Close up of a juicy chili-rubbed pork tenderloin on a plate, garnished with fresh herbs.

Chili

chili rubbed pork tenderloin: a flavor explosion!

By Javier Rodriguez

Published: 18 Feb 2025

This recipe is my go-to for a quick, yet incredibly flavorful weeknight meal. It's surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks—I promise! One time, I made this for a potluck and it was a total hit. Everyone was raving about how juicy and tender the pork was, and I even had requests for the recipe.
A beautifully arranged platter of sliced chili-rubbed pork tenderloin
The key to this recipe lies in the chili rub. The blend of spices creates a complex, smoky flavor that perfectly complements the sweetness of the pork. It's so aromatic, it'll make your whole kitchen smell amazing—a total mood booster!
A close-up shot of the chili rub ingredients in a bowl
Feel free to experiment with different chili powders to achieve your desired level of heat and spice. Don't be afraid to adjust the seasonings to your personal preference. Cooking should be fun, after all! Remember, there's no such thing as a perfect recipe, only perfect adaptations of them, based on your own personal preferences and creativity!
A person preparing the chili rub

Required Equipments

  • Meat thermometer
  • Small bowl
  • Whisk
  • Large bowl
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper

Chili-Rubbed-Pork-Tenderloin:-A-Flavor-Explosion!

This chili-rubbed pork tenderloin is a flavour explosion in every bite. It's incredibly easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

⏳ Yield & Time

Yield: 2 servings

Preparation Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time:

🍽 Ingredients

📖 Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Make sure you give it plenty of time to fully heat up; this is key for even cooking.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together all the chili rub ingredients: 2 tablespoons chili powder, 1 tablespoon brown sugar, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat!), and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Adjust seasonings to your liking; I sometimes add a pinch of oregano for a more complex flavour profile.
  3. Pat your pork tenderloin dry with paper towels. This helps the rub adhere better and ensures a nice sear.
  4. Generously rub the chili mixture all over the tenderloin, making sure to coat it evenly. Don't be shy with the spices! Get in there and really massage the rub into the meat—you'll thank yourself later.
  5. Place the tenderloin on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
  6. Roast the pork for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature in the thickest part of the tenderloin—it's the only way to make sure it's cooked perfectly without overcooking it.
  7. Remove the pork from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a much more tender and flavorful final product.
  8. Slice the pork tenderloin and serve immediately. Consider serving it with roasted vegetables, a simple salad, or mashed potatoes—the possibilities are endless! Enjoy your delicious creation!

📝 Notes

  • For extra flavor, marinate the pork in the chili rub for at least 30 minutes before roasting.
  • If you want a sweeter rub, increase the brown sugar; for a spicier rub, add more cayenne pepper

🍎 Nutrition

Calories: 300kcal

Protein: 30g

Fat: 15g

Carbohydrates: 10g

Fiber: 2g

Calcium: 20mg

Frequently Asked Questions

The secret to good cooking is simple: passion and a pinch of audacity.

Want to join our exclusive community?

FOLLOW US

SavoryTouch offers general content intended solely for informational purposes. The information provided on this site is not a substitute for professional nutritional, dietary, or culinary advice. Always seek the advice of qualified professionals regarding any dietary concerns, health conditions, or food-related decisions.

© 2025 SavoryTouch. All Rights Reserved.