As autumn leaves dance down from the trees and the air turns crisp, I find myself craving comfort and warmth from the kitchen. There’s a special magic that comes with holiday cooking, especially when I whip up my Juicy Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast. The perfect blend of tangy cranberries and zesty oranges creates a glaze so vibrant, it transforms every bite into a feast for the senses.
After a year of fast-food fatigue and monotonous meals, this recipe feels like a refreshing escape. It’s not just about the flavors; it’s about the ease of preparation that allows you to impress your loved ones without spending all day laboring over a hot stove. Imagine the smiles as you serve juicy slices, glazed to perfection, becoming the star of your holiday table. Join me in rediscovering the joy of homemade food with this delightful, healthier twist on a classic turkey dish—your guests won’t believe how quick and easy it was to prepare!
Why is Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey a Must-Try?
Delightful flavors come together in this unbeatable glaze, balancing tart cranberries and sweet oranges for a sensational taste. Quick preparation allows you to enjoy all the holiday cheer without cooking stress. Versatile options mean you can adapt the recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs, while remaining a crowd-pleaser sure to impress your family and friends. Nutritionally mindful, it’s low in fat yet rich in flavor, making it a wholesome choice during this festive season.
Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Ingredients
For the Glaze
• Fresh Cranberries – Adds a tangy kick and vibrant color; frozen cranberries can be used without thawing for convenience.
• Orange Juice – Provides a citrusy sweetness that beautifully complements the cranberries.
• Honey – Natural sweetener to enhance the glaze’s flavors; consider maple syrup or agave nectar as substitutes.
• Orange Zest – Infuses fragrant citrus notes that elevate the overall taste of the dish.
For the Turkey
• Turkey Breast (bone-in and skin-on) – The star of the dish, offering lean protein and moisture when roasted correctly.
• Olive Oil – Keeps the turkey tender during roasting and helps in browning the skin.
• Garlic – Introduces depth and richness to the flavor profile, enhancing this cranberry orange glazed turkey.
• Rosemary and Thyme – Fresh herbs providing earthy, aromatic qualities that complement the glaze.
Seasoning
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for flavor enhancement, ensuring all components work in harmony for a delicious result.
How to Make Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey
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Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). This is your starting point to ensure the turkey roasts beautifully and evenly.
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Prepare the glaze: In a saucepan, combine fresh cranberries, orange juice, honey, and orange zest. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes until thickened. Allow it to cool.
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Prepare the turkey: Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. In a bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper to create a flavorful herb blend.
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Season the turkey: Gently rub half of the herb mixture under the turkey’s skin, then apply the remaining mix generously on the surface and inside the cavity. This infuses the meat with rich flavors.
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Roast the turkey: Place the turkey breast in a roasting pan, skin side up. Roast for approximately 20 minutes per pound, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This ensures it stays juicy and tender.
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Apply the glaze: During the last 30 minutes of cooking, brush the turkey with the cranberry orange glaze every 10 minutes. This creates a sticky, sweet layer that caramelizes beautifully.
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Rest and carve: Once cooked, let the turkey rest for 15-20 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in deliciously moist slices.
Optional: For an extra touch, garnish the turkey with fresh orange slices before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey
Fridge: Store leftover turkey in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. This keeps it fresh and ready for delicious sandwiches or salads.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze slices of turkey in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Be sure to label the bag with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, adding a splash of broth and covering with foil to maintain moisture.
Leftover Tips: Consider using leftover cranberry orange glazed turkey in soups or casseroles for a flavorful twist and to minimize food waste.
What to Serve with Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey?
As you gather around the table, complement the festive flavors of your turkey with sides that harmonize and elevate the experience.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The silky texture and buttery flavor of mashed potatoes create a comforting contrast to the zesty glaze. A splash of cream and a sprinkle of garlic elevate each bite.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Roasting enhances the natural sweetness of Brussels sprouts, adding a delightful char that pairs perfectly with the sweet-savory turkey. Toss with olive oil and a drizzle of balsamic for a tasty finish.
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Crispy Green Beans Almondine: The crunch of almonds and the freshness of green beans bring a satisfying texture to your plate, balancing the rich flavors of the turkey. A squeeze of lemon ties everything together beautifully.
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Harvest Salad: A colorful mixture of greens, dried cranberries, and walnuts tossed in a tangy vinaigrette complements the glaze’s fruity notes, making for a fresh contrast to the hearty turkey.
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Honey Glazed Carrots: The sweet glaze on the carrots beautifully echoes the turkey’s cranberry-orange flavor, while the tender bites add a cheerful splash of color.
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Apple Cider Sangria: Elevate your meal with a refreshing drink that combines apple cider, cinnamon, and white wine. This festive beverage enhances the holiday spirit while contrasting the turkey’s flavors.
