Tortilla chips are an essential snack staple, whether for game day, nachos night, or just a casual snack. With so many options on store shelves, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. That’s why this list ranks 14 store-bought tortilla chips, from worst to best, based on taste, texture, salt level, and structure (can they stand up to guacamole without crumbling?).
Let’s break down the rankings, starting from the bottom and moving to the top, so you can make an informed choice for your next snack attack.
14. O Organics White Corn Tortilla Chips
Why they’re ranked last:
O Organics White Corn Tortilla Chips may have the USDA organic label, but they fall flat in flavor. While they market themselves as a healthier, organic alternative, they lack any punch of taste.
The inconsistent salt distribution only makes matters worse. Some chips are overly salted, while others taste bland and unseasoned. If you see these at a party, you’ll likely need a dip to bring them to life.
13. Late July Organic Thin & Crispy Tortilla Chips
What went wrong:
Late July’s Organic Thin & Crispy Tortilla Chips claim to deliver restaurant-style chips, but they don’t live up to expectations. While they do get points for being organic and lightly salted, the lack of a bold corn flavor makes them feel like an afterthought.
Their thin, crispy texture works well for salsa, but these chips lack the wow factor needed to be a top contender. Perfect for those who like mild flavors but not much else.
12. Tostitos Original Restaurant Style Tortilla Chips
Too much salt, too little flavor:
Tostitos is a go-to brand for many, but their Original Restaurant Style Tortilla Chips are surprisingly bland despite a heavy salt profile. After an initial hit of salt, they leave behind a papery corn flavor that fades fast.
While they are sturdy enough for dipping, you’ll need a flavorful guacamole or queso to make these chips shine. Overall, they deliver more on salt than flavor.
11. 365 Organic Restaurant Style Salted Tortilla Chips
A Whole Foods miss:
Whole Foods’ 365 Organic Restaurant Style Salted Tortilla Chips provide decent crunch and thickness but suffer from uneven seasoning. Half of the chips in the bag are often broken, which affects their ability to stand up to a hearty dip.
Despite being organic, the flavor profile isn’t memorable, leaving you wishing for more. These chips are good for snacking but don’t bring anything exciting to the table.
10. Calidad Corn Tortilla Chips
A salty but satisfying option:
Calidad Corn Tortilla Chips bring a festive vibe with their bold, salty punch. These bright yellow chips have a pleasant corn flavor, and while some might find them a bit too salty, they’re a great option if you’re pairing them with a neutral dip like bean dip or salsa. These chips offer a slight chewiness, which can be either a plus or minus depending on personal preference.
9. Mission Fiesta Size Tortilla Rounds
Perfect for dipping:
Mission Fiesta Size Tortilla Rounds are sturdy and perfectly shaped for dipping. These tortilla rounds have a corn-forward flavor and are salted just right. Although they lack the flair of some higher-ranked chips, their strength lies in their structure—perfect for holding chunky salsa, guacamole, or melted cheese. These chips are great for parties, where durability matters as much as flavor.
8. Garden Of Eatin’ Blue Corn Tortilla Chips
Unique flavor with a crunch:
These blue corn chips from Garden of Eatin’ stand out for their hearty, nutty flavor. Blue corn has a distinct taste, and this brand delivers a light yet grainy texture that works well with most dips. They’re on the thinner side, but their flavor is strong enough to hold up on its own. These chips are perfect if you’re looking for a healthy-feeling snack with a bit of crunch.
7. On The Border Cafe Style Tortilla Chips
Built for big dips:
On The Border Cafe Style Tortilla Chips are all about strength and sturdiness. They’re thick, durable, and perfect for scooping up hearty guacamole, queso, or chili. While they’re slightly flakier in texture than some of the other chips on this list, they hold their own with bold dips.
The flavor, while solid, doesn’t stand out as much, but their ability to stand up to chunky dips earns them a spot in the top half.
