Skip to Content

What Are the Best Potato Chips? Best Chips for Road Trips

Regarding snacking, one savory treat reigns supreme – potato chips! These crispy delights, known as crisps to many, have sparked endless debates among snack enthusiasts. Some swear by the classic salted chips, while others venture into adventurous flavors.

We understand that no travel experience is complete without the perfect travel snack. So, we’ve scoured the market, scrutinized taste, texture, shape, and even packaging to bring you a carefully curated list of the most popular and delectable potato chips. 

You might be wondering why we’re giving potato chips the Will Smith Oscars treatment on a travel blog. Well, think about it! What’s the one snack for you in every travel scenario, no matter where you go? You guessed it right – potato chips! They are the number one travel snack, the ultimate go-to when hunger strikes on the road or in the air.

So, let’s put aside any uncomfortable hostility and embrace that potato chips deserve the spotlight on our travel blog. After all, what’s a journey without a delightful snack to munch on, right?

Now, down to the real business – which potato chips brand reigns supreme for your epic road trip? What is the top-notch road trip chip that will keep you fueled and satisfied throughout your adventure? And which salty, crunchy delights should you stock up on for that plane journey?

These are the types of crucial, consumer-focused questions that ViaTravelers care about most and have been asked repeatedly. We’re aware this list is sure to generate a lot of debate. Let us know how right or wrong we are in the comments below!

Table of Contents

Best Potato Chips

A few factors need to be considered when trying to answer this question. What kind of potato chip are you looking for? Are you looking for a classic flavor or a unique alternative?

What brand do you prefer? There are a lot of different brands out there, and each one has its following. Where are you going and for how long? This could influence what chips to bring based on quantity and packaging.

Finally, what is your budget? A bag of potato chips can range in price from $1 to over $100 – for a single bag! To help you choose, here are a few of the top-tier potato chips:

1. Utz Origianl Potato Chips

Bag of UTZ Original Potato Chips

Utz Original Potato Chips are some of the top potato chips you can buy and are a favorite of the older crowd.

They are made with 100% real potatoes and have a delicious, salty taste that everyone will love. It has a perfect balance of salt and potato flavor and is not too greasy. 

They’re not too hard or soft – they’re just right. I always enjoy eating them, and I never get tired of their simplicity.

2. Wise Chips

Bag of Wise Natural Potato Chips

Wise Chips are perfect if you’re searching for the best potato chips. With a delicious, classic taste, Wise Chips will satisfy your cravings. It is made with only the finest ingredients.

These chips are perfect for snacking at any time of the day. So if you’re after a snack you can trust, reach for a bag of Wise Chips.

The brand offers an assortment of potato chip flavors, such as:

  • Original
  • Cheddar Cheese
  • Sour Cream and Onion
  • Barbecue
  • Jalapeño Pepper

3. 365 Whole Foods Market Rippled Chips

365 by Whole Foods Market, Chip Potato Rippled Sea Salt Party Size
365 by Whole Foods Market / Amazon

365 Whole Foods Market Rippled Potato Chips are a great way to snack on something healthy and delicious. These store-brand chips are made with whole grains and are a good source of fiber. They also contain antioxidants, which can help protect your body against disease.

365 by Whole Foods Market has a wide variety of chip flavors to choose from, all of which are delicious. My favorites are the Sea salt and vinegar chips, but the barbecue chips are also a close second.

The cheddar and sour cream chips are also delicious, and I love that there are so many different flavors to choose from. I would rank these as some of the BEST store-brand chips around.

See Related: Strangest Food in America You Should Try

4. Cape Cod Chips

Bag of Cape Cod Potato Chips

Cape Cod chips are a brand of potato chips made in the United States. The company that produces them is called the Cape Cod Potato Chip Company.

The chips are made with potatoes, sunflower oil, and salt. They come in different flavors, including sour cream and onion, salt and vinegar, cheddar cheese, and barbecue.

