When the holidays roll around, the star of the table doesn’t have to be a full turkey. A perfectly roasted cranberry orange turkey breast offers all the festive flavors you crave—juicy meat, tangy-sweet glaze, and that irresistible aroma of citrus and herbs. Whether you’re hosting a cozy Thanksgiving dinner for two or looking for a special Sunday meal, this easy recipe guarantees a tender, flavorful result without the fuss. Learn more about festive poultry dishes like Cranberry Orange Chicken for more citrus-inspired flavor ideas.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Why Cranberry Orange Turkey Breast Is Perfect for Any Occasion
The Ideal Alternative to a Whole Turkey
Cooking a full turkey can feel overwhelming, especially for smaller gatherings. A turkey breast cooks faster, stays moist, and makes portion control easier. The cranberry orange glaze adds vibrant color and an irresistible tangy sweetness.
Flavor and Nutrition Combined
Cranberries are rich in antioxidants, while oranges add vitamin C and brightness. Together, they create a naturally balanced glaze that enhances the mild flavor of turkey. Plus, it’s lower in fat and easier to prepare than traditional roasts. Discover great ideas like Marry Me Chicken Soup for another hearty comfort dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need for the Perfect Cranberry Orange Turkey Breast
Fresh and Simple Ingredients
To make this dish, you’ll need:
- 1 boneless turkey breast (about 2–3 lbs)
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- ½ cup orange juice (freshly squeezed preferred)
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- ¼ cup brown sugar or honey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Choosing Quality Ingredients
Use fresh cranberries for that tart pop and natural color. Freshly squeezed orange juice brings brightness, while olive oil keeps the turkey moist. Avoid frozen, pre-marinated turkey, which may affect the glaze’s flavor.
Preparing the Cranberry Orange Glaze
Step-by-Step Glaze Directions
In a small saucepan, combine cranberries, orange juice, zest, and brown sugar. Simmer until cranberries burst and the sauce thickens (about 10 minutes). Add thyme, salt, and pepper.
Pro Tip for Perfect Consistency
If your glaze feels too thick, add a tablespoon of orange juice. For a smoother texture, blend and strain before brushing over the turkey. Check out Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup for another cozy recipe that celebrates creamy, tangy notes.
How to Roast Cranberry Orange Turkey Breast
Oven Roasting Method
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place turkey breast on a baking sheet lined with foil.
- Rub with olive oil, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Brush half the cranberry orange glaze over the top.
- Roast for 40–50 minutes, basting every 15 minutes with remaining glaze.
- When internal temperature reaches 165°F, remove and rest 10 minutes.
Tips for Moist and Juicy Results
Roasting breast-side up allows even browning. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy—overcooking dries out lean turkey. Tent with foil halfway to prevent burning the glaze.
Serving Suggestions for Cranberry Orange Turkey Breast
Pairings and Side Dishes
Serve slices with roasted sweet potatoes, wild rice, or green beans. For extra elegance, drizzle more glaze over each serving.
Holiday Plating Ideas
Arrange the turkey slices on a platter with orange slices and rosemary sprigs for a stunning presentation. Looking for inspiration? Try Autumn Wild Rice Soup for a warm, earthy side option.
Storage and Reheating Tips
How to Store Leftovers
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Best Reheating Method
Warm in a covered dish at 325°F with a splash of orange juice to retain moisture. Avoid microwaving, which can dry the meat. Don’t miss our Ranch Chicken Crock Pot Recipe for another great make-ahead meal.
Variations and Creative Twists
Add a Touch of Spice
Try adding cinnamon or a pinch of cayenne for a warming twist.
Make It in a Slow Cooker
For hands-off cooking, place the turkey and glaze in a crockpot and cook on low for 4–5 hours. Check out Crockpot Butternut Squash Soup to master cozy slow-cooked recipes.
FAQs
What makes a simple cranberry orange glazed turkey breast?
It’s a turkey breast coated in a glaze of cranberries, orange juice, zest, and sweetener, then roasted until golden and juicy.
How do I make cranberry orange glazed turkey breast recipe?
Simmer cranberries with orange juice and sugar to make a glaze. Brush over seasoned turkey breast and roast until fully cooked.
What is the easiest cranberry orange glazed turkey breast?
The easiest version uses store-bought cranberry sauce mixed with orange marmalade for a quick glaze.
How long to cook cranberry orange glazed turkey breast in the oven?
Roast for 40–50 minutes at 375°F until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Conclusion
The cranberry orange turkey breast brings together the sweetness of oranges and the tart burst of cranberries for a flavor-packed meal that’s elegant yet effortless. Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any cozy dinner, this dish delivers the warmth of home-cooked comfort in every bite.
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Cranberry Orange Turkey Breast: A Juicy, Flavorful Holiday Favorite
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Cranberry Orange Turkey Breast is the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. Juicy turkey coated in a cranberry-orange glaze makes a show-stopping centerpiece for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any cozy dinner. Easy to prepare and bursting with festive color, it’s ideal for smaller gatherings that still want big flavor.
Ingredients
1 boneless turkey breast (2–3 lbs)
1 cup fresh cranberries
½ cup orange juice (freshly squeezed)
1 tablespoon orange zest
¼ cup brown sugar or honey
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking dish with foil and lightly grease.
Prepare the glaze: In a small saucepan, combine cranberries, orange juice, zest, and brown sugar. Simmer over medium heat until cranberries burst and sauce thickens (about 10 minutes). Stir in thyme, salt, and pepper.
Season the turkey: Rub the turkey breast with olive oil, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Glaze and roast: Brush half the cranberry-orange glaze over the turkey. Roast for 40–50 minutes, basting with more glaze every 15 minutes.
Check temperature: When the internal temperature reaches 165°F, remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes.
Serve: Slice and drizzle with remaining glaze before serving. Garnish with orange slices or fresh rosemary if desired.
Notes
Substitute brown sugar with honey for a naturally sweet glaze.
Blend and strain the glaze for a smoother, glossy texture.
For a slow cooker version, cook on low for 4–5 hours and baste halfway through.
Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe (approx. 6 oz)
- Calories: 240 kcal
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 410 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 14 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg
Keywords: Cranberry Orange Turkey Breast, cranberry orange glaze, holiday turkey recipe, Thanksgiving turkey breast, easy turkey dinner, Christmas turkey, festive main course
