Juicy Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast Recipe!

Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast is, to me, so much more than just a recipe; it’s a truly special invitation to elevate your dining experience, transforming a classic protein into a show-stopping centerpiece that perfectly captures the essence of festive joy. I love to imagine the gleaming, ruby-red glaze glistening over tender, succulent turkey, filling my kitchen with an irresistible aroma that hints at the delightful flavors to come. Turkey, of course, is deeply rooted in traditions of gathering and gratitude, especially during cherished holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas, and I find it pairs brilliantly with the vibrant combination of cranberries and oranges.

This particular pairing isn’t just delicious; it’s a hallmark of seasonal celebrations, with cranberries offering their signature tartness and oranges providing a bright, zesty counterpoint. I’ve found that people absolutely adore this dish for its incredible balance of flavors: the juicy, perfectly cooked turkey breast provides a comforting foundation, while the sweet-tart cranberry-orange glaze adds a spectacular dimension of taste and a beautiful, caramelized finish. It’s a fantastic solution for those, like me sometimes, who desire the celebratory taste of turkey without the fuss of a whole bird, making it perfect for smaller gatherings or even an elevated weeknight meal.

Why This Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast Will Be Your New Favorite

The magic, I believe, lies in its ability to deliver both an impressive presentation and unforgettable taste with relative ease. The glaze not only infuses the meat with incredible flavor but also keeps the turkey wonderfully moist, ensuring every single slice is a testament to culinary perfection. I truly believe you’re going to impress your family and friends with a dish that looks as amazing as it tastes!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Turkey Breast:
  • 1 boneless, skin-on turkey breast (approximately 3-4 pounds), fully thawed if frozen. A skin-on breast is crucial for a beautifully golden exterior and moisture retention.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, or another neutral cooking oil.
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt, plus more to taste.
  • ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper, plus more to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme.
  • ½ teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed.
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder.
  • Optional: 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth for the roasting pan, to add moisture and prevent drippings from burning.
• For the Cranberry Orange Glaze:
  • 12 ounces fresh or frozen cranberries (no need to thaw if frozen). These tart berries are the star of our glaze!
  • ½ cup granulated sugar. Adjust to your sweetness preference, considering the tartness of cranberries.
  • ½ cup fresh orange juice (from approximately 1-2 large oranges).
  • Zest of 1 large orange. This adds an incredible aromatic brightness to the glaze.
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter.
  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey, for added depth and shine.
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated (optional, but highly recommended for a subtle zing).
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon.
  • Pinch of ground cloves or allspice (optional, for a warmer spice profile).
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water (cornstarch slurry), if a thicker glaze is desired.
• Equipment You’ll Need:
  • Roasting pan with a rack.
  • Meat thermometer (essential for perfectly cooked turkey).
  • Small saucepan.
  • Whisk.
  • Pastry brush.
  • Aluminum foil.

Preparing Your Turkey Breast for Roasting

1. Bring to Room Temperature: First things first, remove your boneless, skin-on turkey breast from the refrigerator about 45-60 minutes before you plan to cook it. Allowing the turkey to come closer to room temperature promotes more even cooking, ensuring that the center cooks through at a similar rate to the exterior. This simple step is often overlooked but makes a significant difference in the final texture of your Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast.
2. Pat Dry Thoroughly: This is a critical step for achieving that beautiful, crispy skin and allowing the seasonings to adhere properly. Using several sheets of paper towels, carefully pat every surface of the turkey breast completely dry. Don’t forget to get into any crevices. Any residual moisture will steam rather than brown, preventing you from getting that gorgeous golden crust.
3. Prepare Your Roasting Pan: While the turkey is coming to temperature, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place a rack inside your roasting pan. If you don’t have a rack, you can create a makeshift one by arranging thick slices of onion, carrots, or celery on the bottom of the pan to lift the turkey. This allows hot air to circulate all around the turkey, ensuring even cooking and crispier skin. If using, pour about 1 cup of chicken or vegetable broth into the bottom of the roasting pan. This creates a moist environment, preventing the drippings from burning and potentially adding some lovely steam for internal juiciness.
4. Season the Turkey Breast: In a small bowl, combine the 1 teaspoon sea salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, ½ teaspoon crushed dried rosemary, and ¼ teaspoon garlic powder. Give them a good mix. Now, generously rub the 2 tablespoons of olive oil all over the turkey breast, ensuring it’s coated evenly. This not only helps with browning but also acts as a binder for our seasonings. Sprinkle the herb and spice mixture over all surfaces of the turkey breast, gently pressing it in to make sure it adheres well. Don’t be shy; this foundational seasoning is key to a flavorful result, complementing the sweet and tangy glaze we’re building.
5. Position for Roasting: Place the seasoned turkey breast, skin-side up, on the prepared rack in your roasting pan. Make sure it’s centered and not touching the sides of the pan too much, allowing for optimal air circulation. A perfectly roasted turkey breast begins with proper preparation.

