Name: Perfect Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h 15 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 (3–4 lb) turkey breast (bone-in or boneless); 1 cup whole berry cranberry sauce; 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice; 1 tablespoon orange zest; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or 1/2 tsp dried); 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter; 1 1/2 teaspoons salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper

Craving something festive and flavorful that doesn’t require cooking a whole bird? This Perfect Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast might be exactly what your table needs. With its juicy, tender slices and a sticky-sweet glaze bursting with citrus and tart berry notes, it’s the ideal centerpiece for small gatherings or a cozy weekend dinner.

This recipe is all about balance—the richness of roasted turkey breast meets a zesty orange tang and cranberry brightness. Whether you’re planning an intimate holiday meal or want an elevated weeknight dinner, this glazed turkey breast is a standout for minimal effort and maximum flavor.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the ingredients, make sure your kitchen is equipped with the following tools to ensure a smooth cooking process:

Roasting Pan: Essential for even cooking and to catch all those flavorful juices. Choose one with a rack to elevate the turkey.
Meat Thermometer: A must-have for perfect doneness. Turkey breast should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Medium Saucepan: This is where the magic glaze comes together. Nonstick is ideal for easy cleanup.
Basting Brush or Spoon: To generously coat the turkey with that sticky cranberry orange glaze.
Aluminum Foil: Helps tent the turkey during roasting to keep it from drying out.

Having these tools handy not only makes prep easier but also ensures that your turkey breast turns out juicy and beautifully caramelized.

Ingredients for the Perfect Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast

Each component plays a vital role in building this festive, flavor-packed dish:

Turkey Breast (bone-in or boneless): The star of the show. Choose a fresh or fully thawed turkey breast for best texture and moisture.
Cranberry Sauce (whole berry): Provides the tart, fruity base of the glaze. Whole berries add texture and visual appeal.
Orange Juice (freshly squeezed preferred): Brings acidity and a citrusy brightness that cuts through the richness.
Orange Zest: Intensifies the orange flavor and perfumes the glaze.
Brown Sugar: Adds a caramelized depth and complements the tangy cranberries.
Dijon Mustard: Gives a gentle bite and balances the sweetness.
Garlic (minced): Offers an aromatic backbone and savory depth.
Fresh Thyme (or dried): Adds a woodsy note that grounds the glaze.
Olive Oil or Butter: For coating the turkey and encouraging golden, crisp skin.
Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing natural flavors.

How To Make the Perfect Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast

Step 1: Preheat and Prep the Turkey

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels, then rub it with olive oil or melted butter. Season all over with salt and freshly ground pepper. Place it on a roasting rack inside a pan.

Step 2: Make the Cranberry Orange Glaze

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine cranberry sauce, orange juice, orange zest, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and thyme. Let it simmer for 8–10 minutes until thickened and syrupy. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Roast the Turkey

Place the turkey breast in the preheated oven. Roast uncovered for 1 to 1.5 hours (depending on weight), basting with the glaze every 20 minutes. Tent loosely with foil if the skin browns too quickly.

Step 4: Check for Doneness

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the thickest part of the turkey breast reaches 165°F. Once done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10–15 minutes to redistribute juices.

Step 5: Slice and Glaze Again

Before serving, spoon additional glaze over the top. Slice against the grain and serve with fresh thyme and orange slices for garnish if desired.

How to Serve and Store Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast

Serve this turkey breast warm, sliced thick or thin depending on your preference. It pairs wonderfully with classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a wild rice pilaf. For extra flair, drizzle any leftover glaze on top just before serving—the shine and flavor are unbeatable.

To store, let the turkey cool completely, then wrap slices in foil or place in an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in portions with some glaze spooned over each. Reheat gently in the oven with a bit of broth or extra glaze to keep it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep turkey breast from drying out?

Use a meat thermometer to prevent overcooking, and let the turkey rest before slicing. Basting with glaze during roasting also helps retain moisture.

Can I use boneless turkey breast?

Absolutely! Boneless is easier to slice and cooks faster. Just adjust the roasting time accordingly—start checking doneness around 45 minutes.

What if I don’t have whole berry cranberry sauce?

You can use jellied cranberry sauce, though the texture will be smoother. Consider adding chopped dried cranberries for more body.

Can I prep the glaze in advance?

Yes! The glaze can be made 2–3 days ahead and stored in the fridge. Warm it up before basting the turkey.

What herbs can I substitute for thyme?

Rosemary or sage both work beautifully with cranberry and orange, giving a slightly different herbal profile.

Is this recipe suitable for holiday meals?

Definitely. It’s festive, colorful, and flavorful—perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any fall celebration.

Want More Holiday Main Dish Ideas?

Looking to expand your festive menu beyond the Perfect Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast?

You might also enjoy the Juicy and Tender Pork Tenderloin Roast, which delivers incredible flavor with a garlic-herb crust. Or for something heartier, try the Creamy Turkey Noodle Soup – it’s a comforting, crowd-pleasing leftover option.

If you’re looking for a chicken alternative, the Savory Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken Thighs are easy to prepare and full of citrus-herb brightness. For beef lovers, don’t miss the Hearty One-Pot Beef Stew Recipe, a warm, rustic choice.

Lastly, if you enjoy incorporating pasta, the Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe adds bold flavor to your table with creamy, spicy layers that will surprise and satisfy.

Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this to your holiday board for inspiration later. Just tap the Pin button.

And when you make it, I truly want to hear how it went! Did you add fresh rosemary? Did you use boneless or bone-in turkey? Drop a comment below or tag me in your photos. I’m always thrilled to see how others make it their own.

Looking for more of my recipes in one place? Follow along on Pinterest @LadyPlate where I share daily inspiration straight from my kitchen.

Perfect Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast

Author: Julia Koch
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Yield: 6 servings

Print Recipe

Description

This Perfect Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast is a beautiful blend of savory and sweet. Juicy turkey breast is glazed with a zesty mix of whole berry cranberry sauce, fresh orange juice, Dijon mustard, and herbs. It’s an easy yet festive dish perfect for smaller holiday gatherings, Sunday dinners, or an impressive weeknight main.

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Pat turkey breast dry and rub with olive oil or butter. Season all sides with salt and pepper. Place on a roasting rack in a pan.

2. In a medium saucepan, combine cranberry sauce, orange juice, orange zest, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, garlic, and thyme. Simmer over medium heat for 8–10 minutes until thick and syrupy.

3. Roast the turkey in the oven for 60–90 minutes, basting every 20 minutes with the cranberry orange glaze. Tent loosely with foil if browning too fast.

4. Check for doneness using a meat thermometer. Internal temperature should reach 165°F at the thickest part.

5. Remove from oven and let rest for 10–15 minutes. Slice and drizzle with more glaze before serving. Garnish with thyme or orange slices if desired.