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The perfect salsas, guacamoles and dips all demand the perfect tortilla chip. After testing eight brands, we think we found the best tortilla chips for dipping, dunking and snacking.
When it comes to parties—be it a backyard barbecue or a weeknight book club—there’s one app that’s always on the menu at my house: chips and dip. My favorite dip is a creamy, fresh guacamole, but there are so many good ones to choose from—just check out these great dips perfect for entertaining. Let’s not forget though, that these dips, salsas and guacamoles aren’t much use to us without the perfect chip to scoop them up. The perfect tortilla chip has to strike the right balance. It should be crisp but not too flimsy (don’t want the dreaded broken chip in the dip situation), flavorful but not overpowering (or too salty!).
While I appreciate that ideal chip, I admit that I typically reach for whatever is on sale when I’m shopping. That means I might be missing out on the best chips for my next party! So to find out which chip reigns supreme (and is perfectly dippable), I grabbed eight popular brands from a handful of supermarkets. Along with a crew of dedicated testers, I put these eight options to the test:
Chi-Chi’s Original Strips
Clancy’s Restaurant Style Tortilla Chips, an Aldi-exclusive brand
Donkey Authentic Tortilla Chips (Salted)
Frontera Thin + Crispy Tortilla Chips
Garden of Eatin’ Yellow Chips
Mission Tortilla Triangles
Simple Truth Organic White Corn Tortilla Chips
Tostitos Original Restuarant Style Tortilla Chips.
Let’s see how these chips faired!
Honorable Mention: Garden of Eatin’ Yellow Chips
Score: 6/10
In our test, it immediately became clear that flimsy chips weren’t cutting it. Testers showed an obvious preference for sturdier chips built to scoop up every last bit of our favorite homemade salsa recipes. That’s precisely why these tortilla chips from Garden of Eatin’ were so popular. Made from yellow corn, these chips were a bit thicker than most and exceptionally crunchy. Flavor-wise, testers noticed that these chips weren’t your standard restaurant-style chip; rather, these chips tasted a bit like Fritos (but without all the grease) with a bit of a nutty flavor. In the end, we agreed that sturdier chips like this one would be the perfect accompaniment to for hot dips like this slow cooker spinach and artichoke dip, but might not be the right choice for people looking for traditional tortilla chips.
Inching up in the ratings was Donkey tortilla chips. Right away, testers were declaring that these chips had just the right thickness and right amount of crunch. In fact, many folks were comparing these chips to what you’d get at your favorite Mexican restaurant. As we dunked these chips into salsa, we agreed that we’d love these served up alongside our favorite authentic Mexican dishes. However, what cost these chips the crown was their lack of salt. We could use just a bit more to make them perfectly craveable.
Let’s get this out of the way: We miss Chi-Chi’s! While this restaurant chain is now defunct, we’re pretty happy to see that the company is still producing chips, salsa and other Mexican-style accompaniments—and with great success as this test demonstrates!
These Chi-Chi’s chips got high marks from every tester. These chips were a bit thinner than our other top-ranking options, but they still had enough body to hold up to some salsa (we might grab a backup chip for big scoops of this five-star taco dip recipe, though). The chips themselves were exceptionally crisp and perfectly salted. We got that great pure corn taste and we found the chips to taste super fresh—an absolute must! What took these chips from good to great, though: the strip shape. The narrower shape meant that we could dunk further into that jar of salsa and that snacking was just a bit easier than with the bigger wedge shapes. When you’re looking for the best tortilla chips, even these little things count!
In this test, we had three strong top contenders, all of which I’d be happy to serve up at my next get-together. It turns out, though, that the other five options we tested just didn’t live up to our expectations (I’m talking scores of two and three—yikes!). We found them to be too greasy, too salty or just too darn thin. So when you’re looking for the best tortilla chips to serve our favorite store-bought salsas for a quick snack, I don’t recommend straying too far from this list.