Crafting the Tangy Cranberry Orange Glaze

6. Combine Glaze Ingredients (Initial Phase): In a medium saucepan, combine the 12 ounces of fresh or frozen cranberries, ½ cup granulated sugar, ½ cup fresh orange juice, the zest of 1 large orange, 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey, 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (if using), ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon, and a pinch of ground cloves or allspice (if using). This vibrant mix forms the heart of our Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast.
7. Simmer and Reduce: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. As it heats, the cranberries will begin to burst, releasing their juices and vibrant color. Continue to simmer for about 8-10 minutes, or until the cranberries have softened and the sauce has thickened slightly. The aroma filling your kitchen right now will be absolutely delightful, a preview of the wonderful flavors to come.
8. Optional: Refine the Glaze Texture: At this point, you have a choice regarding the texture of your glaze.
   • For a Chunky Glaze: If you prefer a glaze with visible pieces of cranberry and a more rustic texture, you can leave it as is. Just gently mash some of the cranberries with the back of a spoon if you want a slightly smoother but still chunky consistency.
   • For a Smooth Glaze: If you desire a completely smooth glaze, carefully pour the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve set over a clean bowl. Use the back of a spoon to press down on the solids, extracting as much liquid as possible. Discard the solids. This will give you a beautifully clear, jewel-toned glaze. Personally, I love a slightly chunky glaze, as it adds lovely texture to the finished dish.
9. Thicken if Desired (Cornstarch Slurry): If your glaze isn’t quite as thick as you’d like after simmering, or if you opted for the smooth version and want it to be more substantial, prepare your cornstarch slurry. In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water until smooth. Pour this slurry into the simmering cranberry mixture, whisking constantly. Continue to simmer for another 1-2 minutes, stirring, until the glaze thickens to your desired consistency. Remove the glaze from the heat and set aside. It will thicken a bit more as it cools. This step is crucial for a glaze that adheres beautifully to the turkey.

Roasting the Perfect Turkey Breast

10. Initial Roasting Phase: Carefully place the roasting pan with the seasoned turkey breast into your preheated 375°F (190°C) oven. Roast for 30 minutes. This initial higher temperature helps to get a good start on browning the skin and locking in juices.
11. Lower Temperature and Continue Roasting: After 30 minutes, reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (160°C). Continue to roast the turkey breast. The total roasting time for a 3-4 pound boneless turkey breast will typically range from 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes, depending on your oven and the exact size of the breast. Patience is a virtue when roasting, as rushing can lead to dry turkey.
12. Basting for Moisture and Flavor: About halfway through the cooking time (roughly 45-60 minutes in), begin basting your turkey breast. Use a spoon or a turkey baster to drizzle the pan drippings over the skin of the turkey every 20-30 minutes. This helps keep the skin moist, promotes even browning, and infuses the turkey with extra flavor. If your pan seems to be drying out, you can add a little more chicken or vegetable broth to the bottom.
13. First Glaze Application: Once the turkey breast has been roasting for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or when its internal temperature reaches around 145-150°F (63-65°C), it’s time for the first application of our wonderful Cranberry Orange Glaze. Using a pastry brush, liberally brush a generous layer of the glaze over the entire skin surface of the turkey breast. Be thorough, ensuring every part gets coated. This layer will caramelize and deepen in flavor during the remaining roasting time.
14. Continue Roasting and Glazing: Return the glazed turkey breast to the oven. Continue to roast, reapplying a fresh layer of glaze every 15-20 minutes, for another 30-45 minutes. Watch the glaze carefully to prevent it from burning, especially in the last 15-20 minutes. If you notice it browning too quickly, you can loosely tent the turkey with aluminum foil.
15. Monitor Internal Temperature: The most crucial step for a juicy turkey breast is cooking it to the correct internal temperature. Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the turkey breast, making sure it doesn’t touch any bone or the pan. The turkey is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The temperature may rise a few degrees during resting, so don’t fret if you pull it out a little under. Using a reliable meat thermometer is the secret to never overcooking your turkey.

