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Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast

Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast

4.8 from 14 reviews

This Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast offers a delightful twist on the classic roast turkey with a vibrant, tangy glaze that combines fresh cranberries, zesty orange, and sweet honey. Perfect for festive gatherings or any special occasion, the herb-infused turkey breast is juicy and flavorful, complemented beautifully by the rich, citrusy glaze.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 (3-4 lb) turkey breast, bone-in and skin-on
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Glaze Ingredients

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

Herb Rub

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves

Instructions

  1. Prepare the glaze: In a small saucepan, mix fresh cranberries, orange juice, honey, and orange zest. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes until the cranberries pop and the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and let cool.
  2. Preheat the oven: Set your oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready to roast the turkey breast properly.
  3. Prepare the herb mixture: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme leaves, salt, and pepper. Mix well to form a fragrant herb rub.
  4. Apply the herb rub: Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. Gently loosen the skin without detaching it completely and spread half of the herb rub under the skin. Use the remaining rub to coat the outside skin and inside the cavity of the turkey breast for maximum flavor.
  5. Roast the turkey: Place the turkey breast skin-side up in a roasting pan. Roast for about 20 minutes per pound or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part to ensure it’s safely cooked yet juicy.
  6. Glaze the turkey: During the last 30 minutes of roasting, brush the turkey breast with the cranberry orange glaze every 10 minutes. This layering creates a glossy, flavorful finish.
  7. Rest and serve: Remove the turkey breast from the oven and let it rest for 15-20 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and juicy.

Notes

  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure the turkey reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  • Loosening the skin carefully helps the herb rub infuse flavor without tearing the skin.
  • The glaze can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated; warm slightly before using.
  • Letting the turkey rest after roasting is key to achieving moist, flavorful meat.
  • Adjust honey quantity in the glaze to suit your preferred sweetness level.

Nutrition

Keywords: turkey breast, cranberry orange glaze, roast turkey, holiday turkey recipe, citrus glaze, roasted turkey, herb rub, festive turkey