Air Fryer Sesame Pork Skewers Recipe

This Air Fryer Sesame Pork Skewers Recipe features tender pork with a sweet, savory glaze. Ready in just 30 minutes for an easy, delicious meal everyone loves.

Last summer, my neighbor hosted a backyard barbecue that completely changed how I think about pork skewers. She pulled out her air fryer instead of firing up the grill, and I watched skeptically as she loaded it with these gorgeous sesame-glazed pork skewers.

Twenty minutes later, I was a complete convert. The pork was tender, the glaze was caramelized to perfection, and there wasn’t a single flare-up or burnt piece in sight. That’s when I knew I had to master this Air Fryer Sesame Pork Skewers Recipe for myself.

Since then, I’ve made these skewers at least two dozen times, tweaking the marinade and perfecting the cooking method. The best part? No more standing over a hot grill in the summer heat or dealing with unpredictable flames. My air fryer delivers consistent results every single time, and the cleanup is laughably easy compared to traditional grilling.

The sesame-soy glaze creates this incredible sweet and savory crust that my kids absolutely devour. I’ve served these at casual weeknight dinners and fancy dinner parties alike, and they never disappoint. Trust me when I say this recipe will become your new go-to for quick, impressive meals that taste like you spent hours in the kitchen.

Quick Recipe Summary
Prep Time15 minutes (plus 2 hours marinating)
Cook Time12 minutes
Total Time2 hours 27 minutes
Servings4 servings (12 skewers)
Difficulty LevelEasy

If you’re looking for more delicious air fryer pork bites, you’ll love the similar cooking method and bold flavors.

Air Fryer Sesame Pork Skewers Recipe - Healthy Pork Recipe for Busy Days

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Sesame Pork Skewers Recipe

I’ve tried countless pork skewer recipes over the years, but this one stands out for so many reasons. The air fryer method means you get perfectly cooked meat with a gorgeous caramelized exterior without any of the hassle of outdoor grilling.

The marinade is simple but incredibly flavorful, with just the right balance of sweet, salty, and nutty sesame notes. It’s one of those recipes that looks and tastes restaurant-quality but comes together with minimal effort and ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.

Here’s what makes this recipe truly special:

  • Quick marinade time: While some recipes require overnight marinating, this one needs just 2 hours to develop incredible flavor
  • No grill required: Perfect for apartment dwellers or anyone who doesn’t want to deal with charcoal and propane
  • Foolproof cooking: The air fryer ensures even cooking without any hot spots or flare-ups
  • Kid-approved flavor: The sweet sesame glaze appeals to even picky eaters
  • Meal prep friendly: These skewers reheat beautifully and taste great cold in lunch boxes
  • Customizable heat level: Easily adjust the spiciness to suit your taste preferences
  • Minimal cleanup: No grill grates to scrub or grease splatters to wipe down

Ingredients

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You don’t need any exotic ingredients or special trips to specialty stores. I keep most of these items stocked in my pantry and fridge year-round because I make these skewers so often.

The sesame oil is really the star ingredient here. Don’t skip it or substitute with regular vegetable oil. The toasted, nutty flavor it brings is absolutely essential to the dish. I learned this the hard way when I ran out once and tried using olive oil instead. The skewers were good, but they weren’t the same.

For the Pork Skewers:

  • 2 pounds (900g) pork tenderloin, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 12 bamboo or metal skewers (if using bamboo, soak in water for 30 minutes)
  • 2 tablespoons sesame seeds, for garnish
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced, for garnish

For the Sesame Marinade:

  • 1/3 cup (80ml) soy sauce (use low-sodium if preferred)
  • 3 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 teaspoon sriracha (optional, for heat)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For more Asian-inspired cooking, check out my stir fry sauce which pairs beautifully with these skewers.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Having the right tools makes this recipe even easier. I’ve made these skewers with various equipment over the years, and I can tell you that quality tools definitely make a difference in the final result.

The most important piece of equipment is obviously your air fryer. I use a 5.8-quart model, which gives me enough space to cook all the skewers in two batches. If you have a smaller air fryer, you might need to work in three batches instead.

