Can I use turkey thighs or drumsticks instead of breast?

Yes, you can! Thighs and drumsticks work beautifully in this recipe because they stay juicy during slow cooking. You may just need to extend the cooking time by about 30–45 minutes to make sure the meat is fully tender.

Can I use fresh oranges instead of canned mandarin slices?

You can substitute fresh orange segments, but make sure to remove all the pith for a smooth flavor. Canned mandarins are softer and slightly sweeter, which blend more easily into the sauce.

What should I serve with this dish?

Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or even a side of wild rice make great pairings. The tart-sweet sauce also tastes amazing drizzled over stuffing or cornbread.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely. This recipe reheats very well. Store the cooked turkey and sauce in an airtight container for up to three days in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes. Place sliced turkey and sauce in freezer-safe containers or bags. It keeps well for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat as usual.

Holiday Turkey Cranberry Mandarin Orange: A Sweet and Tangy Holiday Favorite

Description

Tender slow-cooked turkey coated in a glossy cranberry mandarin glaze. Sweet, tangy, and perfect for a stress-free holiday dinner.

Ingredients

2 lbs turkey breast or tenderloin

1 can whole berry cranberry sauce (14 oz)

1 packet onion soup mix

1/2 cup chicken broth

2 tbsp brown sugar

1 can mandarin orange slices, drained & lightly crushed

Instructions

1. Place the turkey breast or tenderloin into your crockpot.

2. In a bowl, mix cranberry sauce, crushed mandarin oranges, onion soup mix, chicken broth, and brown sugar until well blended.

3. Pour the mixture evenly over the turkey.

4. Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours until the turkey is tender and easy to shred.

5. Spoon the glossy cranberry mandarin sauce over the sliced turkey before serving warm.

Notes

For the best texture, cook on LOW rather than HIGH so the turkey stays juicy.

If you want a thicker glaze, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted carrots, or wild rice for a full festive meal.

Leftovers reheat beautifully, store them with the sauce for up to 3 days or freeze for later.

Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs 30 mins
Category: Dinner
Method: Slow Cooker
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 plate
Calories: 290
Sugar: 16g
Sodium: 680mg
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 36g
Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: holiday turkey cranberry mandarin orange, crockpot turkey, slow cooker holiday turkey