With the holiday season fast approaching, and celebratory dinners becoming the norm, the quest for a festive meal that both impresses guests and tantalizes taste buds is often top of mind. Look no further than this Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast. This recipe marries the vibrant tartness of cranberries with the citrusy delight of oranges, providing a glorious, glaze-covered turkey breast that dazzles in flavor and presentation alike. Whether you’re planning a grand festive feast or a cozy family dinner, this dish stands as a beautiful centerpiece, offering a delightful twist on the classic turkey.
The appeal lies not only in its taste but in its simplicity. With a few choice ingredients and simple steps, you can create a showstopper that’s sure to have everyone at the table reaching for seconds. The combination of fresh herbs, juicy turkey, and a fruity glaze creates a harmonious blend of flavors that showcases each ingredient’s best qualities. Best of all, this masterpiece need not require the whole day in the kitchen, freeing up your time to enjoy the company of friends and family.
The focus on fresh ingredients such as rosemary, thyme, and cranberries ensures that every bite bursts with rich, authentic taste. Moreover, the preparation process showcases the art of transforming a simple turkey breast into a delectable, gourmet dish — perfect for those special occasions where every detail matters. Whether you’re an experienced cook or an ambitious beginner, embarking on this culinary journey promises satisfaction and plenty of enthusiastic compliments.
Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast
- Flavor Explosion: Combining cranberries and orange brings out a delightful contrast of sweet and tart, enhancing the turkey’s natural flavors.
- Simple Preparation: Despite its gourmet appearance, this dish is straightforward and easy to prepare.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: From formal holiday gatherings to intimate dinners, this turkey breast is versatile enough for any event.
- Health Benefits: Loaded with fresh fruit, herbs, and lean turkey, it’s a healthy alternative to heavier holiday dishes.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into the cooking process, some preparation can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable cooking experience. Begin by clearing your kitchen workspace to make way for the turkey and ingredients. A spacious area will allow you to manage the recipe elements without any hassle.
You will need a few essential tools: a sharp chef’s knife for chopping herbs and garlic, a saucepan to create the glaze, and a roasting pan suitable for a 3-4 pound turkey breast. Additionally, keep a meat thermometer handy to accurately gauge when your turkey reaches the safe and delicious point of 165°F (74°C). Having these tools at your disposal can guarantee a well-cooked, flavorful meal.
Consider lining your roasting pan with foil for an easier cleanup afterward, and double-check that your oven is preheated to the correct temperature before starting. Taking these small steps can make the overall culinary process more enjoyable and less stressful.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- ½ cup honey
- 2 tablespoons orange zest
- 1 cup orange juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 (3–4 lb) bone-in, skin-on turkey breast
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Achieving the right baking temperature ensures even cooking and the perfect texture for your turkey breast.
Step 2: Create the Cranberry Orange Glaze
In a medium-sized saucepan, combine fresh cranberries, orange juice, honey, and orange zest. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and allow it to cook for 10–15 minutes. The goal is to thicken the glaze, making it rich and flavorful. Let the glaze cool off slightly before using it.
Step 3: Season the Turkey
While the glaze cools, pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels, ensuring there is minimal moisture. Mix olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Gently loosen the skin of the turkey and rub half of the aromatic mixture under the skin and into the cavity. Use the remaining mixture to coat the outside of the turkey, infusing it with flavor and ensuring a crisp golden finish when roasted.
Step 4: Roast the Turkey
Place the seasoned turkey breast skin-side up in your prepared roasting pan. Roast the turkey, modifying the time based on weight — approximately 20 minutes per pound. Keep a close eye on the internal temperature, aiming for 165°F (74°C) to guarantee a juicy and perfectly cooked turkey.
Step 5: Glaze and Rest
During the last 30 minutes of roasting, begin applying the cranberry-glaze. Brush it over the turkey every 10 minutes, building up layers of flavor and a glossy finish. Once done, remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 15–20 minutes before slicing. This crucial step locks in juices and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Variations
- Protein: While this recipe uses turkey breast, it can be adapted to chicken for a smaller gathering.
