Chef Mitchell preparing Chili Lime Flank Steak
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered this Chili Lime Flank Steak recipe during my travels through Mexico, where the vibrant flavors captivated my palate. After perfecting the marinade and cooking techniques, I knew I had to share this dish. It has since become a family favorite, perfect for gatherings and special occasions."

With over a decade of experience in Mexican cuisine, I specialize in creating authentic and delicious recipes. My passion for cooking has led me to explore various traditional dishes, ensuring each one is crafted with care and precision. I aim to bring the flavors of Mexico to every dinner table.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Chili Lime Flank Steak served on a plate

Why This Chili Lime Flank Steak Recipe Works

The combination of chili powder and fresh lime juice in this marinade creates a wonderful balance of heat and acidity that enhances the natural flavor of the flank steak. The marination process tenderizes the meat while infusing it with zesty flavors, making every bite a delight.

Grilling the steak at the right temperature ensures a perfect sear, locking in juices and creating a delicious crust. This technique allows for a tender and juicy steak that pairs beautifully with the fresh toppings and sides typically served with Mexican dishes.

💡 Professional Tip

For the best results, let the steak marinate overnight. This will enhance the flavors even more. Additionally, always slice the steak against the grain to ensure maximum tenderness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes! You can marinate the flank steak a day in advance. Just keep it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to cook, simply grill it for a fresh and flavorful meal. Leftovers can also be reheated or enjoyed cold in salads or sandwiches.

If you don’t have lime juice, lemon juice can be a good substitute, though it will alter the flavor slightly. You can also use vinegar, such as apple cider or white vinegar, but reduce the amount slightly as it is more acidic.

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. For medium-rare, the steak should reach an internal temperature of about 130-135°F (54-57°C). Let it rest before slicing for the best texture.

Yes, you can freeze the marinated steak before cooking or even after it's been cooked. Just ensure it's tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag to avoid freezer burn. It can be stored for up to 3 months.

This dish pairs beautifully with fresh corn tortillas, avocado slices, and a side of cilantro-lime rice or black beans. A fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette also complements the robust flavors of the steak.

Cooked Chili Lime Flank Steak can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Make sure it’s kept in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Absolutely! You can marinate the steak a day ahead of time, and cook it just before serving. This way, you can enjoy a flavorful meal with minimal prep on the day of your gathering.

The best way to reheat Chili Lime Flank Steak is in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of broth or water to help steam the meat and keep it moist. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the microwave, but be cautious not to overcook.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: Your Chili Lime Flank Steak may have come out dry.

Solution: This can happen if the steak is overcooked. To remedy this, try cooking the steak to a lower temperature next time and ensure you allow it to rest after cooking to retain juices.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: The exterior of the steak may not be crispy.

Solution: To achieve a crispy crust, make sure the grill is sufficiently preheated and do not flip the steak too often. Searing on high heat will create the crust you're looking for.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: If the steak is overcooked, it will be tough and chewy.

Prevention: To prevent this, use a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature. Remove the steak from the grill at 130-135°F for medium-rare and let it rest before slicing.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: Your steak could have an undercooked center.

Recovery: If this happens, you can return the steak to the grill for a few more minutes, but be careful not to overcook the outer layers. Check the temperature regularly to assess doneness.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: If the steak’s exterior is burnt, the inside may be undercooked.

Prevention: To prevent burning, cook on medium heat and monitor closely. If the outside is cooking too fast, lower the heat or move the steak to a cooler part of the grill.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the steak is too sweet, balance it by adding more lime juice or a bit of vinegar to counteract the sweetness.

Too Salty: If too salty, serve the steak with a side of unsalted rice or beans to help balance the flavors.

Bland: To fix bland flavors, consider marinating longer or adding more spices directly to your cooking process.

Fresh ingredients for Chili Lime Flank Steak

Essential Ingredients for Chili Lime Flank Steak

The key ingredients in this Chili Lime Flank Steak are flank steak, lime juice, and a variety of spices that elevate the dish. Flank steak is a lean cut that absorbs the marinade beautifully, while lime juice adds acidity that tenderizes the meat.

Using high-quality spices and fresh ingredients ensures a flavorful result. Fresh lime juice makes a significant difference compared to bottled versions, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Flank Steak: When choosing flank steak, look for a cut that is bright red and well-marbled. This indicates freshness and flavor. Always slice against the grain for the most tender bites.
  • Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice is preferable as it offers a vibrant acidity that enhances the steak's flavor. Avoid bottled lime juice, as it may contain preservatives that can alter the taste.
  • Chili Powder: Chili powder adds warmth and depth to the marinade. Opt for a quality blend that includes a variety of chilis and spices for a more complex flavor profile.
Cooking process for Chili Lime Flank Steak

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

The cooking process for Chili Lime Flank Steak is straightforward, allowing you to enjoy a delicious meal without stress. Start by marinating the steak to let the flavors blend beautifully.

Once marinated, grilling at the right temperature is crucial for achieving that perfect char and juicy interior. Follow the steps carefully to ensure an outstanding result.

Key Technique for Perfect Chili Lime Flank Steak

The most important technique is to marinate the steak properly; doing so increases tenderness and flavor absorption. Additionally, monitoring the grill temperature will help achieve a perfect sear without overcooking the steak.

Chili Lime Flank Steak

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter
    Room temperature
  • 1/4 cup lime juice
    Freshly squeezed
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
    For flavor
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
    For added depth
  • 1 tablespoon honey
    To balance flavors

For the Sauce

  • 1 lb flank steak
    Trimmed and ready
  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
    For marinating
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
    For spice
  • 1 tablespoon cumin
    Adds warmth
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    For flavor
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
    For moisture
  • 1 teaspoon salt
    To taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
    For seasoning
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
    For freshness
  • 1 jalapeño, minced
    For heat
  • 1 tablespoon honey
    For sweetness
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
    For smokiness
  • 1 avocado, sliced (for serving)
    Optional
  • Fresh lime wedges (for serving)
    Optional
  • Corn tortillas (for serving)
    Optional

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade

    In a bowl, whisk together lime juice, chili powder, cumin, garlic, olive oil, salt, black pepper, cilantro, jalapeño, and honey until well combined.

  2. Marinate the Steak

    Place the flank steak in a resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over it. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for more flavor.

  3. Preheat the Grill

    Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F (200°C).

  4. Grill the Steak

    Remove the steak from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Place the steak on the grill and cook for 6-8 minutes per side for medium-rare.

  5. Check for Doneness

    Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should read 130-135°F (54-57°C) for medium-rare.

  6. Rest the Steak

    Remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.

  7. Slice the Steak

    Slice the steak against the grain into thin strips to ensure tenderness.

  8. Serve

    Serve the sliced steak with avocado, fresh lime wedges, and corn tortillas. Enjoy your meal!

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

Store leftover Chili Lime Flank Steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the steak for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Serving Suggestions

Chili Lime Flank Steak is best served with fresh corn tortillas, avocado slices, and a side of cilantro-lime rice or a refreshing salad. Pair it with a cold beverage for a complete meal.

Recipe Variations

For a twist, try adding different spices to the marinade, such as smoked paprika or oregano. You can also use different proteins like chicken or shrimp with similar marinades for variety.