Chipotle Steak Recipe Copycat

Craving that bold, smoky, and perfectly seasoned steak from Chipotle? Well, get ready to satisfy those taste buds because this Chipotle Steak Recipe Copycat is here to bring the same mouthwatering flavors right to your kitchen. Picture juicy, tender strips of steak marinated in a rich, flavorful blend of spices, seared to perfection, and topped off with that irresistible smoky finish. You can customize it just the way you like, and trust me, once you make this at home, you’ll never look at takeout the same way again. So, grab your apron and let’s get cooking—because this recipe is about to be your new favorite dinner!

Why You’ll Love Chipotle Steak Recipe Copycat

This recipe is perfect for when you’re craving the bold flavors of Chipotle, but want to skip the line (and the price tag). Here’s why it’s a winner:

• Bold and Flavorful: The steak is marinated in a mouthwatering blend of spices and seasonings that pack a punch of flavor—just like your favorite Chipotle dish.
• Customizable: Whether you’re serving it in tacos, burritos, or a salad, you can tweak it to your heart’s content. Add some extra heat with jalapeños, or cool it down with a dollop of sour cream.
• Quick and Easy: While marinating the steak adds a bit of time, the actual cooking part is quick! It’s a perfect meal for busy weeknights or a casual weekend dinner.
• Restaurant-Quality at Home: This recipe brings that authentic, Chipotle-inspired taste straight to your own kitchen. No need for takeout when you can make it yourself!
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week. It’s just as delicious reheated and is the star of any lunch or dinner.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to recreate that Chipotle steak goodness:

• Flank Steak or Skirt Steak: These cuts are ideal for grilling or searing, and they’re tender and flavorful when cooked properly.
• Olive Oil: For marinating the steak and helping all those spices cling to the meat.
• Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed for that zesty, tangy kick that brightens up the flavor.
• Garlic: For a savory depth of flavor that complements the steak perfectly.
• Cumin: The earthy, slightly smoky spice that gives this steak its signature flavor.
• Chili Powder: Adds heat and smokiness, taking the flavor to the next level.
• Paprika: Another layer of smokiness that enhances the steak’s grilled taste.
• Oregano: For a bit of herbaceous freshness that balances the richness of the steak.
• Coriander: Adds a light citrusy note to round out the spices.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the steak’s natural flavor.
• Fresh Cilantro: For garnish, adding a burst of color and fresh flavor (optional but highly recommended).
• Green Onion: A bit of fresh, mild onion flavor to garnish (optional).

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s get cooking! Here’s how to make this delicious Chipotle Steak Copycat recipe:

Marinate the Steak:

In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, garlic, cumin, chili powder, paprika, oregano, coriander, salt, and pepper. Once the marinade is well combined, coat the steak with the mixture, making sure every inch is covered. For the best flavor, cover and let the steak marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, but if you have the time, let it sit for up to 2 hours for even more depth of flavor.

Cook the Steak:

Once your steak has marinated, heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. If you’re using a grill, preheat it to medium-high heat. Add a bit of oil to the pan (or brush the grill with oil) to prevent sticking.

Cook the steak for about 3-5 minutes per side, depending on how you like your steak cooked (3 minutes per side for medium-rare, 5 minutes for medium). You want a nice sear on the outside while keeping the inside juicy and tender. If you’re using a meat thermometer, aim for 130°F for medium-rare or 140°F for medium.

Rest the Steak:

Once your steak is cooked to perfection, remove it from the heat and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making the steak even more flavorful and tender.

Slice and Serve:

Thinly slice the steak against the grain to ensure tenderness. Serve with your favorite toppings like fresh cilantro, green onions, or a squeeze of lime. Whether you’re making tacos, burritos, or just enjoying it on its own, this steak is the star of the show!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 350
Total Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 80mg
Sodium: 300mg
Total Carbohydrates: 4g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 1g
Protein: 38g
Vitamin D: 0mcg
Calcium: 20mg
Iron: 3mg
Potassium: 400mg

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Marinating Time: 30 minutes to 2 hours
Total Time: 40 minutes to 2 hours 10 minutes

How to Serve Chipotle Steak Recipe Copycat

This steak is so versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways! Here are a few ideas to serve it up:

• Tacos: Serve the steak in soft flour or corn tortillas with your favorite toppings like salsa, guacamole, sour cream, and shredded cheese.
• Burritos: Add the steak to a large flour tortilla with rice, beans, lettuce, cheese, and a drizzle of your favorite salsa.
• Salad: Make a fresh salad with greens, corn, black beans, and your steak on top for a Chipotle-inspired dish that’s both hearty and healthy.
• Rice Bowl: Layer the steak over a bed of rice and add your favorite toppings for a satisfying and customizable meal.
• On Its Own: If you’re in the mood for simplicity, just serve the steak with a side of roasted veggies, guacamole, and a squeeze of fresh lime.

Additional Tips

• Let the Steak Rest: Always let your steak rest for a few minutes after cooking to lock in all those juices for maximum flavor.
• Grill it Up: If you have access to a grill, definitely consider grilling the steak for that smoky, charred flavor that mimics Chipotle’s authentic taste.
• Marinate Longer for More Flavor: The longer you marinate the steak, the more flavorful it will be. Aim for at least 30 minutes, but if you can go for 2 hours, you won’t be disappointed.
• Customize the Spice Level: If you love heat, feel free to add a bit of cayenne pepper or chipotle chili powder to the marinade for an extra kick.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use a different cut of steak?
A1: Yes! While flank steak or skirt steak is ideal, you can also use sirloin or ribeye. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.

Q2: How can I make this dish spicier?
A2: You can add more chili powder, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or even some diced jalapeños to the marinade for extra heat.

Q3: Can I cook the steak in the oven?
A3: Yes! If you prefer oven-cooked steak, preheat your oven to 400°F and roast the steak on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Q4: Can I make this steak ahead of time?
A4: Absolutely! You can marinate the steak up to 24 hours in advance and then cook it when you’re ready. It also stores well in the fridge for a couple of days after cooking.

Q5: Can I grill the steak instead of cooking it in a pan?
A5: Yes! Grilling adds a delicious smoky flavor to the steak. Just make sure your grill is preheated and cook the steak for about 3-5 minutes per side.

Q6: How can I tell if the steak is done?
A6: The best way to check for doneness is with a meat thermometer. Aim for 130°F for medium-rare and 140°F for medium.

Q7: How should I store leftover steak?
A7: Store leftover steak in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat to avoid drying it out.

Q8: Can I make this recipe with chicken instead of steak?
A8: Yes, you can! Just use chicken breast or thighs, and follow the same marinating and cooking instructions.

Q9: Can I use a store-bought marinade instead of making my own?
A9: Sure! Just look for a marinade with similar ingredients, like lime juice, garlic, cumin, and chili powder. It will still give you that great Chipotle-inspired flavor.

Q10: What side dishes go well with this steak?
A10: This steak pairs wonderfully with rice, beans, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. You could also serve it with tortilla chips and salsa for a complete meal.

Conclusion

There you have it—your very own Chipotle-inspired steak right at home! This recipe brings that same smoky, flavorful steak you crave, and it’s so easy to make. Whether you’re using it for tacos, burritos, or a salad, this copycat recipe will become a go-to in your kitchen. So fire up the grill or heat up that skillet, and enjoy this delicious steak in no time. Happy cooking, and enjoy every bite!

Print