Chipotle Steak

I was trying to recreate Chipotle’s steak at home, but nothing ever tasted quite right. Either it was bland or just off in some way.

At some point I gave up on copying it exactly and just started throwing together flavors I knew I liked and that’s how this recipe came out. It may not be identical, but it’s packed with flavor! Now I make my own chipotle bowls and burritos at home!

Cost Breakdown:

These prices reflect what I paid for the full ingredients at the store. While the recipe may only use part of some items, the cost reflects buying the full ingredients since you can’t realistically purchase just a portion at the store.

  • Chuck Steak $16

  • 7oz Can Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce $1.63

  • Garlic Bulb $0.50

  • Olive Oil $5.78

  • Honey $3.33

  • Cilantro $0.47

  • Lime $0.24

  • Chipotle Powder $4.48

  • Chili Powder $0.79

  • Mexican Oregano $0.88

  • Onion Powder $0.66

  • Smoked Paprika $2.18

  • Cumin $1.25

    Total: $38.19

* Prices based on grocery stores in Central Texas- March 2026.

Ingredients:

  • 2 lb Chuck Steak

  • 7 oz Can Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce

  • 10 Garlic Cloves

  • ¼ cup Olive Oil

  • 2 tbsp Honey

  • Bunch Cilantro

  • 1 Lime, juiced

  • 2 tsp Chipotle Powder

  • 1 tsp Chili Powder

  • 1 tsp Mexican Oregano

  • 1 tsp Onion Powder

  • 1 tsp Smoked Paprika

  • 1 tsp Cumin

  • 2 tsp Salt

  • 1 tsp black pepper

Steps:

  • Make the marinade. In a blender combine: olive oil, honey, cilantro (with stems), lime juice, chipotle powder, chili powder, Mexican oregano, onion powder, cumin, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and the entire can of chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. Blend until smooth and fully combined.

  • Pour the marinade over the steak and coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

  • Cook on a stovetop or grill over medium-high heat until it reaches your desired doneness.

  • Let the steak rest for a few minutes, then cut into small pieces. Serve in tacos, bowl, or however you prefer!

Tips:

  • This marinade also works great on chicken!

  • You can mix leftover marinade with beans for an easy chipotle-style side.

  • Don’t skip the cilantro stems, they add tons of flavor!

  • For extra flavor, marinate overnight if possible!

Recipe Summary:

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Servings: 8

This meal came out to about $4.75 per serving based on Central Texas grocery prices in March 2026. Price may differ depending on what ingredients you have on hand.

Previous
Previous

Chicken Fajitas

Next
Next

Family Fruit Salad