Turkey Thighs with Cranberry Herb Glaze
Preptime
Feeds
Cooktime
35 min
3-4
1 hr
INGREDIENTS
4 turkey thighs (about 0.25 to 1lb each)
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried thyme
For the Herb Butter:
4 tablespoons unsalted margarine or plant-based butter, softened
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
1 tablespoon fresh sage, finely chopped
Zest of 1 orange
For the Cranberry Herb Glaze:
1 cup fresh cranberries (or frozen, thawed)
1/3 cup maple syrup
1/3 cup orange juice
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
1 teaspoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
Salt and pepper to taste
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Prep the Turkey Thighs:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Pat the thighs dry with paper towels. Rub them all over with olive oil, then season with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and thyme.
2. Make the Herb "Butter":
In a small bowl, mix the softened margarine with minced garlic, fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, sage), and orange zest.
Gently loosen the skin on the turkey thighs and spread the herb butter under the skin for extra flavor.
3. Roast the Turkey:
Place the turkey thighs on a wire rack set over a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil.
Roast in the oven for about 60–70 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part.
4. Prepare the Cranberry Herb Glaze:
While the turkey is roasting, combine cranberries, maple syrup, orange juice, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, rosemary, thyme, cinnamon, salt, and pepper in a small saucepan.
Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens (about 10–15 minutes). Use the back of a spoon to mash the cranberries slightly. Set aside.
5. Glaze the Turkey:
During the last 15 minutes of roasting, brush the turkey thighs generously with the glaze. Return to the oven and roast until the glaze is caramelized and the turkey thighs are golden brown.
