Perfect Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast

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I absolutely love serving this Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast during the holidays or for any special occasion where comfort food needs a little elegant flair. The juicy turkey breast pairs so beautifully with the sweet-tart cranberry glaze and the brightness of orange, making each bite something to savor. It’s one of those recipes that feels festive yet surprisingly easy to prepare.

The first time I made this dish, I was looking for a way to bring some new life to my usual roast turkey. The citrus and cranberry combination offered just the right contrast to the savory richness of the meat. With its vibrant colors and fragrant aroma, this recipe has quickly become a centerpiece-worthy favorite in my kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast

This dish isn’t just stunning on the table—it’s packed with bold, seasonal flavor and has the power to impress with minimal effort. Whether you’re hosting a Thanksgiving dinner or planning a cozy winter meal, it offers:

• A tender, juicy turkey breast every time
• A glossy, sweet-tangy glaze that doubles as a sauce
• Simple prep with no marinating or brining required
• A festive touch perfect for holidays or Sunday dinners

What Kind of Turkey Breast Should I Use?

I recommend using a boneless, skin-on turkey breast for this recipe. It cooks evenly, slices beautifully, and stays moist under the glaze. If you’re working with a bone-in breast, that works too—just adjust the cooking time accordingly. Skin-on is preferred because it helps lock in moisture and gives that gorgeous golden finish once glazed.

Options for Substitutions

You can easily customize this recipe without losing its charm. Here are some smart swaps:

• Cranberries: Fresh or frozen both work. If using dried cranberries, soak them first.
• Orange juice: Fresh-squeezed gives the best flavor, but bottled works in a pinch.
• Maple syrup: Honey or brown sugar can be used instead, though maple gives a rich depth.
• Turkey breast: Chicken breasts can be used for a smaller meal or weeknight dinner.
• Thyme sprigs: Rosemary or sage adds an earthier profile if you want to mix things up.

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Ingredients for this Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast

• Boneless, skin-on turkey breast: The star of the dish, providing a tender and juicy base that absorbs the glaze beautifully.
• Fresh cranberries: These add a burst of tartness and vibrant color, creating the classic holiday flavor profile.
• Orange juice and zest: Brings brightness and citrusy depth to the glaze while complementing the turkey’s richness.
• Maple syrup: Adds sweetness and a subtle earthiness to balance the tart cranberries.
• Dijon mustard: Offers a slight tang and richness, enhancing the complexity of the glaze.
• Garlic: Infuses the glaze with aromatic warmth.
• Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing the flavors.
• Olive oil or butter: Used to coat and roast the turkey, helping achieve that golden, crispy skin.
• Fresh thyme sprigs: Used for both cooking and garnishing, providing an herbal, festive note.

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the turkey breast on a roasting rack in a shallow pan. Pat it dry with paper towels to ensure the skin roasts to a beautiful golden finish.

Step 2: Make the Cranberry Orange Glaze

In a small saucepan, combine fresh cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Simmer over medium heat until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens into a glossy glaze, about 10-15 minutes. Set aside half the glaze for serving.

Step 3: Season the Turkey Breast

Rub the turkey breast all over with olive oil or melted butter. Season generously with salt and pepper. For added flavor, you can tuck a few thyme sprigs under the skin or place them on top.

Step 4: Roast and Baste

Place the seasoned turkey in the oven and roast uncovered for about 45-60 minutes, depending on the size. After the first 30 minutes, begin brushing the turkey with the cranberry orange glaze every 10 minutes, allowing it to caramelize and build layers of flavor.

Step 5: Check for Doneness

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the thickest part of the turkey breast reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps the meat moist.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Slice the turkey and arrange it on a platter. Spoon the reserved glaze over the top and garnish with fresh thyme and orange slices. Serve warm and enjoy the perfect blend of savory, sweet, and tangy goodness.

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How Long to Prepare the Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast

Prep Time

Preparing the ingredients takes around 20 minutes. This includes making the glaze, seasoning the turkey, and setting everything up for roasting. If you’re using fresh oranges and cranberries, give yourself a few extra minutes for zesting and juicing.

Cook Time

The actual roasting takes 45 to 60 minutes, depending on the weight and thickness of your turkey breast. A 2-3 pound boneless turkey breast typically cooks in under an hour at 375°F. Always use a thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F.

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Tips for Perfect Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast

• Dry the turkey well before roasting to ensure crispier skin.
• Don’t skip the resting time after roasting—this keeps the turkey juicy.
• Use fresh orange zest for maximum citrus flavor.
• Glaze in layers: brush it on multiple times while roasting to create that sticky, shiny coating.
• Reserve half the glaze before basting, so you have a clean portion to drizzle when serving.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking: This can dry out the breast. Use a meat thermometer for best results.
• Skipping the glaze prep: Simmering the cranberries and orange together intensifies their flavor and thickens the glaze.
• Applying glaze too early: Doing this before the turkey starts to roast can cause burning. Wait until the halfway point.
• Underseasoning: The turkey needs a generous amount of salt to bring out its full flavor.
• Neglecting the resting step: Cutting too early leads to dry slices.

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What to Serve With Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast?

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creamy and comforting, the mellow flavor pairs beautifully with the tangy glaze.

2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Add a bit of crunch and a hint of bitterness to contrast the sweet glaze.

3. Wild Rice Pilaf

Earthy and nutty, this side brings balance to the brightness of the orange and cranberry.

4. Honey Glazed Carrots

A sweet companion that doesn’t compete but complements the main dish.

5. Homemade Dinner Rolls

Perfect for mopping up every last bit of glaze and turkey juices.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigeration

Once the turkey has cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to 4 days.

Freezing

For longer storage, you can freeze the sliced turkey and glaze separately for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in freezer-safe bags or containers.

Reheating

Reheat in the oven at 300°F covered with foil until warmed through. For the glaze, reheat in a saucepan or microwave, stirring frequently to prevent separation.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (based on 6 servings):

• Calories: 280
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 380mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

What if I only have frozen cranberries?

Frozen cranberries work just as well. No need to thaw them—just add a few extra minutes to the glaze simmering time.

Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

Absolutely! The glaze can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before using.

What’s the best way to keep the turkey from drying out?

Use a meat thermometer and don’t overcook. Letting it rest before slicing also helps retain moisture.

Can I cook this in a slow cooker?

You can, though you won’t get the same caramelized glaze effect. Broil it for a few minutes after slow cooking to finish.

What wine pairs best with this dish?

Try a fruity Pinot Noir or a crisp Chardonnay to complement the sweet and savory flavors.

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Conclusion

The Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast is a festive, flavorful centerpiece that delivers both ease and elegance. With its balance of savory meat and sweet-tart glaze, it’s sure to become a seasonal favorite at your table. Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast or a casual Sunday dinner, this recipe brings warmth, color, and incredible taste to any occasion.

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