The Ultimate Guide to Herb Grilled Pork Tenderloin: Juicy, Flavorful & Perfectly Cooked

Discover the secret to perfectly moist and tender Herb Grilled Pork Tenderloin with a vibrant lemon and fresh herb marinade. This versatile recipe is also fantastic for chicken and fish!

There’s nothing quite like the allure of summer grilling. As soon as the weather warms up and the days get longer, my grill becomes the heart of our kitchen. From quick and easy Turkey Burgers for a weeknight dinner to the slow, smoky indulgence of Smoked Baby Back Ribs on a leisurely weekend, outdoor cooking always promises delicious results and creates wonderful memories. Grilling isn’t just about cooking; it’s about enjoying the outdoors, the unique smoky flavors, and the effortless cleanup that comes with it. The anticipation of that first sizzle on the grates, the aroma wafting through the air, and the joy of sharing a perfectly cooked meal with loved ones are what truly make grilling a cherished activity.

Pork is a true staple in our home, celebrated for its incredible versatility and rich flavor profile. We enjoy everything from classic Oven Baked Pork Chops to comforting slow-cooked roasts and savory pulled pork. Among all the delicious ways to prepare it, grilled pork tenderloin stands out as a personal favorite. It’s not only easy to prepare but also delivers an impressive meal that’s both healthy and bursting with flavor. This particular Herb Grilled Pork Tenderloin recipe holds a special place, as it was one of the very first recipes I ever shared on the blog, originally inspired by a beloved Taste of Home Healthy Cooking cookbook I acquired years ago. It marked my first adventure in grilling a whole pork tenderloin, and it’s been a go-to ever since. The lean nature of pork tenderloin makes it an ideal canvas for bold marinades, and its quick cooking time means you can achieve a gourmet dinner even on the busiest weeknights.

The Secret to a Tender & Flavorful Marinade

The key to this incredibly moist and flavorful grilled pork tenderloin lies in its simple yet potent marinade. This isn’t just any marinade; it’s a meticulously balanced blend designed to infuse the pork with deep flavors while ensuring it remains wonderfully tender. The acidity from the lemon juice helps to gently break down the meat fibers, while the soy sauce adds a rich umami depth and a beautiful savory note. Honey provides a touch of sweetness that balances the other strong flavors and helps create a gorgeous caramelization on the grill, enhancing the pork’s exterior. The fresh herbs – sage and thyme – are the heart of this marinade, imparting an aromatic freshness that elevates the entire dish. Their earthy, slightly peppery notes penetrate the meat, making every bite a delight.

The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility: you can absolutely use fresh herbs from your garden for an unparalleled aroma, but high-quality dried herbs will yield fantastic results too. Preparing the marinade takes mere minutes, allowing you to get the pork ready in the morning and let it soak in all the goodness throughout the day. Imagine coming home from work, and all you have to do is toss the tenderloin on the grill for a gourmet-quality dinner in under 30 minutes! For even greater convenience, you can whisk the marinade together the night before and store it in the refrigerator, then simply add the pork in the morning before you start your day. This make-ahead capability makes it a perfect choice for meal prep, ensuring a stress-free dinner after a long day.

Essential Ingredients for Your Herb Grilled Pork Tenderloin

For the best results, gather these fresh ingredients. Each plays a crucial role in creating the ultimate flavor and texture. Be sure to scroll to the bottom of the post for the FULL PRINTABLE recipe card with exact measurements.

