
Do you love the bold, smoky taste of Chipotle’s steak burrito bowl? You can make this favorite dish at home with a simple recipe. It uses a marinade with chipotle peppers, garlic, lime, and Mexican spices. This copycat dish brings all the flavors you love, but it’s cheaper.
This chipotle steak recipe is great for any occasion. It’s quick to prepare and cook, taking only 20-30 minutes. Plus, it’s affordable, costing about $15 for several servings. That’s much less than what you’d pay at Chipotle.

Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Recreate the bold, smoky flavors of Chipotle’s famous steak burrito bowl at home
- Prepare a delicious chipotle steak marinade with simple, flavorful ingredients
- Enjoy a high-quality, restaurant-style meal in just 20-30 minutes
- Save money by making this copycat chipotle steak recipe at home
- Meal prep this chipotle steak for easy, budget-friendly lunches or dinners
Why This Copycat Chipotle Steak is Better Than Restaurant Version
Making the chipotle steak at home has many benefits. It saves money and lets you control flavors and sizes. This makes it better than buying it from a restaurant.
Cost Savings and Portion Control
Having the chipotle steak at home can save you a lot of money. You can make enough for several meals for about $15. This is much cheaper than buying it at a restaurant, where it costs twice as much for one serving.
You also get to decide how much you want to eat. This lets you make the meal just right for you, whether you’re hungry or not.
Customizable Flavors and Spice Levels
One big plus of making the homemade chipotle bowl steak is you can change the flavors and spice to your liking. Restaurants might not always match your taste, but at home, you can adjust everything to your taste.
Nutrition Comparison | Chipotle Steak | Homemade Steak |
---|---|---|
Calories | 230 | 270 |
Protein | 21g | 24g |
Fat | 9g | 12g |
Carbohydrates | 3g | 2g |
The homemade chipotle steak recipe is also healthier. It has more protein and fewer carbs than the restaurant version. Even though it has a bit more calories and fat, you can still make it healthier by controlling what goes into it.
“The Olive Garden Braised Beef Bolognese copycat recipe was highlighted for being better than restaurant versions that charge twice as much.”
This is also true for the chipotle restaurant steak recipe. Making it at home lets you enjoy great flavors while saving money. You can also make it just the way you like it.

Essential Ingredients for Authentic Chipotle Steak Recipe
To get the bold, smoky taste of chipotle steak like Chipotle restaurant, you need the right ingredients. The main parts of the chipotle steak seasoning are:
- Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Red wine vinegar
- Honey
- Garlic
- Cilantro
- Lime juice
The spice mix that adds heat and flavor includes:
- Chipotle powder
- Chili powder
- Oregano
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Cumin
- Salt and pepper
Together, these ingredients make the unique chipotle steak taste. By using this list, you can make delicious chipotle steak at home.
“The key to nailing the chipotle steak flavor is in the perfect blend of spices and aromatics. Get this right, and you’ll have a restaurant-quality dish in your own kitchen.”
The Perfect Cut of Meat for Your Homemade Chipotle Steak
Choosing the right meat is key to making a great Chipotle-style steak at home. Chipotle restaurant uses different beef cuts. These cuts can handle high heat and get a tasty charred crust.
Top Sirloin vs Flank Steak Options
Top sirloin is a top pick for your chipotle steak. It’s tender, full of flavor, and can handle bold spices and high heat. Flank steak or skirt steak are also good choices. They’re cheaper but still pack a lot of Chipotle flavor.
How to Choose Quality Meat
When picking meat for your chipotle steak, look for cuts that can take high heat. Choose a piece with good marbling for juiciness and tenderness. Go for USDA Choice or Prime for the best taste and quality.
Nutritional Information | Top Sirloin Steak | Flank Steak |
---|---|---|
Calories | 462 kcal | 462 kcal |
Carbohydrates | 13g | 13g |
Protein | 31g | 31g |
Fat | 32g | 32g |
Saturated Fat | 11g | 11g |
Sodium | 2019mg | 2019mg |
By picking the right meat and focusing on quality, you’ll make a chipotle steak recipe that’s as good as the restaurant’s.
Creating the Signature Chipotle Marinade
The secret to Chipotle’s famous steak flavor is in the marinade. This mix of ingredients gives the meat a smoky, tangy, and sweet taste. At its core are chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, adding a smoky-spicy kick.
To make this marinade, blend chipotle peppers, red wine vinegar, honey, olive oil, lime juice, cilantro, garlic, and warm spices. The result is a marinade with a deep, complex flavor. This marinade turns your chipotle steak marinade into a copycat chipotle steak sensation.
