If you have ever craved that smoky, spicy, and tender steak from your favorite fast-casual spot, then you’re in for a treat with this Copycat Chipotle Steak Recipe. It’s packed with bold flavors from smoky chipotles in adobo sauce and a blend of classic spices, which come together to create a marinade that seeps deep into the meat. Whether you’re making tacos, bowls, or just savoring steak on its own, this recipe nails that perfect combination of heat, savory goodness, and charred richness you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to capturing the authentic taste and texture of this Copycat Chipotle Steak Recipe. Each item plays an essential role, whether it’s the smoky depth from chipotles or the flavorful punch from cumin and garlic.
- 7 oz can chipotles in adobo sauce: This provides the signature smoky heat and rich flavor base for the marinade.
- 1 teaspoon cumin: Adds warmth and earthiness to balance the spiciness.
- 1 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper: Brings a fresh, pungent bite for extra layering of flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Offers an herbaceous note to brighten the marinade.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the savory profile without overpowering.
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic: Garlic lends its unmistakable sharpness and depth.
- 1 teaspoon Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning and helping flavors meld.
- ½ cup water: Helps blend the marinade into a smooth paste and ensures even coating.
- 2 ½ pounds skirt steak (or other steak cut of your choice): Skirt steak is ideal for grilling and absorbing marinade, but feel free to use flank or ribeye as you prefer.
How to Make Copycat Chipotle Steak Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the marinade
Start by combining every ingredient except the steak in a food processor or blender. Pulse it several times until you get a thick, flavorful marinade paste. This step is where all the complex flavors come alive, creating the perfect coating for your steak.
Step 2: Marinate the steak
Place the entire steak or steaks in a large gallon-size plastic bag along with the marinade. Seal the bag tightly and massage it gently so every inch of the meat is coated. Then refrigerate for at least one hour, allowing the flavors to penetrate deeply, though marinating for up to 24 hours will maximize taste and tenderness.
Step 3: Grill to perfection
Heat your grill on high for at least 15 minutes to develop that coveted char and smoky aroma. If you like, lightly brush the grill grates with olive oil to prevent sticking. Remove the steak from the marinade and discard the leftover liquid. Place the steak onto the hot grill, cooking each side for 5 to 8 minutes depending upon thickness and your preferred level of doneness. Aim for a crispy exterior with a juicy inside, carefully adjusting the heat to avoid burning.
Step 4: Rest the steak
Once grilled, let the steak rest on a cutting board for about five minutes. This step is crucial — it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a tender and juicy bite every time.
Step 5: Chop and serve
Finally, slice the steak into bite-sized pieces ideal for tacos, burrito bowls, or as a main protein with rice and beans. This is where your Copycat Chipotle Steak Recipe truly shines, offering versatility and bold flavor with every forkful.
How to Serve Copycat Chipotle Steak Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your meal, consider topping the steak with fresh garnishes like chopped cilantro, diced white onions, or a squeeze of fresh lime juice. These simple touches add brightness and a fresh contrast that perfectly complements the spicy, smoky meat.
Side Dishes
This steak pairs beautifully with classic Mexican-inspired sides such as fluffy cilantro-lime rice, warm corn tortillas, or black beans. Roasted vegetables or a crisp mixed greens salad also make a wonderful balance to the intense flavors of the steak.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to mix things up, try serving the steak chopped over a hearty salad, layered inside quesadillas, or alongside creamy guacamole and fresh salsa for a delicious appetizer platter. Your Copycat Chipotle Steak Recipe is versatile enough to bring excitement to any dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover steak can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Keeping it chilled properly will preserve the smoky, spicy flavors while allowing you to enjoy it again without losing its delicious texture.
Freezing
If you want to freeze leftovers, wrap the cooked steak tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to three months without significantly sacrificing flavor or tenderness.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the steak in a skillet over low heat or use a microwave with short bursts to avoid overcooking. Adding a splash of water or broth helps maintain moisture while reheating, ensuring your Copycat Chipotle Steak Recipe stays juicy and flavorful.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of steak?
Absolutely! While skirt steak is ideal for its texture and marinade absorption, flank steak, sirloin, or even ribeye can be excellent alternatives depending on your preference.
How spicy is this Copycat Chipotle Steak Recipe?
The chipotles in adobo sauce bring a moderate smoky heat, but you can control the spice level by adjusting the amount of chipotles or using fewer seeds if you want a milder flavor.
Can I make this recipe without a grill?
Yes! You can cook the steak on a stovetop grill pan or under a broiler if you don’t have access to a grill. Just watch carefully to get that delicious char without burning.
How long should I marinate the steak?
For best results, marinate for at least one hour, but letting it rest up to 24 hours in the fridge will develop deeper, more intense flavors.
What should I serve with this steak?
This steak pairs wonderfully with Mexican-inspired sides like rice, beans, tortillas, or even fresh salads. Don’t forget a squeeze of lime and some diced onions and cilantro for a classic finish.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Copycat Chipotle Steak Recipe enough for anyone who loves bold, smoky flavors in their cooking. It’s straightforward, requires just a handful of ingredients, and yields steak that’s perfectly tender, juicy, and packed with amazing flavor. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to recreate that beloved restaurant taste right at home.
Print
Copycat Chipotle Steak Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes plus marinating time
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Southwestern Mexican
Description
This Copycat Chipotle Steak recipe delivers tender, flavorful grilled steak infused with a smoky, spicy chipotle marinade. Perfect for tacos, burritos, or as a main dish, this recipe uses a blend of chipotles in adobo sauce and aromatic spices for an authentic Southwest taste. Marinated for maximum flavor and grilled to perfection, this steak is juicy with a slight char on the outside.
Ingredients
Marinade Ingredients
- 7 oz can chipotles in adobo sauce
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon coarsely ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ cup water
Main Ingredient
- 2 ½ pounds skirt steak (or other steak cut of your choice)
Instructions
- Make the marinade. Combine all ingredients except for the steak in the bowl of a food processor or blender. Pulse several times until a thick marinade paste forms.
- Marinate the steak. Place the whole steak(s) and marinade into a gallon size plastic bag, seal, and massage the bag so the marinade completely coats the steak. Refrigerate for a minimum of 1 hour and up to 24 hours to allow flavors to penetrate.
- Preheat the grill. After marinating, preheat your grill on high heat for 15 minutes. Optionally, brush the grill grates lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Grill the steak. Remove the steak from the marinade and discard the bag and leftover marinade. Place the steak on the grill and cook for 5-8 minutes per side, depending on thickness and desired doneness. Aim for a slight char on the outside without burning. Adjust grill heat as needed to avoid flare-ups.
- Rest the steak. Remove steak from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum tenderness.
- Slice and serve. Chop the rested steak into pieces and serve with tacos, rice, or your favorite sides.
Notes
- Marinate steak for at least 1 hour but no longer than 24 hours to balance flavor and texture.
- If you prefer a less spicy marinade, reduce the amount of chipotles in adobo or rinse them slightly before blending.
- Olive oil on the grill grates helps prevent sticking but is optional.
- Adjust grilling times based on the thickness of your steak cut for optimal results.
- Allowing the steak to rest after grilling is essential for juicy, tender meat.