• Pork Tenderloin: Typically sold in packs of two, you’ll need one for this recipe. However, it’s incredibly easy to double the marinade and cook both if you’re feeding a larger crowd or want delicious leftovers for sandwiches or salads. Look for tenderloins around 1 to 1.5 pounds for optimal grilling; ensure any silver skin is trimmed for a more tender bite.
• Chicken Broth: This liquid gold forms the savory base of our marinade, adding moisture and depth of flavor. Opt for low-sodium chicken broth if you’re mindful of your salt intake, especially since soy sauce is also a key component. It helps keep the pork incredibly juicy from the inside out.
• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is non-negotiable for its bright, tangy notes. Beyond flavor, it acts as a natural tenderizer, working subtly to break down some of the meat fibers, ensuring your pork tenderloin is remarkably tender.
• Soy Sauce: A powerhouse ingredient for umami depth, soy sauce adds a rich, savory complexity that complements the pork beautifully. Again, a low-sodium variety is highly recommended to control the overall saltiness and allow the other flavors to shine without being overwhelmed.
• Honey: Adds a touch of natural sweetness that perfectly balances the acidity of the lemon and the saltiness of the soy sauce. Honey also plays a vital role in achieving that beautiful, slightly caramelized crust on the pork as it cooks on the grill.
• Oil (Canola, Olive, or Vegetable): Any neutral-flavored oil will work wonderfully here. Oil is crucial as it helps to carry the fat-soluble flavors of the herbs and garlic deep into the meat. It also prevents the pork from sticking to the grill grates and contributes to a moist, succulent final product.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is indispensable for its pungent, aromatic flavor. It forms an essential flavor foundation that pairs exquisitely with pork and the chosen herbs, creating a truly irresistible aroma.
• Fresh Sage: The star herb, offering an earthy, slightly peppery, and distinctively pine-like aroma. If fresh sage is unavailable, you can substitute with dried sage; remember that dried herbs are more concentrated, so use about half the amount of fresh (e.g., 1 ½ teaspoons dried for 4 teaspoons fresh).
• Fresh Thyme: Provides a delicate, earthy, and slightly floral note that complements the sage and lemon beautifully. Similar to sage, if opting for dried thyme, use about one-third the amount of fresh (e.g., 1 teaspoon dried for 1 tablespoon fresh).
• Bay Leaf: Adds a subtle, savory, and slightly minty background note that enhances the overall complexity of the marinade without overpowering it. Remember to remove the bay leaf before grilling, as it’s not meant for consumption.

Understanding Pork Tenderloin: A Premium Cut

Pork tenderloin is an exquisite, boneless cut of meat, renowned for its leanness and exceptional tenderness. It comes from the long, thin muscle that runs along the spine, above the ribs and belly of the pig. This muscle is technically called the psoas major, and it is a non-weight-bearing muscle, meaning it is rarely exercised. Unlike tougher cuts that are frequently used for walking or moving, such as the shoulder or leg, the tenderloin muscle remains incredibly soft and delicate. This inherent characteristic makes it a prized cut for quick-cooking methods like grilling, roasting, or pan-searing, where its natural tenderness can truly shine without the need for extensive braising. Its mild flavor also makes it an excellent canvas for a wide variety of marinades and spice rubs, easily absorbing whatever delicious seasonings you choose to impart, like the vibrant herbs and lemon in this recipe. It’s truly one of the most versatile and forgiving cuts of pork, perfect for impressing guests or simply enjoying a weeknight meal.

Is Pork Tenderloin a Healthy Choice? Absolutely!

Yes, absolutely! Pork tenderloin is consistently recognized as one of the leanest cuts of meat available on the market today, often compared favorably to boneless, skinless chicken breast in terms of nutritional value. It’s an excellent source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle building, repair, and overall body function, and remarkably low in fat, especially saturated fat. This makes it a fantastic option for anyone looking to maintain a healthy diet without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction.

Beyond its impressive protein content, pork tenderloin is packed with vital micronutrients that contribute to overall well-being. It’s an exceptional source of B vitamins, including B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B6 (pyridoxine), and B12 (cobalamin), all of which are crucial for energy metabolism, nerve function, and red blood cell formation. It also provides a significant amount of selenium, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage, and phosphorus, which is vital for bone health and energy production. With this herb-infused marinade, you’re boosting the flavor profile without adding excessive fats or calories. In fact, a serving of this delicious grilled pork tenderloin, including the marinade, typically clocks in at a modest 131 calories per serving, making it an ideal choice for anyone watching their calorie intake, managing weight, or aiming for a healthy, protein-rich meal. It truly offers the best of both worlds: gourmet taste, impressive health benefits, and a satisfying meal that fits perfectly into a balanced lifestyle.