  • Air fryer (5-quart or larger capacity)
  • Large mixing bowl (for the marinade)
  • Small whisk (for combining marinade ingredients)
  • Sharp knife (for cutting pork into uniform cubes)
  • Cutting board
  • 12 bamboo or metal skewers (8-inch length works best)
  • Microplane grater (for ginger and garlic)
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Tongs (for flipping skewers)
  • Meat thermometer (to ensure pork reaches 145°F/63°C)
  • Small bowl (for soaking bamboo skewers)
  • Pastry brush (optional, for extra glaze)

After making these skewers countless times, I’ve discovered a few products that genuinely make the process easier and the results even better. These aren’t just random recommendations. They’re items I actually use in my own kitchen.

1. COSORI Air Fryer 5.8 Quart

This is the exact air fryer I use for these skewers, and it’s been a total workhorse in my kitchen for over two years. The square basket design means I can fit more skewers per batch compared to round models, and the temperature control is incredibly precise. The nonstick coating has held up beautifully even with regular use, and cleanup takes less than five minutes.

Get it on Amazon

2. La Tourangelle Toasted Sesame Oil

The quality of your sesame oil makes a huge difference in this recipe. I’ve tried at least six different brands, and this one consistently delivers the most authentic, nutty flavor. It’s cold-pressed and has this gorgeous amber color that tells you it’s the real deal. A little goes a long way, so one bottle lasts me months even though I use it constantly.

Get it on Amazon

3. OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel Skewers

While bamboo skewers work fine, I switched to these reusable metal skewers about a year ago and haven’t looked back. They’re flat rather than round, which prevents the pork from spinning when you flip them. The handles stay cool enough to touch even right out of the air fryer, and they’ve made my cooking process so much smoother. Plus, they’re dishwasher safe, which means zero cleanup hassle.

Get it on Amazon

4. Microplane Premium Zester Grater

Fresh ginger is essential for this marinade, and this grater makes quick work of it. I used to struggle with mincing ginger finely enough, but this tool creates the perfect texture in seconds. It also works brilliantly for garlic, and I use it for citrus zest in other recipes too. The blade is razor-sharp and hasn’t dulled even after hundreds of uses.

Get it on Amazon

You might also enjoy my air fryer honey garlic chicken wings for another crowd-pleasing appetizer.

Air Fryer Sesame Pork Skewers Recipe - Try This Asian-Inspired Air Fryer Dish

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Air Fryer Sesame Pork Skewers

I’m going to walk you through every single step of this recipe, including all the little tricks I’ve learned along the way. Don’t skip any steps, especially the marinating time. I tried rushing it once when I was short on time, and the flavor just wasn’t the same.

The key to perfectly cooked pork skewers is cutting uniform pieces and not overcrowding your air fryer basket. I learned this lesson the hard way during my first attempt when I crammed everything in at once and ended up with unevenly cooked meat.

1. Prepare the Pork

  • Remove the pork tenderloin from the refrigerator and place it on a clean cutting board
  • Using a sharp knife, trim away any silver skin or excess fat from the tenderloin (this connective tissue won’t break down during cooking and can be chewy)
  • Cut the pork into 1-inch cubes, trying to keep them as uniform as possible for even cooking
  • Pat the pork cubes dry with paper towels to help the marinade adhere better
  • Transfer the pork cubes to a large mixing bowl and set aside
  • If using bamboo skewers, place them in a shallow dish and cover completely with water to soak (this prevents them from burning in the air fryer)

2. Make the Sesame Marinade

  • In a medium mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, and rice vinegar
  • Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the bowl
  • If you’re using sriracha for a spicy kick, add it now
  • Sprinkle in the black pepper
  • Whisk all ingredients together vigorously for about 30 seconds until the honey is fully dissolved and the marinade is well combined
  • Taste the marinade and adjust if needed (add more honey for sweetness, more soy sauce for saltiness, or more sriracha for heat)

3. Marinate the Pork

  • Pour the sesame marinade over the pork cubes in the large mixing bowl
  • Using clean hands or a large spoon, toss the pork cubes to ensure every piece is completely coated with marinade
  • Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer everything to a large zip-top bag
  • Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or up to 8 hours for maximum flavor (toss the pork halfway through marinating time if you remember)
  • Remove the pork from the refrigerator about 15 minutes before cooking to take the chill off

