Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a show-stopping Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast!
I’m thrilled to share this delectable dish that combines the tartness of cranberries with the zesty sweetness of oranges.
Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or a festive holiday feast, this recipe is sure to become your new go-to. Let’s dive in and make your next meal unforgettable!
Why Choose Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast?
- Perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors
- Ideal for smaller gatherings or intimate dinners
- Healthier alternative to whole turkey
- Quicker cooking time compared to full turkey
- Versatile dish suitable for holidays and special occasions
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 (3-4 lb) turkey breast, bone-in and skin-on
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1/2 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons orange zest
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small saucepan, combine cranberries, orange juice, honey, and orange zest. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes until cranberries burst and the mixture thickens. Set aside to cool.
- Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Gently loosen the skin of the turkey breast and rub half of the herb mixture under the skin. Rub the remaining mixture over the skin and inside the cavity.
- Place the turkey breast in a roasting pan, skin side up.
- Roast for 20 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part.
- During the last 30 minutes of cooking, brush the turkey breast with the cranberry orange glaze every 10 minutes.
- Once done, remove from the oven and let it rest for 15-20 minutes before carving.
Serving and Presentation Ideas
- Carve the turkey breast against the grain for the most tender slices.
- Serve alongside roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or wild rice pilaf.
- Garnish with fresh orange slices and sprigs of rosemary for a festive touch.
- Pair with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Noir to complement the flavors.
Nutritional Information and Health Benefits
- Turkey breast is an excellent source of lean protein.
- Cranberries are packed with antioxidants and vitamin C.
- Oranges provide additional vitamin C and fiber.
- This recipe is naturally gluten-free and can be adapted for low-carb diets by using a sugar substitute in the glaze.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- To reheat, place slices in a baking dish with a splash of broth, cover with foil, and warm in a 325°F (165°C) oven until heated through.
- Use leftover turkey in sandwiches, salads, or casseroles for quick and easy meals.
There you have it, folks! A mouthwatering Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast that’s bound to be the star of your next meal.
This recipe proves that you don’t need a whole turkey to create a memorable feast. The combination of tart cranberries and zesty oranges brings out the best in the succulent turkey breast, creating a harmony of flavors that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
Remember, cooking is all about having fun and making memories, so don’t be afraid to put your own spin on this dish.
Ready to give it a try? Your taste buds will thank you! Happy cooking, and bon appétit!
Recipe FAQ’s
Can I use frozen cranberries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen cranberries. No need to thaw them before cooking.
Is it possible to make this recipe with turkey tenderloin?
Absolutely! Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as tenderloin cooks faster than bone-in breast.
Can I prepare the glaze in advance?
Yes, you can make the glaze up to 3 days ahead and store it in the refrigerator.
Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast
Ingredients
- 1 3-4 lb turkey breast, bone-in and skin-on
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- 1 cup orange juice
- ½ cup honey
- 2 tablespoons orange zest
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small saucepan, combine cranberries, orange juice, honey, and orange zest. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes until cranberries burst and the mixture thickens. Set aside to cool.
- Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Gently loosen the skin of the turkey breast and rub half of the herb mixture under the skin. Rub the remaining mixture over the skin and inside the cavity.
- Place the turkey breast in a roasting pan, skin side up.
- Roast for 20 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part.
- During the last 30 minutes of cooking, brush the turkey breast with the cranberry orange glaze every 10 minutes.
- Once done, remove from the oven and let it rest for 15-20 minutes before carving.