Mastering the Grill: How to Make Perfect Herb Grilled Pork Tenderloin

Achieving a perfectly grilled pork tenderloin is simpler than you might think, and the results are always impressive. The key is in the preparation and careful monitoring of the cooking temperature. Follow these detailed steps for a juicy, flavorful main course that will surely become a household favorite:

1. **Prepare the Marinade:** In a large mixing bowl or a sturdy, gallon-sized Ziploc bag, combine all the marinade ingredients: chicken broth, fresh lemon juice, reduced-sodium soy sauce, honey, canola oil, freshly minced garlic, minced fresh sage, fresh thyme, and the bay leaf. Whisk vigorously or shake the bag until all ingredients are thoroughly mixed and well combined. This ensures an even distribution of flavors.
2. **Marinate the Pork:** Carefully place the trimmed pork tenderloin into the bowl or Ziploc bag with the marinade. Ensure the pork is mostly, if not entirely, submerged in the liquid. Gently massage the marinade around the pork for a minute or two to ensure all surfaces are thoroughly coated. This physical action helps the flavors penetrate deeply into the meat fibers.
3. **Refrigerate:** Seal the Ziploc bag (removing as much air as possible) or cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for a minimum of 4 hours. For maximum flavor penetration and tenderness, marinating for 8-24 hours is highly recommended. Remember a crucial step: *before* adding the raw pork, remove and reserve about 3/4 cup of the marinade for basting later. This prevents cross-contamination.
4. **Preheat Your Grill:** About 15-20 minutes before you plan to cook, preheat your gas or charcoal grill to medium-high heat (aim for an internal grill temperature of around 400-450°F or 200-230°C). For best results and to prevent the tenderloin from sticking, thoroughly clean your grill grates and then coat them lightly with a high-heat cooking oil (like canola or vegetable oil) using a folded paper towel held with tongs. This creates a non-stick surface and ensures a beautiful sear.
5. **Grill to Perfection:** Carefully place the marinated pork tenderloin on the hot, oiled grill grates. Grill the pork for approximately 25-35 minutes. It’s essential to turn the tenderloin every 5-7 minutes to ensure even cooking and to develop a consistent, golden-brown crust on all sides. During the last 10-15 minutes of cooking, frequently baste the pork with the reserved marinade. This adds an extra layer of flavor and helps keep the exterior moist and glistening.
6. **Achieve Doneness & Rest:** The most crucial step for tender pork is to monitor its internal temperature. Insert a reliable meat thermometer into the thickest part of the tenderloin, avoiding any bone (though tenderloin is boneless). Cook until the thermometer registers an internal temperature of 145º F (63º C). Remove it from the grill immediately when it reaches this temperature. Transfer the grilled tenderloin to a clean cutting board and loosely tent it with aluminum foil. Let it rest for at least 3-5 minutes before slicing. This resting period is vital, as it allows the internal juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every slice is incredibly moist and tender. Skipping this step can lead to dry, less flavorful pork.
7. **Slice and Serve:** After resting, thinly slice the tenderloin against the grain. Slicing against the grain shortens the muscle fibers, making the meat even more tender and easier to chew. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as chopped parsley or additional thyme, if desired, and serve immediately with your chosen side dishes.

Perfect Pairings: How To Serve Grilled Pork Tenderloin

The beauty of this herb-grilled pork tenderloin lies in its incredible versatility. Its bright, savory, and slightly sweet flavor profile makes it an ideal center for a wide array of side dishes. Whether you’re planning a casual family meal, a festive backyard barbecue, or entertaining guests, you can easily find the perfect accompaniments that complement its delicious taste without overwhelming it.

For a complete grilled meal, consider throwing some vibrant vegetables or starchy sides right on the grill alongside your pork. Imagine the smoky sweetness of perfectly charred Grilled Zucchini, perhaps seasoned with a touch of garlic and Parmesan cheese, or the comforting simplicity of Grilled Potato Packs. These foil-wrapped treasures, filled with tender potatoes, onions, and your favorite herbs, cook until fork-tender and infuse with a lovely smoky essence. These options not only complement the pork beautifully but also streamline your cooking process, keeping everything outdoors and minimizing kitchen cleanup.

If you prefer a lighter, more refreshing contrast, cool and crisp salads are an excellent choice to cut through the richness of the meat. A zesty Orzo Pasta Salad, tossed with sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, and crumbled feta, offers a delightful Mediterranean twist. Alternatively, a vibrant Greek Pasta Salad, loaded with Kalamata olives, crisp cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette, provides a refreshing burst of flavor. For something simpler yet elegant, a classic Tomato Mozzarella Salad with fresh basil and a drizzle of balsamic glaze would be absolutely delightful. These salads add a wonderful textural and flavor balance, creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

And for those who appreciate a touch of indulgence, consider serving warm, fluffy Butter Swim Biscuits. Their tender, buttery texture is perfect for soaking up any flavorful juices from the pork. Or, for a unique and satisfying side that’s a little unexpected, try crispy, savory Avocado Fries. No matter your preference, this herb-grilled pork tenderloin adapts beautifully to a variety of culinary pairings, ensuring a memorable and delicious meal every time, suitable for any occasion.

