Cooking turkey in an air fryer is a game changer! It makes preparing a delicious meal super quick and easy, and trust me, the flavor is out of this world. In just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have a juicy Air Fryer Mustard Herb Turkey Tenderloin on the table, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. The air fryer locks in moisture while giving the turkey a lovely golden exterior, making it a healthier alternative to traditional frying. Plus, with the tangy kick of mustard and aromatic herbs, this dish is both satisfying and guilt-free!
Ingredients for Air Fryer Mustard Herb Turkey Tenderloin
To whip up this delightful Air Fryer Mustard Herb Turkey Tenderloin, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb Turkey Tenderloin: Look for a nice, fresh tenderloin – this cut is lean and cooks beautifully in the air fryer.
- 2 tbsp Dijon Mustard: This adds a tangy flavor that really elevates the dish. You can use smooth or whole grain, depending on your preference!
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil: A splash of olive oil not only helps the mustard stick but also adds richness to the flavor.
- 1 tsp Dried Thyme: This herb brings a lovely earthiness. You can also use fresh thyme if you have it on hand!
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder: A must-have for that aromatic punch, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- 1 tsp Salt: Essential for bringing out the natural flavors of the turkey and the marinade.
- 1/2 tsp Black Pepper: Just the right amount of heat to balance the dish. Adjust based on your spice preference!
Gather these ingredients, and you’re all set to create a mouthwatering meal that’s sure to impress!
How to Prepare Air Fryer Mustard Herb Turkey Tenderloin
Now, let’s dive into the steps to create this mouthwatering Air Fryer Mustard Herb Turkey Tenderloin! Trust me, it’s easier than you think, and the results are absolutely delicious.
Step 1: Make the Marinade
First things first, grab a medium-sized bowl and combine your Dijon mustard, olive oil, dried thyme, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix it all together until it’s a smooth and well-blended marinade. This step is super important because letting the ingredients marry together for a few minutes enhances the flavor. Just let it sit while you prep the turkey – it’ll be worth it!
Step 2: Marinade the Turkey
Next, take your turkey tenderloin and coat it generously with the marinade. I like to use my hands for this part – it allows me to really massage that flavorful goodness into the meat! Make sure every inch is covered. Once you’ve coated it well, let it rest for at least 15 minutes. This resting time is crucial because it allows the turkey to absorb all those amazing flavors!
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
While your turkey is marinating, it’s time to preheat your air fryer. Set it to 400°F (200°C) and let it warm up for about 5 minutes. Preheating is essential because it ensures that the turkey cooks evenly and gets that beautiful golden crust that we all love!
Step 4: Cook the Turkey
Once the air fryer is hot and your turkey has marinated, carefully place the tenderloin in the basket. Cook it for about 25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking. To make sure it’s done, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature – it should reach 165°F (74°C). This step is key to ensuring your turkey is perfectly cooked and juicy!
Step 5: Let it Rest
After cooking, remove the turkey from the air fryer and let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. I know it’s tempting to dig in right away, but resting is vital! It allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making every bite tender and flavorful. Trust me, the wait is worth it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, this dish gets you a delicious meal on the table in no time!
- Healthy Cooking Method: The air fryer uses less oil, making this turkey tenderloin a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
- Flavorful Taste: The combination of Dijon mustard and herbs creates a mouthwatering flavor that elevates the turkey to a whole new level.
- Juicy and Tender: Cooking in the air fryer locks in moisture, resulting in a juicy tenderloin that’s perfect for any occasion.
- Versatile Dish: Great for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, this recipe is sure to impress everyone around the table!
Tips for Success
To ensure your Air Fryer Mustard Herb Turkey Tenderloin turns out perfectly, here are some handy tips! First, if your tenderloin is thicker than 1 inch, you might need to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure it cooks through. Just keep an eye on the internal temperature to hit that sweet spot of 165°F (74°C).
Feel free to play around with the herbs! Fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley can be fantastic alternatives to dried thyme, giving the dish a fresh twist. And don’t forget, marinating for longer than 15 minutes is totally fine if you have the time – it only enhances the flavors!
Nutritional Information for Air Fryer Mustard Herb Turkey Tenderloin
When it comes to enjoying a flavorful meal without the guilt, this Air Fryer Mustard Herb Turkey Tenderloin is a fantastic choice! Each serving, which is about 4 ounces, packs approximately 200 calories, 9 grams of fat, and a whopping 30 grams of protein. With just 2 grams of carbohydrates and minimal sugar, this dish is perfect for those looking for a healthy yet satisfying option. Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used!
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use a different cut of turkey for this recipe?
Absolutely! While the Air Fryer Mustard Herb Turkey Tenderloin is fantastic, you can also use turkey breast or thighs. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, especially for thicker cuts.
Q2: How do I store leftovers from the turkey tenderloin?
To keep your leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to slice the turkey before storing for easier reheating!
Q3: Can I marinate the turkey overnight?
Yes! Marinating the turkey tenderloin overnight will infuse even more flavor. Just be cautious not to exceed 24 hours, as the mustard can start to break down the meat.
Q4: How do I reheat the air fryer turkey tenderloin?
The best way to reheat the turkey is in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes. This will help retain its juiciness and keep that delicious texture!
Q5: What sides pair well with this mustard herb turkey?
This turkey tenderloin pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or even creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
To keep your leftover Air Fryer Mustard Herb Turkey Tenderloin fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to slice the turkey before storing, as this helps it cool down quicker and makes reheating a breeze! When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, the best method is to pop the slices back into the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes. This way, you’ll retain that juicy texture and delicious flavor. You can also use the microwave, but be careful not to overheat it, or the turkey might dry out!
For more delicious recipes and inspiration, check out our Pinterest page!
Air Fryer Mustard Herb Turkey Tenderloin
Equipment
- Air Fryer
- Meat thermometer
Ingredients
For the Turkey
- 1 lb Turkey Tenderloin
For the Marinade
- 2 tbsp Dijon Mustard
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil
- 1 tsp Dried Thyme
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix Dijon mustard, olive oil, thyme, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to create the marinade.
- Coat the turkey tenderloin with the marinade and let it sit for at least 15 minutes.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the marinated turkey tenderloin in the air fryer basket and cook for 25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the turkey from the air fryer and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.