There is something truly special about the flavors in this Chipotle Flank Steak with Cilantro and Green Onion Recipe that instantly elevates any meal into a memorable experience. The smoky heat of chipotle combines beautifully with the fresh brightness of cilantro and green onion, while tender, marinated flank steak adds a juicy, satisfying bite. It’s the perfect balance of bold and fresh, spicy and cool, and yes, it will quickly become a favorite that you want to make over and over. Let me take you through everything you need to bring this dish from your kitchen straight to your table with all the joy it deserves.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What’s amazing about this Chipotle Flank Steak with Cilantro and Green Onion Recipe is how a handful of simple, yet powerful ingredients come together to create a dish bursting with flavor and texture. Each element plays a crucial role, from the heat-packed chipotle sauce to the herbaceous fresh cilantro.
- 2 lb flank steak: Choose a lean, well-trimmed cut for the best texture and flavor absorption.
- 4 Tbsp Tabasco Chipotle Sauce: This adds smoky, spicy depth to the marinade and can be adjusted to your heat preference.
- 1/3 bunch cilantro (about 1/2 cup loosely packed): Fresh cilantro brightens the dish with its citrusy notes, balancing the chipotle’s fire.
- 1/3 cup green onion (chopped): Adds a subtle sharpness and lovely color contrast to both marinade and garnish.
- 1/3 cup olive oil: Helps meld flavors together and keeps the steak wonderfully moist during grilling.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper: A gentle warmth that complements the marinade’s smoky punch without overpowering it.
- 1 lime (cut into wedges, to serve): Fresh lime juice adds the perfect tang when squeezed over the sliced steak just before eating.
How to Make Chipotle Flank Steak with Cilantro and Green Onion Recipe
Step 1: Whip Up a Flavor-Packed Marinade
The secret to an unforgettable Chipotle Flank Steak with Cilantro and Green Onion Recipe lies in the marinade. Start by pulsing fresh cilantro, green onions, olive oil, smoky chipotle sauce, and black pepper in your blender or food processor until perfectly smooth. This creates a rich, velvety mixture that will infuse every bite with layers of smoky, fresh flavor.
Step 2: Marinate the Steak with Love
Next, place your flank steak in a non-reactive dish—glass or plastic works best—and lovingly coat it in the marinade, ensuring every inch is covered. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and let it refrigerate for at least 6 hours, though overnight is truly ideal. This slow soak allows the meat to soak in the robust flavors while tenderizing beautifully.
Step 3: Fire Up the Grill and Cook to Perfection
When you’re ready, pull the steak out of the fridge and let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes—this helps it cook evenly. Grill over medium-high heat around 450˚F for about 4 minutes each side for a perfect medium-rare, or adjust the time to your preferred doneness. For those picture-perfect grill marks, rotate the steak 45 degrees halfway through each side’s grilling time. After grilling, let the steak rest for 10 to 15 minutes—this step is key to juicy results before slicing thinly against the grain.
How to Serve Chipotle Flank Steak with Cilantro and Green Onion Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing your steak with freshly chopped cilantro and green onions amplifies aromas and adds lively bursts of green color that make each serving feel festive and fresh. A final squeeze of lime juice brightens every bite just before you dig in, balancing the smoky flavors with a zesty pop.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides—think creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the juices, vibrant grilled vegetables that echo smoky notes, or fluffy Mexican rice that complements the boldness of the steak. Even a fresh, crunchy salad with avocado and corn works beautifully, adding texture and color.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist on presentation, serve the sliced steak on warm tortillas with a drizzle of extra chipotle sauce and a sprinkling of cheese, creating irresistible tacos. Alternatively, pile the steak strips over a crisp salad or even use them as a hearty topping for nachos. No matter how you serve it, this Chipotle Flank Steak with Cilantro and Green Onion Recipe always shines!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooked and cooled, store your steak leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinner the next day.
Freezing
If you have extra flank steak, freeze it wrapped tightly in foil and then placed inside a freezer bag to protect it from freezer burn. It will keep well for up to 3 months, so you can enjoy this delicious flavor combination any time you want.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm slices in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the meat moist. Avoid overcooking so the steak stays tender and juicy, just like when freshly grilled.
FAQs
Can I use another type of steak for this recipe?
Absolutely! While flank steak is ideal for this marinade and grilling method, skirt steak or hanger steak can be great substitutes. Just remember to slice against the grain for maximum tenderness.
How spicy is the chipotle sauce in this marinade?
The Tabasco Chipotle Sauce brings a moderate smoky heat that is well balanced by fresh cilantro and lime. If you prefer milder flavors, start with less chipotle and adjust to your taste.
Do I have to marinate the steak overnight?
For the best flavor penetration and tenderness, marinating overnight is recommended. However, if you’re pressed for time, 6 hours will still infuse plenty of flavor.
Can I make this recipe on a stovetop if I don’t have a grill?
Yes! Simply heat a grill pan or heavy skillet over medium-high heat and cook the steak as you would on a grill, aiming for the same cooking times and resting period for best results.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Definitely. The marinated steak keeps well in the fridge and can be cooked ahead of time. Pair with your favorite sides for easy, flavorful meals throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to impress yourself and your loved ones with bright, smoky, and downright delicious flavors, this Chipotle Flank Steak with Cilantro and Green Onion Recipe will quickly become a go-to in your kitchen. Every step, from marinating to grilling to serving, invites you to enjoy not just a meal but a celebration of bold, fresh ingredients coming together perfectly. Give it a try and watch it become a favorite you’ll want to make again and again.
Print
Chipotle Flank Steak with Cilantro and Green Onion Recipe
- Prep Time: 360 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 368 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Chipotle Flank Steak recipe features a flavorful marinade made with Tabasco Chipotle Sauce, cilantro, green onion, and olive oil, which tenderizes and infuses the steak with a smoky, spicy kick. Perfectly grilled to medium-rare with attractive grill marks, this dish is an excellent main course for 4 to 6 people, served with lime wedges for a refreshing finish.
Ingredients
Steak and Marinade
- 2 lb flank steak
- 4 Tbsp Tabasco Chipotle Sauce (plus more to serve)
- 1/3 bunch cilantro (about 1/2 cup loosely packed)
- 1/3 cup green onion (chopped)
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
To Serve
- 1 Lime (cut into wedges)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In the bowl of a blender or food processor, combine 1/2 cup cilantro, 1/4 cup chopped green onion, 1/3 cup olive oil, 4 Tbsp Tabasco Chipotle Sauce, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Pulse and blend the ingredients until smooth, creating a smoky, spicy marinade.
- Marinate the Steak: Place the flank steak in a non-reactive dish such as glass or plastic. Pour the prepared marinade over the steak, making sure all sides are evenly coated. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight, to allow maximum flavor absorption. Remove the steak from the fridge about 30 minutes before grilling to bring it to room temperature.
- Grill the Steak: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, approximately 450ËšF. Place the steak on the grill and cook for 4 minutes on each side for medium-rare. To create professional-looking grill marks, rotate the steak 45Ëš after 2 minutes on each side. Adjust cooking time if you prefer a different degree of doneness.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the grilled steak from the heat and transfer it to a plate. Let it rest for 10 to 15 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier steak. Slice the steak thinly against the grain and serve with lime wedges and extra Tabasco Chipotle Sauce if desired.
Notes
- For best flavor and tenderness, marinate the steak overnight.
- Bring steak to room temperature before grilling to ensure even cooking.
- Use non-reactive dishes for marinating to prevent any metallic taste.
- Cutting against the grain is crucial for tender slices.
- Adjust the spice level by adding more or less Tabasco Chipotle Sauce to marinade.
