Juicy Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey

Juicy Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast is a dish I return to every holiday season thanks to its bold flavors and irresistible glossy finish. The combination of tart cranberries and sweet citrus transforms a classic turkey into something you want to make long after the holidays are over. This recipe works well for festive gatherings or just a cozy weekend meal when you want a showstopper without the fuss of a whole bird.

When I first tested this recipe, the way the orange and cranberry glaze caramelized on the turkey skin got my family’s attention before the first bite. Now it is my go-to whenever guests come over in the fall and winter.

Ingredients

• Turkey breast: Bone-in and skin-on keeps the meat moist and flavorful. Look for one with the skin fully intact for the crispiest finish
• Fresh cranberries: Deliver natural tartness and vibrant color. Choose plump berries with shiny skins
• Orange juice and zest: Give the glaze a sunny brightness. Always select juicy oranges and zest them just before use for maximum aroma
• Honey: Balances the tart cranberries and adds a sticky shine
• Fresh rosemary and thyme: Provide earthy notes. Use the leaves from firm sprigs for best taste
• Olive oil: Helps the herbs and seasonings coat every part of the turkey evenly
• Garlic: Gives a savory base note to the glaze. Pick fragrant, firm cloves
• Salt and pepper: Heighten all the flavor elements. Opt for sea salt if you have it handy

Instructions

Prepare the glaze:

In a saucepan simmer cranberries orange juice honey and orange zest over medium heat until the berries pop and the glaze becomes thick and jammy

Season the turkey:

Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels to help the skin crisp during roasting. Combine olive oil garlic rosemary thyme salt and pepper for an aromatic rub

Marinate under and over the skin:

Carefully slide your hand under the turkey skin to loosen it. Spread half the herb mixture directly onto the meat and the rest over the skin and inside the cavity for deep flavor throughout

Ready for roasting:

Place the turkey breast skin side up in a roasting pan. Set your oven rack so air circulates evenly around the meat

Roast to perfection:

Bake at 375 degrees Fahrenheit allowing about 20 minutes per pound. Insert a thermometer in the thickest part to ensure it reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit for juicy results

Glaze for the final touch:

With thirty minutes left brush the turkey every ten minutes with your cranberry orange mixture to create a glossy flavorful coating

Rest and carve:

Once done let the turkey breast rest tented with foil for fifteen to twenty minutes. This keeps all the juices in before slicing and serving

I have always loved using fresh rosemary here because it perfumes the holiday kitchen in the best way. My youngest once insisted this turkey tasted like a holiday in every bite and I honestly cannot disagree.

Storage and Leftover Tips

Keep any leftover turkey tightly wrapped in the refrigerator and it will stay moist for up to three days. Slice only what you need to keep the rest juicy and flavorful. The cranberry orange glaze can be reheated gently and drizzled on top just before serving to bring those fresh flavors back to life.

Easy Ingredient Swaps

If you do not have fresh cranberries dried ones can be used but soak them in orange juice first to soften and plump them. Maple syrup works instead of honey for a deeper sweetness. Chicken breasts also work if turkey is hard to find just reduce roasting time accordingly.

Perfect Ways to Serve This

Serve your juicy turkey breast alongside garlic mashed potatoes and roasted carrots for a pretty plate. Fresh arugula salad brightens each bite and uses up extra orange zest. Thin slices are wonderful layered in sandwiches on ciabatta or over a hearty grain salad with leftover glaze as the dressing.

I learned after my first time not to skip the step of getting some herb rub right under the skin the flavor payoff is completely worth that little bit of effort.

Recipe Q&A

→ How do I achieve juicy turkey breast?

Pat the turkey dry, tuck herb mixture under the skin, and baste regularly with the glaze for maximum moisture.

→ Can I use frozen cranberries?

Yes, frozen cranberries work well. Simmer with orange juice and honey as you would with fresh fruit.

→ What herbs pair best with this dish?

Fresh rosemary and thyme complement the tart-sweet glaze and enhance savory depth.

→ How do I know when the turkey is done?

Use a meat thermometer; remove the turkey when the thickest part reads 165°F for perfect doneness.

→ What can I serve with cranberry orange glazed turkey breast?

Try seasonal vegetables, mashed potatoes, or wild rice to balance the bright, fruity flavors.