Name: Glazed Orange and Herb Roasted Turkey Breast for New Year's Family Meals
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 15 min
Yield: 8-10 servings
Cuisine: American

Love this recipe? Save it to Pinterest before you forget!

As the clock strikes midnight on New Year's Eve, families and friends gather around the table to share a delicious meal and welcome the new year. For me, this special occasion is all about creating memories with loved ones, and a mouthwatering glazed orange and herb roasted turkey breast is the perfect centerpiece for your celebration. I created this recipe to bring a touch of warmth and elegance to your holiday table, and I'm excited to share it with you. The idea for this recipe came to me during a family gathering last year, when I was tasked with preparing the main course. I wanted to create something that would impress my relatives and leave a lasting impression. After some experimentation, I came up with this glazed orange and herb roasted turkey breast that combines the sweetness of orange with the earthiness of herbs. It was a huge hit, and now I'm thrilled to share it with you. This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it reminds me of the joy and love that comes with sharing a meal with the people I care about. Whether you're hosting a large gathering or an intimate dinner, this glazed orange and herb roasted turkey breast is sure to become a new family tradition.

Why You'll Love This glazed orange and herb roasted turkey breast for new years family meals

Easy to Make: This recipe is surprisingly simple to prepare, requiring just a few ingredients and some basic cooking skills.
Impressive Presentation: The glazed orange and herb roasted turkey breast is a stunning centerpiece for any holiday table, sure to impress your guests.
Flavorful and Moist: The combination of orange and herbs creates a deliciously flavorful and moist turkey breast that's sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Make-Ahead Friendly: This recipe can be prepared up to 2 days in advance, making it perfect for busy holiday schedules.
Customizable: Feel free to adjust the amount of herbs and spices to suit your personal taste preferences.
Nutritious: This recipe uses fresh and wholesome ingredients, making it a nutritious and guilt-free addition to your holiday menu.
Perfect for Leftovers: The glazed orange and herb roasted turkey breast is perfect for making delicious sandwiches, wraps, and salads the next day.
Special Occasion Worthy: This recipe is perfect for special occasions like New Year's Eve, Christmas, or Thanksgiving, and is sure to become a new family tradition.

Ingredient Breakdown

Ingredients for glazed orange and herb roasted turkey breast for new years family meals

The key ingredients in this recipe are the turkey breast, orange marmalade, fresh herbs (such as thyme and rosemary), garlic, and olive oil. The turkey breast provides the base for the dish, while the orange marmalade adds a sweet and tangy glaze. The fresh herbs add a fragrant and earthy flavor, while the garlic provides a pungent depth. The olive oil helps to bring all the flavors together and adds a rich and velvety texture to the dish. When selecting these ingredients, be sure to choose a high-quality turkey breast and fresh herbs for the best flavor. You can also substitute the orange marmalade with other types of jam or preserves, such as apricot or quince, for a different flavor profile.

How to Make glazed orange and herb roasted turkey breast for new years family meals

Preheat the Oven:

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Make sure to adjust the oven racks to accommodate the size of your turkey breast.

Prepare the Turkey Breast:

Rinse the turkey breast under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Remove any giblets or neck from the cavity.

Mix the Glaze:

In a small bowl, mix together the orange marmalade, olive oil, garlic, thyme, and rosemary. Brush the mixture evenly over the turkey breast, making sure to coat it completely.

Roast the Turkey Breast:

Place the turkey breast in a roasting pan and put it in the preheated oven. Roast for about 20-25 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Baste the turkey with the pan juices every 20-30 minutes to keep it moist and promote even browning.

Let it Rest:

Once the turkey breast is cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute and the meat to relax, making it easier to carve and more tender to eat.

Slice and Serve:

Slice the turkey breast into thin slices and serve it with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a green salad. You can also use the leftover turkey to make delicious sandwiches, wraps, and salads the next day.

Tips for Perfect Results

Use Fresh Herbs:

Fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary have a more vibrant and complex flavor than dried herbs. Try to use them whenever possible for the best results.

Don't Overbaste:

While basting the turkey with pan juices is important for keeping it moist, overbasting can make the meat soggy and unappetizing. Baste the turkey every 20-30 minutes, but avoid overdoing it.

Let it Rest Long Enough:

Letting the turkey rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking allows the juices to redistribute and the meat to relax. This makes it easier to carve and more tender to eat. Don't rush this step, as it's crucial for achieving the perfect texture.