4. Assemble the Skewers

  • Remove the bamboo skewers from the water and pat them dry with a paper towel
  • Thread 4-5 pork cubes onto each skewer, leaving a small space between each piece to allow hot air to circulate
  • Try to push the pork cubes toward the center of the skewer, leaving enough bare skewer at each end to handle safely
  • As you thread the meat, let excess marinade drip back into the bowl (save this marinade for basting)
  • Arrange the assembled skewers on a plate or tray while you prepare the air fryer

5. Preheat the Air Fryer

  • Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and preheat for 5 minutes
  • This preheating step ensures the pork starts cooking immediately and develops that beautiful caramelized exterior
  • While the air fryer preheats, lightly spray the basket with cooking oil to prevent sticking

6. Cook the Pork Skewers (First Batch)

  • Arrange half of the skewers in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t overlap
  • If the skewers are too long to fit flat, you can lean them diagonally against the sides of the basket
  • Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 6 minutes without opening the air fryer
  • After 6 minutes, carefully open the air fryer and use tongs to flip each skewer
  • If you saved some marinade, brush it over the skewers now for extra flavor
  • Cook for an additional 5-6 minutes until the pork is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C)
  • The exterior should be nicely caramelized with slightly charred edges

7. Check for Doneness and Rest

  • Use an instant-read meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the thickest piece of pork
  • Once the pork reaches 145°F (63°C), remove the skewers from the air fryer and place them on a clean plate
  • Tent the cooked skewers loosely with aluminum foil to keep them warm while you cook the second batch
  • Let the pork rest for 3-5 minutes before serving (this allows the juices to redistribute)

8. Cook the Remaining Skewers

  • Repeat the cooking process with the second batch of skewers
  • Maintain the same temperature and timing for consistent results
  • Check the internal temperature again to ensure all the pork is properly cooked

9. Garnish and Serve

  • Arrange all the cooked skewers on a serving platter
  • Sprinkle sesame seeds generously over the top
  • Scatter the sliced green onions across the skewers
  • Serve immediately while hot and the glaze is still slightly sticky
  • If desired, drizzle any remaining marinade (that hasn’t touched raw meat) over the skewers or serve it on the side for dipping

Another favorite: grilled vegetable skewers make a perfect vegetarian companion to these pork skewers.

Air Fryer Sesame Pork Skewers Recipe - Great for Meal Prep and Parties

Tips for The Best Air Fryer Sesame Pork Skewers

Over the dozens of times I’ve made these skewers, I’ve picked up quite a few tricks that make a real difference in the final result. Some of these tips came from trial and error, while others came from watching my neighbor who first introduced me to this recipe.

The single most important tip I can give you is to not overcrowd the air fryer. I know it’s tempting to cook everything at once, but proper air circulation is what gives you that beautiful caramelized exterior.

  • Cut uniform pieces: Take the extra time to cut your pork into evenly sized cubes. I aim for exactly 1 inch, and I use a ruler the first few times until I got the hang of it. This ensures everything cooks at the same rate.
  • Don’t skip the marinating: I’ve tried rushing this step, and the flavor just doesn’t penetrate the meat properly. Two hours is the minimum, but overnight is even better if you have the time.
  • Use fresh ginger: Ground ginger powder just doesn’t deliver the same bright, zesty flavor. Fresh ginger makes a huge difference in the marinade.
  • Pat the pork dry first: This seems counterintuitive before marinating, but dry meat actually absorbs marinade better than wet meat. It’s a chef’s trick I learned from a cooking show.
  • Save some marinade for basting: Before adding the pork to the marinade, set aside 2-3 tablespoons in a separate bowl. You can brush this on halfway through cooking for extra flavor without any food safety concerns.
  • Preheat your air fryer: This creates an immediate sear on the pork, locking in juices and creating that caramelized crust we all love.
  • Don’t flip too early: Resist the urge to check on the skewers before the 6-minute mark. Opening the air fryer releases heat and disrupts the cooking process.
  • Use a meat thermometer: Pork is safe to eat at 145°F, and cooking it beyond that makes it dry. A good thermometer is your best friend for perfectly juicy pork.
  • Let it rest: Those few minutes of resting time allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat. Skipping this step means the juices will run out when you bite into it.
  • Toast your sesame seeds: For extra flavor, toast the sesame seeds in a dry pan for 2-3 minutes before sprinkling them on top. The nutty aroma is incredible.
  • Try metal skewers: If you make these often, invest in reusable metal skewers. They conduct heat better, cook more evenly, and you never have to worry about soaking them.
  • Space out the meat: Leave a little gap between each pork cube on the skewer. This allows hot air to circulate around each piece.
  • Batch cooking is okay: Don’t stress about keeping the first batch warm. These taste great at room temperature too, which makes them perfect for parties.

