Crispy Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin Bites with Zucchini Chips

Name: Crispy Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin Bites with Zucchini Chips
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 28 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: american
Ingredients: 1 lb pork tenderloin, trimmed and cut into 1 inch cubes; 2 tsp extra virgin olive oil (for pork); 3/4 tsp kosher salt (for pork); 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp ground black pepper; 1/8 tsp crushed red pepper flakes, optional; 1 small zucchini (about 150 g), sliced into 1/4 inch coins; 1 tsp extra virgin olive oil (for zucchini); 1/4 tsp kosher salt (for zucchini); 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tsp lemon zest; 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, optional garnish

This snack-worthy recipe delivers juicy pork tenderloin bites with crisp edges and a side of parmesan zucchini chips, all made in the air fryer for a fast, diabetic-friendly treat. Lean pork keeps this light while packing satisfying protein, and the zucchini adds color and crunch with very few carbs. It is part of my air fryer meals keto lineup, perfect when you want something savory that will not spike blood sugar. Each serving provides a steady balance of protein and fat with minimal carbohydrate impact. Pork tenderloin is one of the leanest cuts of pork, which supports satiety without excessive calories, and zucchini is low glycemic with plenty of potassium and fiber. Compared with keto air fryer bacon or a hearty keto air fryer ribeye, these flavorful bites feel lighter but still keep cravings in check. Per serving: about 190 calories, 24 g protein, 9 g fat, and 2 g net carbs. There is no added sugar, flour, or starch in the seasoning, and the air fryer minimizes oil while maximizing texture. If you enjoy heart smart seafood options like keto air fryer salmon, this lean pork snack gives you another reliable go-to. For make-ahead snacking, I also love an air fryer beef jerky low carb recipe when I need portable protein between meals. You can explore more protein-forward tips in [Keto Recipes](/blog/keto-basics). For best results, pat the pork dry so the spice blend adheres. Cook in a single layer, shake once for even browning, and verify doneness with a [digital meat thermometer](https://rocktopgear.com/amazon). According to the USDA, pork should reach 145 degrees Fahrenheit, then rest for 3 minutes before serving. If you want both components ready at once, a [dual basket air fryer](https://rocktopgear.com/amazon) lets you cook zucchini and pork simultaneously. Serve these bites hot with a squeeze of lemon and a quick dip like Dijon yogurt or chipotle mayo made with no added sugar. The zucchini chips are a built-in veggie, but you can swap in bell pepper strips or mushrooms to rotate colors and keep carbs low. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheat in the air fryer at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 3 to 4 minutes. For more seafood ideas, try my [Air Fryer Salmon Bites](/recipes/air-fryer-salmon-bites) next.

Prep: 10 min. Cook: 18 min. Servings: 4.

Ingredients

1 lb pork tenderloin, trimmed and cut into 1 inch cubes
2 tsp extra virgin olive oil (for pork)
3/4 tsp kosher salt (for pork)
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp ground black pepper
1/8 tsp crushed red pepper flakes, optional
1 small zucchini (about 150 g), sliced into 1/4 inch coins
1 tsp extra virgin olive oil (for zucchini)
1/4 tsp kosher salt (for zucchini)
2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp lemon zest
1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, optional garnish

Instructions

Preheat the air fryer to 380 degrees Fahrenheit for 3 minutes.
Pat the pork cubes very dry with paper towels. In a bowl, toss with 2 tsp olive oil, 3/4 tsp kosher salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using.
In a separate bowl, toss zucchini slices with 1 tsp olive oil, 1/4 tsp kosher salt, Parmesan, and lemon zest.
Air fry the zucchini first: arrange in a single layer and cook at 380 degrees Fahrenheit for 7 to 8 minutes, shaking the basket halfway, until lightly golden and crisp-tender. Transfer to a plate and keep warm.
Increase air fryer temperature to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the seasoned pork in a single layer with space between pieces.
Air fry pork for 9 to 12 minutes, shaking the basket once at the halfway point. Use a [digital meat thermometer](https://rocktopgear.com/amazon) to confirm the internal temperature reaches 145 degrees Fahrenheit. Transfer the pork to a plate and let it rest for 3 minutes before serving to meet USDA guidance.
Garnish pork and zucchini with parsley if desired. Serve immediately. Chef’s note: If using a dual basket unit, cook zucchini at 380 degrees Fahrenheit in one basket while the pork cooks at 400 degrees Fahrenheit in the other, timing the finishes to match.

View full recipe on Low Carb Air Fryer