Easy and Delicious Recipes

Author: Sarah Berthold

Easy Hibachi Chicken with Fried Rice Recipe

Easy Hibachi Chicken with Fried Rice Recipe

This Hibachi Chicken with Fried Rice is a full chicken dinner that is delicious! With vegetables made restaurant-style, fried rice, and very tender chicken, this hibachi recipe is served with a mustard dipping that is a spicy sauce that teleports you to the Japanese kitchen! Read More

Easy Keto Mason Jar Ice Cream

Easy Keto Mason Jar Ice Cream

Who can resist the allure of ice cream? Equally, finding someone who doesn’t appreciate a simple and quick recipe is rare. We’ve ingeniously combined these universal loves into our Keto Mason Jar Ice Cream, delivering both delight and convenience right to your kitchen. A Fusion Read More

Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin Recipe

Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin Recipe

Pork tenderloin is better than ever with air fryer style! Fast and high-temperature cooking of the air fryer pork tenderloin makes it brown on the exterior but still juicy inside!

Pork tenderloin is really an excellent lean cut of pork. But because of this, you do not wish to overcook it. Over time, I’ve found approaches to cooking pork tenderloin to ensure that it’s brown externally while still being juicy and delicious on the inside.

When I made this air fryer pork tenderloin, I was more delighted than ever about a recipe I’ve made recently. The seasoning rub flavors are perfect, and it also worked wonderfully with these pork steaks. The pork is juicy; you can see just how juicy it is in the video instructions I’ve added at the end of the article!

What is Pork Tenderloin?

If you have ever asked yourself what filet mignon of pork, it is pork tenderloin. It is a very tender and lean piece of pork. It can be made in numerous ways and works excellently with various seasoning mixtures.

If you want to smoke your pork, I suggest you use pork lion cut (check out the recipe) because it’s thicker and more suitable for smoking. 

Preparing Air-Fryer Pork Tenderloin

Pork tenderloin cooked in the air fryer is a delicious, wholesome, homemade choice that is ideal for a hectic weekday.

Indeed, one of my favorite ways to prepare pork recipes is by using a seasoning rub mixture of brown sugar, onion powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, ground mustard, pepper, and salt. And possibly just a splash of cayenne for only a little heat.

The seasoning mix, combined with the simplicity of an air fryer, will create a pork tenderloin you will enjoy eating and sharing with others. The exterior of pork tenderloin will crisp up, and the brown sugar will caramelize to make an explosion of flavors.

High-speed circulating heat from the air fryer and near the heating element is ideal, so your pork tenderloin stays juicy and delicious inside.

Pork tenderloin may be prepared in the oven, a pan, or — my newest favorite — the Air Fryer. With this simple air-fryer recipe, that’s what we’re doing today.

The tenderloin is quickly coated with a delicious mustard and spice mixture before being placed directly into the air fryer basket. Dinner is ready in around 20 minutes!

What do our readers think about this recipe

We care about our readers and want to help them easily make the best recipes. You’re under no obligation to believe me. Many readers have tried this dish and have talked about it. Below are just some testimonials that we’ve gotten from Pinterest users.

Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin Recipe

Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 whole pork tenderloin (about 1–1.5 lbs)

  • 2 Tbsp brown sugar

  • 1 Tbsp smoked paprika

  • 1 ½ tsp salt

  • 1 tsp ground mustard

  • ½ tsp onion powder

  • ½ tsp ground black pepper

  • ⅓ tsp garlic powder

  • ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

  • ½ Tbsp olive oil


Instructions

  1. Make the Spice Rub
    In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, ground mustard, onion powder, black pepper, garlic powder, and cayenne (if using).

  2. Prep the Pork
    Trim any silver skin or excess fat from the pork tenderloin. Pat it dry with a paper towel for better browning.

  3. Season
    Rub the pork all over with olive oil, then coat evenly with the spice mixture, pressing it gently so it sticks.

  4. Air Fry
    Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. Place the pork tenderloin in the basket and cook for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until the internal temperature reaches 145–160°F (63–71°C), depending on your preference.

  5. Rest & Serve
    Transfer the pork to a cutting board, tent it loosely with foil, and let it rest for 5 minutes. Slice into medallions and spoon over any juices collected on the board.