Read Also: Air Fryer Spicy Buffalo Chicken Wings Recipe

What to Serve with Air Fryer Sesame Pork Skewers

Air Fryer Sesame Pork Skewers Recipe

These skewers are incredibly versatile and pair well with so many different sides. I’ve served them as an appetizer at parties, as the main protein for dinner, and even cold in lunch boxes the next day. The sweet and savory flavor profile works with both Asian-inspired sides and more traditional American accompaniments.

My go-to pairing is jasmine rice and a simple cucumber salad. The cool, crisp cucumber balances the rich, glazed pork perfectly. I also love serving these with steamed edamame and a side of healthy coleslaw for a complete meal that feels light but satisfying.

Here are my favorite serving suggestions:

  • Jasmine or white rice: The fluffy rice soaks up any extra glaze from the skewers
  • Fried rice: Turn it into a complete meal by serving over vegetable or egg fried rice
  • Asian slaw: Cabbage dressed with rice vinegar and sesame oil echoes the flavors in the skewers
  • Cucumber salad: Cool and refreshing, perfect for balancing the rich glaze
  • Steamed broccoli: Simple and healthy, with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice
  • Air fryer corn on the cob: Sweet corn complements the savory pork beautifully
  • Noodles: Serve over soba noodles or rice noodles tossed with a light sauce
  • Mexican street corn: An unexpected but delicious pairing
  • Spring rolls: Fresh vegetable spring rolls make a light appetizer before the skewers
  • Potato salad: A classic BBQ side that works surprisingly well
  • Grilled pineapple: The sweetness pairs beautifully with the sesame glaze
  • Asian-style coleslaw: Crunchy vegetables with a sesame dressing
  • Stir-fried vegetables: Quick-cooked veggies in garlic and ginger
  • Lettuce wraps: Use butter lettuce to wrap the pork for a low-carb option

Variations of Air Fryer Sesame Pork Skewers

One of the things I love most about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Once you master the basic version, you can play around with different flavors and proteins. I’ve tried dozens of variations over the past few years, and here are the ones that have become regular rotations in my meal planning.

My favorite variation is adding a tablespoon of peanut butter to the marinade for a Thai-inspired twist. It creates this incredibly creamy, nutty glaze that my husband requests constantly.

  • Spicy version: Double the sriracha and add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the marinade. I also like to brush on some extra hot sauce during the last minute of cooking.
  • Sweet and tangy: Add 2 tablespoons of orange juice and 1 teaspoon of orange zest to the marinade. The citrus brightens up the whole dish.
  • Peanut sesame: Stir 2 tablespoons of smooth peanut butter into the marinade for a Thai-inspired flavor. It creates an amazing creamy coating.
  • Teriyaki style: Replace half the soy sauce with teriyaki sauce and add 1 tablespoon of mirin for authentic Japanese flavor.
  • Korean-inspired: Add 1 tablespoon of gochujang (Korean chili paste) to the marinade for a spicy, umami-rich version.
  • Maple sesame: Swap the honey for pure maple syrup for a different kind of sweetness. The flavor is more complex and less cloying.
  • Lemon sesame: Add 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice and 1 teaspoon of lemon zest for a bright, fresh take.
  • Chicken version: Use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of pork. Increase cooking time to 14-16 minutes.
  • Beef skewers: Substitute sirloin steak cut into cubes. Reduce cooking time slightly to keep the beef tender.
  • Shrimp variation: Thread large shrimp on skewers and reduce cooking time to just 8-10 minutes total.
  • Vegetarian option: Use extra-firm tofu pressed and cubed. The marinade works beautifully with tofu too.
  • Pork belly version: For an indulgent treat, use pork belly cubes instead of tenderloin. Add 2-3 minutes to the cooking time.
  • Pineapple addition: Alternate pork cubes with fresh pineapple chunks on the skewers. The fruit caramelizes beautifully.
  • Veggie skewers: Add bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms between the pork pieces for a complete meal on a stick.

