Delicious Turkey Medallions with Orange Teriyaki Sauce Recipe

I still remember the first time I made Turkey Medallions with Orange Teriyaki Sauce—my kitchen filled with that bright, citrusy aroma paired with the savory sweet glaze. It was a weeknight rescue when I had just a few turkey breast medallions on hand and wanted something quick but flavorful. The orange teriyaki glaze gave those medallions a nice pop, reminding me of a citrus teriyaki chicken substitute that works just as beautifully for turkey. That night, my family’s reactions told me I had a new go-to dinner. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish quickly became a regular in my rotation.

This Turkey Medallions with Orange Teriyaki Sauce fits so well into real-life cooking because it avoids fuss while still delivering a satisfying, Asian-inspired turkey recipe. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family after work or hosting friends who appreciate balanced flavors, it hits the spot. The best part? You don’t need any fancy or hard-to-find ingredients. You’ll find yourself reaching for this dish when you want a fresh take on glazed turkey medallions without extra stress.

If you’re someone who loves reliable dinners that taste impressive but are straightforward to make, you’re going to want to try this recipe. Let’s dive right in so you can see how easy and rewarding turkey breast medallions with orange teriyaki glaze can be in your own kitchen. This is one of those recipes I always come back to, and I bet you will too.

What You’ll Need:

For this Turkey Medallions with Orange Teriyaki Sauce, the ingredient list keeps things simple and budget-friendly. You probably already have most of these on hand, which makes it perfect for everyday cooking.

  • 1 pound turkey breast medallions (If you can’t find medallions, thinly sliced turkey breast works well too.)
  • 1/2 cup soy sauce (Use low-sodium if you want to control saltiness; found in the regular condiment aisle.)
  • 1/3 cup fresh orange juice (If fresh isn’t handy, bottled pure orange juice does the trick.)
  • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (Honey adds a nice floral note, but maple syrup is a fine swap with a deeper warmth.)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (You can use garlic powder if fresh isn’t available; just 1 teaspoon.)
  • 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger (Ground ginger works—about 1/2 teaspoon—but fresh amps up the Asian-inspired turkey recipe feel.)
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (You’ll find this near the Asian sauces; if you’re missing it, a splash of apple cider vinegar is okay.)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (This helps thicken your orange teriyaki glaze; you can swap for arrowroot powder.)
  • 2 tablespoons water (To mix with the cornstarch before adding it to the sauce.)
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil (Optional, but this adds a wonderful nutty depth.)
  • Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (Both are optional but great for a finishing touch.)

This Turkey Medallions with Orange Teriyaki Sauce is affordable because the turkey breast medallions are lean and cook quickly, so you’re not spending time or money on complicated ingredients. If you need to simplify further, use pre-minced garlic or ginger paste to save prep time. Any leftover orange teriyaki glaze stores well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a quick warm-up before drizzling over your next batch of glazed turkey medallions.

Here’s my secret when making Turkey Medallions with Orange Teriyaki Sauce: a little extra freshly grated ginger really brightens the flavors and makes the glaze sing. Plus, I always toast the sesame seeds briefly in the dry pan to boost their nuttiness before sprinkling on top.

Let’s Cook It Together!

  1. Start by patting your turkey breast medallions dry with paper towels. This step helps the orange teriyaki glaze stick better and encourages a nice sear.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, fresh orange juice, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, and toasted sesame oil. This combo is your orange teriyaki glaze base and the heart of this Asian-inspired turkey recipe.
  3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a bit of oil (neutral like canola or vegetable). When hot, add the turkey medallions in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook the medallions in batches if necessary.
  4. Sear the turkey medallions for about 2-3 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Turkey cooks fast, so keep an eye on them—the medallions should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
  5. While the turkey cooks, mix the cornstarch with water in a small bowl until smooth and set aside. This will help thicken the orange teriyaki sauce later.
  6. Once all the turkey medallions are cooked, remove them from the pan and set aside on a plate.
  7. Reduce heat to medium and pour the orange teriyaki glaze mixture into the same skillet. Let it come to a gentle boil while stirring.
  8. Slowly whisk in the cornstarch slurry. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens to a glossy glaze consistency, about 2 minutes.
  9. Return the turkey medallions to the pan, and toss them gently in the orange teriyaki glaze until fully coated and heated through.
  10. Your kitchen should smell incredible by now! The balance of sweet, tangy, and savory notes will have everyone eager to dig in.
  11. Plate your glazed turkey medallions, sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions for that finishing touch.

From start to finish, this Turkey Medallions with Orange Teriyaki Sauce takes me about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. While the sauce thickens, I usually start whipping up a quick side or set the table. If your turkey looks a little pale after searing, don’t worry—letting it finish cooking in the glaze adds both flavor and the lovely glazed look you’re aiming for.

If you’re looking for other ways to marinate turkey with bold flavor, check out the Turkey Tenderloin Marinade – Foolproof Living or the Baked Turkey Breast Tenderloin with Garlic Herb Marinade from Fed and Fit. For another twist on glazed meats, the Oven Roasted Maple-Ginger Teriyaki Pork Tenderloin Recipe on Feed Me Phoebe is a fantastic companion to this dish.

How to Serve & Enjoy It!

This Turkey Medallions with Orange Teriyaki Sauce shines when paired with fluffy jasmine rice or steamed broccoli to soak up the bright orange teriyaki glaze.

