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Perfect Slow Cooker Cranberry Orange Turkey Breast Recipe

slow cooker cranberry orange turkey breast - featured image

A tender, juicy turkey breast cooked low and slow with a sweet-tart cranberry orange glaze. This set-it-and-forget-it recipe is perfect for small holiday gatherings or cozy Sunday dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 to 3 pounds boneless, skinless turkey breast
  • 1 cup fresh cranberries (or frozen, do not thaw)
  • ½ cup freshly squeezed orange juice
  • Zest of 1 orange
  • ¼ cup honey
  • ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons cold water
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat the turkey breast dry with paper towels. Season generously on all sides with salt and pepper. Set aside.
  2. In a small mixing bowl, combine fresh cranberries, orange juice, orange zest, honey, minced garlic, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Stir until well mixed.
  3. Pour chicken broth into the bottom of a 5- to 6-quart slow cooker. Place the seasoned turkey breast in the center. Pour the cranberry orange mixture evenly over the top.
  4. Cover and cook on LOW for 4 to 5 hours or on HIGH for 2.5 to 3 hours, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F in the thickest part.
  5. About 30 minutes before the end of cooking, check the temperature. If not done, continue cooking.
  6. Using tongs, carefully lift the turkey breast out of the slow cooker and transfer to a cutting board. Tent loosely with aluminum foil and let rest for 10 minutes.
  7. Pour the cooking liquid through a fine-mesh strainer into a small saucepan. Discard solids. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
  8. In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and 2 tablespoons cold water until smooth. Slowly whisk the slurry into the simmering sauce. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring constantly, until thickened. Remove from heat and whisk in butter until melted.
  9. Slice the turkey breast against the grain into ½-inch thick slices. Arrange on a platter and drizzle with some of the sauce. Serve remaining sauce on the side.

Notes

Do not overcook the turkey; use a meat thermometer and pull at 165°F. Pat the turkey dry for better seasoning adhesion. Fresh orange juice is recommended for best flavor. Thicken the sauce separately on the stovetop to avoid lumps. Let the turkey rest for 10 minutes before slicing to retain juices.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker turkey breast, cranberry orange turkey, holiday turkey, easy turkey recipe, gluten-free turkey