Description

These orange-glazed turkey cutlets are a quick and easy autumn dinner or a convenient alternative main dish for Thanksgiving. Featuring thin turkey cutlets coated with a fragrant herb blend and cooked quickly in a pan, then glazed with a sweet and sticky orange sauce made from fresh orange juice, maple syrup, and coconut aminos. Perfect served with sides like green beans and mashed sweet potatoes for a wholesome, flavorful meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Turkey and Seasonings

1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried sage
1 tsp onion powder
2 tsp dried parsley
Salt & pepper, to taste
1 lb turkey cutlets

Cooking and Glaze

1 tbsp avocado oil
2 tbsp coconut aminos, divided
2 cloves garlic, minced
⅓ cup fresh orange juice
1 tbsp maple syrup
Fresh thyme, for garnish

Instructions

Season the Turkey: In a shallow bowl, combine dried thyme, dried sage, onion powder, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. Coat both sides of the turkey cutlets evenly with this herb mixture. Set aside to let the flavors meld.
Cook the Turkey Cutlets: Heat avocado oil in a large deep pan over medium heat until shimmering. Add the turkey cutlets and cook for 2 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and they are cooked through. Remove from the pan and cover to keep warm.
Deglaze the Pan: Pour about 1 teaspoon of coconut aminos into the hot pan and scrape the bottom to lift any browned bits. This step enhances flavor but can be skipped if using a nonstick pan with no stuck bits.
Sauté Garlic: Reduce heat to low and add minced garlic to the pan. Cook for about two minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
Make the Orange Glaze: Add the orange juice, maple syrup, and remaining coconut aminos to the pan. Let the mixture simmer on low heat for 12-15 minutes, stirring often, until it reduces to a thick, sticky glaze.
Coat the Cutlets: Turn off the heat and return the cooked turkey cutlets to the pan. Turn them in the glaze to coat thoroughly and heat through.
Serve: Plate the turkey cutlets, spooning extra glaze over the top, and garnish with fresh thyme. Serve immediately with sides such as green beans and mashed sweet potatoes for a complete meal.

Notes

You may be able to skip the deglazing step if using a nonstick pan and there are no stuck bits on the pan bottom.
Use fresh orange juice for an optimal bright and fresh flavor, though bottled juice will also work.
Turkey cutlets cook very quickly; using a meat thermometer helps avoid overcooking.
Adjust cooking time slightly if your turkey cutlets are thicker than usual.
Perfect for a simple weeknight dinner or a quick Thanksgiving alternative for smaller gatherings.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Keywords: turkey cutlets, orange glaze, autumn dinner, Thanksgiving alternative, quick weeknight meal, gluten free turkey recipe