breast. The flavors, color, and aroma make every meal feel like a celebration. Trust me—once you’ve tried it, you’ll look for excuses to bring this vibrant centerpiece back to your table all year round!
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Cranberry-Orange Glazed Turkey Breast Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Cranberry-Orange Glazed Turkey Breast recipe is a delightful twist on the classic roasted turkey. The combination of tangy cranberries and zesty orange creates a flavorful glaze that perfectly complements the tender, juicy turkey. This dish is sure to impress your guests and add a festive touch to any holiday meal.
Ingredients
Turkey:
- 1 boneless turkey breast, about 2-3 pounds
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Cranberry-Orange Glaze:
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup honey
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the turkey: Season the turkey breast with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the turkey breast on all sides until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Make the glaze: In a saucepan, combine the cranberries, orange juice, honey, orange zest, and balsamic vinegar. Cook over medium heat until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes.
- Glaze the turkey: Brush the cranberry-orange glaze over the seared turkey breast, reserving some glaze for basting.
- Bake: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, basting the turkey with the glaze every 10 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and slice: Remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with any remaining glaze drizzled on top.
Notes
- For a crispy skin, you can broil the turkey breast for a few minutes after baking.
- This glaze also works well with whole roasted turkey or chicken.
- Feel free to adjust the sweetness of the glaze to suit your taste preferences.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
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