- Vegetables: Consider adding a bed of mixed root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and potatoes to the roasting pan for a complete meal.
- Spices: Enhance the herb mixture with a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for an extra aromatic boost.
Cooking Notes
- For a deeper flavor, prepare the cranberry glaze a day in advance, allowing the flavors to develop overnight.
- If fresh cranberries are unavailable, frozen cranberries can be used with similar results.
- Ensure the turkey is fully thawed if previously frozen, which helps in proper cooking.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve alongside a fresh, leafy green salad with a citrus vinaigrette to complement the turkey’s flavor.
- Pair with a zesty white wine or a spiced red like Zinfandel for a holiday flair.
Tips
- Use a baking sheet lined with foil under your roasting pan to catch any drips, making cleaning up effortless.
- Letting the turkey rest post-roasting ensures the juices are reabsorbed, resulting in tender meat.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: Approx. 1 hour 20 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 2 hours, including resting
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 400 per serving
- Protein: 52g
- Sodium: Depends on seasoning, about 150mg
FAQs
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh ones?
Yes, dried herbs can be used, but as they are more concentrated, reduce the quantity to half for equivalent flavor.
What if my glaze is too thin?
If the glaze is thin, continue simmering it until it reduces further. Adding a little more honey can also thicken it.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
While best served fresh, you can pre-cook the turkey and reheat it. Store it with a layer of glaze to keep it moist.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store leftovers tightly wrapped in the refrigerator for up to three days, or freeze for longer storage.
Conclusion
This Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast recipe is your secret weapon for impressing guests with minimal fuss. The combination of sweet and citrusy flavors provides a modern twist on traditional turkey, ensuring every diner leaves happy and satisfied. Whether you’re hosting an elaborate festive meal or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this recipe promises culinary delight with every bite. Feel free to experiment with variations or share your personal twists in the comments. We’d love to hear your experiences or answer any further questions you might have.
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Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast
- Total Time: Approximately 2 hours, including resting
- Yield: Serves 6 - 8 1x
Description
This Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast recipe is your secret weapon for impressing guests with minimal fuss. The combination of sweet and citrusy flavors provides a modern twist on traditional turkey, ensuring every diner leaves happy and satisfied.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- ½ cup honey
- 2 tablespoons orange zest
- 1 cup orange juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 (3–4 lb) bone-in, skin-on turkey breast
Instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Achieving the right baking temperature ensures even cooking and the perfect texture for your turkey breast.
- In a medium-sized saucepan, combine fresh cranberries, orange juice, honey, and orange zest. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and allow it to cook for 10–15 minutes. The goal is to thicken the glaze, making it rich and flavorful. Let the glaze cool off slightly before using it.
- While the glaze cools, pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels, ensuring there is minimal moisture. Mix olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Gently loosen the skin of the turkey and rub half of the aromatic mixture under the skin and into the cavity. Use the remaining mixture to coat the outside of the turkey, infusing it with flavor and ensuring a crisp golden finish when roasted.
- Place the seasoned turkey breast skin-side up in your prepared roasting pan. Roast the turkey, modifying the time based on weight — approximately 20 minutes per pound. Keep a close eye on the internal temperature, aiming for 165°F (74°C) to guarantee a juicy and perfectly cooked turkey.
- During the last 30 minutes of roasting, begin applying the cranberry-glaze. Brush it over the turkey every 10 minutes, building up layers of flavor and a glossy finish. Once done, remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 15–20 minutes before slicing. This crucial step locks in juices and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Notes
For a deeper flavor, prepare the cranberry glaze a day in advance, allowing the flavors to develop overnight. If fresh cranberries are unavailable, frozen cranberries can be used with similar results. Ensure the turkey is fully thawed if previously frozen, which helps in proper cooking.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: Approx. 1 hour 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: Approximately 400 per serving
- Sodium: Depends on seasoning, about 150mg
- Protein: 52g