Description
This smoky and spicy chipotle marinated steak recipe is packed with bold Mexican flavors. Featuring chipotle peppers in adobo, lime juice, and garlic, this easy marinade turns flank or skirt steak into a tender, juicy masterpiece. Perfect for tacos, bowls, or enjoying on its own!
Ingredients
For the Signature Chipotle Marinade:
- 2–3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 3 garlic cloves
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Steak:
- 1½ to 2 pounds flank steak (or skirt steak or ribeye)
Optional Garnishes & Sides:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Diced red onions
- Sliced avocado
- Sour cream
- Warm tortillas
- Mexican street corn
- Simple green salad
Instructions
-
Make the Marinade:
In a blender, combine chipotle peppers, lime juice, garlic, olive oil, cumin, paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth. -
Marinate the Steak:
Place steak in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over it, ensuring even coating. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight, flipping once halfway. -
Prep the Steak for Cooking:
Remove the steak from the marinade. Let excess marinade drip off and pat dry with paper towels. Allow steak to come to room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking. -
Cook the Steak (Grill Method):
Preheat grill to high heat. Grill steak for 4–5 minutes per side for medium-rare or to your desired doneness. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. -
Alternate Cooking Method (Stovetop + Oven):
Sear steak in a hot skillet for 2–3 minutes per side. Then transfer to a preheated 400°F (200°C) oven and cook until your preferred doneness is reached. -
Rest and Slice:
Let steak rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Slice thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness. -
Serve and Enjoy:
Serve with your favorite toppings, sides, or use in tacos, burrito bowls, or salads.
Notes
-
Adjust spice level by adding more or fewer chipotle peppers.
-
Adding chopped fresh cilantro or oregano to the marinade boosts flavor.
-
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
-
Use leftovers in burrito bowls, wraps, or scrambled with eggs.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 oz steak
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: chipotle steak, chipotle marinade, grilled steak, Mexican steak, spicy steak