Perfect Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast

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A vibrant twist on a holiday classic, this Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast is a showstopper that bursts with sweet, tart, and savory flavors. Succulent turkey breast is roasted to juicy perfection and glazed with a glossy cranberry-orange reduction that brings color and zest to every bite. It’s the kind of dish that turns an ordinary dinner into something truly festive and memorable.

Whether you’re planning a smaller Thanksgiving gathering, hosting a cozy Christmas dinner, or just craving a flavor-packed main course, this recipe fits beautifully into any occasion. It’s a breeze to prepare, pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, and looks absolutely stunning on the table.

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Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast

This recipe is all about balance: the sharpness of fresh cranberries meets the citrusy brightness of orange juice and zest, all softened by a touch of honey and the savory depth of roasted turkey. The glaze caramelizes in the oven, giving the turkey a sticky, golden crust that seals in the juices.

Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder. Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor. Perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks who want a beautiful centerpiece without spending hours in the kitchen.

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What Kind of Turkey Breast Should I Use?

For the best results, opt for a bone-in, skin-on turkey breast. The bone helps retain moisture during roasting, and the skin crisps up beautifully under the glaze. If you can only find boneless, that’s fine too—just keep an eye on the cooking time, as it will cook a bit faster.

Fresh turkey breast is preferred for tenderness and taste, but frozen will work as long as it’s fully thawed before you begin. Try to use a 3-4 pound breast for even roasting and ideal glaze coverage.

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Ingredients for the Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast

Each ingredient in this dish has a role to play in building layers of flavor and texture. Here’s what you need and why it matters:

• Turkey Breast (3-4 lbs, bone-in, skin-on) – The star of the dish. Bone-in helps retain juiciness, and the skin ensures crispy, golden texture.
• Fresh Cranberries (1 cup) – Adds bright tartness that complements the richness of the turkey.
• Orange Juice (1/2 cup) – Infuses the glaze with citrusy freshness.
• Orange Zest (1 tablespoon) – Intensifies the orange aroma and flavor.
• Honey (1/3 cup) – Balances the tartness of the cranberries and helps the glaze caramelize.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced) – Adds a savory kick to round out the sweetness.
• Fresh Thyme (a few sprigs) – For herbaceous aroma and depth.
• Salt & Pepper (to taste) – Brings all the flavors together.
• Olive Oil (1 tablespoon) – Used to rub the turkey before roasting, promoting browning.

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How To Make the Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast

Follow these step-by-step instructions to get the perfect balance of crispy skin, juicy meat, and glossy glaze.

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the turkey breast on a roasting rack inside a baking dish. Pat it dry with paper towels, then rub with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Step 2: Make the Glaze

In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, honey, and garlic. Let it simmer for 10-15 minutes until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens slightly. Stir in thyme sprigs at the end.

Step 3: Roast the Turkey

Roast the turkey breast uncovered for 45 minutes. Then spoon half the cranberry orange glaze over the top.

Step 4: Glaze and Finish

Continue roasting for another 20-30 minutes, basting once more with the remaining glaze. Roast until a meat thermometer reads 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the breast.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This keeps the juices locked in. Spoon any extra glaze from the pan over the slices before serving.

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How to Serve and Store Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast

This recipe serves about 6 people, making it ideal for small gatherings or holiday meals where you want something special but not over-the-top. Arrange slices of turkey on a platter with a drizzle of leftover glaze and garnish with fresh orange slices, cranberries, and sprigs of thyme for an elegant touch.

To store, place leftover turkey in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions for up to 2 months. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave with a splash of broth to keep it moist.

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What to Serve With Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast?

The tangy and sweet glaze pairs beautifully with both classic and creative side dishes. Here are some delicious ideas:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creamy and smooth, they balance the sweet glaze with savory richness.

2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic

Their slight bitterness works well with the tart cranberry topping.

3. Wild Rice Pilaf

Nutty and aromatic, wild rice is a great grain base to soak up the glaze.

4. Honey Glazed Carrots

A sweet side that echoes the honey notes in the glaze, adding color and crunch.

5. Sage and Onion Stuffing

Earthy herbs complement the citrus and cranberry flavors in the turkey.

6. Cranberry Apple Salad

A fresh, tangy salad to balance the warmth of the main dish.

7. Buttery Dinner Rolls

Soft and warm, perfect for sopping up any leftover glaze on your plate.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?
Fresh cranberries are best for making the glaze since they burst and thicken naturally, but if you only have dried, soak them in orange juice for 30 minutes before cooking. The result won’t be quite as vibrant but still tasty.

What if I don’t have fresh orange juice?
Bottled orange juice works in a pinch. Just make sure it’s 100% juice with no added sugar to keep the flavor balanced.

How do I know when the turkey is done?
Use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the breast. It should register 165°F (74°C). Don’t rely on just visual cues—a thermometer guarantees juiciness and safety.

Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the cranberry orange glaze up to 3 days ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just warm it before using.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add a twist like rosemary or a splash of bourbon? Did you serve it for a holiday or just because?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter and tastier.

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Conclusion

Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast is the perfect harmony of simplicity and celebration. With its colorful presentation, juicy texture, and punchy glaze, it turns any dinner into something extra special. Whether for the holidays or just a midweek surprise, this dish promises to delight your table with ease and elegance.

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