For the best taste, marinate the steak for at least 30 minutes. Or, for even more flavor, marinate it for up to 12 hours. This step is crucial for getting the authentic taste of Chipotle’s signature steak at home.
“The Chipotle marinade is the secret to truly replicating the bold, craveable flavors of their iconic steak at home.”
Must-Have Spices and Seasonings Blend
Making the perfect chipotle steak at home begins with the right spice blend. Chipotle’s steak flavor comes from a mix of traditional Mexican spices. Knowing these ingredients lets you make the authentic taste at home.
Traditional Mexican Spices
The base of chipotle steak seasoning includes familiar Mexican spices. These are chipotle powder, chili powder, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, and cumin. Together, they create the bold, smoky, and slightly spicy taste of Chipotle’s steak.
- Chipotle powder: Adds a smoky, earthy heat to the blend.
- Chili powder: Provides a baseline of chili flavor and warmth.
- Oregano: Lends an herbaceous note to balance the other spices.
- Garlic powder: Enhances the savory, umami character of the steak.
- Onion powder: Contributes a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Cumin: Imparts a distinctive earthy, slightly nutty taste.
Chipotle’s Secret Spice Combinations
Chipotle’s steak seasoning also has secret ingredients. Salt and freshly ground black pepper are added to season the meat and enhance flavors. You can adjust the spice amounts to customize the heat and taste to your liking.
Mastering this spice blend lets you enjoy Chipotle’s signature steak at home. Adjust the spices to your taste and make a chipotle steak that’s just right for you.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Chipotle Steak Recipe
Want to make Chipotle’s famous steak at home? This easy recipe will help you do just that. It’s perfect for both seasoned cooks and beginners. Follow this guide to make a delicious chipotle steak every time.
Start by mixing the marinade in a food processor or blender. This marinade is key to getting that Chipotle flavor. It adds a great mix of spices and tangy notes to the chipotle steak.
- Put the steak in a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over it, making sure the meat is well-coated.
- Put the marinated homemade chipotle steak in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This lets the flavors soak into the meat.
- Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Put the marinated steak in the hot pan. Cook for 4-9 minutes on each side, until it reaches 140°F for medium-rare.
- Once cooked, take the steak out and let it rest for 10 minutes. Then, chop it into small pieces.
By following these steps, you’ll get a juicy, flavorful chipotle steak recipe just like Chipotle’s. Serve it with fresh side dishes for a complete meal.
Metric | Value |
---|---|
Yield | 2 servings |
Prep Time | 5 mins |
Total Time | 25 mins |
Servings | 12 |
Grill Temperature | Medium-High (450°F) |
Cooking Time | 4-9 minutes per side |
Internal Temperature for Doneness | Medium-Rare: 130°F Medium: 140°F Medium-Well: 145°F |

“The key to achieving the signature Chipotle taste lies in this flavorful marinade, which infuses the chipotle steak with a delightful balance of spices and tangy notes.”
Mastering the Cooking Technique
Preparing the perfect chipotle steak recipe requires more than just a good marinade. You also need to master searing and timing. This is key to achieving that signature Chipotle restaurant-style steak.
Ideal Temperature and Timing
Cook the marinated steak in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Aim for an internal temperature of 140°F for a medium-rare finish. This is the preferred doneness at Chipotle.
The cooking time depends on the steak’s thickness. Generally, sear the steak for 3-4 minutes per side. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature and adjust the time as needed.
Achieving the Perfect Char
To get that signature chipotle restaurant steak char, make sure your cast-iron skillet is blazing hot. Let it preheat for at least 5 minutes over medium-high heat before adding the steak. This helps create a nice, even sear on the outside while keeping the inside tender and juicy.
Once the steak is in the pan, don’t move it around too much. Let it sear undisturbed for the full 3-4 minutes per side. When it’s time to flip, use tongs to avoid losing juices.
After cooking, let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat. Every bite will be bursting with flavor.
Serving Suggestions and Meal Combinations
Make your chipotle bowl w steak even better by trying different ways to serve it. This homemade chipotle bowl steak recipe is great for many meals. It lets you enjoy its bold flavors in new ways.
For a classic Chipotle-style meal, put the steak in a burrito bowl. Add fluffy white rice, black beans, shredded cheese, fresh salsa, creamy guacamole, and sour cream. The smoky, spicy steak goes well with these Tex-Mex favorites.
Want something lighter? Turn your chipotle bowl w steak into a taco salad. Start with crisp romaine lettuce. Then, add the steak, diced tomatoes, sliced avocado, pickled red onions, and lime crema.
Looking for a meal you can hold? Put the homemade chipotle bowl steak in warm tortillas or lettuce wraps. The tender meat makes great tacos or lettuce cups. Add fresh toppings like pico de gallo, shredded cheese, and cilantro.