6. Que Pasa Organic Yellow Corn Tortilla Chips
Rustic and flavorful:
Que Pasa’s Organic Yellow Corn Tortilla Chips are a solid contender. Made from stone-ground corn, these chips offer a bold, toasty flavor with visible flecks of the corn hull, which gives them a rustic appeal.
They have just the right amount of salt and crunch, making them a great option for everything from nachos to dipping. If you’re looking for a tortilla chip that combines quality ingredients and great taste, this is a fantastic option.
5. Casa Sanchez Thin & Light Tortilla Chips
Light but surprisingly strong:
Casa Sanchez Thin & Light Tortilla Chips are feather-light but strong enough to handle chunky salsa or queso without breaking. Their airy crunch and subtle toasted corn flavor make them highly snackable.
Despite being thin, they offer impressive durability, maintaining their integrity under heavier dips. These chips are perfect for those who want a light yet satisfying snack with minimal greasiness.
4. Siete Grain Free Tortilla Dip Chips
A grain-free favorite:
Siete Grain Free Tortilla Dip Chips may be free of grains, but they’re full of flavor. Made from cassava and other non-traditional ingredients, these chips are light, crunchy, and offer a unique, toasty flavor. They’re also perfect for those with dietary restrictions, as they’re gluten-free, grain-free, and cooked in avocado oil. If you’re looking for a healthy alternative without sacrificing taste, Siete is the way to go.
3. Gracias A Dios Multi-Corn Tortilla Chips
Crispy and blessed with flavor:
Gracias a Dios Multi-Corn Tortilla Chips deliver in both flavor and texture. These chips are lightly salted and have a satisfying roasted corn taste that’s hard to beat. Their light, crispy texture makes them perfect for snacking, and they hold up well with both thick and thin dips. These chips strike a perfect balance of taste and texture, landing them in the top three.
2. La Cocina De Josefina Mexican Restaurant Style Tortilla Chips
Frito vibes, but better:
La Cocina de Josefina Mexican Restaurant Style Tortilla Chips offer an incredible crunch and rich corn flavor. These chips resemble Fritos in taste but are designed for dipping. The triangle-shaped chips are well-seasoned, and their perfect crunch makes them ideal for nachos or any dipping situation. If you’re a fan of strong, salty flavors with excellent crunch, Josefina’s chips are a must-try.
1. Juantonio’s Gluten-Free Tortilla Chips
The best of the bunch:
Juantonio’s Gluten-Free Tortilla Chips take the top spot for their unbeatable combination of taste, texture, and perfect seasoning. These chips are light, crispy, and have a slightly sweet corn flavor that’s complemented by just the right amount of salt.
They’re also gluten-free, making them a great option for those with dietary restrictions. Whether you’re eating them solo or pairing them with dip, Juantonio’s chips are the perfect snack.
Conclusion:
Finding the best store-bought tortilla chips doesn’t have to be difficult. Whether you prefer sturdy chips like On The Border or unique grain-free options like Siete, there’s something for everyone on this list.
From the classic crunch of Juantonio’s Gluten-Free Tortilla Chips to the unique flavors of Gracias a Dios Multi-Corn Chips, these rankings guarantee you’ll find the perfect tortilla chip for any occasion.
FAQs
1. What Is The Best Tortilla Chip For Guacamole?
Juantonio’s Gluten-Free Tortilla Chips offer the perfect balance of crunch and flavor, making them ideal for guacamole.
2. Are Tortilla Chips Gluten-Free?
Many brands offer gluten-free options, such as Siete Grain Free Tortilla Chips and Juantonio’s Gluten-Free Tortilla Chips.
3. Which Tortilla Chip Has The Least Salt?
Que Pasa Organic Yellow Corn Tortilla Chips have a mild salt level, making them a good option if you’re watching your sodium intake.
4. Can Tortilla Chips Be Part Of A Healthy Diet?
Yes! Brands like Siete Grain Free and Que Pasa Organic offer healthier alternatives made from quality ingredients.
5. What’s The Sturdiest Tortilla Chip For Nachos?
On The Border Cafe Style Tortilla Chips are sturdy and strong, perfect for holding up under layers of nacho toppings.
