Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Recipe

Introduction

This Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey is a festive and flavorful twist on a classic roast. The bright citrus notes and sweet-tart cranberry glaze create a beautiful balance that’s perfect for special occasions or any cozy dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 boneless turkey breast (3-4 lbs)
• 1 cup fresh cranberries
• 2 oranges (zest and juice)
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp fresh thyme (chopped)
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Step 2: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine cranberries, orange juice, brown sugar, garlic powder, thyme, and chicken broth. Stir until the cranberries burst and the mixture begins to thicken.
3. Step 3: Mix cornstarch with water in a small bowl, then stir into the cranberry mixture until the glaze becomes glossy.
4. Step 4: Place the turkey breast in a baking dish; season it with salt and pepper. Drizzle half of the glaze over the turkey.
5. Step 5: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 1 hour. Then remove the foil, pour the remaining glaze on top, and bake uncovered for an additional 30 minutes until the turkey is golden brown.
6. Step 6: Let the turkey rest for 15 minutes before slicing to retain its juices.

Tips & Variations

• For an extra burst of flavor, add a splash of fresh orange zest to the glaze just before serving.
• If fresh cranberries aren’t available, frozen cranberries work well—just thaw slightly before cooking.
• Use fresh thyme leaves rather than dried for a brighter herbal note in the glaze.

Storage

Store leftover turkey and glaze in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to keep the meat tender and moist. The glaze can be reheated separately and poured over the turkey before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a whole turkey instead of a turkey breast?

Yes, you can use a whole turkey, but baking times will be longer. Adjust cooking time according to the weight, and make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety.

Is it possible to make the glaze ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can prepare the cranberry orange glaze a day ahead and refrigerate it. Reheat gently before using it on the turkey to maintain its texture and shine.

Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 93 reviews

This juicy, boneless turkey breast is beautifully glazed with a tangy cranberry orange sauce, combining fresh cranberries, zesty oranges, and a touch of sweetness from brown sugar. Perfectly baked to golden brown and served with a flavorful glaze, this festive dish is an elegant centerpiece for holiday meals or special occasions.

• Author: Nora
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Low Salt

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Turkey

• 1 boneless turkey breast (3–4 lbs)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped

Glaze

• 1 cup fresh cranberries
• Zest and juice of 2 oranges
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the turkey breast evenly.
2. Prepare Glaze: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine fresh cranberries, orange juice with zest, brown sugar, garlic powder, thyme, and chicken broth. Stir the mixture consistently until the cranberries burst and the sauce begins to thicken.
3. Thicken Glaze: In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water until smooth, then pour this slurry into the cranberry mixture. Stir continuously until the glaze becomes glossy and slightly thickened, indicating it is ready.
4. Season Turkey: Place the boneless turkey breast in a baking dish. Season generously with salt and pepper. Drizzle half of the prepared cranberry orange glaze over the turkey to coat it well.
5. Bake Covered: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to retain moisture and bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour, allowing the turkey to cook through gently.
6. Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil carefully, pour the remaining glaze over the turkey breast for a final flavorful layer, and continue baking uncovered for an additional 30 minutes or until the turkey is nicely golden brown and cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
7. Rest and Serve: Let the turkey rest for 15 minutes after baking to allow juices to redistribute. Slice and serve with the remaining warm glaze for an appetizing finish.

Notes

• Ensure the internal temperature of the turkey reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
• You can substitute fresh cranberries with frozen if fresh are unavailable, but do not thaw before cooking.
• For additional flavor, marinate the turkey with garlic powder and thyme an hour before baking.
• Leftover glaze can be served as a sauce alongside the turkey or on other dishes like mashed potatoes.
• Resting the turkey is crucial to keep it moist and tender when slicing.

Keywords: turkey breast, cranberry glaze, orange, baked turkey, holiday recipe, festive main course