Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast

This Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast is a delightful twist on traditional turkey recipes, making it ideal for smaller gatherings or anyone who prefers white meat. This dish features the juiciness of turkey breast paired with a tangy-sweet glaze made from fresh cranberries and oranges, creating a unique flavor that stands out on any table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of cranberries and oranges gives a sweet yet tart flavor that elevates the turkey dish.
• Versatile Dish: Suitable for various occasions, from family dinners to holiday celebrations, this turkey breast can be the star of your meal.
• Healthy Option: Lean turkey breast provides a nutritious source of protein without excess fat, making it a healthy choice for dinner.
• Great Leftovers: Enjoy delicious leftovers that are perfect for sandwiches, salads, or even as a topping for grain bowls.

Tools and Preparation

To make this flavorful dish, you will need some essential tools. Having the right equipment ensures smooth preparation and cooking.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Roasting pan
• Small saucepan
• Mixing bowls
• Basting brush
• Meat thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

• Roasting pan: A sturdy roasting pan allows even cooking and browning of the turkey breast.
• Meat thermometer: Ensuring your turkey reaches the proper internal temperature is crucial for safety and flavor.

Ingredients

For this delicious Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast, gather the following ingredients:

For the Turkey

• 1 3-4 lb turkey breast, bone-in and skin-on

For the Glaze

• 2 cups fresh cranberries
• 1 cup orange juice
• 1/2 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons orange zest

For Seasoning

• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot enough for roasting your turkey.

Step 2: Prepare the Cranberry Orange Glaze

1. In a small saucepan, combine cranberries, orange juice, honey, and orange zest.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens. Set aside to cool.

Step 3: Prepare the Turkey Breast

1. Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Gently loosen the skin of the turkey breast and rub half of this herb mixture under the skin. Rub the remaining mixture over the skin and inside the cavity.

Step 4: Roast the Turkey BreasT

1. Place your prepared turkey breast in a roasting pan, skin side up.
2. Roast in preheated oven for about 20 minutes per pound or until an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) is reached at its thickest part.

Step 5: Brush with Glaze

During the last 30 minutes of cooking:
1. Brush your turkey breast generously with cranberry orange glaze every 10 minutes to build up flavor.

Step 6: Serve

Once cooked, remove your turkey from the oven:
1. Let it rest for 15-20 minutes before carving to allow juices to redistribute within the meat.

Enjoy your delicious Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast, perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast

Serving your Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast can elevate your meal experience, making it not only delicious but visually appealing. Here are some creative ways to serve this delightful dish.

Family Style

• Serve the turkey breast whole on a large platter. Allow guests to carve their own slices for a communal dining experience.

Sliced with Sauce

• Slice the turkey breast and drizzle the cranberry orange glaze over each piece. This enhances flavor and adds a beautiful presentation.

Sandwiches

• Use leftover turkey slices in sandwiches. Add fresh greens and a spread of the cranberry glaze for a tasty lunch idea.

Salad Topping

• Chop the turkey into bite-sized pieces and serve it on top of mixed greens. Add nuts, cranberries, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing salad.

With Grains

• Serve alongside quinoa or rice pilaf. The grains absorb the flavors of the glaze, complementing the turkey perfectly.

How to Perfect Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast

To ensure your Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Choose the right size: A 3-4 lb turkey breast is ideal for even cooking and serving about six people.
• Let it rest: Allowing the turkey to rest after cooking helps retain moisture, resulting in tender slices.
• Use a meat thermometer: Insert it into the thickest part of the turkey breast; it should read 165°F (74°C) when done.
• Keep skin on: Cooking with skin helps keep the meat juicy and flavorful during roasting.
• Marinate overnight: For deeper flavor, consider marinating the turkey with herbs and olive oil hours before cooking.

Best Side Dishes for Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast

Pairing side dishes with your Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast can enhance your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some great ideas:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy mashed potatoes with roasted garlic provide a comforting contrast to the tangy turkey.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
   Crispy Brussels sprouts add a delightful crunch and earthy flavor that complements the sweet glaze.
3. Green Bean Almondine
   Fresh green beans sautéed with almonds offer a nutty texture that pairs beautifully with turkey.
4. Sweet Potato Casserole
   A sweet potato casserole topped with pecans brings sweetness that matches well with the cranberry orange glaze.
5. Stuffing or Dressing
   A savory stuffing made with herbs and vegetables adds depth to your plate alongside the glazed turkey.
6. Cranberry Sauce
   Additional cranberry sauce can enhance flavors, providing an extra zing next to the turkey breast.
7. Cornbread Muffins
   Light cornbread muffins serve as a perfect vehicle for soaking up juices from both turkey and sides.
8. Seasonal Salad
   A seasonal salad featuring mixed greens, nuts, and fruits offers freshness that balances richer flavors on your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast even more delicious. Here are some pitfalls to steer clear of:

• Overcooking the turkey: This can lead to a dry turkey breast. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness, aiming for 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part.
• Neglecting to rest the meat: Cutting into your turkey right away can cause juices to run out, resulting in dryness. Let it rest for 15-20 minutes before carving.
• Skipping the glaze application: Failing to brush on the cranberry orange glaze during cooking can miss out on flavor. Apply the glaze every 10 minutes in the last half hour of roasting.
• Not seasoning enough: Underseasoning can make your dish bland. Be generous with salt and pepper, and consider adding herbs for extra flavor.
• Using frozen cranberries: Fresh cranberries yield better texture and taste in the glaze. If using frozen, ensure they are fully thawed before cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover turkey breast in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast

• Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe container.
• The turkey can be frozen for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place turkey in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Slice turkey and place it on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel and heat for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat slices in a skillet over medium heat with a little broth or water. Cover until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Many people have questions about preparing this delicious dish. Here are some common inquiries:

How do I choose the right turkey breast?

Select a bone-in, skin-on turkey breast that is fresh and has no signs of spoilage. Aim for around 3-4 lbs for optimal cooking results.

Can I use frozen cranberries for the glaze?

Yes, but fresh cranberries provide better flavor and texture. If using frozen, ensure they are completely thawed before making the glaze.

What can I serve with Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast?

This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

How long does it take to cook Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast?

Roast it for about 20 minutes per pound at 375°F (190°C), ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Can I customize the glaze?

Absolutely! Feel free to add spices like cinnamon or ginger for added warmth or swap honey for maple syrup if you prefer.

Final Thoughts

The Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast is an appealing dish that brings together savory and sweet flavors beautifully. Its versatility allows you to customize it according to your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try—it’s perfect for gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners!