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Copycat Chipotle steak cubes caramelizing in a cast iron skillet with smoky chipotle adobo marinade

Copycat Chipotle Steak

A juicy, smoky homemade steak marinated in a bold chipotle adobo sauce with warm spices. Ready in 30 minutes and perfect for tacos, bowls, or dinner.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Mexican-Inspired
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

  • 1 can (7 oz) chipotle peppers in adobo sauce whole can
  • 0.25 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 0.25 cup red wine vinegar
  • 0.25 cup honey
  • 8 cloves garlic peeled
  • 1 bunch fresh cilantro
  • 0.5 lime juiced
  • 2 tsp chipotle powder
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 2 tsp salt
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • 1.5-2 lbs sirloin steak or flank or skirt steak
  • 1 tbsp high-heat oil avocado or vegetable oil for the skillet

Equipment

  • Blender or food processor
  • Large cast iron skillet or heavy pan
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Large mixing bowl or zip-lock bag

Method
 

  1. Add chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, olive oil, red wine vinegar, honey, lime juice, fresh cilantro, and garlic to a blender. Add all spices. Blend until completely smooth into a deep red marinade.
  2. Place steak in a large bowl or zip-lock bag. Pour marinade over steak and scoop out 1/4 cup into a small bowl to reserve for later. Marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature, or refrigerate overnight for deepest flavor.
  3. Remove steak from marinade and shake off excess. Heat a large cast iron skillet with a drizzle of high-heat oil over high heat until oil just shimmers. Sear steak without moving it for 3 to 4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or 5 to 6 minutes per side for medium to well-done. A deep brown crust should form.
  4. Transfer steak to a cutting board and rest for 5 full minutes to retain juices. Slice thinly against the grain, then cut into small cubes.
  5. Return cubed steak to the same hot skillet. Add 1 tablespoon of the reserved marinade and toss over high heat for 20 to 30 seconds until coated and slightly caramelized.
  6. Serve immediately with cilantro lime rice, black beans, pico de gallo, guacamole, or inside warm tortillas for tacos or burritos.

Notes

Always slice against the grain for maximum tenderness. The longer the steak marinates, the deeper the flavor. Use reserved marinade in the final saute to replicate the authentic Chipotle caramelized finish. Stores in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Ideal for meal prep.