Churrasco Steak from Pollo Tropical features tender, marinated skirt steak grilled to perfection, served with vibrant chimichurri sauce and a side of refreshing citrus-infused rice, delivering a flavorful and juicy Latin-inspired meal.
Equipments
- Grill (charcoal or gas)
- Tongs
- Meat thermometer
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Saucepan (for rice)
- Citrus juicer or reamer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Serving platter
Ingredients
- For the Churrasco Steak:
- 2 lbs skirt steak
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 4 cloves garlic
- 1 tablespoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- For the Chimichurri Sauce:
- 1 cup fresh parsley
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 6 cloves garlic
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- For the Citrus-Infused Rice:
- 2 cups long grain white rice
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 2 teaspoons orange zest
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
You should use fresh garlic and herbs like parsley and cilantro to enhance the authentic flavor of the chimichurri sauce. Ensure the skirt steak is well-marinated with lime juice, soy sauce, and spices to achieve tender and juicy meat. Fresh citrus juices and zest are essential in the rice to deliver a refreshing and vibrant taste. Measuring cups and a meat thermometer help maintain precise cooking and seasoning for the perfect dish. Creating a Churrasco Steak from Pollo Tropical copycat menu allows you to enjoy this flavorful Latin-inspired meal at home with quality ingredients.
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade: In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, lime juice, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, kosher salt, and black pepper.
- Marinate the skirt steak in the mixture for at least 2 hours, ideally overnight in the refrigerator.
- Preheat the grill to high heat.
- Remove steak from marinade and pat dry with paper towels.
- Grill steak for 3-5 minutes per side, using tongs to turn, until desired doneness is reached (use meat thermometer for accuracy).
- Let steak rest on a cutting board for 5-10 minutes, then slice against the grain.
- Prepare the chimichurri: In a mixing bowl, combine chopped parsley, cilantro, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, dried oregano, red pepper flakes, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Stir well.
- Prepare citrus-infused rice: In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add rice and stir until glossy.
- Add chicken broth, orange juice, lime juice, orange zest, lime zest, and salt to the rice. Stir and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer rice for 15-18 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
- Remove rice from heat, fluff with a fork, and stir in chopped cilantro.
- Serve sliced churrasco steak on a platter, garnish with chimichurri sauce, and pair with citrus-infused rice.
Substitution
Churrasco Steak from Pollo Tropical copycat menu combines skirt steak marinated in a blend of olive oil, soy sauce, lime juice, and spices, grilled to juicy perfection and paired with fresh chimichurri sauce and citrus-infused rice. When grilling skirt steak, if you don't have a grill, a cast iron skillet can be a great alternative that still achieves a nice sear and flavor. If fresh herbs for chimichurri are unavailable, dried herbs can be used but reduce quantities by half to avoid overpowering the sauce. For the citrus-infused rice, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option without losing depth of flavor. You can customize the spice level by adjusting the amount of crushed red pepper flakes based on your preference.
Tips
Ensure your skirt steak is patted dry before grilling to achieve a perfect sear and avoid steaming. Use a meat thermometer to cook the steak to your desired doneness, aiming for 130-135degF for medium-rare. Rest the steak for at least 5 minutes after grilling to allow juices to redistribute, making it juicier and more flavorful. When slicing, cut against the grain to keep each bite tender and easy to chew.
Nutritions
Churrasco Steak from Pollo Tropical offers a rich source of high-quality protein from skirt steak, essential for muscle repair and growth. The olive oil contributes heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, while the fresh herbs and citrus in the chimichurri and rice provide antioxidants and vitamin C that support immune function. Soy sauce adds a savory umami taste but should be consumed in moderation due to its sodium content. Your meal balances flavorful spices and nutrient-dense ingredients, making it both delicious and nourishing.
Storage
Store leftover churrasco steak in an airtight container and keep it refrigerated for up to 3-4 days to maintain its flavor and tenderness. Chimichurri sauce should be stored separately in a sealed jar in the refrigerator, where it can stay fresh for about 5-7 days. Your citrus-infused rice is best kept in a covered dish at refrigerated temperatures and consumed within 2-3 days to preserve its texture and vibrant taste.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute skirt steak with flank or hanger steak for a slightly different texture while maintaining robust flavor. For a smoky twist, use smoked paprika and add chipotle powder to the marinade instead of crushed red pepper flakes. Replace fresh cilantro in the chimichurri with fresh oregano or basil for herbaceous variation. If you prefer a lighter rice side, swap chicken broth with vegetable broth and reduce the olive oil by half to create a more delicate citrus-infused base.
Allergies
Churrasco Steak from Pollo Tropical contains soy sauce in its marinade, which may trigger allergic reactions for individuals with soy allergies. The dish also includes garlic and cilantro, common allergens for some people, so your sensitivity to these ingredients should be considered. If you have food allergies, carefully reviewing the ingredient list ensures your meal remains safe and enjoyable.
Why this recipe?
Churrasco Steak from Pollo Tropical is celebrated for its tender, flame-grilled skirt steak marinated with a distinctive blend of Latin spices, delivering rich, bold flavors in every bite. The menu favorite is paired with fresh sides like black beans, yellow rice, and sweet plantains, creating a balanced and satisfying meal that appeals to diverse palates. You'll appreciate the authenticity and depth of flavor that come from mastering the copycat recipe, allowing you to recreate the restaurant experience at home with fresh, quality ingredients. Making this dish yourself is worth it for the juicy, savory steak perfectly complemented by vibrant Caribbean-inspired accompaniments.