Turkey Breast with Cranberry Orange Sauce is a wonderful dish that feels like a special holiday treat any time of year. The juicy, tender turkey pairs beautifully with the bright, tangy cranberry orange sauce, which adds just the right touch of sweetness and zest. It’s a simple, fresh twist on a classic pairing that really makes the meal pop.
I love making this recipe because the sauce is so easy and quick to whip up, but it tastes like you spent hours perfecting it. I usually make a bit extra so I can drizzle it all over the turkey and even on my mashed potatoes. It’s one of those sauces that wakes up your taste buds and keeps you coming back for more.
When I serve Turkey Breast with Cranberry Orange Sauce, I like to keep the sides simple — some roasted veggies or a light salad works great. It’s a lovely meal to share with family or friends, especially when you want something cozy but not too heavy. This dish always brings a little brightness to the table, and I find it perfect for those moments when you want a comforting meal that feels extra special.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Turkey Breast: I recommend skinless, boneless turkey breast for a lean, tender result. If you prefer, chicken breast can work as a quick substitute, but turkey gives a richer, more festive flavor.
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries give a bright tartness, but frozen ones are just as good and available year-round. No need to thaw, just add them straight to the sauce.
Orange Juice & Zest: Fresh is best here for the vibrant citrus punch. If fresh oranges aren’t at hand, bottled juice works but add a tiny bit more zest or a splash of lemon juice for extra zing.
Brown Sugar: This balances the tartness of cranberries. You can swap it with maple syrup or honey for a different sweetness profile and a touch of depth.
Herbs & Spices: Thyme adds earthy warmth. If you don’t have any, rosemary or sage also pair well with turkey.
How Do You Get Moist, Tender Turkey Breast Every Time?
Turkey breast can dry out if cooked too long. Here’s how I keep it juicy and flavorful:
- First, season well to boost flavor inside and out.
- Sear on medium-high heat to form a golden crust, which locks in juices.
- Roast in the oven just until it hits 165°F internal temperature. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Let it rest 5-10 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute.
This method delivers tender, juicy slices every time. The cranberry orange sauce adds moisture and a lovely tang that pairs perfectly with the turkey’s savory notes.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven – I like using this because it transitions from stove to oven easily, saving dishes.
- Meat thermometer – helps avoid overcooking; I always use one to get perfect turkey every time.
- Small saucepan – for simmering the cranberry orange sauce, and it’s just the right size.
- Sharp knife – makes slicing the turkey cleanly and safely.
- Cutting board – provides a stable surface for chopping zest, herbs, and slicing the cooked turkey.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use apple cider vinegar instead of balsamic for a milder tang that complements the fruit flavors.
- Add a splash of Grand Marnier or Triple Sec to the sauce for a boozy, citrusy twist.
- Roast some sweet potatoes or parsnips alongside the turkey for a hearty, sweet side.
- Mix in some chopped ginger or cinnamon into the sauce for extra warmth and spice.
Turkey Breast with Cranberry Orange Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Turkey:
- 2 lbs turkey breast, skinless and boneless
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried thyme
For the Cranberry Orange Sauce:
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice (about 2 oranges)
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1/3 cup brown sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger (optional)
- 1 tsp balsamic vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- Fresh parsley or thyme leaves for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 40 minutes in total: 10 minutes to prepare and cook the cranberry orange sauce, 10 minutes to sear the turkey, and around 25 to 30 minutes to roast it in the oven. Don’t forget to add 5-10 minutes resting time for the turkey after cooking, so the juices settle perfectly.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare Turkey:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the turkey breast dry and season it generously all over with salt, pepper, and dried thyme for delicious flavor.
2. Sear the Turkey:
Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven on medium-high heat. Add the turkey breast and cook it for about 3-4 minutes on each side until it’s nicely browned. This locks in the juices and creates a beautiful crust.
3. Make the Cranberry Orange Sauce:
While the turkey sears, mix cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, brown sugar, water, and grated ginger (if using) in a small saucepan. Bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Cook for about 10 minutes until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens a bit. Stir in the vinegar and take it off the heat.
4. Roast the Turkey:
Pour half of the cranberry orange sauce over the seared turkey in your skillet. Transfer the skillet to the oven and roast the turkey for 25-30 minutes, or until the inside reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe and juicy results.
5. Rest and Serve:
Take the turkey out and let it rest for 5-10 minutes to keep it juicy. Slice it, spoon the remaining cranberry orange sauce on top, and sprinkle fresh parsley or thyme leaves for a pretty finish. Enjoy your tasty 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 the juicy texture.
Can I Prepare the Cranberry Orange Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can make the sauce a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove before pouring over the turkey.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep any leftover turkey and sauce in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave to prevent drying out the turkey.
What Are Some Good Side Dishes to Serve With This?
This turkey pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad to balance the tangy-sweet sauce.