If you’re craving bold flavors paired with tender, juicy meat, this Chipotle-Style Grilled Flank Steak Recipe is going to become your new favorite go-to. The magic lies in the smoky and spicy marinade made from chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, complemented perfectly by fresh lime and aromatic spices. Each bite brings a smoky punch balanced by a hint of citrus brightness, making it an irresistible dish that’s simple enough for weeknight dinners but impressive enough for weekend gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering fresh, vibrant ingredients for this dish is part of the fun, and each one plays a crucial role in layering flavors that make this steak unforgettable. These straightforward staples come together to create a marinade that infuses the flank steak with smoky, zesty, and slightly spicy notes.
- Flank steak (1 pound): A lean cut perfect for marinating and grilling, known for great texture when sliced thinly.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Helps the marinade coat the meat evenly and keeps it juicy during grilling.
- Lime juice (1 tablespoon): Adds bright acidity that tenderizes the steak and balances smoky spice.
- Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (1 tablespoon, chopped): The star ingredient, delivering that signature smoky heat unique to this recipe.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Infuses savory depth to the marinade without overpowering the other flavors.
- Ground cumin (1 teaspoon): Adds a warm, earthy undertone that complements the chipotle’s boldness.
- Smoked paprika (1 teaspoon): Enhances the smoky profile and deepens the color of the marinade.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Essential for seasoning and bringing out the richness of the beef.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds subtle heat and complexity to the flavor mix.
- Chili powder (1/4 teaspoon): Pairs with chipotle for an extra layer of mild spiciness.
- Fresh cilantro (1 tablespoon, chopped): Sprinkled at the end for fresh herbal brightness that cuts through the smoky richness.
How to Make Chipotle-Style Grilled Flank Steak Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Grill or Grill Pan
Start by heating your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. This preheating process ensures that when the steak hits the surface, it sears beautifully and locks in all those flavorful juices.
Step 2: Prepare the Steak
Pat the flank steak dry using paper towels to remove any excess moisture—this helps achieve a better sear. Trim off any excess fat to avoid flare-ups on the grill and to keep the texture lean but juicy.
Step 3: Whisk Together the Marinade
In a small bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and chili powder. Whisk them completely until the mixture becomes a smooth, vibrant marinade that’ll soak right into the steak.
Step 4: Marinate the Steak
Place the flank steak in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over it. Make sure the steak is evenly coated by turning it so every surface absorbs those smoky, tangy flavors. Cover and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to allow the marinade to work its magic.
Step 5: Bring the Steak to Room Temperature
Before grilling, take the steak out of the fridge and let it rest at room temperature for about 15 to 20 minutes. This step helps it cook more evenly, giving you that perfect medium-rare texture.
Step 6: Grill the Steak
Place the marinated steak on your hot grill. Cook for 4 to 6 minutes on each side, depending on how you like it cooked. Remember not to press down with your tongs to keep every juicy bite intact. You want a gorgeous char on the outside while maintaining that tender, flavorful interior.
Step 7: Let It Rest and Slice
Once cooked to your preference, transfer the steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes. Resting allows juices to redistribute so each slice comes out moist. Then, slice the steak thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness.
Step 8: Add the Finishing Touch
Sprinkle the freshly chopped cilantro over the sliced steak just before serving for a fresh burst of herbal flavor that pairs exceptionally well with the smoky chipotle notes.
How to Serve Chipotle-Style Grilled Flank Steak Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh cilantro is the classic choice to garnish this dish, but consider adding a wedge of lime on the side for an extra zesty squeeze. Thin slices of red onion or a sprinkle of crumbly cotija cheese can also introduce layers of fresh, tangy, and creamy contrasts that brighten the palate.
