Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast

As the golden hues of autumn touch the leaves outside, there’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of a turkey roasting in the oven. It’s a smell that instantly transports me back to my grandmother’s kitchen, where love was always the main ingredient. Today, I want to share a recipe that has become a cherished tradition in my own home — Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast. This dish is not only a celebration of seasonal flavors but also a testament to the joy of simple, home-cooked meals that bring families together.

Imagine a turkey breast that’s tender and juicy, adorned with a sweet and tangy glaze that’s both nostalgic and refreshing. The combination of cranberries and orange zest is like a warm hug from a loved one, bringing a burst of flavor to your holiday table. Here’s why this recipe deserves a place at your next family gathering:

Why This Recipe Should Be on Your Table

• Emotional Connection: This dish is a beautiful blend of tradition and creativity, perfect for making new memories while honoring old ones.
• Seasonal Joy: The cranberries and orange zest bring a festive touch that’s perfect for any holiday celebration.
• Simplicity at its Best: With easy-to-find ingredients and straightforward steps, even a beginner can achieve delicious results.
• Healthier Choice: Lean turkey breast combined with fresh fruits and herbs offers a wholesome meal option.
• Versatile and Adaptable: Whether you’re hosting a large family gathering or an intimate dinner, this turkey breast adapts beautifully to any occasion.

There’s something magical about a dish that brings people together, and this Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast does just that. It’s a recipe that whispers warmth and comfort, inviting everyone to gather around the table and savor a moment of togetherness. Imagine serving this at your next holiday feast, with the vibrant colors and enticing aroma creating an atmosphere of joy and gratitude. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that resonates with the love and care you pour into cooking for your loved ones.

This turkey breast is not only about taste but also about the memories it helps create. Each bite is a reminder of joyous occasions shared with family and friends. The vibrant glaze, with its perfect balance of sweetness and tang, complements the succulent turkey, making it a centerpiece that demands attention and appreciation. Whether it’s the highlight of a grand holiday spread or the focal point of a quiet dinner, its presence on your table signifies celebration, care, and culinary delight.

Now, let’s dive into the heart of this recipe and explore why you’ll want to make it a staple in your home.

Kitchen Tools to Make This Recipe Easy Peasy

To keep things as simple as possible, here are the kitchen tools you’ll need:

• A good roasting pan with a rack: Ensures even cooking and allows the turkey to roast to perfection, keeping it juicy and flavorful.
• A small saucepan for the glaze: Essential for creating the aromatic cranberry orange glaze that will elevate the turkey to gourmet levels.
• A sharp knife for carving: A quality carving knife will make slicing the turkey a breeze, allowing for beautifully presented servings.
• A basting brush for applying the glaze: Helps evenly distribute the glaze over the turkey, ensuring each bite is infused with delicious flavor.
• Meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness: The key to a perfectly cooked turkey; it takes the guesswork out of cooking and ensures food safety.

These tools will help you achieve that perfect balance of flavor and texture, making this recipe genuinely easy peasy.

How to Make This Recipe Easy Peasy

Ingredients

• 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

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature ensures the turkey cooks evenly without drying out.
2. In a small saucepan, combine cranberries, orange juice, honey, and orange zest. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes until cranberries burst and the mixture thickens. Let it cool. This glaze is the heart of the dish, offering a sweet and tangy contrast to the savory turkey.
3. Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Drying the turkey helps the skin crisp up while cooking.
4. Loosen the skin of the turkey breast and rub half the herb mixture under the skin. Spread the remaining mixture over the skin and inside the cavity. This step ensures the flavor penetrates the meat, infusing it with herby goodness.
5. Place the turkey breast in a roasting pan, skin side up. This position helps the skin brown beautifully while keeping the meat tender.
6. Roast for 20 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part. Using a meat thermometer ensures you don’t overcook the turkey.
7. In the last 30 minutes of roasting, brush the turkey breast with the cranberry orange glaze every 10 minutes. Frequent glazing builds layers of flavor and creates a glossy, delectable finish.
8. Remove from the oven, let it rest for 15-20 minutes, then carve and serve. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the turkey moist and flavorful.

