If you’re craving a dish that perfectly balances festive flavors with juicy, tender meat, this Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast Recipe is about to become your new favorite. The vibrant zing of fresh cranberries combined with zesty orange creates a glossy, flavorful glaze that beautifully complements the succulent turkey breast, making every bite a delightful celebration of sweet, tangy, and savory notes. Whether it’s a special holiday meal or a weekend treat, this recipe brings warmth and freshness to your table in one stunning dish.

Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is key, and this recipe is wonderfully straightforward. Each element plays an important role—from the bright citrus punch of orange zest and juice to the aromatic herbs that infuse the turkey with savory depth, and the natural sweetness of honey that rounds it all out. Fresh cranberries add a burst of tartness and help create the irresistible glaze you’ll love.

1 3-4 lb turkey breast, bone-in and skin-on: The star of the dish, ensuring juicy, flavorful meat with crispy skin.
2 cups fresh cranberries: Adds tartness and color to the glaze.
1 cup orange juice: Brings a bright, citrusy zing that brightens the glaze.
1/2 cup honey: Balances tart flavors with natural sweetness.
2 tablespoons orange zest: Intensifies the orange flavor with aromatic oils.
2 cloves garlic (minced): Adds savory depth without overpowering the glaze.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps the herb rub spread smoothly and crisps the skin.
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary (chopped): Offers an earthy, piney fragrance complementing the meat.
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves: Brings gentle herbal notes that pair beautifully with turkey.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing every ingredient.

How to Make Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Glaze

Start by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s perfectly ready when the turkey goes in. Next, make the luscious cranberry orange glaze by combining fresh cranberries, orange juice, honey, and orange zest in a saucepan. Bring them to a boil, then let the mixture simmer until the cranberries burst and everything thickens into a glossy sauce full of bold, tangy-sweet flavor.

Step 2: Season the Turkey

Pat your turkey breast dry to help the seasonings stick and the skin crisp up beautifully. Mix olive oil with minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper, creating a fragrant herb rub. Gently separate the turkey skin from the meat without tearing, and spread half of the herb mixture under the skin for maximum flavor inside.

Step 3: Apply Herb Rub and Roast

Rub the remaining herb mixture over the skin and inside the cavity of the turkey breast. Placing the turkey skin side up in a roasting pan lets the skin get deliciously crispy while the herbs work their magic. Roast the turkey for about 20 minutes per pound or until the internal temperature hits a safe 165°F (74°C).

Step 4: Glaze During Roasting

Here’s the fun part—during the final 30 minutes of roasting, generously brush the turkey with your vibrant cranberry orange glaze every 10 minutes. This builds layers of flavor and gives the skin that irresistible, glossy finish that looks as good as it tastes.

Step 5: Rest Before Carving

Once the turkey has perfectly roasted, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 15-20 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every slice is moist and mouthwatering. Then carve and get ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast Recipe

Garnishes

To make your presentation pop, sprinkle some fresh rosemary sprigs and a few whole cranberries around the carved turkey. Thin slices of orange zest arranged on top add a vibrant touch and hint at the flavors within. These simple garnishes elevate the look of your dish and invite guests to dig in.

Side Dishes

This recipe pairs beautifully with classic roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts and sweet potatoes, whose earthy sweetness complements the tart-sweet glaze. Creamy mashed potatoes or a fluffy wild rice pilaf are also fantastic companions, soaking up any extra glaze and balancing the meal perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond the plate! Serving this turkey breast atop a bed of mixed greens or alongside a festive cranberry-orange salad amps up the visual appeal and adds layers of freshness. For a crowd-pleasing touch, arrange carved slices on a wooden board surrounded by seasonal fruits and nuts—perfect for passing around at gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, wrap any leftover turkey tightly in foil or place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. Properly stored, it will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days, making tasty sandwiches, salads, or quick reheated meals easy to enjoy the next day.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later or prepare meals in advance, slice the turkey and freeze it in airtight freezer bags or containers. It freezes well for up to 2-3 months, maintaining flavor and texture when thawed gently in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat without drying out, gently warm the turkey slices in a covered dish with a splash of broth or leftover glaze in a 325°F oven. Alternatively, reheat on the stovetop over low heat with a little liquid to keep the meat juicy and tender.

FAQs

Can I use a boneless turkey breast for this recipe?

Absolutely! While bone-in adds flavor and moisture, a boneless turkey breast will work just fine. Adjust cooking time as needed, checking the internal temperature to reach 165°F for safety.

Is fresh cranberry necessary for the glaze?

Fresh cranberries provide the best texture and tartness, but if you can’t find them, frozen cranberries are a good substitute. Just thaw slightly and proceed as directed.

Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

Yes! The cranberry orange glaze can be prepared a day or two in advance and refrigerated in a sealed container. Warm gently before glazing the turkey to bring back its silky texture.

What if I don’t have fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme?

Dried herbs can work in a pinch—just use about one-third the amount since they’re more concentrated. Fresh herbs, however, provide a fresher, more vibrant flavor that really shines in this recipe.

How do I know when the turkey is fully cooked?

The best way is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the breast without touching bone. When it reads 165°F (74°C), your turkey is perfectly cooked and safe to eat.

Final Thoughts

This Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast Recipe is truly a showstopper that’s surprisingly simple to prepare. It strikes such a lovely balance of bright and savory flavors, making it perfect for any special meal or cozy dinner at home. I promise, once you try it, you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again to delight your family and friends with its irresistible charm!