Delicious Turkey Medallions with Orange Teriyaki Sauce Recipe

There’s this cozy memory that always warms my heart and kitchen whenever I whip up Turkey Medallions with Orange Teriyaki Sauce. It was a chilly evening a few years back, and I wanted to make something quick yet special for the family, a quick turkey dinner that felt a bit out of the ordinary. The citrus teriyaki marinade was my little secret weapon. The moment the orange teriyaki glaze started bubbling gently in the pan, the house filled with the sweetest fragrance—like a cozy hug that had me humming while cooking. This Turkey Medallions with Orange Teriyaki Sauce quickly turned into our weeknight hero; it’s one of those dishes everyone asks for again and again.

I remember the early days when I experimented with this turkey medallions recipe—oh, the near disasters! I once sautéed the medallions too quickly, and they ended up dry as can be. But then, after a few kitchen “aha” moments, I nailed that perfect balance of tender turkey and luscious orange teriyaki glaze. I figured out that using turkey as a teriyaki sauce chicken alternative brings a lighter yet incredibly flavorful twist, which really suits our family’s taste buds.

This recipe fits right into our busy lives because it’s both a quick turkey dinner and something a bit fancy, making dinner time feel less rushed and more joyful. For busy families looking for a fresh take on turkey, this dish is a keeper, especially if you’re after that citrus teriyaki marinade punch without hours of prep. If you haven’t tried any version of Turkey Medallions with Orange Teriyaki Sauce yet, I warmly invite you to join me in the kitchen—because this dish is genuinely comforting and downright delicious, perfect for weeknights or whenever you crave a little home-cooked magic. Plus, feel free to peek at how I like to prepare cranberry orange glazed turkey breast for another citrus burst that brightens up family dinners.

What You’ll Need for This Turkey Medallions with Orange Teriyaki Sauce

Gathering ingredients for Turkey Medallions with Orange Teriyaki Sauce is pretty straightforward, and here’s my go-to list that I always keep stocked to make dinner a breeze:

  • 1 lb turkey medallions (I prefer fresh, not frozen, for the best tenderness)
  • 1/3 cup soy sauce (look for low sodium to control saltiness)
  • 1/4 cup fresh orange juice (for that lovely citrus teriyaki marinade punch)
  • 2 tablespoons honey (adds sweetness to the orange teriyaki glaze)
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (brightens up the flavors)
  • 2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger (if you love a little zing)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (a must-have in any teriyaki sauce chicken alternative)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for thickening the orange teriyaki glaze)
  • 2 tablespoons water (to help mix with cornstarch)
  • 2 teaspoons sesame oil (for that nutty aroma during cooking)
  • Sliced green onions and sesame seeds (for garnish)

Ingredients for Turkey Medallions with Orange Teriyaki Sauce including turkey, orange juice, soy sauce, honey, ginger and garlic

When shopping for turkey medallions, you can often find nicely trimmed tenderloins or pre-sliced medallions at your local butcher or supermarket. If you want to shortcut your prep, look for pre-minced garlic and fresh grated ginger in deli sections—the flavors stay surprisingly fresh! Here’s a Turkey Medallions with Orange Teriyaki Sauce trick I learned: marinate the turkey medallions in the citrus teriyaki marinade for at least 30 minutes but no more than 2 hours to keep the meat tender without it becoming mushy. Also, buying turkey when it’s on sale and freezing portions works wonders—just defrost in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.

For some clever cost-saving, consider substituting fresh orange juice with high-quality store-bought juice in a pinch, though fresh is always my personal favorite for zest and vibrancy. Leftover marinade can be boiled and used as a drizzle for extra flavor, but make sure to cook it thoroughly before eating. If you want to cook turkey tenderloins with utmost tenderness, check out this handy guide I found How to cook turkey tenderloins with utmost tenderness?, which gave me some solid kitchen confidence! And remember, having the exact ingredients ready makes this Turkey Medallions with Orange Teriyaki Sauce come together smoothly—perfect for those weekday dinners when time is short.