These delightful pairings will elevate your feast, creating an inviting atmosphere that celebrates the joy of home-cooked meals shared with loved ones.
Expert Tips for Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey
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Meat Thermometer Magic: Use a meat thermometer to check that the turkey’s internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for perfectly cooked, juicy meat.
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Rest Period Matters: Always allow the turkey to rest for 15-20 minutes after cooking. This crucial step helps redistribute the juices, ensuring deliciously moist slices.
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Glaze Ahead: Make the cranberry orange glaze up to three days in advance. This saves you time on the big day, allowing you to focus on enjoying your gathering.
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Seasoning Strategy: When applying the herb mixture under the skin, avoid tearing the skin. This keeps the turkey moist and amplifies the flavor for your cranberry orange glazed turkey.
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Leftover Love: Store leftover turkey in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Use within this time for the best taste and texture, and consider repurposing it in salads or sandwiches.
Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Variations
Feel free to put your own twist on this delightful recipe and make it truly yours!
- Herb-Infused: Add sage or parsley for a fresh herbal kick that intertwines beautifully with the glaze.
- Citrus Burst: Incorporate lemon juice or zest alongside orange for an extra citrusy brightness that will wow your palate.
- Sweetness Twist: Swap honey for brown sugar or coconut sugar for a deeper sweetness with caramel undertones, enhancing the glaze.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in a teaspoon of sriracha or cayenne pepper to the glaze for a pleasant heat that complements the sweetness perfectly.
- Dairy-Free Delight: Replace olive oil with coconut oil for a subtle tropical flavor while keeping it dairy-free and delicious.
- Gluten-Free Option: Check that all ingredients, including pre-made sauces or mixes, are gluten-free to enjoy this dish worry-free.
- Smoky Flavor: Add smoked paprika to the seasoning mix for a smoky edge that brings depth to your turkey’s flavor profile.
- Fruit Fusion: Toss in chopped apples or pears to the glaze for additional texture and a delightful contrast to the tart cranberries.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing the Juicy Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey ahead of time is a fantastic way to save precious moments during the busy holiday season! You can make the cranberry-orange glaze up to 3 days in advance. Simply simmer the ingredients, let the glaze cool, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can pat the turkey dry and season it with the herb mixture up to 24 hours ahead, covering it tightly to maintain its moisture and flavor. When you’re ready to cook, take the turkey out of the fridge, let it sit for about 30 minutes to reach room temperature, and then proceed with roasting. This pre-preparation ensures that your cranberry orange glazed turkey remains just as delicious, allowing you to enjoy quality time with loved ones while still delighting them with an impressive main dish!
Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Recipe FAQs
What type of cranberries should I use for the glaze?
Absolutely! Fresh cranberries are best as they provide a vibrant flavor and color. However, if you can’t find fresh ones, frozen cranberries work perfectly too! Just toss them straight into the pot without thawing.
How long can I store leftover cranberry orange glazed turkey?
I recommend storing leftover turkey in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This keeps it fresh and perfect for sandwiches or salads!
Can I freeze leftover turkey, and how should I do it?
Certainly! For freezing, slice the leftover turkey and place it in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. It’ll stay good for up to 3 months. Be sure to label the bag with the date so you can track it easily.
What’s the best way to reheat turkey to maintain its moisture?
Very! When reheating, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the turkey slices in an oven-safe dish, add a splash of broth to keep it moist, and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through—this way, you’ll keep those juicy flavors intact!
Can I use this recipe for pets?
While turkey is generally safe for pets in moderation, make sure to avoid any seasoning with garlic or onions as they can be harmful to them. Always consult your vet before sharing any human food with your furry friends.
What should I do if the turkey doesn’t cook evenly?
If you notice that the turkey is browning too quickly on one side, you can rotate it halfway through the roasting time. Additionally, if you find that it’s cooking unevenly, you can cover parts of it with foil to protect it from over-browning while the rest cooks fully.
Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey: Your Quick Holiday Showstopper
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the glaze by combining fresh cranberries, orange juice, honey, and orange zest in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes until thickened. Allow to cool.
- Prepare the turkey by patting it dry with paper towels. In a bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Gently rub half of the herb mixture under the turkey's skin and apply the remaining mix generously on the surface and inside the cavity.
- Place the turkey breast in a roasting pan, skin side up. Roast for approximately 20 minutes per pound, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- During the last 30 minutes of cooking, brush the turkey with the cranberry orange glaze every 10 minutes.
- Once cooked, let the turkey rest for 15-20 minutes before carving.
- Optional: Garnish the turkey with fresh orange slices before serving.