5. Terra Organic Exotic Potato Chips 

Terra Vegetable Chips, Exotic Potato with Sea Salt Real Vegetable Chips
Terra / Amazon

Terra Organic Exotic Potato Chips are an excellent choice for those looking for a healthier potato chip option or a distinct choice. They have varieties of vegetable chips, but their exotic potato chips with sea salt are my absolute fave.

They’re a good source of fiber and vitamins A and C. Some of these brightly colored chips also have a slightly sweet flavor, making them a delicious snack.

I just have two criticisms; the bags are tough to open, and the shards of some of these chips may cut you up something fierce if you don’t chew properly.

6. Kettle Brand Potato Chips

Bag of Kettle Brand Sea Salt and Vinegar Potato Chips

Kettle Brand Potato Chips are one of the world’s best-selling brands of potato chips. They come in several flavors, including Jalapeno, Sea Salt, and Barbecue. Kettle chips are made with all-natural ingredients and are cooked in small batches to ensure quality.

As far as I’m concerned, these are the daddy of all kettle chips, and seeing them in stores, cafes, airports, and my lunchbox brings me comfort and reassurance. The time and attention each Kettle Brand worker puts into their products is the care you can taste. It’s a must-try!

7. Lay’s Salt and Vinegar Chip

Pack of Lay's Salt & Vinegar Flavored Potato Chips

Lay’s Salt and Vinegar Chip is one of the best chips. They have a great flavor that is perfect for any occasion.

Lay’s potato chips are among the best because they are not too greasy, have the perfect amount of salt, and have a great flavor. They also have a nice crunch that I enjoy.

There are a lot of great Lay’s potato chips flavors, but my favorites are:

  • The salt and vinegar flavor.
  • The classic Lay’s potato chip.
  • The sour cream and onion flavor.

8. Deep River Snacks Cracked Pepper Potato Chips

Bag of Deep River Snacks Salt & Cracked Pepper Chips

They have a great flavor and the perfect amount of pepper. They’re also made with real potatoes, making them healthier than most potato chips.

9. Pringles Potato Crisps

Box of Pringles Potato Crisps Chips

Pringles Potato Crisps are one of the best types of potato chips that you can find on the market. They have a great flavor and a perfect crunch that everyone loves. Plus, Pringles chips come in various flavors, so you can always find one you will love.

10. Better Made Krinkle Cut

Bag of Krinkle Cut Potato Chips

The wavy chip sounds like Ruffled, and it is the best wavy potato chip. But now, I will think about the magical chips from Detroit.

They don’t have a place everywhere but should have. The chips provided depth, and a hearty russet potatoes taste, unlike others on the menu.

The scent of earth remained light and airy, though it had an exceptionally pleasantly delicate texture. The aftertaste reminded me of a potato, not stale bread. I’ll never be happy.

The second choice was easily accessible Boulder Canyon – the fruit-filled Avocado Oil. It gives them a delicious buttery flavor.

11. Deep River Snacks Black Truffle Potato Chips

Bag of Truffle Kettle Potato Chips

Deep River Snacks Black Truffle Potato Chips are some of the best chips that you can buy. They’re made with real black truffles, which give them a wonderful earthy flavor. They’re also gluten-free and non-GMO, making them a great choice for people with dietary restrictions.

12. Miss Vickie’s Kettle Cooked Potato Chip

Assorted Miss Vickie's Kettle Cooked Potato Chip

These are delicious snacks that can be enjoyed on the go. Miss Vickie started her company in 1987, and Miss Vickie’s chips are now sold in over 20 countries. Miss Vickie’s chips are made from locally sourced potatoes, and each batch is kettle-cooked to perfection.

Miss Vickie’s chips come in numerous flavors, including Original, Salt and Vinegar, and Cheddar Cheese. Miss Vickie’s chips are also available in a gluten-free option. Miss Vickie’s Kettle Cooked Chips are the perfect snack for your next adventure.

