Dinner

Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast Recipe

BySimon Carel December 22, 2025December 22, 2025

Introduction

This Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast is a perfect centerpiece for any festive meal. The tangy cranberry and bright orange glaze complement the savory herbs, creating a delicious balance of flavors. It’s easy to prepare and wonderfully impressive.

A sliced roasted turkey breast is neatly arranged on a white scalloped plate, glazed with a shiny, dark red cranberry sauce that spreads slightly across the surface. The turkey's golden-brown skin is visible, with some slices showing the white tender meat inside. Around the turkey breast, there are fresh green sprigs of thyme and whole cranberries scattered for garnish. Bright orange slices, some whole and some halved, are placed decoratively at the side of the turkey. The plate rests on a wooden table with a lit white candle and a creamy white cloth nearby, all against a backdrop of a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 3-4 lb turkey breast, bone-in and skin-on
2 cups fresh cranberries
1 cup orange juice
1/2 cup honey
2 tablespoons orange zest
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: In a small saucepan, combine cranberries, orange juice, honey, and orange zest. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes until cranberries burst and the mixture thickens. Set aside to cool.
Step 3: Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Step 4: Gently loosen the skin of the turkey breast and rub half of the herb mixture under the skin. Rub the remaining mixture over the skin and inside the cavity.
Step 5: Place the turkey breast in a roasting pan, skin side up.
Step 6: Roast for 20 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part.
Step 7: During the last 30 minutes of cooking, brush the turkey breast with the cranberry orange glaze every 10 minutes.
Step 8: Once done, remove from the oven and let it rest for 15-20 minutes before carving.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh herbs for the best flavor, but dried herbs can be substituted if needed—reduce quantity to one-third.
For extra moisture, baste the turkey with pan juices occasionally during roasting.
Add a splash of brandy or orange liqueur to the glaze for a richer taste.
Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes to complete your meal.

Storage

Store any leftover turkey breast covered in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Keep the glaze in a separate airtight container for up to one week. Reheat turkey slices gently in the oven or microwave, brushing with some glaze to keep them moist.

How to Serve

A large piece of glazed roasted turkey breast is sliced and laid on a white plate, showing juicy white meat inside. The outside is shiny with a sticky, brown glaze mixed with small red berry pieces and sprinkled with fresh green thyme leaves. Around the turkey, bright orange slices and whole red berries add color, and fresh green thyme sprigs are scattered on the plate. The scene is set on a white marbled surface, with light reflecting off the smooth glaze to highlight the rich texture of the meat and glaze. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a boneless turkey breast for this recipe?

Yes, a boneless turkey breast can be used, but cooking times will be shorter. Always check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C).