Deliciously Savory Turkey Medallions with Orange Teriyaki Sauce

I first stumbled upon the magic of Turkey Medallions with Orange Teriyaki Sauce during one of my classic late-night kitchen experiments. You know those moments when your fridge looks a little sad, and your taste buds are begging for a flavor explosion? That night, the combination of tender turkey breast medallions and a bright, sticky orange teriyaki glaze came together like a delicious happy accident. The anticipation was real—I couldn’t wait to taste what I’d whipped up with a little citrusy twist on traditional Asian-inspired turkey dishes.

What made this Turkey Medallions with Orange Teriyaki Sauce truly special was how that citrus teriyaki sauce recipe brought everything to life. The sweet and tangy orange notes perfectly balanced the savory depth of teriyaki, turning a simple pan-seared turkey medallion into a bold flavor superstar. It wasn’t just dinner; it was a flavor adventure that brightened my whole evening.

Since then, I’ve been hooked. This dish turns everyday meals into something special without making you slave over the stove for hours. If you’re a fellow food lover who craves cozy comfort food with a twist, this recipe will speak to your soul (and taste buds!). So, grab your skillet, and let’s make some magic happen with Turkey Medallions with Orange Teriyaki Sauce!

Ingredients You Need

This Turkey Medallions with Orange Teriyaki Sauce ingredient list is all about bold flavors that actually work together! Here’s what you’ll need to get that perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory in every bite:

  • 1 pound turkey breast medallions (you can find these easily at most grocery stores or swap with turkey tenderloin if that’s what you have on hand)
  • 1/2 cup orange juice, freshly squeezed (no bottled juice here—I love the fresh zip it adds)
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium helps if you’re watching salt)
  • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (this is the sweet backbone of the orange teriyaki glaze)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (because garlic and turkey are a match made in heaven)
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (adds a little spicy warmth)
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (balances the sweet with a bite)
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 teaspoons water (for that perfect thick sauce)
  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil (use neutral oil like canola if that’s easier; sesame is my fave flavor booster)
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds for garnish
  • Sliced green onions for brightness and color
Ingredients for Turkey Medallions with Orange Teriyaki Sauce displayed on a table

No worries if you don’t have fresh ginger—I often use a pinch of ground ginger when I’m pressed for time, and it still brings that lovely zing. If you’re in a hurry, orange zest on the medallions before cooking adds an extra punch without needing to whisk up the whole glaze.

Storage tip: If you have leftovers (which I hope you do), store turkey breast medallions with orange teriyaki sauce separately from rice or sides to keep everything fresh longer.

For busy weeknights, I sometimes prep the citrus teriyaki sauce recipe ahead and keep it in the fridge, then pan-sear the turkey medallions fresh. That way, the final dish comes together in a snap!

Let’s Make Some!

This is my favorite part of making Turkey Medallions with Orange Teriyaki Sauce—watch the magic happen! Here’s how we bring those flavors to life step by step. Ready? Let’s do it.

  1. Prep your turkey medallions. Pat them dry with paper towels; this helps them crisp up beautifully. Season lightly with salt and pepper on both sides.
  2. Make the orange teriyaki glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, ginger, and rice vinegar. This combo is the heart of your citrus teriyaki sauce recipe.
  3. Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is shimmering, add turkey breast medallions. Sear them for about 3 minutes on each side until golden brown but not fully cooked through. This pan-sear step locks in all the juicy goodness.
  4. Pour the orange teriyaki glaze over the turkey in the pan. This is where the magic starts happening! Lower heat to medium and let the sauce simmer, spooning it over your medallions as it thickens from the cornstarch slurry.
  5. Cook for another 3-5 minutes. Your Turkey Medallions with Orange Teriyaki Sauce should smell absolutely incredible right now! The glaze will become thick and sticky, coating every piece in deliciousness.
  6. Finish with garnishes. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions on top for that perfect finishing touch.

Don’t worry if your turkey medallions look like they are swallowing the sauce a bit—this glaze loves to soak in and boost every bite with bold flavor.

If you’re pressed for time, prepping the citrus teriyaki sauce recipe a day ahead lets those flavors get even more intense. Also, pan-searing turkey medallions is quick, and since turkey cooks fast, you’ll have dinner on the table in under 30 minutes. That’s a weeknight win for sure!

For more on turkey medallion cutting and cooking tips, check out this great Turkey Breast Tenderloin Recipe with Rosemary and Thyme to inspire your next turkey adventure.

How to Serve Up This!

People literally do happy dances when this Turkey Medallions with Orange Teriyaki Sauce hits the table alongside fluffy jasmine rice or buttery mashed potatoes. The sticky-sweet citrus teriyaki glaze pairs perfectly with simple sides that soak up all that saucy goodness.

I love to add steamed broccoli or snap peas for that fresh crunch contrast and a pop of green to brighten my plate. A sprinkle of crushed peanuts or a drizzle of chili oil ups the bold factor if you like a little heat.