13. Food Should Taste Good Sweet Potato Tortilla Chips

Tortilla Chips

Food Should Taste Good Sweet Potato Tortilla Chips combine the great taste of sweet potatoes with the crunch of a tortilla chip. These chips are perfect for snacking, whether at home or on the go.

Food Should Taste Good Sweet Potato Tortilla Chips are made with real sweet potatoes, GMO-free, gluten-free, and dairy-free. They’re also certified kosher and vegan. What’s not to love?

So if you’re in search of a delicious and healthy snack option, be sure to try Food Should Taste Good Sweet Potato Tortilla Chips.

14. Hawaiian Kettle Style Potato Chips

Pack of Hawaiian Kettle Style Potato Chips

Hawaiian Kettle Style Potato Chips are a popular snack food in the United States and for a valid reason. These chips are thin and crispy, with just the right salt.

They’re also very versatile; it pairs well with various dips and sauces. The Kettle Brand chips are made from 100% Hawaiian-grown potatoes, kettle-cooked in small batches using locally-sourced sunflower oil.

The result is a delicious chip perfect for snacking on the go. So if you’re searching for a tasty snack to take on your next adventure, try this snack.

15. Ruffles Potato Chips

Package of Ruffles Original Potato Chips

Ruffles Potato Chips are a popular snack food around the world. Frito-Lay, a subsidiary of PepsiCo, owns the Ruffles brand. They are made from peeled and sliced potatoes, then fried in vegetable oil.

The chips are then seasoned with salt and other flavorings. It comes in many flavors, including sour cream and onion, cheddar cheese, barbecue, etc.

These chips are often eaten as a snack or side dish but can also be used as an ingredient in recipes. For instance, Ruffles can be crushed and used to coat fried chicken or fish.

16. SpudLove Organic Potato Chips

SpudLove Organic Potato Chips Package

SpudLove Potato Chips are the perfect snack for those on the go. These chips are made from organic potatoes and are fried in vegetable oil.

This gives them a crispy texture and a delicious flavor. These snacks are also low in sodium and fat, making them a healthy option for excursionists.

In addition, the brand provides chips that are GMO-free and gluten-free. So whether you’re searching for a tasty snack or a healthy choice, SpudLove Chips are perfect.

17. Golden Flake Sweet Heat BBQ

Single Pack of Golden Flake Sweet Heat BBQ Potato Chips

Established in the 1920s and headquartered in Birmingham, Alabama, the company behind Golden Flake has earned a significant following. The Sweet Heat BBQ flavor stands out among their most beloved offerings—a delightfully thin and crispy potato chip coated in a delectable sweet and spicy BBQ sauce.

Available in both regular and mini-size bags, these chips can be found in select vending machines, ensuring a convenient snacking experience. Golden Flake’s diverse flavors extend beyond Sweet Heat BBQ, encompassing options like salt, vinegar, and cheddar cheese, catering to multiple tastes.

18. Calbee Mega Potato Chips

Hot And Spicy Calbee Mega Potato Chips

Calbee Mega Potato Chips have become a favored snack among locals in Japan, and travelers may find this delightful treat a delightful discovery. Crafted from real potatoes, these chips stand out with their impressive thickness and satisfying crunch.

The chips boast a robust potato flavor that will captivate your taste buds, making them highly addictive. For those seeking a novel snacking experience, these chips are a must-try.

19. Koikeya Suppo Mucho Chips

Single Pack of Koikeya Suppamucho Potato Chips

Koikeya Suppo Mucho Chips are famous in Japan as a beloved potato chip variety. Characterized by their thin and crispy texture, these chips are seasoned with a delightful blend of salt and other tantalizing seasonings. Once you start munching on them, you’ll find them intensely addictive, making finishing an entire bag in one sitting effortless!

If you’re seeking a delicious snack to accompany you on your next journey, look no further than a bag of Koikeya Suppo Mucho Chips. The delightful taste and irresistible crunch will make your trip even more enjoyable.

