Name: Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 75 min
Total time: 90 min
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless turkey breast ((2-3 pounds)); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries; 1/2 cup orange juice ((freshly squeezed preferred)); 1/4 cup brown sugar ((packed)); 2 tablespoons honey; 1 tablespoon orange zest; 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon; Pinch ground cloves ((optional, for warmer flavor)); 1 tablespoon cornstarch ((mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water))

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Today, we’re diving into the delightful world of festive flavors with an incredible Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast Recipe. This recipe is a show-stopping dish that combines the succulence of perfectly roasted turkey breast with a vibrant, sweet, and tart glaze, making it ideal for holiday gatherings, special occasion dinners, or simply elevating your weeknight meal. It’s designed to be approachable for home cooks while delivering restaurant-quality results, ensuring your table is graced with a meal that’s both impressive and incredibly delicious.

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Key Ingredients for Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast Recipe

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this magnificent Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast:

For the Turkey Breast:
- 1 (2-3 pound) boneless, skinless turkey breast (or bone-in, skin-on for extra flavor, adjust cooking time)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Cranberry Orange Glaze:
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1/2 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed preferred)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of ground cloves (optional, for warmer flavor)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water, for thickening)

How to Make Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast Recipe

This Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast recipe offers an incredibly easy, delicious, and satisfying experience. Its simplicity belies the complex, sweet, and tart flavors, delivering juicy turkey every time. The standout element is undoubtedly the vibrant cranberry-orange glaze, which caramelizes beautifully and adds a gorgeous sheen. Get ready to impress with minimal effort! This recipe will take approximately 15 minutes of prep time and 60-75 minutes of cook time.

● Step-by-Step Instructions:

Preheat Oven & Prepare Turkey: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the turkey breast dry thoroughly with paper towels. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, dried thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Rub this mixture evenly over all surfaces of the turkey breast.
Sear the Turkey (Optional, but Recommended): Heat a large oven-safe skillet (like cast iron) over medium-high heat. Add a touch more olive oil if needed. Once hot, sear the turkey breast for 2-3 minutes per side until beautifully golden brown. This step helps lock in juices and build flavor.
Roast the Turkey: Transfer the skillet with the seared turkey breast to the preheated oven. If you skipped searing, place the seasoned turkey breast directly into a roasting pan. Roast for 45-60 minutes, or until an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) is reached in the thickest part of the breast.
Prepare the Cranberry Orange Glaze: While the turkey roasts, combine fresh or frozen cranberries, orange juice, brown sugar, honey, orange zest, ground cinnamon, and ground cloves (if using) in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens slightly.
Thicken the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and cold water until smooth. Pour this cornstarch slurry into the simmering cranberry mixture, stirring constantly. Continue to cook for 1-2 minutes, until the glaze thickens to your desired consistency. Remove from heat.
Glaze the Turkey: Once the turkey reaches 160°F (71°C), remove it from the oven. Brush a generous amount of the cranberry orange glaze over the entire surface of the turkey breast.
Return to Oven & Finish Roasting: Return the glazed turkey breast to the oven for another 10-15 minutes, basting with more glaze every 5 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the glaze is beautifully caramelized and sticky.
Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the turkey breast from the oven and transfer it to a cutting board. Tent loosely with foil and let it rest for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing. This resting period is crucial for juicy, tender turkey. Slice against the grain and serve with any remaining glaze.

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast Recipe

You’ll absolutely adore this Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast Recipe because it flawlessly blends festive elegance with effortless cooking, making it the main highlight of any meal without the stress. The shimmering, ruby-red glaze, bursting with the sweet-tart kiss of cranberries and bright zest of orange, transforms a simple turkey breast into something truly special.

Beyond its delectable taste, making this at home offers significant cost-saving benefits compared to purchasing pre-made or restaurant versions, allowing you to enjoy gourmet flavors on a budget. The unique combination of the herb-rubbed, juicy turkey and the sweet, tangy, and slightly spiced glaze creates an unforgettable flavor profile that’s far more exciting than a traditional roasted turkey. If you loved the simplicity of our Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken, you’ll find this turkey breast equally satisfying but with a bolder, fruitier twist. Try it at home and taste the difference!

What to Serve Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast With

This Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, enhancing its festive appeal.