Our town is known as Pretzel City—even our local sports teams are known as The Pretzels. I came up with this recipe for an annual local recipe contest. People couldn’t believe that this delicious bread had pretzels in the mix! For variety, try using different flavors of pretzels. —Andrea Johnson, Freeport, Illinois
If you’re a guacamole lover, try this fun grilled version that has a smoky flavor. The veggies tend to darken a bit when heated, so stir it gently to prevent further discoloration. —Lindsay Sprunk, Noblesville, Indiana
When entertaining, I often rely on my pepper tapenade recipe because it takes only 15 minutes to whip up and pop in the fridge. Sometimes I swap out the almonds for walnuts or pecans. —Donna Magliaro, Denville, New Jersey
With just 10 minutes of prep time, this creamy and delicious crab dip couldn't be easier. The recipe comes from my hometown cookbook, and my co-workers rave about it at every work potluck! —Julie Novotney, Rockwell, Iowa
I received this, my go-to veggie dip recipe, from a college roommate. Thick and creamy with just a touch of sweetness, it's always a winner. —Lynne German, Woodland Hills, California
If you like pina coladas, you've gotta try this fluffy fruit dip. Scooped up with a slice of fresh pineapple, it tastes just like the beloved beachside drink. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee Wisconsin
I came up with this appetizer for my son, who's big on delicious but healthy food. The lighter beans-and-dip combo has won over even finicky eaters. —Dinah Halterman, Harmony, North Carolina
We love hummus, and this version is really amazing. If you have a pressure cooker, this is an easy, tasty reason to pull it out! We pair hummus with fresh veggies for a meal or snack. —Monica and David Eichler, Lawrence, Kansas
During the busy holiday season, you just can't beat convenient slow cooker recipes like this that let you visit with guests instead of working away in the kitchen. —Lisa Renshaw, Kansas City, Missouri
Years ago, my husband invented this gooey cheese dip. I may be biased, but I have to say it's excellent. If you like heat, rev it up with finely chopped jalapenos. —Patricia Leinheiser, Albuquerque, New Mexico
I’m all about the sweeter side of dips, and this brownie-batter variety fits in with my life’s philosophy: Chocolate makes anything better. Grab some fruit, cookies or salty snacks and start dunking. —Mel Gunnell, Boise, Idaho
Guests are quick to dig into this delectable dip. With tender chunks of chicken and Asian seasoning, it's a nice switch from traditional taco dip. —Bonnie Mazur, Reedsburg, Wisconsin
I never thought of using waffle-cut fries as a scoop for dip until a friend of mine did at a baby shower. They’re ideal for my cheesy bacon and chive dip, which tastes just like a baked potato topper. —Betsy King, Duluth, Minnesota
This irresistible combo could become your new signature snack food. Park the spicy baked chips next to a bowl of the cool, creamy dip and let the gang have at it. What a fantastic twist on traditional chips and dip! —Elizabeth Godecke, Chicago, Illinois
Every time I make this quick blue cheese dip, someone asks for the recipe. It only requires a few items, so its a snap to put together. I often prepare the thick spread with Gorgonzola cheese and serve it with toasted pecans. —Sandy Schneider Naperville, Illinois
Get the scoop on making a standout guacamole. A handful of chopped celery adds some fun crunch in this avocado dip—everyone’s favorite fiesta starter. —Catherine Cassidy, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
When my family gathers for a party, someone serves this flavorful, creamy dip. Everyone loves its zip from the jalapeno pepper and the crunch of the broccoli. —Barbara Maiol, Conyers, Georgia
Some people like this cheesy dip so much that they can't tear themselves away from the appetizer table to eat their dinner. But can you blame them? With two kinds of cheese and sweet onions in the mix, this ultra creamy dip is unforgettable. —Mona Zignego, Hartford, Wisconsin
This creamy dip is oozing with cheesy goodness thanks to the combination of cream cheese and mozzarella. We topped ours with pepperoni slices, but you can easily customize it with your favorite pizza toppings. This is just one more delicious way to use your cast-iron pan. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
While my children were always very willing eaters, I came up with this recipe to get them to eat more veggies and enjoy it. The dip doesn't last long in our house. —Sarah Vasques, Milford, New Hampshire
This slow-cooked spread tastes just like the popular Reuben sandwich. Even when I double the recipe, I end up with an empty dish. —Mary Jane Kimmes, Hastings, Minnesota
My friends and neighbors expect me to bring this irresistible dip to every gathering. When I arrive, they ask, "You brought your bean dip, didn't you?" If there are any leftovers, we use them to make bean and cheese burritos the next day. I've given out this recipe a hundred times. —Wendi Wavrin Law, Omaha, Nebraska
Try this recipe for a warm, hearty snack with a bit of a kick. It's a hit with my family, and guests rave about it, too. Ideal for parties, it makes a big potful. The only "utensil" you'll need to serve it with is a brimming bowl of tortilla chips. —Carol Smith, Sanford, North Carolina
A taste of the tropics will be welcomed by your holiday guests. The cool and creamy dip can be served as an appetizer or a dessert.
