Love Chipotle’s steak bowls? Now you can enjoy that same smoky, juicy flavor at home with this easy copycat Chipotle steak recipe! Made with simple ingredients and bold seasoning, this homemade carne asada is perfect for burritos, tacos, bowls, salads, and more. It’s tender, flavorful, and just as crave-worthy as your favorite restaurant version—if not better.
Table of Contents
- What is Carne Asada?
- Best Cuts of Steak to Use
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ingredients You’ll Need
- How to Make Copycat Chipotle Steak
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Serving Suggestions
What is Carne Asada?
Carne Asada means “grilled meat” in Spanish and typically refers to marinated, grilled beef sliced thin. Common in Mexican and Southwestern cooking, this dish is full of smoky, savory flavor and is often served in tacos, burritos, or with rice and beans.
Best Cuts of Steak to Use
Here are the top steak options for juicy, flavorful results:
- Sirloin – Tender and lean with great flavor. Ideal for this recipe.
- Flank Steak – Known for its rich, beefy taste and works beautifully when sliced against the grain.
- Skirt Steak – Thin, flavorful, and cooks quickly—great for high-heat searing.
Why You’ll Love This Copycat Chipotle Steak
- Juicy & Flavorful – The marinade packs a punch with chipotle peppers, garlic, lime, and spices.
- Versatile – Serve it in bowls, tacos, burritos, salads, or alongside rice and veggies.
- Simple to Make – No complicated ingredients or steps—just blend, marinate, sear, and serve.
- Better Than Takeout – Skip the line and enjoy restaurant-quality steak at home, on your terms.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need for the marinade and spice blend:
- 1 (7 oz) can chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 8 cloves garlic
- 1 bunch fresh cilantro
- Juice of ½ lime
Spices:
- 2 tsp chipotle powder
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
How to Make Copycat Chipotle Steak
- Make the Marinade:
In a blender or food processor, combine chipotle peppers, red wine vinegar, honey, olive oil, lime juice, garlic, cilantro, and spices. Blend until smooth. - Marinate the Steak:
Place your steak of choice in a large bowl or zip-top bag. Pour the marinade over the steak, saving ¼ cup for later. Marinate in the fridge for at least 1 hour (or overnight for max flavor). - Sear the Steak:
Heat a large, oiled skillet over high heat. Remove steak from the marinade and shake off excess. Sear for 3–4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer for desired doneness. - Rest & Slice:
Let the steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain, then cut into cubes. - Finish in the Skillet:
Add the cubed steak back to the skillet with 1 tablespoon of the reserved marinade. Sauté on high heat for 20–30 seconds to coat and sizzle. - Serve:
Serve hot with rice, beans, grilled veggies, in tacos, or burritos with your favorite toppings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of steak works best?
Sirloin, flank, or skirt steak all work well. Just slice thinly against the grain for the most tender bites.
What are chipotle peppers in adobo sauce?
They’re smoked and dried jalapeños packed in a tangy, spicy, and slightly sweet sauce—essential for that signature Chipotle flavor.
How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently to keep it juicy.
How should I serve this steak?
Try it in burritos, bowls, tacos, salads, or alongside rice, beans, and grilled corn.
How long should I cook the steak?
Cook 3–4 minutes per side for medium-rare. Add time if you prefer it more well-done. Always rest before slicing.
Make It Your Way
This steak is delicious on its own, but you can easily turn it into a full meal with these sides and toppings:
- Copycat Cilantro Lime Rice
- Homemade Pico de Gallo or Guacamole
- Grilled Veggies or Roasted Corn
- Tortillas or Burrito Bowls