Are you a fan of Chipotle’s famous steak bowls? Craving that juicy, flavorful steak but don’t feel like making a trip to the restaurant? You’re in luck! This easy Copycat Chipotle Steak recipe lets you recreate the bold, smoky flavors of Chipotle’s carne asada right in your own kitchen.
With simple ingredients and a no-fuss marinade, you’ll have a mouthwatering steak that tastes just like (if not better than) the real thing. Plus, making it at home saves you money and gives you the satisfaction of mastering one of your favorite restaurant dishes.
🌮 What is Carne Asada?
Carne asada translates to “grilled meat” in Spanish. Traditionally made with marinated flank or skirt steak, it’s a staple in Mexican and Southwestern cuisine. The meat is grilled until perfectly charred, then thinly sliced and often used in tacos, burritos, bowls, or served with rice and beans.
🥩 What Kind of Steak Should I Use?
This recipe works beautifully with several cuts of beef. Here are the best options:
- Sirloin Steak – Tender, juicy, and full of flavor.
- Flank Steak – Known for its rich beefy taste; best when sliced thin.
- Skirt Steak – A lean cut that cooks quickly and soaks up marinades like a champ.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Copycat Chipotle Steak
- Unbelievably Juicy: Thanks to a flavorful marinade and quick sear, this steak is tender and succulent.
- Versatile: Serve it in burritos, tacos, bowls, salads, or simply alongside rice and beans.
- Easy to Make: With pantry-friendly ingredients and a simple cooking method, this recipe is perfect for weeknights or impressing guests.
🔪 Ingredients You’ll Need
Full recipe card with quantities below.
- Steak (sirloin, flank, or skirt)
- Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
- Red wine vinegar
- Honey
- Olive oil
- Lime juice
- Fresh cilantro
- Garlic cloves
- Spices: chipotle powder, chili powder, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, pepper
📋 How to Make Chipotle Steak at Home
- Make the Marinade:
In a blender or food processor, blend together chipotle peppers, red wine vinegar, honey, olive oil, lime juice, cilantro, garlic, and all spices until smooth. - Marinate the Steak:
Place the steak in a bowl or zip-top bag, pour the marinade over it (reserve 1/4 cup for later), and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours. - Sear the Steak:
Heat a large skillet over high heat with a bit of oil. Shake off excess marinade and sear the steak for 3–4 minutes per side for medium-rare (or longer if preferred). - Rest, Slice, and Cube:
Let the steak rest a few minutes, then slice thinly against the grain and cut into small cubes. - Finish with Flavor:
Toss the cubed steak back in the skillet with 1 tablespoon of the reserved marinade. Sauté for 20–30 seconds to finish. - Serve & Enjoy:
Use in bowls, tacos, burritos, or enjoy with rice, beans, and your favorite toppings!
❓ FAQs
What kind of steak is best?
Sirloin, flank, or skirt steak all work well. Just be sure to slice against the grain for tenderness.
What are chipotle peppers in adobo?
They’re smoked jalapeños packed in a tangy, slightly sweet tomato-based sauce. Super flavorful and a key ingredient in this recipe.
How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for 3–4 days, or freeze tightly wrapped for up to 3 months.
What goes well with this steak?
Serve it with cilantro lime rice, black beans, grilled veggies, or tuck it into tacos and burritos with guacamole, sour cream, and salsa.
How long should I cook the steak?
3–4 minutes per side for medium-rare. For well-done, cook up to 6–7 minutes per side.
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⭐ Copycat Chipotle Steak Recipe
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 1 (7 oz) can chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 8 garlic cloves
- 1 bunch fresh 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
- Blend chipotle peppers, oil, vinegar, honey, lime juice, cilantro, garlic, and all spices until smooth.
- Marinate steak with mixture, reserving 1/4 cup for later. Chill for 30 minutes to 24 hours.
- Heat a skillet with oil and sear steak for 3–4 minutes per side.
- Let rest, slice thin against the grain, and cube.
- Sauté cubed steak with 1 tbsp reserved marinade for 20–30 seconds.
- Serve with your favorite sides or use in tacos, burritos, or bowls!
If you try this recipe, don’t forget to leave a review or comment! Your feedback helps me grow and create more recipes you’ll love. Thanks for cooking with me!