Cranberry Orange Turkey Breast is like a holiday hug on a plate, bursting with vibrant flavors and aromas that dance together like excited relatives at a family reunion. Picture this: tender turkey breast, bathed in a sweet and tangy cranberry orange glaze, filling your kitchen with mouthwatering scents that invite everyone to gather around the table. carrot pineapple cake for dessert The combination of juicy turkey and zesty citrus will make your taste buds sing, making it the perfect dish for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just an ordinary Tuesday when you need a little festive spirit. For more inspiration, check out this Christmas Cookie Lasagna Recipe recipe.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- Can I use frozen turkey breast for this recipe?
- How do I know when the turkey is done cooking?
- What sides pair well with Cranberry Orange Turkey Breast?
- 📖 Recipe Card
I remember the first time I made Cranberry Orange Turkey Breast for my family; they were skeptical at first. You know how it goes—turkey can be dry and boring—but after one bite, their faces lit up like kids on Christmas morning. It quickly became a staple in our household, cherished for its incredible flavor and simplicity. delicious pumpkin snickerdoodle cookies This delightful recipe not only impresses guests but also gives you that warm feeling of nostalgia. So, roll up your sleeves because we’re about to embark on a culinary adventure! For more inspiration, check out this Chewy Pistachio Cranberry Cookies recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Cranberry Orange Turkey Breast is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions
- Its flavor profile features the perfect balance of sweet and savory notes that will have everyone asking for seconds
- The stunning colors of the cranberry-orange glaze will brighten up any dinner table, delighting both the eyes and the palate
- This dish shines during holidays but is versatile enough to enjoy year-round as a comforting family meal
I still chuckle when I think about my cousin mistaking the cranberry sauce for jam and trying to spread it on his bread!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless Turkey Breast: Aim for about 2-3 pounds; it’s lean and cooks evenly.
Fresh Cranberries: Look for plump berries; they add vibrant color and tartness.
Orange Juice: Freshly squeezed juice offers the best flavor; avoid bottled if possible.
Brown Sugar: Adds sweetness that balances out the tart cranberries beautifully.
Garlic Powder: A pinch enhances flavor without overpowering the dish.
Dried Thyme: This herb complements turkey perfectly; fresh thyme works too if you have it!
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate all other flavors in this recipe. Cuban style black beans.
Olive Oil: Use it to keep the turkey moist while roasting.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare Your Turkey Breast: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Rinse the turkey breast under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Trimming excess fat ensures even cooking.
Create Your Glaze: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine fresh cranberries, orange juice, brown sugar, garlic powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir until cranberries burst and mixture thickens slightly.
Season the Turkey: Place your turkey breast in a roasting pan. Rub olive oil over it generously before seasoning with salt and pepper to create a flavorful crust.
Add the Glaze: Pour half of your luscious cranberry-orange glaze over the turkey breast. Reserve some glaze for basting later—it’ll keep things juicy!
Roast Away: Place the roasting pan in the preheated oven. Roast for about 1 hour or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Baste every 20 minutes with remaining glaze for maximum flavor.
Savor Your Creation: Once done, let your turkey rest for about 15 minutes before slicing into it. The juices will redistribute beautifully during this time!
Now you’re ready to serve up this glorious Cranberry Orange Turkey Breast! Pair it with roasted vegetables or fluffy mashed potatoes for a complete meal that will leave everyone asking for more!
You Must Know
- This delightful Cranberry Orange Turkey Breast is more than just a festive dish; it’s a flavor bomb that boasts sweetness, tartness, and savory goodness
- The bright aromas of orange and cranberry will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist sneaking bites along the way
- Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy family dinners!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the turkey breast overnight for maximum flavor. Then, sear it skin-side down in a hot pan before transferring to the oven for even cooking. This method ensures a juicy turkey with crispy skin.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out cranberries for other fruits like cherries or apricots. You can also add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a seasonal twist. Experimenting can create unique flavor profiles that suit your taste.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, gently warm in the oven at 325°F until heated through, keeping moisture intact with foil.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- A well-rested turkey breast will yield juicier slices; let it sit before carving
- Use fresh herbs for a burst of flavor—dried just won’t cut it here
- Always check doneness with a meat thermometer; aim for 165°F to ensure safety and tenderness
There was that one Thanksgiving when I decided to impress my family with this recipe. They devoured every bit, and I proudly claimed the title of “turkey whisperer.” Who knew cranberry and orange could bring such joy?
FAQ
Can I use frozen turkey breast for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it completely before marinating and cooking.
How do I know when the turkey is done cooking?
Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F for safety.
What sides pair well with Cranberry Orange Turkey Breast?
Consider serving mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad to complement the dish perfectly. oven roasted cauliflower side dish.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
PrintCranberry Orange Turkey Breast
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Cranberry Orange Turkey Breast is a delightful dish that transforms any meal into a festive occasion. This tender turkey breast is glazed with a sweet and tangy cranberry-orange sauce, creating a mouthwatering experience that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds. Perfect for holidays or cozy family dinners, this recipe boasts vibrant flavors that evoke warm memories. With simple preparation and stunning presentation, it’s an easy way to impress your guests while enjoying the comforting tastes of the season.
Ingredients
- 2–3 pounds boneless turkey breast
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Rinse the turkey breast and pat dry.
- In a saucepan, combine cranberries, orange juice, brown sugar, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper over medium heat. Cook until cranberries burst and sauce thickens.
- Place the turkey in a roasting pan, rub with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
- Pour half of the glaze over the turkey and reserve the rest for basting.
- Roast for about 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), basting every 20 minutes.
- Let rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 oz (85g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 29g
- Cholesterol: 80mg