—Shelly Fisher, Hermiston, Oregon
When serving a crowd, double or quadruple this guacamole. The onion, tomato and mango can be chopped in advance. Add avocado just before serving. —Diana Nienberg, McComb, Ohio
Anyone can pull off spinach and artichoke dip—so brighten it up using collard greens for a southern twist. Serve this dish with warm garlic naan or tortilla chips. —Billie Williams-Henderson, Bowie, Maryland
I alter my sister's dip recipe by adding finely chopped jalapeno for a little heat. It's a different way of serving corn as a dip that can be made ahead of time and refrigerated until serving. —Pat Roberts, Thornton, Ontario
This is a spinoff of a Mexican dip I had once. The original was wicked good, but since I was going through an "I’m-so-over-Mexican-dip" phase, I decided to switch it up. Take it to a party—I'll bet you no one else will bring anything like it! —Mandy Rivers, Lexington, South Carolina
Chocolate, cinnamon and a touch of heat are a classic Mexican trio. Any fruit goes in this fudgy dip. And don't forget the churros! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
I like traditional seven-layer Mexican dip, but I love Mediterranean ingredients even more. When I made this mashup, my husband wolfed it down. And he won’t even touch hummus or Greek olives on their own! —Bee Engelhart, Bloomfield Township, Michigan
I have a massive herb garden in the summer, with an abundance of chives. This cream-cheesy dip helps use them up. Make it a few days in advance for best flavor. —Sarah Vasques, Milford, New Hampshire
My tangy, smoky dip won the top prize in our office party recipe contest. Use your favorite beer or ale, but steer clear of dark varieties. —Ashley Lecker, Green Bay, Wisconsin
While I was growing up, I would sit for hours reading cookbooks from cover to cover. I've carried that love of cooking with me through the years. I found this recipe when we lived in Wisconsin. - Julie Barwick, Mansfield, Ohio.
Instead of the same taco dip at every family event or potluck, try this light, cool and refreshing Greek dip. It looks and tastes healthy—and it is. —Shawn Barto, Winter Garden, Florida
There isn't a bean that my family does not like. In fact, I serve one kind or another almost every day. This dip is one of our favorite ways to eat them. —Nancy Testin, Harrington, Delaware
Dig in to this rich, warm one-skillet dip, topped with fresh tomato and green onions, and enjoy the gooey cheese and spicy kick from the chorizo and pepper jack. —Julie Merriman, Seattle, Washington
Just by using different types of beans, you can make this dip as spicy as you like it. My family could eat this as a complete meal. —Jeanne Shear, Sabetha, Kansas
With this creamy dip, I can get my daughters to eat spinach and artichokes. We serve it with chips, toasted pita bread or fresh veggies. —Jennifer Stowell, Montezuma, Iowa
Ranch dressing got its start on a real dude ranch in California. Punch up the Western original with green salsa, green chilies, jalapenos and cilantro for more color and spice. Serve the dip along with your favorite wings to feed a crowd. —Lindsay Duke, Goodrich, Texas
When a colleague brought this cheesy dip to school for a teachers potluck, I immediately gave it an A+. I had to have the recipe for this irresistibly creamy dish! —Ardyce Piehl, Poynette, Wisconsin
I adapted this texas caviar from one in a cookbook I received a long time ago, and now, I can't imagine a get-together at my house without this quick and healthy appetizer. —Becky Oliver, Fairplay, Colorado
Beef up your snack game and serve this easy taco dip with meat. Full of classic flavors, it's a little extra satisfaction for those football-day appetites. —Errika Perry, Green Bay, Wisconsin
I love to try new recipes, and this one was a big hit with my family. It's great as an appetizer or for a light lunch. —Dottie Miller, Jonesborough, Tennessee
Serve this dish as an appetizer or a dessert—the choice is yours! If desired, the pineapple spears can be rolled in flaked coconut before grilling. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
I entertain a lot and am always looking for an easy crowd pleaser. If it's a dish in which I can use fresh ingredients from my herb and vegetable garden, it's even better! I serve this dip in individual servings for large parties so each person has their own cup. —Isabel Minunni, Poughkeepsie, New York
This zesty dip is great for any get-together and allows me to spend more time with my guests. I always have requests to bring it when my husband and I attend parties. —Sally Hull, Homestead, Florida
Longing for that Buffalo wing thing without the bones? This do-ahead dip freezes well in individual containers, so you can pull them out when you want to spread a little cheer. —Brenda Calandrillo, Mahwah, New Jersey
This crowd-pleasing appetizer is healthy to boot! Folks will love to eat their veggies when they can dip them in this zesty, fresh alternative to hummus. —Kelly Silvers, Edmond, Oklahoma
Sit back and relax with your family while enjoying this creamy dip. Colorful and festive, it's easy to put together ahead of time, which makes it perfect for game day. — Mary Anne McWhirter, Pearland, Texas
Any round loaf works as a serving bowl for this cream-cheesy dip, with spinach, cheddar, water chestnuts and, yes, bacon. Scoop the dip with the extra bread and veggies—then eat the bowl! —Frieda Meding, Trochu, Alberta
I brought this slightly spicy cheese dip to a gathering with friends and it was a huge hit. The spicy pork sausage provides the zip! —Marion Bartone, Conneaut, Ohio
My workplace had an appetizer contest, and I won it with my jalapeno and cheese dip. Every time I take it anywhere, folks empty the slow cooker. —Bev Slabik, Dilworth, Minnesota
This blind taste test was performed by our staff and was not part of a sponsorship. All opinions shared are our own and have not been influenced by advertisers.
Lisa is an associate editor at Taste of Home where she gets to embrace her passion for baking. She pours this love of all things sweet (and sometimes savory) into Bakeable, Taste of Home's baking club. At home, you'll find her working on embroidery and other crafts.