Serving Tip: Pair with roasted veggies, a fresh salad, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

Freezer-Friendly Instructions

  • Before Cooking: You can season the raw pork tenderloin and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before air frying.

  • After Cooking: Slice the cooked pork, place it in airtight freezer-safe containers with its juices, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the air fryer or oven until warmed through.

Give that photo below a click and pin it to your Pinterest board. After all, good food is worth sharing – even if it’s just a picture!

Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin Best Recipe

Air Fryer with the Best Pork Tenderloin Seasoning Rub

This recipe for air fryer pork tenderloin could not be much more straightforward. I’ve used a medium-sized bowl and combined together with the dry ingredients.

Before rubbing the ingredients on the tenderloin, we’ll need to cut off any of the “silver skin,” which is a thin membrane that’s usually on the exterior area of the pork tenderloin.

You can do this using a sharp knife and just peel it away. After that, coat the pork tenderloin with olive oil and rub it in all of the seasoning mix.

Temperature to Cook Pork Tenderloin in Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer for 5 minutes at 400 F. When the air fryer is heated, keep a consistent temperature of 400 F, select air fry, and set the time for 20 – 23 minutes. Most pork tenderloins are often between 1.25 Lbs to 2 Lbs.

For smaller-size pork tenderloin, opt for 20 minutes. For bigger-size pork, choose 23 minutes. It is suggested to cook pork tenderloin to an interior temperature of 145 F to 160 F.

Air fryer pork tenderloin

Let The Pork Tenderloin Rest After Cooking in Air-Fryer

When the cooking is completed, slowly remove the pork loin from your air fryer, put it on a dish or cutting board, and allow it to rest for about 3 – 5 min before slicing.

Pork Tenderloin Leftovers

Pork tenderloin leftovers can be kept in an airtight container for up to four days in the fridge. For up to four weeks, freeze slices in small zip-lock bags. Make sure to label the bag with the date.

Air-Frier Pork Tenderloin Video Recipe

Since this Air-Fryer Pork tenderloin recipe is so popular, it was updated with additional information based on your questions and suggestions with the video instructions below. 

 

 

FAQs

My Pork Tenderloin I a bit Pink; is that ok?

You might be slightly frightened if your pork tenderloin is pink inside when you cut into it. Be at ease, though! You may be sure the pork is cooked adequately if the thickest area has the proper internal temperature (145 °F). It’s acceptable if the hue is a little pink.

Can I Store and reheat Pork tenderloin?

Any leftovers should be carefully wrapped in tin foil or plastic wrap for simple storage. Zip-top bags are another option and are so simple! Four days or more in the refrigerator.

To reheat, roast the remaining pork at 350 degrees Fahrenheit or cook it in a covered pan over low heat. Pork will get tough if you cook it too long.

If you like this recipe, be sure to check

Air-Fryer chicken nuggets recipe 

Air Fryer Corn Dogs Recipe

 

Garlic Parmesan Creamy White Sauce

Garlic Parmesan Creamy White Sauce

This heavenly Garlic Parmesan White Sauce has amazing flavors from Parmesan cheese and garlic. Combined with pasta, pour it over some roasted veggies; great as a dipping sauce as well as pizza sauce. I like to make a sauce that serves multiple purposes. If you Read More

Sous Vide BBQ Pulled Pork Shoulder Recipe

Sous Vide BBQ Pulled Pork Shoulder Recipe

Sous Vide BBQ Pulled Pork Shoulder slow cooked for 24 hours, and finished a smokey barbecue leading to probably the most tender and juicy pulled pork you’ve tasted. Like the majority of sous vide recipes, two-step cooking process is the thing. The two-step cooking is Read More

El Pollo Loco Chicken Recipe (Copycat)

El Pollo Loco Chicken Recipe (Copycat)

Marinated overnight in pineapple juice and citrus, this El Pollo Loco Chicken Recipe will be enjoyed by everyone. El Pollo Loco Copycat is really easy to make and has all the classical flavors needed.

Have you experienced El Pollo Loco in your area? I believe it might be a mostly West Coast chain of Mexican fast food. I recall my mom picking it up when I was little and enjoying the juicy chicken stuffed in a tortilla. It was absolutely so simple but always so delicious. Eventually, she developed an outstanding recipe. This really is just excellent chicken.