Let’s Make This Turkey Medallions with Orange Teriyaki Sauce Together

Alright, grab your apron—we’re diving in! Don’t worry if your Turkey Medallions with Orange Teriyaki Sauce isn’t picture perfect on the first try; we’re in this kitchen adventure together.

  1. Mix the marinade: In a bowl, blend soy sauce, fresh orange juice, honey, rice vinegar, grated ginger, and minced garlic. This citrus teriyaki marinade is the soul of our dish, bringing that luscious orange teriyaki glaze to life.
  2. Marinate the turkey: Place the medallions in a shallow dish or zip-top bag and pour the marinade over. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes in the fridge (but no longer than 2 hours). I learned the hard way with Turkey Medallions with Orange Teriyaki Sauce that over-marinating can make the texture less desirable.
  3. Prepare the thickening mix: Combine cornstarch and water in a small bowl, set aside. This will help us get that perfect glossy orange teriyaki glaze finish.
  4. Cook the turkey: Heat the sesame oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the turkey medallions and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through—your kitchen should start smelling like a delicious teriyaki sauce chicken alternative heaven!
  5. Make the sauce: Pour the leftover marinade into the pan, bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for another 2-3 minutes or until the sauce thickens. Don’t rush—this orange teriyaki glaze will cling beautifully to your turkey medallions.
  6. Serve: Spoon that fragrant orange teriyaki glaze over the cooked turkey medallions. I usually garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for a pop of color and texture.

The whole process is pretty quick—my Turkey Medallions with Orange Teriyaki Sauce usually take under 30 minutes, which is just right for a weekday meal. While the medallions are caramelizing, I like tidying up the kitchen or setting the table, making the most of those few simmering moments. One family-tested hack: Use a non-stick skillet if you’re worried about sticking or burning. Also, if you need a refresher on teriyaki marinade basics, this Teriyaki Marinade and Sauce Recipe was a great reference for me.

For some turkey tenderness tips, this Turkey Breast Tenderloin Recipe with Rosemary and Thyme post helped me balance flavors and cook times perfectly. Bliss!

How I Love to Serve This Turkey Medallions with Orange Teriyaki Sauce

This Turkey Medallions with Orange Teriyaki Sauce is a family favorite that I love plating up in a way that feels both inviting and simple. Typically, I set the table with steamed jasmine rice—the perfect companion to soak up that citrus teriyaki marinade broth and orange teriyaki glaze. Plus, a side of stir-fried seasonal veggies, like snap peas and bell peppers, offers a fresh, crunchy balance.

For special occasions, I’ll serve Turkey Medallions with Orange Teriyaki Sauce alongside garlic mashed potatoes and a crisp green salad. This quick turkey dinner feels just festive enough for casual get-togethers or Sunday suppers. And guess what? Friends always ask for this Turkey Medallions with Orange Teriyaki Sauce recipe once they’ve tasted it; it’s become a highlight at dinner parties!

If you happen to have leftovers—never rare in my house—try shredding the turkey and tossing it into a wrap with a hint of leftover orange teriyaki glaze. It’s a terrific lunch hack! In warmer months, I switch up the sides, pairing the dish with grilled asparagus or a citrusy slaw to keep things light and fresh.

For crisp presentation, drizzle the orange teriyaki glaze generously and sprinkle sesame seeds on top, adding vibrant color and texture. If you’re curious about pairing ideas for turkey, you might enjoy my cranberry orange-glazed turkey breast recipe, sharing similarly delightful flavors. Sometimes, I mix it up with my beef enchiladas with homemade red sauce for an entirely different but family-approved bold taste experience.