Applying the Dazzling Glaze and Finishing Touches

16. Rest the Turkey: Once the turkey breast reaches 165°F (74°C), carefully remove the roasting pan from the oven. Transfer the turkey breast to a clean cutting board or serving platter. Loosely tent it with aluminum foil and let it rest for at least 15-20 minutes. This resting period is absolutely non-negotiable! It allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a tender, moist, and incredibly flavorful Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast. Skipping this step will result in dry meat when carved.
17. Final Glaze Application (Optional but Recommended): While the turkey is resting, give your remaining cranberry orange glaze a quick stir. If it has thickened too much, you can gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat with a teaspoon or two of water or orange juice until it’s brushable again. Before carving, you can brush one final, thin layer of the warm glaze over the rested turkey breast. This adds an extra layer of shine and vibrant flavor, making it even more appealing. You can also serve additional glaze on the side for guests to spoon over their individual portions.
18. Carve and Serve: After resting, carve your magnificent Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast against the grain into thick slices. Arrange them beautifully on a platter. Garnish with a few fresh cranberries or orange zest curls if you wish, for an extra touch of festive elegance. Serve immediately, perhaps with any remaining warm glaze on the side. This dish is truly a showstopper and makes for a perfect centerpiece at any holiday meal or special gathering. Enjoy the delightful blend of savory turkey with the bright, tangy sweetness of the cranberry orange glaze!

Conclusion:

And there you have it, my friends! We’ve journeyed through the creation of what I truly believe is one of the most delightful and impressive dishes you can bring to your table. If you’re looking for a showstopper that’s deceptively simple to execute, bursting with vibrant flavors, and guaranteed to earn you rave reviews, then this recipe for Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast is an absolute must-try. It’s not just another turkey dish; it’s an experience. The sweet-tart punch of cranberries married with the bright, zesty notes of orange, all caramelizing into a gorgeous, sticky glaze over tender, succulent turkey breast – it’s a symphony for your taste buds. I’ve poured my heart into perfecting this balance, ensuring that every bite delivers that perfect blend of autumnal warmth and citrusy freshness. It’s elegant enough for a holiday feast, yet straightforward enough for a special Sunday dinner, making it incredibly versatile. You’ll love how the glaze forms a beautiful crust, sealing in all the moisture and creating a truly unforgettable texture contrast with the tender meat inside.

But the journey doesn’t have to end there! One of the things I adore about cooking is the endless possibility for personalization and creativity. While the core recipe is fantastic as is, I always encourage you to make it your own. For serving suggestions, imagine this magnificent turkey breast thinly sliced and fanned out on a platter, adorned with fresh orange slices and a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or rosemary. It pairs absolutely wonderfully with classic holiday sides: think creamy mashed potatoes to soak up any extra glaze, fluffy wild rice pilaf, roasted Brussels sprouts with crispy bacon, or a vibrant green bean casserole. For a lighter, more refreshing accompaniment, a crisp mixed green salad with a citrus vinaigrette would be divine. And don’t forget the cranberry sauce on the side – perhaps even a homemade one with a hint of ginger to complement the glaze! Leftovers? Oh, yes, they are a treasure! Slice the cold turkey thinly for incredible sandwiches the next day, layered with a touch of cream cheese and fresh greens, or chop it up for a unique turkey salad. You could even fold it into a leftover-friendly casserole or a hearty soup. The possibilities are truly endless.

Considering Variations?

