Turkey Breast with Cranberry Orange Sauce is a dish that brings together the tender, juicy flavors of roasted turkey with a bright and zesty cranberry orange sauce. The sauce is sweet, tangy, and refreshing, making the turkey even more delicious and perfect for a cozy dinner or holiday meal. The combination of cranberry and orange adds a lovely pop of color and a fresh twist to a classic poultry dish.
I love making this recipe when I want something special but not too complicated. The orange in the sauce cuts through the richness of the turkey just right, and the cranberries add a little festive sparkle. It’s a great way to enjoy turkey any time of year, not just Thanksgiving, and I often find myself saving a little extra sauce to spread on leftover sandwiches the next day!
My favorite way to serve this is with a simple side of roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes so the sauce really stands out. It’s a dish that always feels like a celebration on a plate, and it’s one my family looks forward to because it’s both comforting and fresh. If you like a balance of sweet and tangy with your poultry, this one’s definitely worth trying at home.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Turkey Breast: A lean and tender cut, making it perfect for roasting. If unavailable, chicken breast can be a good substitute but reduce cooking time. Try to get boneless for easier carving.
Cranberries: Use fresh or frozen; both work well. If you want less tartness, reduce the cranberries a bit or add a touch more sugar. Dried cranberries won’t work here since they don’t release enough juice.
Orange Juice & Zest: Fresh orange juice and zest really brighten the sauce. Avoid bottled juice with added sugar or concentrate for the best fresh flavor. If oranges aren’t handy, lemon juice plus a bit of honey can be a stand-in.
Spices: Paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder create a tasty rub. Feel free to add a pinch of smoked paprika for a subtle smoky note or fresh minced garlic for sharper flavor.
Vinegar & Broth: Balsamic vinegar adds a nice depth, but apple cider vinegar is a lighter, fruitier option. Chicken broth keeps the sauce juicy; veggie broth can be used for a vegetarian version if substituting the turkey.
How Do You Get Juicy Turkey Breast Without Drying It Out?
Turkey breast can dry out quickly, so a few key steps help keep it moist:
- Pat the turkey dry before seasoning to get a good sear.
- Don’t skip searing the turkey in a hot pan. This locks in juices and adds flavor.
- Use an ovenproof skillet so you can brown and roast without losing juices.
- Roast with the cranberry sauce around the turkey to keep moisture in and infuse flavor.
- Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer and remove the turkey right at 165°F (74°C) to avoid overcooking.
- Let the turkey rest 5-10 minutes before slicing. This lets the juices redistribute and keeps the meat tender.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Ovenproof skillet or roasting pan – I like it because it’s easy to sear and roast the turkey all in one dish.
- Meat thermometer – helps you cook the turkey to the perfect juicy temperature.
- Small saucepan – perfect for simmering the cranberry orange sauce on the stove.
- Cutting board and sharp knife – for prepping the turkey and zesting the oranges.
- Serving platter – for a nice presentation when slicing and serving the turkey.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap cranberries for cooked apples or pears for a different sweet-tart twist.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon, clove, or ginger to the sauce for a warm spice note.
- Try stuffing the turkey with herbs like rosemary or sage before roasting for extra aroma.
- Use a different protein like chicken breasts or pork tenderloin if turkey isn’t available or for smaller gatherings.
Turkey Breast with Cranberry Orange Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Turkey:
- 1 (2 to 3-pound) boneless turkey breast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For The Cranberry Orange Sauce:
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- ½ cup orange juice (preferably fresh)
- ¼ cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- ½ cup chicken broth or water
For Garnish:
- Fresh thyme sprigs
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and sear the turkey, then 25-35 minutes to roast it in the oven. After cooking, let the turkey rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Overall, you’ll spend around 45-55 minutes from start to finish, including time to let the flavors meld and the sauce thicken.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare and Season the Turkey:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a small bowl, mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels, rub it all over with olive oil, then coat the turkey evenly with the spice mix.
2. Sear the Turkey Breast:
Heat an ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the turkey breast and sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown. This step locks in flavor and juices.
3. Make and Add the Cranberry Orange Sauce:
In a separate bowl, combine cranberries, orange juice, sugar, orange zest, balsamic vinegar, and chicken broth. Pour this mixture over and around the turkey in the skillet.
4. Roast the Turkey:
Place the skillet in the preheated oven. Roast for 25-35 minutes, or until a meat thermometer registers 165°F (74°C) inside the turkey. Halfway through, spoon some of the sauce over the turkey to keep it moist and flavorful.
5. Rest, Slice, and Serve:
Carefully remove the skillet from the oven. Let the turkey rest for 5-10 minutes — this helps keep it juicy. Slice the turkey breast, arrange it on a serving platter, and spoon the cranberry orange sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh thyme and parsley if you like.
Serve warm with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes, and enjoy a delicious and festive meal!
Can I Use Frozen Turkey Breast for This Recipe?
Yes! Just be sure to fully thaw the turkey breast in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This ensures even cooking and helps maintain juiciness.
Can I Make the Cranberry Orange Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce a day ahead and refrigerate it. When ready to cook, pour it over the seared turkey before roasting. This can help deepen the flavors.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover turkey and sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to preserve moisture.
What Are Some Good Side Dishes to Serve With This?
This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad to balance the bright cranberry orange flavors.
