Air Fryer Citrus Marinated Pork is juicy, flavorful, and perfectly tender. Pork marinated in bright citrus juices with garlic and herbs is air-fried to golden perfection, creating a dish that’s both refreshing and comforting.
As a mom and wife, I love recipes like this because they feel gourmet but are effortless enough for a weeknight dinner. The citrus keeps the pork juicy and adds a fresh, lively flavor that the whole family enjoys.
Why You’ll Love This Citrus Marinated Pork
- Juicy, tender pork with bright citrus flavor
- Quick and easy thanks to the air fryer
- Perfect for weeknights or meal prep
- Great with grains, salads, or roasted vegetables
- Family-friendly with minimal cleanup
This dish is a fresh twist on classic pork dinners.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Pork
- 1½ pounds pork tenderloin or pork loin, trimmed and cut into medallions or cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Citrus Marinade
- Juice of 2 oranges
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or thyme
- Zest of 1 orange or lemon (optional for extra brightness)
Optional Garnish
- Fresh parsley or cilantro
- Lemon or orange slices
How to Make Air Fryer Citrus Marinated Pork
Step 1: Marinate the Pork
In a bowl, whisk together citrus juices, honey, Dijon mustard, oregano, and zest. Add pork pieces and toss to coat. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Pork for Air Frying
Pat marinated pork dry with paper towels to help it crisp. Lightly drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Air Fry the Pork
Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C).
Place pork in a single layer in the basket. Cook for 10–12 minutes, shaking or flipping halfway, until cooked through and lightly browned. Internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
Step 4: Serve
Serve immediately over grains, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. Garnish with parsley or citrus slices for a bright presentation.
Tips for the Best Citrus Pork
- Don’t skip patting the pork dry — this helps achieve a golden crust
- Adjust citrus to taste; add more honey for sweetness or extra lemon for tang
- Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket for even cooking
- Let pork rest 2–3 minutes after cooking for juiciness
Small adjustments make this dish shine every time.
For more pork cooking tips, don’t miss my Ultimate Air Fryer Pork Recipes Guide.
Easy Variations
- Add smoked paprika or chili flakes for a slightly spicy version
- Swap pork for chicken or firm tofu for a lighter option
- Include sliced bell peppers or zucchini in the air fryer for a complete one-pan meal
- Use lime and grapefruit juice for a different citrus twist
This recipe is flexible and family-friendly.
What to Serve With Citrus Marinated Pork
- Quinoa, brown rice, or couscous
- Air-fried vegetables like asparagus or carrots
- Mixed greens with a light vinaigrette
- Sweet potato mash or roasted potatoes
Bright flavors balance perfectly with hearty sides.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Store leftover pork in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Reheat gently in the air fryer or on the stovetop
- Leftover pork works beautifully in salads, wraps, or bowls
Great for quick lunches or next-day meals.
FAQs About Air Fryer Citrus Marinated Pork
1. How long should I marinate the pork?
At least 30 minutes, but 1–2 hours will give deeper flavor. Avoid overnight for very acidic marinades to prevent meat from becoming mushy.
2. Can I use chicken or tofu instead of pork?
Yes! Chicken breasts or thighs work well, and firm tofu can be used for a vegetarian version.
3. Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely! All ingredients here are naturally gluten-free.
4. Can I freeze the pork after cooking?
Yes, store cooked pork in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat gently in the air fryer.
5. What sides pair best with this dish?
Grains, roasted vegetables, fresh salads, or even air-fried sweet potatoes complement the citrus pork beautifully.
Final Thoughts
Air Fryer Citrus Marinated Pork is juicy, bright, and full of flavor — perfect for weeknights or casual dinners that feel special. With minimal prep, quick air frying, and a punch of citrus, it’s a family-friendly meal everyone will love.
As a mom, I love recipes like this that are effortless yet flavorful — dinner on the table fast, and everyone asks for seconds. 🥩🍊🤍
