Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast

If you’re searching for a magnificent centerpiece that combines festive flair with mouthwatering flavor, this recipe featuring a Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast is your go-to solution. This succulent turkey breast dressed with a luscious cranberry orange glaze offers the perfect harmony of tangy, sweet, and herbal notes, creating a dish that’s vibrant in color and rich in taste. The bone-in and skin-on aspect ensures juiciness and incredible flavor, making it a showstopper whether it’s a holiday feast or a special weekend dinner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are not just simple but essential—they each bring something special to the dish, from bright citrus zing to herbaceous warmth, balanced by the rich natural flavor of the turkey itself.

• 1 (3-4 lb) turkey breast, bone-in and skin-on: The star of the dish, critical for moisture and flavor retention as the bone and skin lock in juices.
• 2 cups fresh cranberries: Add a tart burst and beautiful ruby red color to the glaze.
• 1 cup orange juice: Offers bright citrus depth that pairs wonderfully with cranberries.
• 1/2 cup honey: Sweetens the glaze naturally, balancing the tartness perfectly.
• 2 tablespoons orange zest: Intensifies the orange flavor and adds appealing aroma.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Provides savory undertones that enhance the herb rub.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps the herbs adhere and adds richness to the turkey skin.
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped: Brings an earthy, pine-like fragrance that complements poultry beautifully.
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves: Lends a subtle herbaceous note that melds all flavors together.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and elevating every ingredient’s natural flavor.

How to Make Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast

Step 1: Prepare the Cranberry Orange Glaze

Begin by combining fresh cranberries, orange juice, honey, and orange zest in a small saucepan. Heat this mixture until it reaches a boil, then reduce to a simmer. You’ll want to cook it for about 10-15 minutes to allow the cranberries to burst and the glaze to thicken into a syrupy consistency. Once thickened, set it aside to cool. This glaze is the heart of the recipe, infusing each slice of the turkey with a beautiful balance of sweet and tart flavors.

Step 2: Season the Turkey Breast

Pat your Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast dry with paper towels—this step is crucial for getting that nice, crispy skin during roasting. Meanwhile, mix olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Carefully loosen the skin of the turkey without tearing it and rub half of this fragrant herb mixture under the skin for deep seasoning. Then, spread the remaining mixture over the top of the skin and inside the cavity to fully infuse the meat with aromatic flavors.

Step 3: Roast the Turkey Breast

Place your seasoned turkey breast in a roasting pan, skin side up. Roast in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for around 20 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C) when measured at the thickest part. This ensures the meat is cooked perfectly through without drying out. As it roasts, brush the turkey with the cranberry orange glaze every 10 minutes during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This repeated glazing step caramelizes the glaze beautifully, creating a shiny, flavorful crust.

Step 4: Rest and Carve

Once the internal temperature target is reached, remove the turkey breast from the oven and allow it to rest for 15-20 minutes. Resting is absolutely key—it lets the juices redistribute throughout the meat, keeping it moist and tender. After resting, carve the turkey, serving slices topped with that irresistible cranberry orange glaze.

How to Serve Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary tucked around your carved slices instantly add a burst of green vibrancy that complements the rich colors of the glaze. You can also sprinkle some finely chopped orange zest on top for an extra fragrant touch and a pop of color that makes the plate come alive.

Side Dishes

This glazed turkey breast pairs wonders with classic roasted root vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a crisp, bright salad to cut through the richness. Cranberry sauce on the side echoes the flavors in the glaze for a harmonious palate experience. Even simple bread rolls work beautifully to mop up every bit of glaze left on your plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning presentation, carve the turkey breast into thick, elegant slices and arrange them on a large wooden serving board surrounded by roasted citrus slices and fresh cranberries for a festive look. Or, create individual plates with a swipe of glaze under the slices, topped with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a restaurant-worthy appearance at your dinner table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover turkey breast should be wrapped tightly in foil or stored in an airtight container and refrigerated within two hours of cooking. It will stay delicious and safe to eat for up to 4 days, perfect for quick sandwiches or reheated dinners throughout the week.

Freezing

If you want to save your turkey for longer, wrap slices or the whole cooked breast tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Stored this way, your turkey can stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To keep the turkey moist when reheating, cover it with foil and warm it gently in a 300°F (150°C) oven. Brushing a little extra cranberry orange glaze on the slices before reheating can help restore that fresh-from-the-oven flavor and keep the meat juicy.

FAQs

Can I use a boneless turkey breast instead?

Absolutely, but keep in mind that Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast retains more moisture and flavor due to the bone. Boneless breasts may require closer attention to avoid drying out.

Is the cranberry orange glaze suitable for other meats?

Yes! This glaze is fantastic on chicken breasts, pork tenderloin, or even ham. The sweet-tart flavor profile is very versatile.

How do I know when the turkey is done?

The best way is using a meat thermometer—the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part of the turkey breast.

Can I prepare the herb rub and glaze in advance?

Definitely! Preparing the herb mixture and cranberry orange glaze a day ahead saves time on cooking day and allows the flavors to deepen.

What should I do if the skin doesn’t get crispy?

Make sure the turkey breast is patted dry before seasoning and roasting skin side up without excess liquid. A quick broil at the end for 1-2 minutes can also help crisp the skin if needed.

Final Thoughts

Cooking a Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast with this cranberry orange glaze is a beautiful way to bring joyous color and unforgettable flavor to your table. The process is straightforward and rewarding, perfect for impressing friends and family with minimal fuss. Give it a try—you’ll find it’s a dish you’ll want to revisit for celebrations big and small!

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