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Orange Glazed Turkey

This Orange Glazed Turkey is a showstopping centerpiece, bursting with citrusy flavor and glazed to golden perfection. A juicy, tender bird coated in a sweet-savory orange glaze, perfect for holiday feasts or special occasions.

Ingredients

  • 1 whole turkey (12–14 pounds)
  • 4 large fresh oranges (zested and juiced)
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 sprigs fresh rosemary
  • 2 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 1/2 cup butter, melted
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C) and prepare a roasting pan with a rack.
  2. In a saucepan, combine orange juice and zest, honey, soy sauce, garlic, and a pinch of salt. Simmer for 10 minutes, then set aside.
  3. Place turkey on rack, pat dry, rub with olive oil and melted butter. Season with salt and pepper. Stuff cavity with rosemary and thyme.
  4. Brush turkey with a layer of the orange glaze. Reserve the rest for basting.
  5. Roast turkey for 3 to 3.5 hours, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F, basting with glaze every 20 minutes during the last hour.
  6. Remove from oven and let rest for 30 minutes before carving.
  7. Serve garnished with orange slices and fresh herbs.

Notes

  • Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness.
  • Zest oranges before juicing to get the most flavor.
  • For deeper color, broil the turkey for the final 5 minutes.
  • The glaze can be made a day ahead and refrigerated.