Citrus Marinated Grilled Pork Tenderloin

Name: Citrus Marinated Grilled Pork Tenderloin
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 4 h 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1.5 lb pork tenderloin; 1 orange, juiced; 1 lime, juiced; 1 tbsp honey; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tbsp vegetable oil; 1 clove garlic, smashed; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp smoked paprika; salt, to taste; black pepper, to taste

This citrus marinated grilled pork tenderloin combines bright orange and lime juice with honey and vanilla for a tender, flavorful main course that grills to juicy perfection in minimal time.

🌍American 🏷️Pork tenderloin 🏷️Grilled pork 🏷️Citrus marinade 🏷️Pork recipe Summer grilling

🏷️

🏷️Orange

-0:00

jackiehartlaubonTikTok

Total

4h 30m

Servings

4

Difficulty

Easy

Est. Cost

$22–$36

Recipe Source

View original recipe

From TikTok · by jackiehartlaub

-0:00

jackiehartlaubonTikTok

Ingredients

1.5 lb pork tenderloin
1 orange, juiced
1 lime, juiced
1 tbsp honey
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tbsp vegetable oil
1 clove garlic, smashed
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp smoked paprika
salt, to taste
black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1
In a measuring cup or bowl, whisk together the juice of one orange, the juice of one lime, honey, vanilla extract, oil, smashed garlic, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
2
Place the pork tenderloin in a large resealable bag and pour the marinade over it. Seal the bag and marinate in the refrigerator for about 4 hours.
3
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, between 350-400°F (175-200°C).
4
Remove the pork from the marinade and pat it dry. Season all sides generously with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
5
Place the seasoned pork tenderloin on the preheated grill. Cook for about 20 minutes, flipping occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent charring.
6
Cook until the internal temperature of the pork reaches 145°F (63°C).
7
Remove the pork from the grill and let it rest on a cutting board for 5-10 minutes.
8
Slice the rested pork tenderloin against the grain and serve.

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Tips & Notes

Pro tips

Pat the pork dry after marinating to promote better browning and caramelization on the grill.
Use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part to ensure accurate doneness without overcooking.
Let the marinated pork rest at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before grilling for more even cooking.
Brush the grill grates with oil to prevent sticking; pork tenderloin's lean meat benefits from reduced friction.

Substitutions

Orange juice + lime juice → lemon juice + grapefruit juice (slightly more tart)
Vanilla extract → almond extract (more subtle, nutty flavor)
Smoked paprika → regular paprika or ancho chili powder (varies heat level)
Honey → maple syrup or agave nectar (similar sweetness and binding)

Storage & make-ahead

Refrigerate cooked pork tenderloin in an airtight container for up to 4 days; reheat gently in a 325°F oven or slice cold for salads. Marinate the raw pork for up to 8 hours ahead.

Equipment

grill or grill pan · meat thermometer

Common Questions

How long should pork tenderloin marinate?

Marinate for at least 30 minutes, but 2–4 hours yields deeper flavor. Avoid marinating longer than 8 hours as the acid can over-tenderize the meat.

What temperature should pork tenderloin reach when cooked?

Grill until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for medium doneness. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy; carryover heat will continue cooking it slightly after removal.

Can I make this marinade ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the marinade up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Add the pork and marinate when ready to cook.

How do I prevent the pork from drying out on the grill?

Don't skip the marinade, avoid cooking above medium-high heat, and remove the pork at 145°F internal temperature. Let it rest 5 minutes before slicing to retain juices.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, scale all ingredients proportionally. A second tenderloin will need similar grilling time if the thickness is the same; arrange on the grill with adequate space.