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 while experimenting with different marinades for steak. After several attempts, I perfected the balance of spice and acidity that truly makes this dish shine. The vibrant flavors and tender texture have made it a favorite at family gatherings. It’s always a hit, and I love sharing it with friends."

With over a decade of experience in American cuisine, I specialize in crafting delicious dinner recipes that are both easy to prepare and impressive. My passion for cooking stems from a love for bringing people together over great food. I've developed countless recipes that celebrate classic flavors with a modern twist.

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

Why This Chili Lime Flank Steak Recipe Works

This recipe stands out due to its vibrant flavors and simple preparation. The combination of lime and chili creates a refreshing and spicy marinade that complements the flank steak beautifully. By marinating the meat for a few hours, the flavors penetrate deep, ensuring every bite is packed with taste. It’s a quick and easy dish that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

Grilling the steak at a high temperature seals in the juices, keeping the meat tender while developing a delicious char. This technique ensures that the steak is perfectly cooked on the outside while remaining juicy and flavorful on the inside. The rest period allows the meat to relax, resulting in a steak that is easy to slice and eat.

💡 Professional Tip

For the best results, always slice the flank steak against the grain. This technique shortens the muscle fibers, making each bite more tender. Additionally, using a meat thermometer can help ensure that you achieve the perfect doneness every time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prepare the marinade and marinate the flank steak ahead of time. For maximum flavor, marinate the steak for at least 2 hours, but you can also leave it overnight. After grilling, if you have leftovers, they can be stored in the fridge and enjoyed later, making it perfect for meal prep.

If you don’t have lime juice, you can substitute it with lemon juice for a similar acidic flavor. Alternatively, vinegar (like apple cider or white vinegar) can also work, though it may alter the flavor slightly. It's always best to adjust according to your taste preferences.

The best way to check the doneness of flank steak is to use a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°F (54-57°C). If you prefer it more done, you can cook it until it reaches 140-145°F (60-63°C). Remember to let it rest before slicing.

Yes, you can freeze flank steak both before and after cooking. If freezing raw, marinate the steak, then place it in a freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. If freezing cooked steak, let it cool first, then wrap it tightly in foil or freezer-safe bags. It can be stored for up to 3 months.

Chili Lime Flank Steak pairs wonderfully with grilled vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. You could also serve it with tortillas and toppings for delicious steak tacos. Adding sides like avocado, corn salsa, or black beans would enhance the meal.

When stored properly in an airtight container, cooked Chili Lime Flank Steak can last in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Ensure it’s cooled down to room temperature before refrigerating to maintain freshness.

Yes, the steak can be marinated ahead of time. If you prefer, you can also cook it in advance, let it cool, and store it in the fridge. Reheat gently before serving. However, for the best texture and flavor, it's recommended to grill it fresh.

To reheat Chili Lime Flank Steak without drying it out, place the slices in a skillet over low heat, adding a touch of water or broth to create steam. Cover the skillet to keep the moisture in. Alternatively, you can use the microwave, but be sure to use a lower power setting to prevent overcooking.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: If your steak turns out dry, it may have been overcooked or not rested properly.

Solution: To prevent dryness, always use a meat thermometer to check for doneness, and let the steak rest after cooking for at least 10 minutes before slicing it.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: If the exterior isn't crispy, it could be due to insufficient grilling time or heat.

Solution: Ensure your grill is preheated properly. You can also try searing the steak on high heat for the first few minutes to achieve a nice crust before lowering the temperature.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: Overcooking can lead to a tough and chewy steak.

Prevention: To prevent overcooking, use a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature closely. Remember to remove the steak from the grill when it reaches your desired doneness.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: An undercooked center can be an issue if the steak is thick and not grilled long enough.

Recovery: If you find the center is undercooked, return the steak to the grill and cook for a few more minutes, checking the temperature until it is done to your liking.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: A burnt exterior may occur if the grill is too hot or the steak is cooked for too long.

Prevention: To prevent this, ensure the grill is preheated, but not excessively hot, and monitor the cooking time closely. Flipping the steak regularly can also help.

