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Chipotle Steak Recipe

Chipotle Steak Recipe

This Chipotle Steak Recipe delivers a bold and smoky flavor with a perfect balance of heat and sweetness. Featuring a simple yet flavorful chipotle marinade that tenderizes and infuses the steak with juicy, tender results, this recipe is quick to prepare and versatile enough for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to special gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Steak

  • 1.5 to 2 pounds flank or skirt steak

Marinade

  • 23 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a blender or food processor, combine chipotle peppers, minced garlic, lime juice, olive oil, cumin, honey, salt, and pepper. Puree until smooth, capturing the smoky, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors essential to the dish.
  2. Marinate the Steak: Place the steak in a shallow dish or resealable bag. Pour the marinade over the steak, ensuring all surfaces are evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, ideally 4 hours, to allow flavors to fully penetrate and tenderize the meat.
  3. Preheat Your Grill or Pan: Heat a grill or heavy skillet over medium-high heat until very hot. A hot cooking surface helps create a nice sear, locking in juices and producing beautiful char marks.
  4. Cook the Steak: Remove the steak from the marinade and shake off excess liquid. Grill or sear each side for about 4-5 minutes for medium-rare, adjusting time based on steak thickness and desired doneness. Avoid overcooking to keep steak tender.
  5. Rest and Slice: Transfer the cooked steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 5-7 minutes, allowing juices to redistribute. Slice thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness.

Notes

  • Trim excess fat from steak for even cooking and to prevent grill flare-ups.
  • Use a meat thermometer aiming for 130°F for medium-rare doneness.
  • Marinate longer—up to overnight—for deeper flavor but no longer than 24 hours to maintain texture.
  • Bring steak to room temperature before cooking to ensure even cooking.
  • Do not overcrowd the grill or pan; give each piece enough space to sear properly.

Nutrition

Keywords: chipotle steak, smoky steak, grilled steak, spicy steak, flank steak recipe, skirt steak recipe, quick steak marinade