If you enjoy experimenting with Asian flavors, try my hoisin sauce as an alternative glaze.

Storage and Reheating

These skewers are one of those rare recipes that taste nearly as good reheated as they do fresh. I actually think they make fantastic meal prep because the flavors have time to meld together even more in the fridge. My kids love finding these in their lunch boxes, and I’ve been known to eat them cold straight from the refrigerator as a quick protein snack.

The key to successful reheating is not overdoing it. Pork can dry out quickly if you’re not careful, so I always err on the side of gentle reheating rather than blasting them with high heat.

Refrigerator Storage:

  • Allow the cooked skewers to cool completely to room temperature before storing
  • Remove the pork from the skewers and store in an airtight container (this prevents the skewers from poking holes in your container)
  • Or leave them on the skewers and wrap tightly in aluminum foil, then place in a container
  • Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
  • The glaze may thicken and become stickier in the fridge, which is completely normal
  • Keep the sesame seed garnish separate and add fresh when serving leftovers

Freezer Storage:

  • Cool the skewers completely and remove the meat from the wooden skewers (metal skewers can stay)
  • Place the pork pieces in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours
  • Once frozen solid, transfer to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag
  • Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn
  • Label with the date and store for up to 3 months
  • Do not freeze the sesame seed and green onion garnish (add these fresh after reheating)

Reheating Methods:

  • Air fryer (best method): Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 4-5 minutes until warmed through. This helps restore the slightly crispy exterior.
  • Oven: Place skewers on a baking sheet and reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes.
  • Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until warm. This method is quickest but won’t maintain the caramelized texture.
  • Stovetop: Slice the pork off the skewers and quickly reheat in a hot skillet with a splash of water or extra marinade for 2-3 minutes.
  • From frozen: Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating using any of the methods above. You can also reheat from frozen in the air fryer at 350°F for 8-10 minutes.

For another make-ahead protein option, check out air fryer popcorn chicken.

Nutritional Facts

Understanding the nutritional profile of this dish helps you make informed choices about portion sizes and what to serve alongside it. These skewers are actually quite nutritious, with lean pork providing high-quality protein and the sesame elements adding healthy fats.

I appreciate that this recipe isn’t loaded with heavy cream or excessive oil like some Asian-inspired dishes can be. The air fryer method also means you’re not deep-frying anything, which keeps the calorie count reasonable.

Per Serving (3 skewers):

  • Calories: 285
  • Protein: 32g
  • Total Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 2.5g
  • Carbohydrates: 15g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sugar: 12g
  • Sodium: 780mg
  • Cholesterol: 95mg

Nutritional Highlights:

  • High in protein: Each serving provides over 30g of protein, making these skewers very satiating
  • Lean meat: Pork tenderloin is one of the leanest cuts of pork available
  • Good source of B vitamins: Pork is rich in thiamin, niacin, and B6
  • Contains selenium: Important for thyroid function and immune health
  • Moderate sodium: If you’re watching sodium intake, use low-sodium soy sauce to reduce it by about 30%
  • Natural sweetness: The honey provides a natural sweetener rather than refined sugar

Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

Beyond just tasting amazing, this recipe actually contains several ingredients with impressive health benefits. I’m not going to claim this is a superfood miracle dish, but it’s nice to know that something this delicious also brings some nutritional value to the table.

The combination of pork, sesame, ginger, and garlic creates a dish that’s both satisfying and nourishing. I feel good about serving this to my family regularly.

