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Perfect Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast

cranberry orange glazed turkey breast - featured image

A simple yet show-stopping turkey breast glazed with a sweet-tart cranberry orange sauce. This foolproof recipe delivers juicy, flavorful meat with a caramelized, jewel-toned coating that’s perfect for holidays or special dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 (4-5 lb) bone-in, skin-on turkey breast
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries (about 4 oz)
  • 1/2 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar, packed
  • 2 tablespoons orange zest
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves

Instructions

  1. Remove the turkey breast from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes. Pat the skin completely dry with paper towels.
  2. In a small bowl, mix together the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and dried thyme. Rub the turkey breast all over with the olive oil, then season generously with the spice mixture, making sure to get some under the skin if possible.
  3. While the turkey rests, combine the cranberries, orange juice, honey, brown sugar, orange zest, Dijon mustard, fresh rosemary, cinnamon, and cloves in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Let it cook for about 8-10 minutes, until the cranberries have burst and the mixture has thickened slightly. Remove from heat and set aside.
  4. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the seasoned turkey breast, skin-side up, on a rack in your roasting pan. Roast for 45 minutes uncovered.
  5. After 45 minutes, remove the turkey from the oven. Using a basting brush, generously coat the turkey breast with about half of the cranberry orange glaze. Return the turkey to the oven and reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C). Roast for another 20 minutes, then brush on the remaining glaze. Continue roasting for another 10-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature in the thickest part of the breast reaches 160°F (71°C).
  6. Remove the turkey from the oven and transfer it to a cutting board. Tent it loosely with aluminum foil and let it rest for at least 15 minutes. The temperature will continue to rise to a safe 165°F (74°C) during this time.
  7. After resting, carve the turkey breast against the grain into thick, even slices. Spoon any remaining glaze from the pan over the slices before serving.

Notes

For best results, use an instant-read thermometer to avoid overcooking. If the glaze browns too quickly, tent the turkey with foil. The glaze can be made up to 3 days ahead. Let the turkey rest for at least 15 minutes before carving to ensure juicy meat.

Nutrition

Keywords: cranberry orange glazed turkey breast, holiday turkey, roasted turkey breast, cranberry turkey, easy turkey recipe, Thanksgiving turkey