1. Prepare the Marinade:
- Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, honey, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, onion powder, ground cumin, and chili powder (if using).
- Marinate Pork: Place the pork tenderloin in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the pork, ensuring it is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor.
2. Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
3. Cook the Pork Tenderloin:
- Prepare the Pork: Remove the pork tenderloin from the marinade and let any excess marinade drip off. Pat the pork dry with paper towels to ensure a nice crust forms during cooking.
- Air Fry: Place the pork tenderloin in the air fryer basket. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. The pork is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
4. Rest and Serve:
- Rest the Meat: Once cooked, remove the pork tenderloin from the air fryer and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring it remains juicy.
- Slice and Garnish: Slice the pork tenderloin into medallions and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
- Serve: Serve immediately with your favorite side dishes.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin:
- Marinating Time: Allowing the pork to marinate for a few hours enhances the flavor, but if you’re short on time, even 30 minutes will add a good amount of flavor.
- Pat Dry: Patting the pork dry before air frying helps achieve a better sear and crust.
- Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the pork reaches the safe internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). This ensures it’s cooked through but still juicy.
- Resting Time: Letting the pork rest after cooking is crucial for juicy and tender meat.
- Side Dishes: Pair your pork tenderloin with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin is a fantastic way to enjoy a quick, delicious, and healthy meal. The combination of the marinade and the air fryer’s cooking method results in a tender, juicy, and flavorful pork tenderloin that’s sure to impress. Enjoy this dish as a centerpiece for dinner or as a protein-packed meal prep option!