If you’re feeling adventurous or simply want to adapt the recipe to what you have on hand, consider these variations. While the Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast is a star in its own right, the glaze itself is incredibly adaptable. You could experiment with different citrus fruits – perhaps a lemon-rosemary twist for a slightly more herbaceous profile, or even grapefruit for a bolder, more bitter note if you enjoy that complexity. For the cranberries, while fresh or frozen are ideal, a good quality cranberry jelly (the whole berry kind!) could work in a pinch for the glaze if fresh isn’t available, just be mindful of adjusting sweetness. If turkey breast isn’t your preferred cut, this glaze could also be fantastic on chicken pieces – drumsticks, thighs, or even a whole roasted chicken, though cooking times would need to be adjusted accordingly. For an extra layer of flavor, consider infusing your basting liquid with aromatics like bay leaves, star anise, or cinnamon sticks, which would deepen that autumnal character. You could also rub the turkey breast with a little smoked paprika or a touch of cayenne pepper before glazing for a subtle smoky heat that beautifully complements the sweet and tart elements. The key is to have fun and explore!

Your Turn to Shine!

Now, I’ve shared all my secrets and enthusiasm, and it’s your turn to bring this magic into your kitchen. I genuinely hope you’ll give this recipe a try. There’s immense satisfaction in creating something so beautiful and delicious from scratch, and I promise you, this one delivers on all fronts. Don’t be shy – dive in, enjoy the process, and most importantly, savor every incredible bite. Once you’ve made your own batch of this delightful Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience! Did you stick to the recipe, or did you add your own creative twist? What sides did you serve it with? Please, feel free to share your thoughts, your successes, and even your kitchen adventures in the comments below. Snap a picture of your culinary masterpiece and share it on your favorite social media platforms – tag me if you do! Your feedback and shared experiences truly inspire me and help our wonderful community of home cooks grow. Happy cooking, everyone, and I can’t wait to hear from you!

Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast

Elevate your dining with this show-stopping Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast, featuring a sweet-tart glaze over tender, succulent turkey. Perfect for festive gatherings or an elevated weeknight meal, offering impressive presentation and unforgettable taste without the fuss of a whole bird.

Prep Time
30 Minutes

Cook Time
45 Minutes

Total Time
35 Minutes

Servings
6-8 servings

Ingredients

• 1 (3-4 lb) turkey breast, bone-in and skin-on
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp sea salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• ½ tsp dried rosemary, crushed
• ¼ tsp garlic powder
• 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth (optional)
• 2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup fresh orange juice
• Zest of 1 large orange
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• ½ cup honey
• 1 tsp grated fresh ginger (optional)
• ¼ tsp ground cinnamon
• Pinch ground cloves or allspice (optional)
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 2 tbsp cold water

Instructions

1. Step 1
   Remove turkey from fridge 45-60 min before cooking. Pat dry. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place rack in roasting pan; add 1 cup broth if using. Rub turkey with olive oil, then season with salt, pepper, thyme, rosemary, and garlic powder. Place skin-side up on the rack.
2. Step 2
   In a saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, orange juice, zest, butter, honey, ginger (optional), cinnamon, and cloves/allspice (optional). Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring, until cranberries burst and sauce thickens slightly (8-10 min). For a smoother glaze, strain through a sieve. If a thicker glaze is desired, whisk 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp cold water and stir into simmering glaze for 1-2 min. Remove from heat.
3. Step 3
   Roast turkey at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes. Reduce oven temperature to 325°F (160°C). Continue roasting.
4. Step 4
   After about 45-60 minutes of total roasting, begin basting turkey with pan drippings every 20-30 minutes. When turkey internal temperature reaches 145-150°F (63-65°C) (approx. 1 hour 15 min total), liberally brush the entire skin surface with the cranberry orange glaze.
5. Step 5
   Return turkey to oven. Continue to roast, reapplying a fresh layer of glaze every 15-20 minutes, for another 30-45 minutes. Watch the glaze to prevent burning; tent with aluminum foil if needed. Roast until the internal temperature in the thickest part of the breast reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Step 6
   Once done, remove turkey from oven, transfer to a cutting board, and loosely tent with foil. Let it rest for 15-20 minutes. Optionally, warm any remaining glaze and brush a final layer before carving. Slice against the grain and serve immediately, with extra glaze on the side.

Important Information

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.