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Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey 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.

Ingredients

Scale

Turkey

  • 1 boneless turkey breast (34 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