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Copycat Chipotle steak sliced and cubed, served on a plate with cilantro lime rice, black beans, and fresh pico de gallo for an easy weeknight dinner

Copycat Chipotle Steak

Restaurant-quality copycat Chipotle steak with bold chipotle adobo marinade, ready in 30 minutes with simple ingredients for easy weeknight dinners.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Mexican
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

  • 1 can (7 oz) Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
  • 0.25 cup Extra virgin olive oil Quality brand recommended
  • 0.25 cup Red wine vinegar
  • 0.25 cup Honey
  • 8 cloves Garlic
  • 1 bunch Fresh cilantro
  • 0.5 Lime, juiced
  • 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 Ensures proper seasoning throughout
  • 0.5 tsp Black pepper
  • 1.5 to 2 lbs Sirloin steak Flank or skirt steak work great too
  • 1 tbsp Oil for skillet Avocado oil recommended for high heat

Equipment

  • Blender or food processor
  • Large bowl
  • Large Skillet (12 inches or wider)
  • Cutting board
  • Meat thermometer (optional)

Method
 

  1. Combine chipotle peppers, red wine vinegar, honey, olive oil, lime juice, cilantro, and garlic cloves in a blender or food processor. Add cumin, chili powder, chipotle powder, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Blend until completely smooth, about 1 to 2 minutes. The marinade should be vibrant red-orange and silky.
  2. Place steak in a large bowl and pour marinade over it, making sure all sides are coated. Reserve 1/4 cup of marinade in a separate container before adding the steak. Let meat marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature, or up to overnight in the refrigerator for deeper flavors.
  3. Remove steak from marinade and gently shake off excess liquid. Heat a large skillet (12 inches or wider) with oil over high heat until smoking slightly. Carefully place steak in hot skillet and sear for 3 to 4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or 6 to 7 minutes per side for well-done. You'll hear a satisfying sizzle.
  4. Remove steak from skillet and let it rest on a cutting board for 2 to 3 minutes. Slice thinly against the grain, then cut into bite-sized cubes.
  5. Return cubed steak to the same skillet over high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of reserved marinade and sauté for 20 to 30 seconds, tossing constantly. This final step coats each piece with signature chipotle flavor and creates caramelization.
  6. Transfer to a serving plate and serve immediately with your favorite accompaniments such as cilantro lime rice, black beans, pico de gallo, and guacamole.

Notes

For meal prep: Store cooked steak in airtight container for 3 to 4 days. Freeze up to 2 to 3 months. Use leftovers in breakfast tacos, salads, or grain bowls. Always slice against the grain for maximum tenderness. Always marinate at room temperature for 15 minutes minimum before cooking. For longer marinates, refrigerate and bring to room temperature 20 minutes before cooking for even cooking.