20. Oishi Potato Chips

Oishi Potato Chips in yellow Packaging
Oishi / Oishi

Oishi is a renowned snack company that takes pride in its delectable Oishi potato chips. Crafted from thick-cut potatoes and fried to perfection in vegetable oil, these chips are seasoned with a savory blend of salt and a range of spices.

Indulging in Oishi’s range of flavors is a treat, with options like original sour cream and onion, barbecue, and cheese, each catering to diverse tastes. Beyond potato chips, Oishi presents a delightful array of snacks, including pretzels, crackers, and popcorn, further showcasing their commitment to culinary excellence.

Although Oishi chips may not be widely available beyond the Philippines, enthusiasts can still find them in Asian markets and through online retailers. Savor the distinct flavors of Oishi and immerse yourself in the unique snacking experience they have to offer.

21. Jack ‘n Jill Potato Chips

Single Pack of Jack 'n Jill Potato Chips

Jack ‘n Jill Potato Chips are a popular snack food in the Philippines. The chips are made from locally grown potatoes and are flavored with vinegar, salt, and pepper.

Jack ‘n Jill is one of the most popular brands of potato chips in the Philippines and can be found in most supermarkets and convenience stores. The company also offers several other snacks, such as cassava chips and plantain chips.

22. Crackle Snacks Potato Chips

Crackle Snacks Potato Chips in Salted Egg Flavor
Crackle Snacks / Crackle Snacks

Crackle Snacks potato chips are a delicious and healthy snack option perfect for journeyers. These chips are made with real potatoes and are free of artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives.

This snack is also certified gluten-free and vegan, making them a perfect snack for those with dietary restrictions.

In addition, Crackle Snacks potato chips are baked, not fried, making them a healthier option than traditional potato chips. Travelers will love the convenience of being able to pack a healthy and delicious snack that can be enjoyed on the go.

23. Good Boy Bake Organics Potato Chips

Pack of Good Boy Organics Baked Organic Potato Snack

Look no further than Good Boy Bake Organics Potato Chips for those searching for a healthier option than standard potato chips. Crafted with organic potatoes and baked instead of fried, these snacks boast lower fat and calorie content than their traditional counterparts.

What’s more, they cater to a range of dietary preferences, being gluten-free, free of artificial additives, and suitable for vegans and those adhering to Kosher guidelines. With enticing flavors like sea salt, vinegar, and rosemary, these chips offer a diverse range of delicious choices. Ideal for travelers seeking a wholesome and delectable on-the-go snack, Good Boy Bake Organics potato chips truly hit the mark.

24. Orion Thick Cut Potato Chips

Single Pack of Orion Muddukdduk Potato Chips

Orion is a potato chip brand that is popular in Korea. The thick-cut chips come in several flavors, including original, cheese, and sour cream.

Orion potato chips are a common sight in Korean supermarkets and convenience stores, and they make a great snack for journeyers looking for something tasty and inexpensive. If you’re searching for a savory snack to munch on during your travels, try Orion potato chips!

25. Haitai Honey Butter Chip

Single Pack of Haitai Honey Butter Chip

Haitai Honey Butter Chip offers a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors as it coats a crispy, thin potato chip. Originally a beloved snack in Korea, these chips have also rapidly gained popularity in the United States.

Enjoyed as a delightful standalone snack or a delightful side dish, Haitai Honey Butter Chips can also be a delectable ingredient in a range of dishes, like salads or stir-fries, adding a unique twist to your culinary adventures. For those seeking a distinctive and unforgettable snack to savor on their next journey, Haitai Honey Butter Chips stand out as an excellent and enticing choice.

26. Panpan Potato Chips

Panpan Potato Chips in can
Panpan / KTZ Company

When it comes to potato chips, there’s no brand more iconic than Panpan. What sets Panpan apart from other brands is its unique flavor.

While conventional potato chips often lean towards salty or savory, Panpan potato chips takes a different route with its delightfully sweet and sour taste. This unique and signature flavor has earned Panpan a devoted following among travelers and snack enthusiasts alike. If you seek a different snacking experience, indulge in a bag of these extraordinary chips next time you’re craving a tasty treat.