Your Turkey Medallions with Orange Teriyaki Sauce Questions Answered

Friends often ask me so many great questions about Turkey Medallions with Orange Teriyaki Sauce. Let me share some answers from our kitchen adventures:

  • Can I use turkey breast instead of medallions? Absolutely! Just slice turkey breast into 1-inch pieces and follow the same citrus teriyaki marinade process. I find medallions cook more evenly but turkey breast works well, too.
  • How do I keep the turkey from drying out? The key is marinating—but not too long—and cooking quickly over medium-high heat. I learned from a past kitchen mishap that overcooking dries out the meat. Also, using the cornstarch slurry to thicken the orange teriyaki glaze helps keep everything moist.
  • Is this really a good teriyaki sauce chicken alternative? Yes! If you’re tired of chicken but love teriyaki flavors, turkey medallions are lean, tender, and soak up the citrus teriyaki marinade beautifully. Several readers told me this switch made their dinnertime a fresh delight.
  • Can I prepare this ahead of time? You can marinate the turkey up to 2 hours ahead and cook just before serving. The sauce can be made simultaneously or a bit ahead and reheated gently.
  • What sides fit best? I usually go for simple steamed rice and veggies. But others have enjoyed it with noodles or even roasted potatoes.
  • How do I store leftovers? Keep turkey and sauce in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.
  • Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, freeze in meal-size portions; just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

You know what I do when my Turkey Medallions with Orange Teriyaki Sauce needs a flavor boost? A squeeze of fresh orange juice just before serving adds brightness. Also, if you want to dig deeper into turkey tenderness tips, I recommend this excellent external guide to cooking turkey tenderloins with utmost tenderness How to cook turkey tenderloins with utmost tenderness?.

My Final Thoughts on This Turkey Medallions with Orange Teriyaki Sauce

This Turkey Medallions with Orange Teriyaki Sauce recipe holds a special place in my heart because it came out of those busy weeknights when quick cooking meets family love. The flavors are vibrant yet comforting, and the method is approachable for any home cook.

My Turkey Medallions with Orange Teriyaki Sauce Pro Tips:
– Marinate turkey medallions for just the right amount of time—30 minutes to 2 hours max.
– Use fresh orange juice whenever possible to brighten the orange teriyaki glaze.
– Don’t overcook the medallions—watch for that golden sear and tender texture.

We’ve tried variations swapping honey for maple syrup or stirring in a little chili flakes for kick, and both have been hits with different family members—my husband prefers it spicy, my daughter loves it sweet and mild. For those who adore savory blends, this citrus teriyaki marinade version is a revelation that’s definitely a keeper in my recipe collection.

If this Turkey Medallions with Orange Teriyaki Sauce inspires you, make it your own! Play with sides, experiment with garnishes, and most importantly, enjoy the whole cooking experience. I hope it brings your family the same joy and satisfaction it always does in mine.

For more comforting family dishes with big flavor, check out some of my other favorites like this custard pie with praline sauce that’s perfect for dessert after a hearty meal.

Finished Turkey Medallions with Orange Teriyaki Sauce served with garnish and sides

I truly believe every kitchen story is worth sharing—so gather your ingredients, invite your loved ones to the table, and give this Turkey Medallions with Orange Teriyaki Sauce a try. Sending you warm, happy cooking vibes!

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Turkey Medallions with Orange Teriyaki Sauce

Tender turkey medallions glazed with a vibrant orange teriyaki sauce, offering a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors in a quick, healthy meal.

  • Author: Liliana
  • 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 fresh ginger
  • 1 garlic clove, minced
  • 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 green onions, chopped for garnish
  • Sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, orange juice, honey, rice vinegar, grated ginger, and minced garlic.
  2. Heat sesame oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add turkey medallions and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until browned and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
  3. Pour the orange teriyaki sauce mixture into the same skillet and bring to a simmer.
  4. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook until the sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes.
  5. Add red pepper flakes if desired, then return the turkey medallions to the skillet to coat them in the sauce.
  6. Cook for an additional minute to warm the turkey through, then remove from heat.
  7. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

Notes

For extra flavor, marinate the turkey medallions in the orange teriyaki sauce for 30 minutes before cooking.

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