This Chipotle Lime Grilled Flank Steak is marinated in a bold blend of chipotle peppers, lime juice, cilantro, and honey, then grilled to perfection. The result is a juicy, flavorful steak with a smoky kick and a hint of sweetness. It’s ideal for summer cookouts or a vibrant weeknight dinner.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it brings out rich, smoky heat from the chipotle peppers while the lime juice brightens up every bite. The cilantro adds freshness, and the honey balances the flavors with a touch of sweetness. The marinade works wonders on the flank steak, making it tender and packed with flavor. Grilling it creates a charred crust that seals in all the delicious juices.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

olive oil or vegetable oil
lime juice
loosely packed cilantro leaves
chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
adobo sauce
honey
white vinegar
garlic
flank steak
salt and pepper

Directions

I start by blending the olive oil, lime juice, cilantro, chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, honey, white vinegar, and garlic until smooth.
Then I pour the marinade into a large zip-top bag and add the flank steak, making sure it’s well coated. I seal the bag and refrigerate it for at least 8 hours or overnight.
Before grilling, I let the steak sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
I pour the leftover marinade into a saucepan, bring it to a boil, and cook it for 5 minutes to turn it into a sauce.
I season the steak with salt and pepper, then grill it over medium-high heat for about 6 to 8 minutes on each side until it reaches the desired doneness.
After grilling, I drizzle the cooked marinade over the steak and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing it thinly against the grain.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 16 minutes
Total Time: 21 minutes (plus marinating time)

Variations

For extra heat, I like to add an extra chipotle pepper or a pinch of cayenne.
Sometimes I add a splash of orange juice to the marinade for a sweet citrusy layer.
When I want to change things up, I mix in some chopped oregano or thyme.
This marinade also works great with chicken for variety.

Storage/Reheating

I store any leftover steak in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I place slices in a skillet over medium heat or microwave them in short bursts, just until warm. I also like using the leftovers in tacos, wraps, or salads.

FAQs

How long should I marinate the flank steak?

I marinate it for at least 8 hours, but I prefer overnight to get the best flavor and tenderness.

Can I use a different cut of steak?

Yes, I sometimes use skirt steak or hanger steak, just keeping an eye on the cooking time since thickness varies.

Do I need to boil the marinade before using it as a sauce?

Yes, I always boil it for a few minutes to make sure it’s safe since it had raw meat in it.

What are good side dishes to serve with this?

I usually serve this steak with cilantro lime rice, grilled corn, or a fresh avocado salad.

Can I cook this steak indoors?

Absolutely. I use a cast-iron skillet or broil it in the oven when I can’t grill outside.

Conclusion

This Chipotle Lime Grilled Flank Steak is a simple yet flavor-packed dish that’s perfect for any occasion. I love how the spicy, smoky, and zesty flavors come together, and the marinade makes the steak unbelievably tender. It’s a recipe I keep coming back to, whether I’m grilling for friends or just craving something bold and satisfying.