If you’re searching for a show-stopping centerpiece that bursts with seasonal flavor, this Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast Recipe is just what you need. Juicy and tender turkey breast gets a beautiful, tangy-sweet glaze made from fresh cranberries, bright orange juice, and fragrant herbs, creating a perfect balance between savory and fruity. It’s an elegant dish that’s surprisingly simple to prepare and promises to fill your kitchen with irresistible aromas while delivering a memorable meal your family and guests will rave about.

Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for straightforward ingredients that each bring something special to the table—from fresh herbs adding fragrant notes to the natural sweetness and acidity of cranberries and orange. Every element works together to make the glaze vibrant and the turkey bursting with flavor and color.

1 3-4 lb turkey breast, bone-in and skin-on: Ensures juicy meat with crisp, flavorful skin once roasted.
2 cups fresh cranberries: Provide tartness and color to the glaze, making it uniquely festive.
1 cup orange juice: Adds bright citrus notes and balances the tart cranberries.
1/2 cup honey: Sweetens the glaze naturally and helps it caramelize beautifully on the turkey.
2 tablespoons orange zest: Intensifies the orange flavor and adds a fragrant touch to the glaze.
2 cloves garlic (minced): Lends a subtle savory depth to the herb rub.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps the herbs stick and promotes crisp skin during roasting.
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary (chopped): Infuses earthy, piney notes that complement the citrus perfectly.
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves: Offers a mild, aromatic background flavor that enhances the turkey.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and boosting all the flavors.

How to Make Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cranberry Orange Glaze

In a small saucepan, combine fresh cranberries, orange juice, honey, and orange zest. Bring it all to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally, then lower the heat and let it simmer for 10 to 15 minutes. You’ll notice the cranberries gradually burst open, thickening the mixture into a glossy, luscious glaze. Once done, set it aside to cool while you prepare the turkey.

Step 2: Season the Turkey Breast

Pat your turkey breast dry with paper towels to ensure the skin crisps nicely when roasted. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme leaves, salt, and pepper. This herb-infused oil mixture is your secret to juicy, flavorful meat and perfectly seasoned skin.

Step 3: Apply the Herb Rub Under the Skin

Gently loosen the skin from the turkey breast with your fingers—take your time so you don’t tear it. Rub half of the aromatic herb mixture underneath the skin, massaging it directly onto the meat for maximum flavor infusion. Then rub the remaining mixture over the skin and inside the cavity. Trust me, this step makes all the difference.

Step 4: Roast the Turkey Breast

Place the turkey breast skin side up in a roasting pan and pop it into your preheated 375°F oven. Roast for about 20 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature at the thickest part reaches 165°F. This ensures the meat is perfectly cooked through but still moist and tender.

Step 5: Glaze the Turkey

During the final 30 minutes of cooking, brush the turkey breast generously with that gorgeous cranberry orange glaze every 10 minutes. This repeated glazing helps build up a sticky, flavorful crust that’s both tangy and sweet—a real crowd-pleaser.

Step 6: Rest and Carve

Once your turkey is cooked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 15 to 20 minutes before carving. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, making every slice succulent and tender.

How to Serve Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs brightens up the presentation beautifully. Add a few fresh cranberries or orange slices around the platter for a festive and colorful touch that complements the glaze perfectly.

Side Dishes

This turkey breast pairs wonderfully with traditional sides like creamy mashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, and sweet potato casserole. Don’t forget a crisp green salad tossed with dried cranberries, pecans, and a citrus vinaigrette to echo the glaze flavors throughout the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For an elegant touch, carve the turkey breast into thick slices and fan them out on a large serving board layered with fresh greens or kale. Drizzle any leftover glaze over the top and surround with decorative clusters of cranberries and orange zest curls for a stunning festive display.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover turkey in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. Keep the glaze separate if possible to prevent the skin from getting soggy, and reheat gently to maintain moisture.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked turkey breast wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy the leftovers, thaw in the refrigerator overnight to preserve flavor and texture.

Reheating

Reheat your sliced turkey gently in the oven at 300°F, covered loosely with foil to avoid drying out. Warm the glaze separately and brush it on just before serving to freshen up all those delicious flavors.

FAQs

Can I use boneless turkey breast for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use boneless turkey breast, but cooking time will be shorter. Make sure to check the internal temperature frequently to avoid overcooking and keep the meat juicy.

Is fresh cranberry necessary or can I use frozen?

Fresh cranberries work best for their texture and burst of flavor in the glaze, but frozen cranberries can also be used. Just thaw them first and drain any excess liquid to avoid a watery glaze.

Can I prepare the glaze in advance?

Yes, the cranberry orange glaze can be made a day or two ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before brushing it onto the turkey to maintain its richness.

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

Dried herbs can be substituted, but use them sparingly as they are more concentrated; about a third of the amount of fresh herbs is sufficient to keep the flavors balanced.

Can I roast this turkey breast on a grill instead of an oven?

Definitely! Use indirect heat on your grill and follow similar timing guidelines, brushing the glaze regularly to achieve that same lovely caramelized finish.

Final Thoughts

This Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast Recipe is a true delight to make and share. It turns a simple turkey breast into an extraordinary dish that’s bursting with vibrant, layered flavors and festive charm. Whether for a holiday feast or a special family dinner, it’s an easy way to impress everyone around your table. Go ahead, give it a try—you’ll be so glad you did!

Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast Recipe