Use a Meat Thermometer:

A meat thermometer is the most accurate way to determine if the turkey is cooked to a safe internal temperature. Make sure to insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the breast, avoiding any bones or fat.

Don't Overcook:

Overcooking the turkey can make it dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), and avoid cooking it for too long.

Add Aromatics to the Pan:

Adding aromatics like onions, carrots, and celery to the roasting pan can add depth and complexity to the turkey's flavor. Try using a mixture of your favorite aromatics to create a delicious and savory flavor profile.

Use the Right Roasting Pan:

A sturdy roasting pan with a heavy bottom is essential for even cooking and browning. Avoid using flimsy or thin pans, as they can warp or burn during cooking.

Tent the Turkey:

If you notice the turkey is browning too quickly, tent it with foil to prevent overbrowning. This will help the turkey cook evenly and prevent it from becoming too dark or crispy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Turkey:
Fix: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), and avoid cooking it for too long. Let the turkey rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute and the meat to relax.
Not Letting it Rest:
Fix: Let the turkey rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute and the meat to relax. This makes it easier to carve and more tender to eat.
Not Using a Meat Thermometer:
Fix: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This is the most accurate way to determine if the turkey is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
Overbasting the Turkey:
Fix: Baste the turkey every 20-30 minutes, but avoid overdoing it. Overbasting can make the meat soggy and unappetizing.

Variations & Substitutions

Lemon and Herb Variation:

Replace the orange marmalade with lemon juice and add some chopped fresh parsley or dill to the glaze for a bright and citrusy flavor.

Garlic and Rosemary Variation:

Increase the amount of garlic in the glaze and add some chopped fresh rosemary for a savory and aromatic flavor.

Apricot and Thyme Variation:

Replace the orange marmalade with apricot jam and add some chopped fresh thyme to the glaze for a sweet and savory flavor.

Bourbon and Brown Sugar Variation:

Add some bourbon and brown sugar to the glaze for a rich and indulgent flavor. This is perfect for a special occasion or holiday meal.

Spicy Variation:

Add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the glaze for a spicy and bold flavor. This is perfect for those who like a little heat in their meal.

Mediterranean Variation:

Add some chopped kalamata olives, artichoke hearts, and sun-dried tomatoes to the glaze for a Mediterranean-inspired flavor. This is perfect for a summer or spring meal.

Storage & Make-Ahead

Room Temp:

The glazed orange and herb roasted turkey breast can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 hours. Make sure to keep it covered and away from direct sunlight.

Refrigerator:

The glazed orange and herb roasted turkey breast can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it at a consistent refrigerator temperature of 40°F (4°C) or below.

Freezer:

The glazed orange and herb roasted turkey breast can be frozen for up to 2 months. Make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to serve, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare this recipe up to 2 days in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before serving. The flavors actually improve as they meld together overnight.

What type of turkey breast should I use?

You can use either a boneless or bone-in turkey breast for this recipe. If you choose to use a bone-in turkey breast, make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I substitute the orange marmalade with other types of jam or preserves?

Yes! You can substitute the orange marmalade with other types of jam or preserves, such as apricot or quince, for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly different, so you may need to adjust the amount of herbs and spices accordingly.

How do I prevent the turkey from drying out?

To prevent the turkey from drying out, make sure to baste it every 20-30 minutes with the pan juices. You can also tent the turkey with foil if you notice it's browning too quickly. Additionally, make sure to not overcook the turkey, as this can cause it to dry out.

Can I use this recipe for a larger or smaller turkey breast?

Yes! You can use this recipe for a larger or smaller turkey breast, just adjust the cooking time accordingly. A good rule of thumb is to cook the turkey for about 20-25 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

What are some good sides to serve with this recipe?

Some good sides to serve with this recipe include mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, green salad, or a hearty grain like quinoa or farro. You can also serve it with some crusty bread or rolls for a more casual meal.

Can I use this recipe for a special occasion or holiday meal?

Yes! This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or holiday meal, such as Christmas, Thanksgiving, or New Year's Eve. The glazed orange and herb roasted turkey breast is a show-stopping centerpiece that's sure to impress your guests.

How do I carve the turkey breast?

To carve the turkey breast, start by slicing it against the grain into thin slices. You can use a sharp knife or a carving knife to make clean, even cuts. Make sure to carve the turkey when it's still slightly warm, as this will make it easier to slice and serve.