I really enjoy simple recipes that don’t take much preparation, and this really is one of them. This El Pollo loco chicken is excellent because the marinade takes five minutes to make, and you are able to just throw the chicken in and just forget about it. 

El Pollo Loco Chicken is not easy to explain if you haven’t tried it. There is a specific citrus flavor, but there’s also an absolute chicken quality to it. I used to observe them make El Pollo Loco chicken on my break while looking forward to being done.

And what I saw is they put a steel press on top of it. You don’t need to do this, but it is the better way to acquire a delicious crispy skin on the chicken.

Does El Pollo Loco refer to the crazy chicken?

El Pollo Loco (Spanish for “The Crazy Chicken”) is the name of two independent restaurant chains that specialize in Mexican-style grilled chicken. Both were founded by Juan Francisco Ochoa. He established the first El Pollo Loco restaurant in Guasave, Sinaloa, Mexico, in 1974.

 El Pollo Loco Chicken

Ingredients

  • 1 Tbsp white vinegar

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • ½ tsp salt

  • ½ tsp dried oregano

  • ¼ tsp ground black pepper

  • ¼ jalapeño, seeded and minced

  • 1 cup pineapple juice

  • 2 Tbsp lime juice

  • 1 Tbsp canola oil

  • 8 bone-in chicken thighs, skin on


Instructions

1. Make the Marinade

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together vinegar, garlic, salt, oregano, pepper, jalapeño, pineapple juice, lime juice, and canola oil.

  2. Reserve ¼ cup of the marinade in a small container for basting later.


2. Marinate the Chicken

  • Add chicken thighs to the bowl, turning to coat well.

  • Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours, ideally overnight.


3. Oven Roast & Crisp

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).

  2. Arrange chicken skin-side up in a cast iron skillet or oven-safe pan.

  3. Roast for 25 minutes, or until skin begins to crisp and internal temperature is at least 165°F (74°C).


4. Press & Sear

  1. Transfer the skillet to the stovetop over medium heat.

  2. Spray a sheet of foil lightly with canola oil and place it, oiled side down, over the chicken.

  3. Weigh down with a foil-wrapped brick, bacon press, or another heavy pan.

  4. Cook for 2–3 minutes, remove the weight, flip the chicken, baste with reserved marinade, and cook another 2–3 minutes.


5. Serve

  • Serve hot with grilled corn, tortillas, or rice, drizzling with any leftover pan juices.


Grill Option

Instead of oven-roasting, grill chicken over medium heat for 6–7 minutes per side, pressing lightly during the last few minutes for charred, crispy skin.


Make-Ahead & Freezer Tips

  • Make Ahead: Marinate chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Cooked chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

  • Freezer-Friendly: Place chicken and marinade in a freezer bag and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then cook as directed.

el pollo loco chicken recipe (copycat)

What to serve with El Pollo Loco Chicken?

Yes, this El Pollo loco chicken is great on its own. However, the best way to serve it is to add some macaroni and cheese on the side and some warm, delicious tortillas. 

Important Notes For El Pollo Loco Chicken Recipe

  • It is true that El Pollo Loco uses coloring. Yes, El Pollo Loco uses food coloring. They get it done to help make the chicken look better. This has no effect on the flavor, so I left it out but noted it in this recipe.
  • Chicken is marinated for a long period of time. That’s why it’s so rich in flavor without adding any sauce!
  • You are able to cook it using your stovetop, too, if you do not wish to bake, but be careful that you don’t burn the chicken skin too much. The flavor of the crispy chicken skin is crucial to the El Pollo loco recipe.