No matter how you serve it, this chipotle bowl w steak recipe is a hit. It’s perfect for a quick dinner or a big Mexican feast. Make it ahead and find many tasty ways to enjoy it all week.
Storage Tips and Meal Prep Ideas
Enjoying the chipotle steak recipe doesn’t have to stop after one meal. With the right storage and meal prep, you can keep your homemade chipotle bowl steak fresh for days. This way, you can enjoy Chipotle-style meals all week long.
Proper Storage Methods
To keep your chipotle steak fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. This keeps the steak’s texture and flavor intact. You can safely store it for 3-5 days.
For longer storage, freeze the chipotle steak. Put it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Store it in the freezer for 1-2 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating Instructions
Reheat your chipotle steak in a skillet on the stovetop. This method keeps the steak moist and flavorful. Heat it over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side.
You can also reheat it in the oven. Preheat to 350°F. Place the steak on a baking sheet and heat for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway. This ensures it’s hot and ready to eat.
This chipotle steak recipe is great for meal prep. Prepare the steak ahead of time. Then, assemble your bowls or burritos with rice, beans, and toppings when you’re ready.
By using these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your homemade chipotle bowl steak for days. This makes it easy to have this tasty dish ready whenever you want.
Nutritional Information and Health Benefits
Making the chipotle steak recipe at home lets you control what goes into it. This can make it healthier than what you get at a restaurant. A 4-ounce serving has about 192 calories, 26 grams of protein, 8 grams of fat, and 4 grams of carbs.
This dish is great for a balanced diet, especially with veggies and whole grains. You can also tweak the marinade and cooking to make it even better. This way, you get a meal that’s both tasty and good for you.
By cooking the homemade chipotle steak yourself, you can enjoy a meal like a restaurant’s but with less calories and fat. It’s a smart way to eat well and stay healthy with meals you make at home.
FAQ
What makes this Chipotle steak recipe better than the restaurant version?
Making Chipotle steak at home saves money. You can also control how much you eat. Plus, you can adjust the flavors and spice to your liking.
What are the essential ingredients for the Chipotle steak marinade and seasoning?
You’ll need chipotle peppers, olive oil, red wine vinegar, and honey. Garlic, cilantro, and lime juice are also key. Don’t forget the spices like chipotle powder and cumin.
What type of meat is best for this Chipotle steak recipe?
Use top sirloin, flank steak, or skirt steak. These cuts handle high heat well. They get the charred flavor Chipotle’s steak is known for.
How do I make the signature Chipotle marinade?
Blend chipotle peppers, vinegar, honey, oil, and lime juice. Add cilantro, garlic, and spices. Coat the steak and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 12 hours.
What is the essential spice blend for Chipotle steak?
The blend includes chipotle powder, chili powder, and oregano. Add garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. This mix gives Chipotle’s steak its unique flavor.
How do I cook the Chipotle steak to perfection?
Cook the steak in a hot skillet over medium-high heat. Aim for 140°F for medium-rare. Let it rest before slicing to keep the juices in.
How can I serve the homemade Chipotle steak?
Serve it in burrito bowls, tacos, or salads. It’s also great as a main dish with rice and beans. Add black beans, cheese, and guacamole for a full meal.
How should I store and reheat leftover Chipotle steak?
Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in a skillet to keep the texture and flavor. It’s perfect for meal prep.
What are the nutrition facts for a serving of homemade Chipotle steak?
A 4-oz serving has about 192 calories. It has 26g of protein, 8g of fat, and 4g of carbs. It’s a high-protein meal for a balanced diet.

Copycat Chipotle Steak Burrito Bowl
Equipment
- Cast-iron skillet or grill pan
- Food processor or blender
- Resealable bag or shallow dish
- Tongs
- Meat thermometer
Ingredients
Marinade:
- 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 tsp chipotle powder
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Steak:
- 2 lbs top sirloin or flank steak
Instructions
Prepare the Marinade:
- In a food processor or blender, combine chipotle peppers, olive oil, vinegar, honey, garlic, cilantro, lime juice, and all spices. Blend until smooth.
Marinate the Steak:
- Place the steak in a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over it, ensuring the meat is fully coated.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 12 hours for maximum flavor.
Cook the Steak:
- Heat a tablespoon of oil in a cast-iron skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Cook the steak for 4-9 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 140°F for medium-rare.
Rest and Slice:
- Remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest for 10 minutes. Slice into small pieces.
Serve:
- Serve with rice, beans, guacamole, salsa, cheese, and sour cream for a Chipotle-style burrito bowl or use in tacos, salads, or wraps.
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