Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey is a dish that sings with the flavors of the season. Imagine biting into tender turkey, drenched in a luscious glaze that combines the tartness of cranberries and the bright zing of oranges. creamy potato gratin dish The aroma wafts through your home, promising a feast that warms both belly and heart.
This recipe takes me back to family gatherings where laughter fills the air, and everyone eagerly awaits dinner. The vibrant colors of the cranberry orange glaze make it not just delicious but also a showstopper on any holiday table. delicious side dish option Get ready for your taste buds to dance!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for even novice cooks
- The flavor profile offers a delightful balance between sweet and tangy, leaving everyone wanting more
- Its stunning presentation will impress guests at any gathering
- You can serve this dish year-round or during holidays for an extra festive touch
I remember the first time I made this turkey; my family couldn’t stop raving about how juicy and flavorful it was. For more inspiration, check out this lemon lavender cookies recipe.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish: For more inspiration, check out this delicious lemon cheesecake squares recipe.
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Turkey Breast: A boneless turkey breast works best for even cooking and tender results.
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Fresh Cranberries: Look for firm, bright cranberries; they add vibrant color and tartness. fresh salad pairing.
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Oranges: Use fresh oranges for zest and juice to brighten up the glaze beautifully.
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Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness to balance the tartness of cranberries, creating a rich flavor.
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Garlic Powder: A pinch enhances savory notes that complement the sweetness of the glaze.
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Thyme: Fresh thyme adds an aromatic depth to elevate this holiday dish further.
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Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness while keeping it moist during cooking.
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Cornstarch: A little cornstarch helps thicken your glaze for a glossy finish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
The Prep Work Begins: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). appetizer to start the meal This will ensure your turkey cooks evenly while you prepare the flavorful glaze.
Create Your Glaze: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine fresh cranberries, orange juice, brown sugar, garlic powder, thyme, and chicken broth. Stir until cranberries burst and release their juices.
Add Cornstarch for Thickness: Once your mixture thickens slightly (after about 10 minutes), mix cornstarch with a bit of water in a small bowl. Gradually stir it into your cranberry mixture until glossy.
Prepare the Turkey Breast : Place your turkey breast in a baking dish. Season generously with salt and pepper before drizzling half of your glaze over it.
Bake Until Perfectly Juicy : Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 1 hour, then remove foil and pour remaining glaze on top. Bake uncovered for an additional 30 minutes until golden brown.
Rest Before Serving : Let the turkey rest for about 15 minutes before slicing. This allows juices to redistribute for maximum tenderness.
Enjoy this delightful Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey with friends or family during special occasions or simply because you deserve something delicious today!
You Must Know
- The Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey is more than just a festive centerpiece; it’s a flavor explosion!
- The tangy cranberry and zesty orange create a mouthwatering glaze that keeps your turkey moist and juicy
- Serve it with pride, and watch your guests swoon!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve succulent results, start by brining the turkey overnight. Then, roast it at 325°F while basting with the cranberry orange glaze every 30 minutes for ultimate flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap cranberries for cherries or add herbs like rosemary for an aromatic twist. A splash of bourbon in your glaze can elevate flavors even further!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover turkey in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat slices in the oven at 350°F, drizzled with extra glaze to keep them moist.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To ensure your turkey is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer; aim for an internal temperature of 165°F
- Let it rest before carving to retain juices
- If you want extra crispy skin, increase the oven temperature for the last 30 minutes of roasting
The first time I made Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey, my family couldn’t stop raving about it. They declared it was better than the store-bought version—and that made my day!
FAQ
What is the best way to prepare cranberries?
Fresh cranberries should be rinsed and cooked down to create a thick sauce or glaze.
Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?
Yes, but thaw them beforehand for even cooking and better flavor absorption.
How long does it take to cook a turkey?
A 14-pound turkey typically needs around 3 to 3.5 hours at 325°F for perfect doneness.
Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Cranberry Orange Glazed Turkey is a seasonal delight that brings together the tender juiciness of turkey with a vibrant, tangy glaze. This dish, perfect for holiday gatherings or family dinners, features a beautiful blend of fresh cranberries and zesty oranges that will impress your guests and tantalize your taste buds. Easy to prepare and visually stunning, this turkey is sure to be the star of your table.
Ingredients
- 1 boneless turkey breast (3–4 lbs)
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 2 oranges (zest and juice)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp fresh thyme (chopped)
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine cranberries, orange juice, brown sugar, garlic powder, thyme, and chicken broth. Stir until cranberries burst.
- Mix cornstarch with water in a small bowl and stir into the cranberry mixture until glossy.
- Place turkey breast in a baking dish; season with salt and pepper and drizzle half of the glaze over it.
- Cover with foil and bake for 1 hour. Remove foil, pour remaining glaze on top, and bake uncovered for an additional 30 minutes until golden brown.
- Let rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 90 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 oz turkey with glaze (113g)
- Calories: 245
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
