We Found the Best Tortilla Chips for Dips, Salsas and More
Updated: Nov. 09, 2021Every editorial product is independently selected, though we may be compensated or receive an affiliate commission if you buy something through our links. Ratings and prices are accurate and items are in stock as of time of publication.
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.
Runner-Up: Donkey Salted Tortilla Chips
Score: 7/10
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.
Best in Show: Chi-Chi’s Tortilla Strips
Score: 8/10
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!
The Bottom Line
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.
Next, learn how to make taco dip.
Pretzel Bread Bowl with Cheese Dip
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, IllinoisGrilled Guacamole
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, IndianaRoasted Red Pepper Tapenade
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 JerseySlow-Cooker Crab Dip
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, IowaCreamy Red Pepper Veggie Dip
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
Pina Colada Dip
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
Pickled Green Beans with Smoked Salmon Dip
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
Classic Hummus
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
Chipotle Ham 'n' Cheese Dip
If you enjoy throwing dinner parties for friends, you can't beat a convenient slow-cooker recipe like this one. Who wants to be stuck in the kitchen? Just set the slow cooker on low and have fun visiting with guests. —Lisa Renshaw, Kansas City, MissouriChili con Queso
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
Brownie Batter Dip
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, IdahoLayered Asian Dip
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
Loaded Baked Potato Dip
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
Spicy Sweet Potato Chips & Cilantro Dip
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, IllinoisChunky Blue Cheese Dip
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
Catherine's Guacamole
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
Warm Broccoli Cheese Dip
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
Cheesy BBQ Beef Dip
Barbecued beef dip is a holiday staple in our house. My husband can't get enough! —Selena Swafford, Dalton, GeorgiaCheesy Skillet Pizza Dip
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
Roasted Vegetable Dip
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
Buffalo Wing Dip
If you like spice, you'll love this dip. It's super cheesy, full of rich flavor and really has that Buffalo wing taste! —Taste of Home Test KitchenPaddy's Reuben Dip
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, MinnesotaChampionship Bean Dip
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, NebraskaCheesy Beef Taco Dip
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
Pina Colada Fruit Dip
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
Chunky Mango Guacamole
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
Hot Collards and Artichoke Dip
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
Fresh Corn & Avocado Dip
I alter my sister's recipe by adding finely chopped jalapeno for a little heat. This is a different way of serving corn as a dip that can be made ahead of time and refrigerated until serving. —Pat Roberts, Thornton, Ontario
Tuscan Sausage & Bean Dip
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 CarolinaMexican Chocolate Dip
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
Seven-Layer Mediterranean Dip
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
Chive Mascarpone Dip with Herbed Pita Chips
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
Slow-Cooker Cheddar Bacon Beer Dip
My tangy, smoky dip won the top prize in our office party recipe contest. Other beers can work for this, but be sure to steer clear of dark varieties. —Ashley Lecker, Green Bay, Wisconsin
Cheesy Pizza Fondue
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.
9-Layer Greek Dip
Instead of serving 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, FloridaGarlic Bean Dip
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
Queso Fundido
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, WashingtonSouthwestern Bean Dip
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, KansasSlow-Cooker Spinach & Artichoke Dip
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
Simple Salmon Dip
This is my go-to dip recipe for summer barbecues. The secret is the green chiles—they add just enough heat. —Susan Jordan, Denver, Colorado
Jalapeno Ranch Dip
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
Classic Texas Caviar
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
Ground Beef Taco Dip
What's a football party without taco dip? This version made with spicy ground beef and fresh toppings does not disappoint the die-hards. It is full of classic flavors and is a little extra filling for game day appetites. —Errika Perry, Green Bay, WICrunchy Vegetable Dip
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
Grilled Pineapple with Lime Dip
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
Fresh Herb Vegetable Dip
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
Nacho Salsa Dip
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
Buffalo-Style Chicken Chili Dip
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
Healthy Greek Bean Dip
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, OklahomaTex-Mex Dip
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, TexasBaked Spinach Dip Loaf
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
Slow-Cooker Cheese Dip
I brought this slightly spicy cheese dip to a gathering with friends and it was a huge hit. The spicy pork sausage gives the dip plenty of zip! —Marion Bartone, Conneaut, Ohio
Jalapeno Popper & Sausage Dip
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.
