When it comes to Thanksgiving cooking, nothing brings family and friends together like a beautifully roasted turkey.But if you’re hosting a smaller gathering or simply want something easier than roasting a whole bird, this Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast is the perfect solution.
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It’s a recipe that balances sweet and savory flavors, offering juicy slices of tender turkey breast coated in a glossy, citrusy glaze. Not only does it make a stunning centerpiece, but it’s also one of the Best Thanksgiving Recipes you can prepare with minimal stress and maximum flavor.
Why Choose Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast for Your Thanksgiving Dinner
A Simple Yet Elegant Turkey Dish
Unlike traditional roasted turkeys that can take hours to cook and carve, a Turkey Breast Recipe is faster, juicier, and perfect for smaller families. The cranberry-orange glaze adds a gourmet touch that feels festive but approachable.
It’s ideal for anyone who wants a Thanksgiving Dinner full of flavor without the hassle of handling a whole bird.
Perfect for Small Gatherings or Sunday Dinners
This recipe shines during Thanksgiving, but it’s also perfect for any special occasion or Sunday meal. Whether it’s a holiday celebration or a cozy dinner with loved ones, it’s one of those Turkey Recipes Thanksgiving cooks swear by for its simplicity and rich taste.
Essential Ingredients for Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast
To make one of the most flavorful Turkey Dishes you’ll ever serve, gather the following ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Turkey breast (boneless or bone-in) | 2–3 lbs | Main protein |
| Fresh or frozen cranberries | 1 cup | Adds tangy flavor |
| Orange juice (freshly squeezed) | ¾ cup | Provides brightness and acidity |
| Orange zest | 1 tbsp | Enhances citrus aroma |
| Honey or maple syrup | ¼ cup | Adds natural sweetness |
| Brown sugar | 2 tbsp | Helps caramelize the glaze |
| Dijon mustard | 1 tbsp | Balances the sweet elements |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves | Adds savory depth |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp | Helps glaze adhere evenly |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | Basic seasoning |
Optional Flavor Enhancers
- Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs
- A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth
- A splash of balsamic vinegar for richness
These extras elevate your Thanksgiving Dishes from simple to spectacular.
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Perfect Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast
1. Prepare the Turkey Breast
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels—this helps the glaze stick.
- Rub the breast with olive oil, salt, and pepper for a crisp golden skin.
- Place the turkey in a roasting pan lined with foil or parchment paper.
2. Make the Cranberry Orange Glaze
- Combine cranberries, orange juice, honey, and brown sugar in a saucepan.
- Bring to a gentle boil and cook for 10–12 minutes until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens.
- Add orange zest, Dijon mustard, and minced garlic.
- Stir until glossy, then remove from heat to cool slightly.
3. Roast and Glaze the Turkey
- Brush the turkey with half of the glaze.
- Roast for 25 minutes per pound, basting every 20 minutes with more glaze.
- Continue roasting until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest the turkey for 10–15 minutes before slicing to retain moisture.
🍴 Pro Tip: The glaze thickens as it cools, so keep a little extra to drizzle over the slices before serving.
Tips for Juicy and Tender Turkey Every Time
A perfectly cooked Turkey Breast Recipe depends on timing and technique.
- Always use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.
- Let the turkey rest after baking this locks in juices.
- If the glaze starts to darken too quickly, cover loosely with foil.
Following these steps ensures a Turkey Dinner that’s juicy, tender, and full of festive flavor.
Serving Suggestions for Thanksgiving Cooking
Perfect Side Dishes to Pair With Your Glazed Turkey
Complete your Thanksgiving Recipes Side Dishes lineup with these complementary flavors:
- Garlic mashed potatoes – creamy and comforting.
- Green bean almondine – adds freshness and crunch.
- Sweet potato casserole – enhances the glaze’s citrus sweetness.
- Herbed stuffing or wild rice pilaf – hearty and flavorful.
These sides not only balance the Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast, but they also make your spread one of the Best Thanksgiving Recipes of the season.
Wine and Beverage Pairings
- A Pinot Noir complements the cranberry glaze beautifully.
- A Riesling or sparkling cider offers a crisp, refreshing balance.
Make-Ahead, Storage, and Reheating Tips
One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to prepare ahead:
- Make Ahead: You can make the cranberry-orange glaze up to two days before and store it in the fridge.
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in a 300°F oven to preserve juiciness.
These tips make your Thanksgiving Cooking smoother and less stressful.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Turkey Dishes
- Overbasting: Too much glaze early on can burn the sugars.
- Skipping the rest period: Resting allows juices to redistribute.
- Using cold turkey: Always let it reach room temperature before roasting.
Avoiding these mistakes guarantees your Turkey Recipes Thanksgiving will always be a success.
Health Benefits of Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast
This recipe isn’t just delicious—it’s nutritious!
- Turkey breast is lean, high in protein, and low in fat.
- Cranberries are rich in antioxidants.
- Oranges provide vitamin C and immune-boosting properties.
Together, they form one of the healthiest and tastiest Thanksgiving Dishes you can enjoy guilt-free.
Variations and Creative Twists
Spicy Cranberry Orange Glaze
Add red pepper flakes or cayenne to bring heat and balance the sweetness.
Honey-Maple Glazed Version
Replace honey with maple syrup and reduce brown sugar for a deep, earthy flavor.
Citrus Herb Glaze
Add lemon and rosemary to brighten the dish perfect for springtime Turkey Dishes too!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this recipe with chicken instead of turkey?
Yes! Substitute with chicken breasts and adjust the cooking time to 20–25 minutes per pound.
Can I use canned cranberry sauce?
Homemade glaze offers the best flavor, but canned sauce works in a pinch.
How do I prevent my glaze from burning?
Cover with foil if it starts to darken too quickly, and brush on in layers.
Can this be cooked in a slow cooker?
Yes! Cook on LOW for 4–5 hours and baste halfway through.
How long does the cranberry glaze last?
Stored in the fridge, it lasts up to a week. Reheat gently before use.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Absolutely. Wrap slices tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
Perfect Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast
Equipment
- roasting pan with rack
- small saucepan
- basting brush
- meat thermometer
- aluminum foil
Ingredients
- 1 bone-in turkey breast (about 4–5 pounds)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
- 0.25 cup orange juice (fresh preferred)
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp orange zest
- 1 tsp dijon mustard
- 0.5 tsp ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F and prepare a roasting pan with a rack.
- Pat the turkey breast dry, rub with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Place on roasting rack.
- In a small saucepan, combine cranberry sauce, orange juice, brown sugar, orange zest, mustard, and cinnamon. Simmer for 5–10 minutes.
- Brush the turkey breast with half of the glaze. Cover with foil and roast for 1 hour.
- Remove foil, brush with remaining glaze, and roast for another 30–45 minutes until internal temp reaches 165°F.
- Let rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with extra glaze if desired.
Notes
Conclusion: Your New Favorite Holiday Recipe
This Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast is more than just a meal it’s a holiday tradition waiting to happen. Its sweet and tangy glaze, golden-brown finish, and juicy texture make it one of the Best Thanksgiving Recipes for any table.
Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting out, this Turkey Breast Recipe will impress every guest. Pair it with classic Thanksgiving Recipes Side Dishes, pour a glass of wine, and savor the joy of creating something memorable.