Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast Recipe: A Juicy, Flavor-Packed Centerpiece for Your Holiday Table

Last Updated on October 21, 2025 by Chef Josie

There’s something undeniably elegant about a beautifully roasted Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast. The glistening glaze, infused with the sweet tang of cranberries and the bright zest of oranges, makes this dish a true showstopper. It’s the perfect balance of savory and sweet, with just enough acidity to keep every bite vibrant and memorable.

If you love the classic flavors of Thanksgiving but want a dish that’s a little easier to manage than a whole turkey, this recipe is your dream come true. It’s quicker, more tender, and still delivers that traditional roasted flavor we crave this time of year.

This is a recipe that will fill your kitchen with the aroma of roasted herbs, caramelized citrus, and a cranberry glaze that shimmers like jewels. Perfect for Thanksgiving, Friendsgiving, or any Fall dinner gathering.

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Why You’ll Love This Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast

• Perfectly Moist Every Time: The glaze keeps the turkey breast tender and flavorful.
• Ideal for Smaller Gatherings: No need for a whole bird to enjoy a feast-worthy turkey.
• Sweet and Savory Harmony: The tangy cranberry-orange combo enhances the rich, juicy turkey.
• Simple Yet Elegant: Easy enough for a weeknight, stunning enough for a holiday spread.
• Beautiful Presentation: The deep red glaze and orange accents make it picture-perfect.

Ingredient Breakdown

• Turkey Breast: Boneless or bone-in works. Choose a fresh, quality breast for best flavor.
• Cranberries: Fresh or frozen cranberries create that signature tart-sweet glaze.
• Orange Juice and Zest: Add brightness and balance the cranberries.
• Honey or Maple Syrup: For natural sweetness and a glossy glaze.
• Dijon Mustard: Gives the glaze a savory depth and slight tang.
• Butter: Helps the turkey roast to golden perfection.
• Fresh Herbs: Thyme and rosemary complement the fruitiness with earthy notes.
• Garlic and Onion Powder: Add savory backbone and aroma.
• Salt and Pepper: Always essential for perfect seasoning.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a roasting pan with foil or parchment for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Turkey:
   Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. Rub with butter, salt, pepper, garlic, and onion powder. Place in the roasting pan, skin side up.
3. Make the Glaze:
   In a small saucepan, combine cranberries, orange juice, honey, Dijon mustard, and orange zest. Simmer over medium heat until cranberries burst and the mixture thickens into a glossy glaze, about 10–12 minutes. Set aside a portion for serving.
4. Roast the Turkey:
   Brush half the glaze over the turkey and roast for 45–60 minutes, depending on the size of your breast. Baste with more glaze every 15 minutes for maximum flavor.
5. Check for Doneness:
   The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Let the turkey rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
6. Glaze and Serve:
   Brush with remaining warm glaze before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs and orange slices for a festive touch.

Chef’s Tips for Success

• Use a Thermometer: Turkey breast can dry out quickly. A meat thermometer ensures juicy results.
• Don’t Skip the Rest: Letting the meat rest locks in those flavorful juices.
• Make the Glaze Ahead: The cranberry-orange glaze can be made up to 2 days in advance and reheated before serving.
• Add a Touch of Spice: A pinch of cinnamon or cayenne can bring a lovely warmth to the glaze.
• Pair with the Right Sides: Think mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a wild rice pilaf.

Serving Suggestions

This Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast pairs beautifully with:

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes
• Green Bean Casserole
• Herb-Roasted Vegetables
• Cranberry Stuffing
• Butternut Squash Salad

Add a drizzle of leftover glaze on top of each slice for an extra punch of flavor.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently in the oven at 325°F.
• Reheat with Moisture: Brush with glaze or broth to keep the turkey juicy when reheating.

Conclusion

This Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast brings together everything you love about a holiday meal; rich, comforting, and bursting with bright, seasonal flavor. It’s the kind of dish that earns applause at the table and a spot in your annual Thanksgiving recipe collection.

If you make this recipe, share how it turned out and explore more of my Turkey Dinner Ideas and Roasted Holiday Recipes to complete your festive feast

FAQs

1. Can I make this recipe with a whole turkey?
Yes, just double or triple the glaze recipe and baste regularly. Adjust cooking time based on the turkey’s weight.

2. Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?
Fresh or frozen cranberries are best for the glaze, but in a pinch, you can simmer dried cranberries with a little extra orange juice and water until soft.

3. How do I prevent the glaze from burning?
Apply most of the glaze during the last 20 minutes of roasting, when the turkey is almost done, to avoid over-caramelization.

4. What wine pairs best with this dish?
A bright, fruity wine like Pinot Noir or a crisp Chardonnay complements the cranberry-orange flavors perfectly.

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