This Turkey Medallions with Orange Teriyaki Sauce is perfect for weeknight dinners that need to feel special without hours of prep. It’s also a showstopper for dinner parties—your guests will be asking for the recipe when they see that glossy orange teriyaki glaze shimmering on the turkey.

Leftover turkey medallions? No problem! Chop them up and toss in a crunchy Asian-style salad with kale, carrots, and a drizzle of sesame dressing. Or wrap the medallions with fresh veggies in lettuce leaves for a light lunch with big flavor.

For fusion fun, try these turkey medallions alongside grilled pineapple and coconut rice for a tropical twist that still celebrates those Asian-inspired turkey dishes.

If you’re loving this comfort food twist, you’ll go crazy for these Greek Turkey Meatballs with Tzatziki Sauce — another bold flavor favorite from my flavor adventure archives.

FAQs:

Will kitchen newbies succeed with this Turkey Medallions with Orange Teriyaki Sauce?
Absolutely! This recipe is straightforward and forgiving. The key is in the citrus teriyaki sauce recipe, which is easy to whisk up. If you follow the pan-seared turkey medallions step, you’ll get juicy results every time.

What if I mess up my Turkey Medallions with Orange Teriyaki Sauce?
Spoiler alert: It will still taste incredible! The orange teriyaki glaze is so flavorful it can cover a multitude of kitchen mishaps. If turkey cooks a bit unevenly, slice it thinly and serve over rice with extra sauce.

Can I prep Turkey Medallions with Orange Teriyaki Sauce ahead for busy weeknights?
Yes! Make the citrus teriyaki sauce recipe in advance and keep it refrigerated. When you’re ready, pan-sear the turkey medallions and add the glaze for a quick finishing touch.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store turkey breast medallions separately from any sides, with sauce in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to keep turkey tender.

Can I substitute the turkey with chicken or pork?
Sure! While turkey breast medallions are the star here, you can swap with chicken medallions or thin pork chops and use the same orange teriyaki glaze for a delicious variation.

How do I get more of that sticky orange teriyaki glaze?
Make sure to let the sauce simmer and reduce, stirring in the cornstarch slurry slowly. This thickens the glaze perfectly.

Any tips for turkey breast medallions at the store?
Look for evenly sized pieces so they cook consistently. You can also check out these awesome turkey breast tenderloin recipes with garlic herb marinade like Baked Turkey Breast Tenderloin with Garlic Herb Marinade or Turkey Tenderloin Marinade – Foolproof Living for other delicious ideas.

For other flavorful dinner ideas, I highly recommend trying this Beef Orzo with Tomato Cream Sauce for rich, comforting vibes, or finishing your meal with Custard Pie with Praline Sauce for a sweet finale!

Conclusion

Turkey Medallions with Orange Teriyaki Sauce brings me joy because it takes a simple protein and turns it into a celebration of bold, comforting flavors. It’s one of those dishes that welcomes you home, makes you smile, and invites you to keep experimenting in the kitchen.

My Turkey Medallions with Orange Teriyaki Sauce Flavor Secrets:
1. Use fresh orange juice and a dash of zest to amplify that citrus pop.
2. Don’t skip the garlic and ginger—they make the sauce sing with warmth and depth.
3. Finish with sesame oil and seeds for texture and that satisfying nutty aroma.

I’ve tested versions swapping turkey for chicken, adding crushed red pepper for heat, and even mixing in fresh herbs like cilantro for an extra fresh lift. Each brings a unique spin perfect for dinner parties, weeknight comfort, or casual get-togethers.

Trust your taste buds and get creative. The best Turkey Medallions with Orange Teriyaki Sauce come from loving the process and embracing those bold flavors. I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and make it your own. Happy cooking, fellow food lovers! And remember, when you’re ready for more exciting kitchen adventures, I’m right here with more flavorful recipes just for you.

Deliciously plated Turkey Medallions with Orange Teriyaki Sauce garnished with sesame seeds and green onions

Check out this Turkey Breast Tenderloin Recipe with Rosemary and Thyme for more turkey inspiration you’ll love!

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Turkey Medallions with Orange Teriyaki Sauce

Tender turkey medallions glazed with a vibrant orange teriyaki sauce, delivering a perfect balance of citrus and savory flavors ideal for a quick and delicious dinner.

  • Author: Nyla
  • 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 tenderloin, sliced into medallions
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 1 tbsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tsp grated ginger
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1 tsp sesame seeds (optional)
  • 2 green onions, sliced (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, orange juice, honey, rice vinegar, grated ginger, and minced garlic to create the orange teriyaki sauce.
  2. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add turkey medallions and sear each side for 3-4 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
  3. Remove the turkey medallions from the skillet and set aside.
  4. Pour the orange teriyaki sauce mixture into the same skillet and bring to a simmer.
  5. Add the cornstarch slurry to the sauce, stirring continuously until it thickens, about 1-2 minutes.
  6. Return the turkey medallions to the skillet, coating them with the thickened sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to heat through.
  7. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

For extra flavor, serve with steamed jasmine rice and sautéed vegetables or add a sprinkle of chili flakes for a spicy kick.

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