Difficulty: Medium • Cuisine: American • Preparation Time: 20 minutes • Cooking Time: 1 hour 20 minutes • Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes • Calories: 350 per serving • Servings: 6

Note: For a more intense flavor, prepare the glaze a day ahead to let the ingredients meld beautifully. This also saves time on the day of cooking.

Health and Flavor Benefits of Ingredients

This recipe is not just a feast for the senses; it’s packed with nutritional benefits too. Turkey breast is a lean source of protein, making it a healthier option for your main course. It’s lower in fat compared to other cuts, which makes it a great choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet without compromising on taste. Cranberries are rich in antioxidants, which help boost your immune system, while orange juice provides a good dose of Vitamin C, supporting overall health and well-being.

Fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme not only add wonderful aroma but also contain anti-inflammatory properties. Rosemary is known for its ability to improve digestion and enhance concentration, while thyme is packed with vitamins and minerals, supporting a healthy immune system. Together, these ingredients create a meal that’s as nourishing as it is delicious, allowing you to indulge without guilt.

Tasty Pairings to Serve with This Easy Peasy Dish

Pairing this delightful turkey breast with the right sides can elevate your dining experience. Consider serving it with classic mashed potatoes drizzled with a bit of the cranberry glaze for a cohesive theme. The creamy texture of the potatoes complements the tender turkey, while the glaze adds a sweet contrast. A fresh green bean casserole or roasted Brussels sprouts would add a lovely crunch and color to the plate, offering a balance of textures and flavors.

And don’t forget some warm, crusty bread to soak up all those delicious juices. A rustic artisan loaf or soft dinner rolls can be perfect for this. These pairings will complement the turkey beautifully, creating a well-rounded, memorable meal that will have guests coming back for seconds.

Storage Tips and How to Enjoy Leftovers the Easy Peasy Way

Leftovers are one of the best parts of a holiday meal, and this turkey breast is no exception. Store any remaining turkey in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze it for up to three months, ensuring you have a quick and tasty option ready for busy days. Proper storage helps maintain the turkey’s flavor and texture, making it just as enjoyable the next day.

For a simple leftover meal, slice the turkey thin and serve it in a sandwich with a smear of cranberry sauce. This makes for a satisfying lunch or a light dinner. Or, chop it up to add to a salad for a refreshing lunch. The combination of the turkey’s savory taste with fresh greens and a light vinaigrette creates a delightful meal. With these easy peasy ideas, you can enjoy the flavors of your feast long after the celebration is over.

As you embark on making this Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast, remember that the heart of any meal is the love and care you put into it. Whether you’re preparing it for a festive occasion or a cozy family dinner, this dish promises to bring joy and satisfaction to your table. Cooking is not just about feeding the body; it’s about nourishing the soul and creating connections that last a lifetime.

Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast

A delightful turkey breast recipe with a sweet and tangy cranberry orange glaze, perfect for festive occasions.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 2 hours hrs

Resting Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 2 hours hrs 40 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 320

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Turkey Breast

• 1 3-4 lb turkey breast bone-in and skin-on

Cranberry Orange Glaze

• 2 cups fresh cranberries
• 1 cup orange juice
• 1/2 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons orange zest

Herb Mixture

• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves

Seasoning

• Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

• Roasting Pan

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine cranberries, orange juice, honey, and orange zest. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes until cranberries burst and the mixture thickens. Let it cool.
3. Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Loosen the skin of the turkey breast and rub half the herb mixture under the skin. Spread the remaining mixture over the skin and inside the cavity.
5. Place the turkey breast in a roasting pan, skin side up.
6. Roast for 20 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part.
7. In the last 30 minutes of roasting, brush the turkey breast with the cranberry orange glaze every 10 minutes.
8. Remove from the oven, let it rest for 15-20 minutes, then carve and serve.

Notes

This cranberry orange glazed turkey breast is perfect for holiday meals. Make sure to allow the turkey to rest before carving to ensure juicy slices. The glaze can be prepared a day in advance to save time.