Pork Tenderloin:

  • One of the leanest cuts of pork, with less fat than skinless chicken thigh
  • Excellent source of high-quality protein for muscle maintenance and repair
  • Rich in thiamin (vitamin B1), which helps convert food into energy
  • Contains zinc, which supports immune function and wound healing
  • Provides selenium, an important antioxidant mineral

Sesame Seeds and Sesame Oil:

  • Packed with healthy unsaturated fats that support heart health
  • High in copper, which is essential for iron absorption
  • Contains sesamin and sesamolin, compounds with antioxidant properties
  • Good source of calcium for bone health
  • Provides fiber for digestive health

Fresh Ginger:

  • Contains gingerol, a bioactive compound with powerful anti-inflammatory properties
  • May help reduce nausea and improve digestion
  • Has been shown to help reduce muscle pain and soreness
  • May help lower blood sugar levels
  • Contains antioxidants that protect against cellular damage

Garlic:

  • Known for its immune-boosting properties
  • Contains allicin, a compound that may help reduce blood pressure
  • Has antimicrobial and antifungal properties
  • May help reduce cholesterol levels
  • Rich in antioxidants that protect against cell damage

Honey:

  • Natural sweetener with trace minerals and antioxidants
  • Contains antibacterial and antimicrobial properties
  • May help soothe sore throats and suppress coughs
  • Provides quick energy from natural sugars
  • Has a lower glycemic index than refined sugar

You might also enjoy: Teriyaki Grilled Chicken Recipe

FAQs About Air Fryer Sesame Pork Skewers

Over the years of making and sharing this recipe, I’ve gotten quite a few questions from friends, family, and readers. Here are the most common ones along with detailed answers based on my experience.

1. Can I use a different cut of pork?

Absolutely, though the cooking time may need adjustment. Pork tenderloin is my first choice because it’s lean, tender, and cooks quickly without drying out.

However, boneless pork chops cut into cubes work wonderfully too, though they may need an extra minute or two of cooking time. Pork shoulder is another option if you prefer a fattier cut with more flavor, but increase the cooking time to 15-18 minutes. I don’t recommend using pork loin, as I’ve found it can become dry in the air fryer.

2. Do I have to use an air fryer, or can I grill these?

You can definitely grill these skewers if you prefer. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F) and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, turning occasionally.

The main difference is that you’ll need to watch them more carefully on the grill to prevent flare-ups from the marinade. I used to always grill these until I discovered the air fryer method, and honestly, the air fryer gives more consistent results with less effort. But grilling does add a nice smoky flavor that some people prefer.

3. Can I make these skewers without the honey for a sugar-free version?

Yes, though the glaze won’t caramelize quite as nicely. I’ve made a sugar-free version using a sugar-free maple syrup substitute, and while it was good, the texture of the glaze was slightly different.

You could also try using a very small amount of stevia or monk fruit sweetener, but start with just a tiny bit as these sweeteners are much more concentrated than honey. Another option is to skip the sweetener entirely and increase the sesame oil slightly for a more savory version.

4. Why is my pork tough or dry?

The most common cause of tough, dry pork is overcooking. Pork is safe to eat at 145°F internal temperature, and cooking it beyond 155°F starts to make it dry and chewy.

Invest in a good instant-read thermometer so you can check the temperature accurately. Another possible issue is not letting the pork rest after cooking. Those 3-5 minutes of rest time allow the juices to redistribute through the meat. Finally, make sure you’re cutting against the grain when you cube the pork tenderloin, as this helps keep it tender.

5. Can I prep these skewers ahead of time?

Yes, and I actually recommend it. You can assemble the skewers the night before and keep them covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.

Just make sure they’re completely coated in marinade and wrapped well so they don’t dry out. I usually prep them in the morning before work and cook them when I get home. You can keep assembled, marinated skewers in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. The flavor actually improves with the extended marinating time.

For another protein-packed meal, try baked chicken meatballs with spaghetti squash.

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe becomes as beloved in your kitchen as it has in mine. There’s something special about a dish that looks impressive enough for company but is easy enough for a Tuesday night dinner.

These Air Fryer Sesame Pork Skewers have saved me countless times when I needed a quick meal that everyone would actually eat without complaint. The sweet and savory glaze, the tender pork, and that gorgeous caramelized exterior come together to create something truly delicious.

Don’t be intimidated by the skewering process or the air fryer if you’re new to it. This recipe is genuinely beginner-friendly, and once you make it the first time, you’ll wonder why you didn’t try it sooner.

Give these skewers a try this week, and I’d love to hear how they turn out for you. Drop a comment below with any questions or variations you tried. Happy cooking!

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