Turkey Breast with Cranberry Orange Sauce is a wonderful dish that brings together tender, juicy turkey and a zesty, sweet sauce that’s both tart and refreshing. The cranberry and orange flavors blend perfectly, giving the dish a lively twist that brightens up the savory turkey. It’s simple but feels special — great for a cozy family dinner or a holiday meal.
I love making this when I want something that’s a little different from the usual roast turkey. The sauce is easy to whip up and I usually add a bit of fresh orange zest to make it extra vibrant. It’s such a nice balance because the sauce adds a pop of color and flavor without overpowering the meat. Plus, leftovers taste great the next day!
One of my favorite ways to serve this is alongside some roasted vegetables and fluffy mashed potatoes. The warmth and sweetness of the sauce make everything on the plate feel connected. Whenever I make this, everyone always asks for seconds, which is a sure sign it’s a hit in my book!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Turkey Breast: Skinless, boneless turkey breast is tender and cooks quickly. If you can’t find turkey breast, chicken breast is a good substitute and works well with this sauce.
Cranberries: Fresh cranberries give a bright tartness; frozen works just fine if fresh aren’t in season. You could also add a handful of dried cranberries for extra sweetness, but reduce added sugar slightly.
Orange Juice and Zest: Fresh orange juice and zest add a fresh citrus punch. If you don’t have oranges, use lemon juice and zest for a slightly different but still fresh flavor.
Thyme: Fresh thyme adds herbal notes that complement the fruitiness. If you don’t have fresh, use about half the amount of dried thyme instead.
How Do I Get the Turkey Breast Juicy and Flavorful Without Drying It Out?
The key is to sear the turkey breast first and then finish in the oven. This locks in juices while giving a flavorful browned crust.
- Pat the turkey dry and season well to help form the crust.
- Sear over medium-high heat in oil for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Roast in a preheated oven (375°F/190°C) to cook through evenly without overcooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F (74°C) to avoid drying out.
- Let the turkey rest after cooking — this lets juices redistribute, keeping meat moist.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Ovenproof skillet or frying pan – I recommend this because it allows you to sear and then finish roasting the turkey all in one pan, which saves time and cleanup.
- Meat thermometer – helps you cook the turkey to the perfect internal temperature without overdoing it.
- Fine chopping knife – I find it easiest to chop shallots and zest oranges quickly and evenly.
- Stirring spoon or spatula – a must for mixing the sauce ingredients smoothly on the stovetop.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use dried cranberries instead of fresh for a sweeter, more concentrated flavor; cut back the sugar a bit.
- Add a splash of Grand Marnier or orange liqueur to boost the citrus flavor and add depth to the sauce.
- Stir in chopped apples or pears when cooking the sauce for a subtle fruity twist.
- Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top before serving for crunch and extra richness.
Turkey Breast with Cranberry Orange Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Turkey:
- 2 boneless, skinless turkey breasts (about 1 to 1.5 pounds each)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Cranberry Orange Sauce:
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
- 1/2 cup orange juice (preferably fresh)
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar or honey
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon minced fresh thyme leaves (plus extra sprigs for garnish)
- 1 small shallot, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional, for depth)
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for finishing the sauce)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 25-30 minutes to cook and roast. After cooking, allow about 5 minutes for the turkey to rest before slicing and serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare and Sear the Turkey:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pat the turkey breasts dry with paper towels, then season them generously with salt and pepper all over. Heat olive oil in an ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat. Add the turkey breasts and sear them for 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re nicely golden brown. Once seared, remove the turkey from the pan and set it aside for now.
2. Make the Cranberry Orange Sauce:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the finely chopped shallot. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened. Now, add the cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, sugar or honey, chicken broth, minced thyme, and balsamic vinegar if you choose to use it. Stir everything together and let the sauce come to a gentle simmer.
3. Roast the Turkey and Finish the Sauce:
Place the turkey breasts back into the skillet, nestling them into the sauce. Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). When done, remove the turkey breasts and let them rest on a cutting board for about 5 minutes. Meanwhile, put the skillet back on the stovetop over medium heat. If the sauce needs thickening, simmer gently until it reaches your desired consistency. Stir in the butter for a silky finish, and adjust salt and pepper to taste. Slice the turkey, pour the cranberry orange sauce on top, and garnish with fresh thyme sprigs before serving.
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 juicy, tender meat.
Can I Make the Cranberry Orange Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the sauce a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove before adding the turkey to serve.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Place leftover turkey and sauce in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat to keep the turkey tender and the sauce delicious.
What Sides Pair Well with Turkey Breast and Cranberry Orange Sauce?
Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or wild rice are great companions. They soak up the sauce beautifully and balance the bright citrus and cranberry flavors.