Sometimes I like to serve it alongside a crunchy Asian slaw or a fresh beet salad for a contrast in textures and flavors. If you’re into seasonal sides, roasted carrots or snap peas bring in a sweet earthiness that complements the citrus teriyaki chicken substitute vibes perfectly.

This dish works well for casual dinners or when you want a crowd-pleaser that’s a bit different but still unfussy. I’ve served it to friends after a backyard gathering, and the glazed turkey medallions always disappear quickly.

For leftovers, toss the Turkey Medallions with Orange Teriyaki Sauce into a wrap with some crisp greens and a drizzle of extra sauce, or chop them up over a warm grain bowl with avocado and pickled red onions. These ideas keep things interesting and avoid mealtime boredom.

If your family loves this, they’ll also enjoy other simple, flavorful meals like my Christmas Breakfast Casserole or the Fresh Beet Salad Health Boost—both great options to round out your meal plan.

Simple presentation goes a long way here. Serving the turkey medallions on a bed of rice with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and green onions feels fresh and ready for company without extra fuss. For seasonal flair, adding a few thin orange slices on the side brings a splash of color and a reminder of the sauce’s citrus undertones.

Your Questions Answered

Q: Can I make Turkey Medallions with Orange Teriyaki Sauce ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and marinate the turkey medallions a few hours ahead or even overnight in the fridge. Cooked leftovers keep well for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Just reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of water if the glaze thickened too much.

Q: What’s the best substitute for fresh orange juice?

A: Fresh orange juice is best for brightness, but bottled 100% orange juice works fine. If you want something more tart, mixing a little orange zest with lemon juice adds a fresh zing.

Q: Can I use chicken instead of turkey breast medallions?

A: For sure! This recipe is a great citrus teriyaki chicken substitute. Chicken breasts or thighs work well—the cooking time varies slightly but the glaze tastes just as good.

Q: How do I make this recipe for more people?

A: Just scale the ingredients proportionally. I prefer cooking turkey medallions in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, ensuring an even, perfect sear every time.

Q: Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?

A: Yes, swap soy sauce for tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce substitute, and double-check your cornstarch or thickener is gluten-free.

Q: How do I avoid the sauce becoming too thick or thin?

A: Start with the cornstarch slurry and add it gradually, stirring until you reach a glossy glaze consistency. If it’s too thick, thin with a little water; too thin, simmer a little longer.

Q: Any tips for making this even more flavorful?

A: Try adding a splash of orange liqueur or a drizzle of toasted sesame oil at the end. For a spicy kick, a pinch of red chili flakes is lovely.

If you’re interested in more clever turkey dishes, I find the turkey breast recipes from Foolproof Living and Fed and Fit make wonderful companions. For a twist on teriyaki flavors, the maple-ginger recipe from Feed Me Phoebe is a gem as well.

Final Thoughts

This Turkey Medallions with Orange Teriyaki Sauce holds a special place in my recipe collection because it balances approachable cooking with impressive flavors every time. It’s one of those dishes I turn to when I want reliability without sacrificing taste.

  • Always pat your turkey breast medallions dry before cooking for better searing and glaze adhesion.
  • Use freshly grated ginger and orange juice whenever possible to boost brightness and depth.
  • Cook the turkey in batches if needed—crowding the pan means losing that beautiful caramelized crust.

Over time, I’ve tested variations like swapping honey for maple syrup, adding a touch of chili for heat, or boosting the glaze with extra garlic for punch. The most requested version in my house is the classic orange teriyaki glaze with sesame seeds and green onions—simple and always a winner. Everyone from kids to friends loves it.

I encourage you to make this Turkey Medallions with Orange Teriyaki Sauce your own. Adjust the sweetness, swap sides, or try different herbs—this recipe is friendly like that.

I hope you’ll enjoy the ease and flavor of this dish as much as I do. It’s a crowd-pleaser that feels special without the extra effort. Give it a try, and I’m confident you’ll find yourself reaching for Turkey Medallions with Orange Teriyaki Sauce again and again in your kitchen.

For fresh ideas, don’t miss my Christmas Breakfast Casserole or the Fresh Beet Salad Health Boost to round out your weeknight meals. And if you want to explore more tenderloin recipes, check out the Turkish-inspired marinades and glaze ideas from Foolproof Living, Fed and Fit, and Feed Me Phoebe. Happy cooking!

Raw ingredients for Turkey Medallions with Orange Teriyaki Sauce arranged neatly on a wooden surface
Close-up of finished Turkey Medallions with Orange Teriyaki Sauce garnished with sesame seeds and green onions
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Turkey Medallions with Orange Teriyaki Sauce

Delicious Turkey Medallions with Orange Teriyaki Sauce

Tender turkey medallions glazed with a zesty orange teriyaki sauce, offering a perfect balance of citrus sweetness and savory depth that makes for a delightful and healthy dinner option.

  • Author: Duma Ashton
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Skillet
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb turkey medallions
  • 1/2 cup orange juice
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional)
  • 2 green onions, sliced (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, combine orange juice, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger. Stir well to create the teriyaki sauce.
  2. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add turkey medallions and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
  3. Pour the prepared teriyaki sauce into the skillet and bring to a simmer.
  4. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens.
  5. Return the turkey medallions to the skillet and coat them with the orange teriyaki sauce.
  6. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions if desired, serve immediately.

Notes

For an extra burst of flavor, serve the turkey medallions over steamed jasmine rice and add steamed broccoli or snap peas on the side.

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