 

El Pollo Loco Chicken Video Recipe

If you’ve liked this El Pollo Loco Chicken, you must try these popular copycat recipes below:

Popeyes chicken sandwich recipe
KFC Chicken Littles recipe (Copycat)
McDonald’s Chicken McGriddles (Copycat)
Chick-Fil-A Chicken Minis and Burgerville Fried Asparagus with Garlic Aioli (Copycat)

New York Strip Roast Recipe (With Garlic and Herbs)

New York Strip Roast Recipe (With Garlic and Herbs)

New York strip loin Roast beef for a holiday dinner or festive occasion is a straightforward and impressive meal that everyone will just love. I’ve made this recipe with an awesome blend of garlic and herbs, and the results are fantastic. The New York Strip Read More

Healthy French Onion Soup for Cold Weather

Healthy French Onion Soup for Cold Weather

French onion soup is a timeless classic that has been loved for generations. Built on a base of slowly caramelized onions and a savory broth, it’s finished with the irresistible pairing of toasted bread and melted cheese. Simple yet deeply flavorful, this dish is perfect Read More

Pancakes Without Eggs Recipe

Pancakes Without Eggs Recipe

Hello, it’s Sarah again! Today I’m going to show you how to make light, fluffy, and delicious pancakes—without using eggs. Once you try this recipe, you might not want to go back to the traditional version.

I used to think pancakes without eggs or milk weren’t possible, but it turns out they’re just as good—crispy on the outside and soft inside. The best part? You don’t need anything fancy, just simple swaps you probably already have at home.

Over time, I’ve experimented with different egg substitutes, and I’ll share both my favorite method and a few other options you can try. Whether you’re out of eggs, vegan, or just curious, these pancakes are a tasty alternative that doesn’t feel like a compromise.

Pancakes without eggs (dairy-free)

Ingredients

  • 2 Tbsp vegan butter

  • 1 Tbsp chia seeds

  • 1 ¼ cups plant-based milk

  • ¼ cup applesauce

  • 2 Tbsp agave nectar (or maple syrup)

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

  • 1 ¼ cups whole wheat flour

  • 2 tsp baking powder

  • ½ tsp baking soda

  • ¼ tsp salt


Instructions

  1. Prepare Wet Ingredients
    Melt the vegan butter in a microwave-safe bowl for about 30 seconds. Stir in the applesauce, plant-based milk, chia seeds, agave, and vanilla. Set aside for a few minutes so the chia seeds can begin to thicken the mixture.

  2. Mix Dry Ingredients
    In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined.

  3. Combine Batter
    Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined—don’t overmix. A few lumps are perfectly fine.

  4. Cook the Pancakes
    Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Lightly coat it with a little oil or vegan butter. Pour about ¼ cup of batter for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook the other side until golden brown.

  5. Serve
    Stack the pancakes on a plate and serve warm with maple syrup, vegan butter, fruit jam, or fresh fruit.

Make Ahead & Freezer-Friendly Tips

These pancakes are great for making ahead of time:

  • Make Ahead: Prepare the batter the night before and keep it covered in the fridge. In the morning, give it a quick stir and cook as usual.

  • Freeze Cooked Pancakes: Let the pancakes cool completely, then layer them between parchment paper and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 2 months.

  • Reheat: Warm in a toaster, skillet, or microwave until heated through. The toaster keeps them slightly crisp on the outside, while the microwave makes them soft and fluffy.

Pancakes Without Eggs Recipe

What Can Replace Eggs in Pancakes?

There are several great substitutes for eggs in pancakes. Here are some of the most reliable ones:

  • Mashed bananas

  • Chia seeds (soaked in water)

  • Ground flax seeds

  • Applesauce

  • Whipped silken tofu

  • Store-bought egg replacers (like Ener-G)

In the recipe below, I use a combination of applesauce and chia seeds, which gives the pancakes a perfect balance of texture and flavor. But feel free to experiment—each substitute works well in its own way.

Can You Use Store-Bought Pancake Mix?

Yes, you can. Just make sure to read the label carefully to confirm it doesn’t contain eggs or milk. If the mix calls for eggs, replace them with your chosen substitute. For example:

  • 2 eggs on the box → 1 chia or flax egg + ¼ cup applesauce

This will give you the right texture and binding without eggs.

If you’ve liked this egg-free recipe, be sure to check How to make Burgers Without Eggs

Black Bean Spaghetti Recipe

Black Bean Spaghetti Recipe

Do you wish to try a healthy version of spaghetti? If that’s the case, I have an easy Black Bean Spaghetti Recipe made out of vegetables. If you enjoy Mexican food and you prefer pasta, this can be a match made in heaven. This black bean Read More