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Chipotle Steak Recipe

Irresistible Chipotle Steak

This Irresistible Chipotle Steak is packed with smoky, spicy flavors thanks to a bold chipotle marinade. The steak is marinated to perfection, grilled (or pan-seared) for a juicy bite, and served with your favorite sides. Perfect for BBQ nights, tacos, or a hearty protein-packed meal!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Course main dish
Cuisine Mexican, Tex-Mex
Servings 4

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Ziplock bag or shallow dish (for marinating)
  • Grill or cast-iron skillet
  • Tongs
  • Meat thermometer
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife

Ingredients
  

  • For the Marinade:
  • 2 tbsp chipotle peppers in adobo sauce chopped
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp honey optional, for a hint of sweetness
  • For the Steak:
  • 1.5 lbs steak ribeye, flank, skirt, or sirloin
  • 1 tbsp olive oil for cooking
  • For Garnish & Serving Optional:
  • Fresh cilantro chopped
  • Lime wedges
  • Sliced red onions
  • Avocado slices

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Marinade
  • In a mixing bowl, whisk together chipotle peppers, olive oil, lime juice, vinegar, garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, pepper, and honey until well combined.
  • Marinate the Steak
  • Place the steak in a ziplock bag or shallow dish.
  • Pour the marinade over the steak, ensuring it’s fully coated.
  • Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour (or overnight for deeper flavor).
  • Preheat the Grill or Skillet
  • Heat a grill or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Add 1 tbsp olive oil if using a skillet.
  • Cook the Steak
  • Remove the steak from the marinade and let excess marinade drip off.
  • Grill or pan-sear for 4-5 minutes per side (for medium-rare, adjust to preference).
  • Use a meat thermometer:
  • Rare: 120-125°F
  • Medium-Rare: 130-135°F
  • Medium: 140-145°F
  • Well-Done: 160°F+
  • Rest & Slice
  • Transfer the steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.
  • Slice against the grain for tenderness.
  • Serve & Enjoy
  • Garnish with chopped cilantro and lime wedges.
  • Serve with grilled vegetables, tortillas, rice, or a fresh salad.
  • Details
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: ~1 hour 20 minutes (including marinating)
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Grilling / Pan-Searing
  • Cuisine: Mexican, Tex-Mex
  • Diet: Gluten-Free, Low-Carb
  • Keywords
  • Chipotle steak, spicy steak, grilled steak, Mexican steak, Tex-Mex steak, marinated steak, juicy steak, BBQ steak, easy steak recipe, smoky steak
  • Nutrition (Per Serving, Estimated)
  • Serving Size: 6 oz steak
  • Calories: ~350 kcal
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 650mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 4g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

Notes

For a Smokier Flavor: Add ½ tsp liquid smoke to the marinade.
For Extra Heat: Add ½ tsp cayenne pepper or an extra chipotle pepper.
Alternative Cooking Methods:
Oven: Bake at 400°F for 10-15 minutes, then broil for 2 minutes.
Air Fryer: Cook at 400°F for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway.
Best Steaks to Use:
Flank or Skirt Steak – Perfect for slicing and tacos.
Ribeye or Sirloin – Great for a juicy, tender bite.
Leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out.
Keyword Chipotle steak, spicy steak, grilled steak, Mexican steak, Tex-Mex steak, marinated steak, juicy steak, BBQ steak, easy steak recipe, smoky steak