Recipe Tips & Tricks for Perfect Results

Achieving a perfectly cooked, juicy, and flavorful herb grilled pork tenderloin is within reach with a few expert tips and tricks. These suggestions will help you avoid common pitfalls and elevate your grilling game:

• **Fresh vs. Dried Herbs: A Rule of Thumb:** While the recipe calls for fresh herbs in the marinade for their vibrant aroma and potent flavor, don’t hesitate to use dried herbs if fresh ones aren’t available. As a general rule, remember that dried herbs are significantly more concentrated than fresh herbs. Therefore, use about one-third the amount of dried herbs compared to fresh. For instance, if the recipe specifies 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme, use 1 teaspoon of dried thyme. Adjust to your taste, of course!
• **The Golden Rule: Avoid Overcooking:** This is perhaps the most critical tip for cooking pork tenderloin! Because it’s such a lean cut with very little fat, it can quickly dry out and become tough if overcooked. Lean meats benefit from precise temperature control. Always use a reliable instant-read meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the tenderloin, making sure not to touch the grill grates. Aim for exactly 145º F (63º C) for a perfectly juicy and safe-to-eat pork. Anything significantly higher, and you risk a dry, chewy result.
• **The Importance of Resting Meat:** Once the pork tenderloin reaches its target internal temperature of 145º F, remove it from the grill immediately. Transfer it to a clean cutting board and tent it loosely with aluminum foil. Let it rest for at least 3-5 minutes, or even up to 10 minutes for larger tenderloins, before slicing. This seemingly simple step is vital! Resting allows the internal temperature to rise slightly (this is called carryover cooking) and, more importantly, gives the juices that have been pushed to the center of the meat during cooking a chance to redistribute evenly throughout the entire tenderloin. This results in a much juicier, more tender, and flavorful final product. Skipping this step is a common mistake that leads to dry pork as all the juices escape when you slice it.
• **Why Oil in the Marinade is Key:** Pork tenderloin is naturally very lean, which means it doesn’t have much internal fat to keep it moist during cooking. This is precisely why the oil in the marinade is so important. The oil serves multiple purposes: it helps to tenderize the meat slightly, preventing it from sticking to the grill grates, and crucially, it acts as a carrier for all those wonderful fat-soluble flavors from the herbs, garlic, and other marinade ingredients, ensuring they penetrate deeply into the pork. This infusion of flavor and moisture is essential for a succulent result.
• **Sodium Control for Health-Conscious Cooks:** If you are monitoring your sodium intake, this recipe is easily adaptable. Simply opt for low-sodium chicken broth and reduced-sodium soy sauce. These substitutions will significantly reduce the sodium content without compromising on the depth of flavor. The robust herbs, tangy lemon, and sweet honey provide ample taste, ensuring your dish remains delicious and well-seasoned.
• **Achieving Even Cooking:** Pork tenderloins can sometimes be thicker on one end and thinner on the other, leading to uneven cooking. To promote more uniform cooking, you can fold the thinner end of the tenderloin under itself and tie it securely with kitchen twine. This creates a more consistent thickness, allowing the entire tenderloin to cook at a similar rate, preventing the thinner parts from drying out while the thicker parts finish cooking.
• **Marinade Safety First:** Always exercise caution when handling marinades. Never reuse marinade that has come into direct contact with raw meat unless you bring it to a rolling boil for at least 5 minutes to kill any potential bacteria. For basting purposes, always use a portion of the marinade that was set aside *before* any raw meat was added to it. This ensures food safety and peace of mind.

Explore More Delicious Pork Dinner Recipes

If you love pork as much as we do, you’re in for a treat! This incredibly versatile protein offers endless culinary possibilities, suitable for every palate and occasion. From comforting classics to exciting new flavors, there’s always a delicious pork dish to explore. Here are some other fantastic pork dinner recipes from our collection that you’re sure to enjoy, each bringing a unique flavor profile and cooking style to your table:

• Cafe Rio Sweet Pork: A crowd-pleasing, sweet and savory shredded pork, incredibly tender and perfect for building gourmet tacos, burritos, salads, or bowls at home.
• Smothered Pork Chops: Experience pure comfort food with these tender, pan-seared pork chops cooked slowly in a rich, creamy, and savory gravy until fall-apart delicious.
• Instant Pot Pork Tacos: Craving delicious tacos fast? This recipe delivers flavorful, shredded pork made effortlessly in your Instant Pot, perfect for a quick weeknight fiesta.
• Sheet Pan Pork Tenderloin: A convenient and flavorful meal, where tender pork tenderloin roasts alongside colorful vegetables all on one sheet pan, minimizing cleanup and maximizing taste.
• Char Siu Pork Burgers: An exciting and unique twist on traditional burgers, featuring juicy pork patties infused with the irresistible sweet and savory flavors of Chinese BBQ (Char Siu).
• Lemon Garlic Pork Chops: Bright, aromatic, and incredibly simple, these pork chops are seasoned with a zesty lemon-garlic blend, making them an elegant yet easy dinner option.
• Instant Pot Pulled Pork: Achieve fall-apart tender pulled pork in a fraction of the time compared to traditional methods, ideal for hearty sandwiches, sliders, or loaded nachos.
• Crispy Pork Cutlets: Golden-brown and deliciously crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside, these cutlets are a delightful family favorite reminiscent of schnitzel.

5 from 7 votes

Herb Grilled Pork Tenderloin

By Erin Sellin

This Herb Grilled Pork Tenderloin recipe features a quick and easy marinade made with lemon juice and a blend of fresh herbs, ensuring the pork is incredibly moist, tender, and bursting with flavor. An excellent choice for grilling any time of year, and versatile enough to be used on chicken and fish too!

Prep: 5 minutes mins

Cook: 35 minutes mins

Total: 40 minutes mins

Servings: 4

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Equipment

• Measuring Spoons
• Grill (Gas or Charcoal)
• Instant-Read Meat Thermometer
• Large Ziploc Bag or Shallow Dish for Marinating

Ingredients 

• ▢ 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken stock
• ▢ 3 Tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• ▢ 3 Tablespoons reduced-sodium soy sauce
• ▢ 3 Tablespoons honey
• ▢ 1 Tablespoon canola oil
• ▢ 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ▢ 4 teaspoons minced fresh sage, or 1 1/2 tsp dried
• ▢ 1 Tablespoon fresh thyme, or 1 tsp dried
• ▢ 1 bay leaf
• ▢ 1 pork tenderloin, about 1-1.5 pounds, trimmed of silver skin

Instructions 

• In a medium bowl or large Ziploc bag, combine chicken stock, lemon juice, soy sauce, honey, canola oil, minced garlic, fresh sage, fresh thyme, and bay leaf. Whisk or shake well to combine. Remove and reserve 3/4 cup of the marinade for basting during grilling; this prevents cross-contamination.
• Add the pork tenderloin to the remaining marinade in the bag or bowl. Ensure the pork is thoroughly coated by gently massaging the marinade around it. Seal and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or ideally, 8-24 hours for maximum flavor infusion and tenderness.
• Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400-450°F / 200-230°C). Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking and ensure a good sear. Place the marinated pork tenderloin directly on the hot grill.
• Grill the pork for 25-35 minutes total, turning every 5-7 minutes to ensure even cooking and a consistent golden-brown sear on all sides. During the last 10-15 minutes of grilling, baste the tenderloin frequently with the reserved marinade. Discard any unused basting marinade afterwards.
• Cook until a reliable instant-read meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the tenderloin registers an internal temperature of 145º F (63º C). Immediately remove the pork from the grill and transfer it to a clean cutting board. Tent loosely with foil and let it rest for 3-5 minutes. This crucial step allows juices to redistribute, ensuring moist pork.
• Thinly slice the rested pork tenderloin against the grain. Slicing against the grain helps to shorten muscle fibers, making each bite even more tender. Serve immediately, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

This recipe was inspired by a delightful Herb Grilled Pork Tenderloin from Taste of Home, adapted and perfected over years of home cooking in our kitchen to bring you the most tender and flavorful results. Enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 131kcal | Carbohydrates: 16g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 5g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 16mg | Sodium: 440mg | Sugar: 14g

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Additional Info

Author: Erin Sellin

Prep Time: 5 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 35 minutes minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes minutes

Course: Dinner Recipes

American

Servings: 4

Calories: 131

Keyword: grilled pork tenderloin, herb grilled pork tenderloin, easy pork recipe, healthy grilling, tenderloin cooking guide, summer grilling

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