Classic Mashed Potatoes: Their creamy texture and mild flavor are perfect for soaking up the delicious glaze.
Green Bean Almondine: A simple, elegant side that adds a lovely crunch and fresh green color.
Roasted Asparagus: Lightly roasted asparagus with a hint of lemon complements the bright flavors of the dish.
Wild Rice Pilaf: Offers a nutty, earthy counterpoint and adds substance to the meal.
Sweet Potato Casserole: For a truly indulgent holiday meal, the sweetness of the casserole pairs wonderfully with the tart glaze.
Cranberry Sauce (extra!): If you can’t get enough of the cranberry flavor, a small side dish of traditional cranberry sauce is a delightful addition.
Beverage Pairings: A dry white wine like Pinot Grigio or a light-bodied red such as Pinot Noir would be excellent choices. For non-alcoholic options, sparkling cider or an orange-infused iced tea would be refreshing.

Top Tips for Perfecting Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast Recipe

Choose the Right Turkey Breast: Opt for a boneless, skinless turkey breast for easier slicing and faster cooking. If using a bone-in, skin-on breast, increase cooking time slightly and enjoy the extra flavor from the bone and crispy skin.
Don’t Skip the Dry Pat: Thoroughly patting the turkey breast dry with paper towels before seasoning is crucial. This helps the seasoning adhere better and promotes a beautifully browned, crispy exterior.
Searing for Flavor: While optional, searing the turkey breast in an oven-safe skillet before roasting creates a flavorful crust and helps lock in moisture. If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, sear in a regular pan and then transfer to a roasting dish.
Use a Meat Thermometer: This is the ultimate tool for perfectly cooked turkey. Insert it into the thickest part of the breast, avoiding the bone. Cook until 160°F (71°C) before glazing, and 165°F (74°C) after glazing and resting. Overcooked turkey is dry turkey!
Rest the Turkey: After roasting, always let the turkey breast rest for at least 10-15 minutes under foil. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and juicy slice.
Fresh vs. Frozen Cranberries: Both work well for the glaze. If using frozen, there’s no need to thaw them first; just adjust simmering time slightly until they burst.
Adjust Glaze Sweetness: Taste the glaze mixture before thickening. If you prefer it sweeter, add a little more brown sugar or honey. For more tartness, a squeeze of fresh orange juice can brighten it up.
Prevent Glaze Burning: When basting, keep an eye on the glaze. If it starts to darken too quickly, you can tent the turkey loosely with foil for the last few minutes of roasting.

Storing and Reheating Tips

To maintain the quality and safety of your Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast, proper storage is essential. Once cooled, slice any remaining turkey breast and transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This keeps the turkey moist and prevents it from drying out.

To reheat, the best method to preserve moisture is gently warming. For single servings, place slices on a microwave-safe plate with a tablespoon of turkey or chicken broth, cover loosely, and microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through. For larger quantities, arrange slices in a baking dish with a splash of broth, cover tightly with foil, and reheat in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until warmed thoroughly. Avoid high heat as it can dry out the turkey. This dish freezes well for future meals too; store in an airtight, freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Final Thoughts

This Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast Recipe is truly a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something extraordinary. The harmonious blend of savory herbs, juicy turkey, and that irresistible sweet-tart glaze ensures a dish that’s not only delicious but also visually stunning. It’s perfect for adding a touch of elegance to any occasion, big or small. Enjoy the process of bringing this festive centerpiece to life in your own kitchen!

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Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast Recipe Faqs

Can I use a bone-in turkey breast?
Yes, you can! A bone-in, skin-on turkey breast will add more flavor. Just be aware that it might take slightly longer to cook, so rely on your meat thermometer for accurate doneness. The cooking time will vary depending on the size and whether it’s bone-in or boneless.
What if I don’t have fresh cranberries?
Frozen cranberries work perfectly fine for the glaze and do not need to be thawed before use. The cooking time for the glaze will remain approximately the same.
Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
Absolutely! The cranberry orange glaze can be made up to 2-3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Gently reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or orange juice if needed to loosen it, before glazing the turkey.
How do I prevent the glaze from burning?
Keep an eye on the turkey during the final glazing steps. If you notice the glaze browning too quickly, you can lightly tent the turkey breast with aluminum foil. Using a lower oven temperature for the final glazing can also help prevent burning.
Is there a substitute for brown sugar in the glaze?
Maple syrup or granulated sugar can be used as substitutes for brown sugar, though brown sugar adds a deeper, more caramel-like note to the glaze. Adjust the amount to your taste preference.
My glaze isn’t thickening. What can I do?
Ensure your cornstarch slurry is well-mixed with cold water before adding it to the simmering glaze. If it still needs to be thicker, mix a small additional amount of cornstarch with cold water and slowly stir it into the glaze, simmering for another minute or two until desired consistency is reached.

Isabella