Side Dishes
This steak pairs beautifully with sides like grilled corn on the cob, a fresh avocado salad, or flavorful black beans and rice. These options not only complement the smoky, spicy flavors but also bring balancing textures and colors to your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the steak strips in warm tortillas to build vibrant tacos topped with salsa and a dollop of sour cream. Alternatively, lay the sliced steak over a bed of mixed greens for a hearty steak salad that’s both satisfying and refreshing. The versatility of this Chipotle-Style Grilled Flank Steak Recipe means it can shine in endless culinary creations.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover grilled flank steak in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Slicing the steak before storing can make it easier to use in quick meals later.
Freezing
If you want to save the steak for longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Defrost it overnight in the fridge before reheating to retain the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat gently to avoid overcooking or drying out the meat. A quick warm-up in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of beef broth or water helps keep the steak tender and flavorful.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of steak for this recipe?
While flank steak is ideal for its flavor and texture, skirt steak or hanger steak can be good alternatives. Just keep in mind that cooking times and tenderness might vary slightly.
How spicy is this Chipotle-Style Grilled Flank Steak Recipe?
It has a moderate level of heat from the chipotle peppers and chili powder, balanced by lime juice and smoky spices. You can adjust the amount of chipotle to suit your heat preference.
Is it necessary to marinate the steak for 30 minutes?
Marinating for at least 30 minutes improves the flavor and tenderness, but if you’re short on time, even 15 minutes can add a good punch of flavor. For the best results, longer marinating is recommended.
Can I cook this steak indoors if I don’t have a grill?
Absolutely! A grill pan on your stovetop works perfectly to achieve those lovely grill marks and smoky flavor. Just make sure it’s preheated properly to get a nice sear.
What should I serve with the steak for a quick weeknight meal?
Serve the sliced steak with tortillas, a quick salsa, and a simple side salad or some beans for a fast, flavorful taco night that comes together in minutes.
Final Thoughts
This Chipotle-Style Grilled Flank Steak Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate—full of smoky, zesty flavors that excite your taste buds and simple enough to make any night special. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, it promises to bring joy and a little spark of something delicious to your mealtime. Give it a try and watch how quickly it disappears from the table!
Print
Chipotle-Style Grilled Flank Steak Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 15m
- Cook Time: 0h 10m
- Total Time: 0h 55m
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
This Chipotle-Style Steak recipe features a tender and flavorful flank steak marinated in a smoky, spicy chipotle adobo sauce blend. Grilled to perfection, the steak delivers a rich smoky flavor with a hint of heat, enhanced by fresh lime juice and aromatic spices. Perfect for tacos, burritos, or served as a main dish, this recipe is a simple yet delicious way to enjoy a southwestern-inspired grilled steak.
Ingredients
Steak and Marinade
- 1 pound flank steak
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat Grill: Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat to ensure it’s hot enough for searing the steak.
- Prepare Steak: Pat the flank steak dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which will help the marinade adhere and promote better browning.
- Trim Fat: Place the steak on a cutting board and trim any excess fat from the edges for even cooking and better texture.
- Make Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and chili powder until fully combined.
- Marinate Steak: Place the steak in a shallow dish or resealable plastic bag, pour the marinade over, and coat the steak evenly. Cover or seal, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate.
- Bring to Room Temperature: Remove the steak from the refrigerator and let it sit for 15-20 minutes to reach room temperature, ensuring even cooking.
- Grill Steak: Place the steak on the preheated grill or grill pan and cook for 4-6 minutes per side for medium-rare doneness. Adjust cooking time according to preference, avoiding pressing down on the steak to retain juices.
- Rest Steak: Transfer the cooked steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 5-10 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier steak.
- Slice Steak: After resting, slice the steak thinly against the grain to maximize tenderness.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro over the sliced steak for a burst of fresh flavor. Serve immediately as a main dish or in tacos and burritos.
Notes
- Marinating the steak longer, up to 2 hours, will enhance the flavor further but avoid exceeding 4 hours to maintain texture.
- For thicker cuts of steak, adjust grill time to ensure proper doneness.
- Use a meat thermometer to check internal temperature: 130-135°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium.
- If using an outdoor grill, oil the grill grates well to prevent sticking.
- The recipe works well with other steak cuts like skirt or hanger steak.
