Name: Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h 20 min
Total time: 1 h 35 min
Cuisine: American / Holiday
Ingredients: 1 (3-4 lb) turkey breast, bone-in and skin-on; 2 cups fresh cranberries (or thawed frozen cranberries); 1 cup orange juice; ½ cup honey (or maple/agave syrup); 2 tablespoons orange zest; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or sage/tarragon); Salt and pepper to taste; Optional Variations:; Splash of Grand Marnier or orange liqueur for an adult twist; Chopped pecans sprinkled over the glaze for crunch; Pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne for heat

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Looking for a turkey recipe that’s elegant, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make? This Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast combines the sweet-tart brightness of cranberries and oranges with the savory aroma of fresh herbs. It’s perfect for holiday dinners, family gatherings, or any special occasion when you want to impress without stress. Imagine carving into a juicy, tender turkey breast with a golden, tangy glaze that melts in your mouth—it’s a feast for both your eyes and your taste buds.

Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This turkey breast recipe is a showstopper with minimal effort. The cranberry orange glaze adds a bright, festive flavor that perfectly complements the richness of the turkey. Using a single turkey breast makes cooking faster and easier than a whole bird, while still serving a crowd. The combination of fresh herbs, garlic, and citrus ensures each bite is aromatic, juicy, and unforgettable.

Ingredients

Tip: you’ll find full ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below

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

Prepare the Glaze: 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 the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens. Let it cool.

Prep the Turkey: Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.

Season the Turkey: Loosen the skin of the turkey breast and rub half of the herb mixture under the skin. Spread the remaining mixture over the skin and inside the cavity.

Roast: Place the turkey breast in a roasting pan, skin side up. Roast at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part.

Glaze the Turkey: In the last 30 minutes of roasting, brush the turkey breast with the cranberry orange glaze every 10 minutes to build a glossy, flavorful coating.

Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the turkey rest for 15-20 minutes. Carve and serve, drizzling with any remaining glaze if desired.

Variations

Add a splash of Grand Marnier or orange liqueur to the glaze for an adult-friendly twist.
Sprinkle chopped pecans over the glaze during the last 10 minutes of roasting for extra crunch.
Use fresh sage or tarragon instead of thyme for a slightly different herb profile.
For a spicier glaze, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne.

Heating and Storage

Store leftover turkey in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The glaze will keep the meat moist, but it’s best enjoyed within this timeframe. Reheat gently in the oven at 325°F (160°C) or microwave slices covered with foil or a damp paper towel to retain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a smaller or larger turkey breast?

Yes, adjust the roasting time to 20 minutes per pound, and always check the internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

Absolutely. The cranberry orange glaze can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

Can I use frozen turkey breast?

Yes, but make sure it is fully thawed before roasting to ensure even cooking.

What if I don’t have fresh cranberries?

Frozen cranberries work perfectly—just thaw them before making the glaze.

Can I use a boneless turkey breast?

Yes, but cooking time will be shorter, so monitor the internal temperature carefully.

Can I prepare this recipe for a whole turkey?

Yes, the glaze and seasoning method works for a whole turkey, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.

How do I prevent the glaze from burning?

Brush the glaze during the last 30 minutes of cooking, and avoid high oven temperatures above 375°F.

Can I serve this with other sides?

Absolutely. It pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, stuffing, or a simple green salad.

Can I make this recipe without honey?

Yes, maple syrup or agave syrup can be used as a natural substitute for sweetness.

How long should the turkey rest before carving?

Rest the turkey 15-20 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and tender slices.

Conclusion

Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey Breast is a festive, flavorful, and easy-to-make centerpiece that will wow family and guests. Juicy, aromatic, and coated in a glossy sweet-tart glaze, it’s the perfect combination of comfort and elegance. Whether it’s for the holidays or a special dinner, this turkey breast recipe is sure to become a favorite in your cooking repertoire.