Juicy Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast

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If you’re looking for a show-stopping dish that combines sweetness with savory flavors, look no further than this juicy Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast. Perfect for the holidays, family dinners, or any special occasion, this dish offers the ideal balance of tangy cranberries and zesty oranges, all while keeping things simple and healthier than roasting a whole turkey.

Whether you’re preparing for a festive gathering or a cozy dinner, this Juicy Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast recipe guarantees a flavorful meal that everyone will love. The combination of succulent turkey with the sweet and tart cranberry-orange glaze will elevate your next dinner to a whole new level!

Why This Juicy Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast is a Must-Try

This recipe is packed with flavor while being quicker and easier than preparing a whole turkey. Here’s why it’s perfect for your next meal:

Quick and Easy: Cooking a turkey breast takes far less time than a whole turkey, making it ideal for smaller gatherings or busy days.
Flavorful and Tangy: The cranberry and orange glaze provides the perfect balance of sweet and tart, complementing the juicy turkey beautifully.

Healthy Option: Turkey breast is a lean source of protein, while cranberries and oranges add vitamins and antioxidants to this dish.
Versatile: This recipe is perfect for holidays, special occasions, or even a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients for Juicy Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast

Here’s what you’ll need for this mouthwatering turkey breast:

• Turkey Breast (bone-in, skin-on): The star of the dish, providing a juicy and tender base.
• Fresh Cranberries: Adds a tart, tangy flavor to the glaze.
• Orange Juice: Provides a zesty sweetness that balances the cranberry’s tartness.
• Honey: Sweetens the glaze and gives it a nice sheen.
• Orange Zest: Enhances the orange flavor in the glaze.
• Garlic (minced): Adds a savory depth to the herb rub.
• Olive Oil: Helps keep the turkey breast moist while roasting.
• Fresh Rosemary and Thyme: These herbs lend a fragrant, earthy aroma to the turkey.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the flavors.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you’re missing an ingredient or have dietary preferences, here are some swaps:

Frozen Cranberries: If you can’t find fresh cranberries, frozen ones work just as well. Simply use them directly without thawing.
Maple Syrup instead of Honey: For a more distinct, slightly woodsy flavor, maple syrup can replace honey in the glaze.

Turmeric or Sage: Swap rosemary or thyme for turmeric or sage if you’re looking for a different flavor profile. These herbs offer a warmer, earthy undertone.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Juicy Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C), preparing it for roasting.
Make the Glaze: In a saucepan, combine cranberries, orange juice, honey, and orange zest. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat, and simmer for 10-15 minutes until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens. Set aside to cool.

Prepare the Turkey: Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper to create a herb rub.
Season the Turkey: Loosen the skin of the turkey breast gently and rub half of the herb mixture under the skin. Rub the remaining mixture over the surface and inside the cavity.
Roast the Turkey: Place the turkey breast in a roasting pan, skin side up. Roast for 20 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part.

Glaze the Turkey: In the last 30 minutes of roasting, brush the turkey every 10 minutes with the cranberry orange glaze to ensure it gets a flavorful coating.
Rest Before Carving: Once the turkey is done, let it rest for 15-20 minutes before carving to preserve its juiciness.

Tips & Tricks

Avoid Overcooking: To keep the turkey moist, use a meat thermometer and remove it once it reaches the desired temperature (165°F or 74°C).

Check Glaze Consistency: The glaze should be thick but pourable. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to thicken up.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For reheating, cover the turkey with foil and heat in a 325°F (165°C) oven.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

This Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast pairs beautifully with side dishes like:

Roasted Vegetables: Root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes complement the turkey’s flavor.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes or garlic mashed cauliflower are great choices to balance the dish’s sweetness.
Wild Rice Pilaf: Adds a bit of texture and complements the savory turkey.

If you want a healthier or more festive touch, serve it with a light green salad or steamed green beans. For those who prefer a spicy twist, consider adding a pinch of chili flakes to the glaze.

Make-Ahead Tips

You can prepare the cranberry-orange glaze up to 3 days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat before using.

Nutritional Benefits of Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast

This dish isn’t just delicious; it’s also packed with nutrients:

Lean Protein: Turkey breast provides a high-quality source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and immune support.
Antioxidants: Cranberries are rich in antioxidants, supporting heart health and providing a boost of vitamin C.
Vitamin C: Both cranberries and oranges are packed with vitamin C, helping support your immune system, especially during the colder months.

Enjoy a healthier, yet indulgent meal with this turkey breast recipe that’s packed with flavors and nutritional benefits!

Conclusion

In conclusion, this Juicy Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast is the perfect dish to bring a fresh twist to your holiday or special occasion meals. The combination of the turkey’s juicy tenderness with the bright, tangy cranberry-orange glaze creates a truly unforgettable experience. Not only is it quick and easy to prepare, but it’s also a healthier alternative to a whole turkey, making it ideal for smaller gatherings or busy family dinners. Whether you’re looking for something festive or just a delicious weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at the table!

FAQ About Juicy Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast

Can I use frozen cranberries for the glaze?

Yes, you can absolutely use frozen cranberries for the glaze. There’s no need to thaw them before cooking; just add them directly to the saucepan as instructed. The flavor will still be vibrant and delicious.

Can I substitute the honey with another sweetener?

If you’re looking for a substitute for honey, maple syrup works beautifully in this recipe. You can also use agave syrup or a sugar substitute if you’re following a low-carb or diabetic-friendly diet. Adjust the sweetness to your preference.

Can I make this Juicy Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast with a turkey tenderloin instead of a whole turkey breast?

Yes, you can! A turkey tenderloin is a great alternative to the bone-in turkey breast, but keep in mind that it will cook faster. You’ll need to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as turkey tenderloin doesn’t require as long to reach the desired internal temperature.

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Juicy Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast

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Author: Anna
Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This Juicy Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast combines the perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors with the succulent tenderness of turkey breast. It’s an easy-to-make dish that’s ideal for smaller gatherings, holidays, or weeknight dinners. The glaze, made from fresh cranberries, orange juice, and zest, provides a bright and flavorful contrast to the savory turkey.

Ingredients

Scale

1 (3-4 lb) turkey breast, bone-in and skin-on
2 cups fresh cranberries
1 cup orange juice
1/2 cup honey
2 tablespoons orange zest
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a small saucepan, combine cranberries, orange juice, honey, and orange zest. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes until cranberries burst and the mixture thickens. Set aside to cool.
Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Gently loosen the skin of the turkey breast and rub half of the herb mixture under the skin. Rub the remaining mixture over the skin and inside the cavity.

Place the turkey breast in a roasting pan, skin side up.
Roast for 20 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part.
During the last 30 minutes of cooking, brush the turkey breast with the cranberry orange glaze every 10 minutes.

Once done, remove from the oven and let it rest for 15-20 minutes before carving.

Notes

If you don’t have fresh cranberries, you can use frozen cranberries without thawing them.
Feel free to substitute honey with maple syrup for a different flavor profile.

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for the best texture.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Roasting
Cuisine: American