✅

Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the steak is too sweet, you can balance it by adding a bit more lime juice or salt.

Too Salty: If it’s too salty, serving it with a side of unsalted grains or vegetables can help balance the overall flavor.

Bland: To fix blandness, try adding more seasoning, such as salt or chili powder, before serving.

Fresh ingredients for Chili Lime Flank Steak

Essential Ingredients for Chili Lime Flank Steak

The key to a great Chili Lime Flank Steak is in the marinade. Fresh lime juice provides acidity that tenderizes the meat and enhances the flavor. Chili powder adds a warm, spicy kick that complements the flank steak perfectly. Using high-quality ingredients ensures a superior taste.

Opt for fresh, high-quality flank steak for the best results. Grass-fed or organic beef tends to have better flavor and texture. Fresh herbs and spices should also be used when possible, as they yield vibrant flavors in your dish.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Flank Steak: Flank steak is best marinated for several hours to tenderize it. Choose a uniform thickness for even cooking. For ideal results, look for well-marbled cuts.
  • Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice adds brightness and acidity to the marinade. Avoid bottled lime juice, as it often lacks the fresh flavor that truly enhances the dish.
  • Chili Powder: Use a good quality chili powder for the marinade, as the flavor can vary significantly between brands. You can also experiment with different types of chili powder to adjust the heat level according to your preference.
Cooking process for Chili Lime Flank Steak

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Cooking Chili Lime Flank Steak is straightforward, but attention to detail is key. Start by marinating the steak to infuse it with flavor. Then, grill it over medium-high heat to achieve a beautiful char and keep it juicy. Lastly, allowing the steak to rest helps to lock in the flavors.

For perfect results, consistently check the internal temperature during grilling. This will ensure that your steak is cooked to your liking without sacrificing tenderness. Each step plays a crucial role in achieving that mouthwatering flavor and texture.

Key Technique for Perfect Chili Lime Flank Steak

The key to making perfect Chili Lime Flank Steak lies in the marinating process. Allowing the steak to soak in the lime and chili marinade for a few hours enhances both the flavor and tenderness. Additionally, grilling it at the right temperature ensures a beautifully seared exterior while keeping the inside juicy and flavorful.

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
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
    For seasoning
  • 1 tsp salt
    To taste
  • 1 tsp black pepper
    Freshly ground

For the Sauce

  • 2 lbs flank steak
    Trimmed and ready for marination
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
    For marination
  • 2 tbsp honey
    To balance flavors
  • 4 cloves garlic
    Minced
  • 1 tsp cumin
    For depth of flavor
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
    For extra heat
  • Fresh cilantro
    For garnish
  • Lime wedges
    For serving

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade

    In a bowl, combine lime juice, olive oil, chili powder, honey, minced garlic, cumin, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Mix well.

  2. Marinate the Steak

    Place flank steak in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over the steak, ensuring it is evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.

  3. Preheat the Grill

    Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grill grates are clean and well-oiled to prevent sticking.

  4. Grill the Steak

    Remove the steak from the marinade and discard the marinade. Place the steak on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or until desired doneness.

  5. Rest the Steak

    Once cooked, transfer the steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute.

  6. Slice the Steak

    Using a sharp knife, slice the steak against the grain into thin strips for maximum tenderness.

  7. Serve

    Serve the sliced steak with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for garnish. Enjoy with your favorite sides!

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

To store leftovers, let the Chili Lime Flank Steak cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the steak, which keeps it fresh for up to 3 months.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Chili Lime Flank Steak with a side of grilled vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. For a fun twist, turn it into tacos with your favorite toppings like avocado, salsa, and cheese. Pairing with a refreshing drink like iced tea or a light beer complements the flavors beautifully.

Recipe Variations

You can switch up the marinade by adding different spices or herbs, such as smoked paprika or fresh oregano. For a citrus twist, try using orange juice instead of lime. Grilling the steak with a mix of vegetables can also enhance the dish and create a full meal.