Are you a fan of Chipotle’s famous steak bowls? Craving that juicy, smoky steak but don’t feel like heading out to the restaurant? This Copycat Chipotle Steak recipe lets you recreate that bold, mouthwatering flavor right at home—with simple ingredients and an easy, foolproof method.
This homemade version is just as tender and flavorful as the original (some would say even better!), and it’s perfect for burrito bowls, tacos, salads, or meal prep. Best of all, making it at home saves money while giving you full control over the ingredients and spice level.
Once you try this recipe, it’s guaranteed to become a regular in your kitchen.
What Is Carne Asada?
Carne asada is a Spanish term meaning “grilled meat.” It typically refers to marinated and grilled beef—most often flank or skirt steak—commonly used in Mexican and Southwestern cuisine.
The steak is known for its bold seasoning, smoky flavor, and tender texture. It’s usually sliced thin and served in tacos, burritos, bowls, or alongside rice and beans.
This copycat Chipotle steak is inspired by classic carne asada flavors with a smoky chipotle twist.
What Kind of Steak Can I Use?
You have several great options for this recipe:
- Sirloin steak – Tender, juicy, and ideal for this recipe
- Flank steak – Lean with a rich, beefy flavor
- Skirt steak – Thin, flavorful, and cooks quickly
No matter which cut you choose, be sure to slice the steak thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness.
Why Everyone Loves This Copycat Chipotle Steak Recipe
Super Juicy
Using sirloin steak and a bold marinade makes this steak incredibly juicy—often even better than the restaurant version.
Extremely Versatile
Serve it in burritos, tacos, rice bowls, salads, or as a main dish with beans and veggies. It works for meal prep, parties, or quick weeknight dinners.
Easy to Make
With simple pantry ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe comes together quickly and doesn’t require special equipment.
Ingredients You’ll Need
(Full recipe below)
- Steak (sirloin, flank, or skirt)
- Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Red wine vinegar
- Honey
- Lime juice
- Garlic
- Cilantro
- Spices (chipotle powder, cumin, chili powder, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper)
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of steak works best?
Sirloin, flank, or skirt steak all work well. Just make sure to slice thinly against the grain.
What are chipotle peppers in adobo sauce?
They are smoked, dried jalapeños packed in a tangy, slightly sweet adobo sauce made with vinegar and spices. They give this steak its signature smoky heat.
How do I store leftovers?
Store cooked steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days.
To freeze, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2–3 months.
What does this steak pair well with?
Rice, beans, roasted vegetables, salads, tacos, burritos, guacamole, sour cream, and salsa all pair beautifully.
How long should I cook the steak?
- Medium-rare: 3–4 minutes per side on high heat
- Well-done: 6–7 minutes per side
Always let the steak rest before slicing to keep it juicy.
Copycat Chipotle Steak
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5 from 6 votes)
Ingredients
- 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 cilantro
- Juice of 1/2 lime
Spices
- 2 tsp chipotle powder
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- In a blender or food processor, combine chipotle peppers, red wine vinegar, honey, olive oil, lime juice, cilantro, garlic, cumin, chili powder, and salt. Blend until smooth.
- Place the steak in a large bowl and pour the marinade over it. Reserve 1/4 cup of the marinade for later.
- Remove the steak from the marinade, shaking off excess.
- Heat a large skillet over high heat with oil. Sear the steak for 3–4 minutes per side.
- Remove steak and let it rest briefly, then slice thinly against the grain and cube.
- Add the cubed steak back to the skillet with 1 tablespoon of reserved marinade and sauté for 20–30 seconds on high heat.
- Serve with rice, beans, tacos, burritos, or your favorite toppings.