27. Stips Chips Salted Egg Potato Chips

Single Pack of Stip's Chips

Stips Chips Salted Egg potato chips are a delicious, unique snack for journeyers. This potato snack is made with real salted eggs, giving them an irresistible savory and salty flavor. In addition, the chips are lightly fried, so they are crispy and crunchy.

This tasty snack is a great snack to take on the go, and they are perfect for sharing with friends. In search of a delicious and unique snack? You should try Stips Chips Salted Egg potato chips.

28. Kettle Brand Potato Chips – Sea Salt

Kettle Brand Potato Chips in Sea Salt Flavor
Kettle / Amazon

Kettle Brand Potato Chips Sea Salt flavor is a timeless classic for those who appreciate the simple pleasures in life. Cooked to perfection in canola oil, these crispy chips are lightly sprinkled with sea salt, elevating the natural potato taste to a whole new level of satisfaction.

These chips are seasoned to perfection with just the right amount of sea salt, enhancing the natural taste of the potato without overpowering it. Each chip is a burst of flavor, transforming even the simplest rest stop into a taste adventure.

As you hit the road, space is precious, and the last thing you need is a bulky snack that takes up valuable room in your car. Kettle Brand Potato Chips come in perfectly portioned bags that fit snugly into your travel gear.

29. Ruffles Sour Cream & Onion Chips

Ruffles in Sour Cream & Onion Flavored Chips
Ruffles / Amazon

Enter the realm of creamy indulgence with Ruffles’ Creamy Onion potato chips. Bursting with the richness of creamy onions, these chips are perfect for those who crave a unique and savory experience during their road trip.

There’s no room for boring snacks on a road trip, and Ruffles Sour Cream & Onion Chips – Sea Salt brings the flavor game to a new level. The tangy sour cream and zesty onion combination create a taste explosion that’ll have your taste buds dancing with delight.

30. Kettle Honey Dijon Chips

Kettle in Honey Dijon Flavored Chips
Kettle / Amazon

Indulge in the sweet and tangy harmony of Kettle’s Honey Dijon potato chips. Made with a blend of honey dijon mustard seeds, these chips deliver a great honey dijon flavor that pairs wonderfully with the crunchiness of the potato chips.

The unique combination of sweet honey and zesty Dijon mustard creates an explosion of flavors. It strikes the perfect harmony between sweet and salty, offering the best of both worlds. Whether cruising through picturesque landscapes or taking a break at a charming roadside café, these chips are the ideal companion for savoring every sweet, salty moment of your adventure.

31. Boulder Canyon – Mustard Powder & Honey

Boulder Canyon in Mustard Powder & Honey Flavor
Boulder Canyon / Amazon

Venture into the exciting realm of Boulder Canyon’s Mustard Powder & Honey potato chips. Crafted with the perfect balance of tangy mustard powder and sweet honey powder (dried cane syrup), these chips promise an explosion of flavors that will leave you craving for more.

Boulder Canyon – Mustard Powder & Honey – Sea Salt chips are a delightful medley of tangy mustard powder, sweet honey, and the perfect hint of sea salt. With each crunchy bite, you’ll be treated to an explosion of flavors that will keep you eagerly reaching for more, mile after mile.

How to Make Homemade Potato Chips

Cooking Homemade Potato Chips is a great way to enjoy your favorite snack without all the unhealthy additives. First, you’ll need some potatoes. You can use any potato you like, but I recommend using a russet potato because it has low moisture content and is ideal for making chips.

Ingredients

  • Potatoes
  • Oil for frying
  • Salt
  • Flavoring such as Cheese powder, Garlic powder, BBQ powder, Sour Cream Powder, etc. (Optional)

Directions For Cooking Baked Potato Chips

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C). Cut the potatoes into thin slices with a sharp knife, discarding the skin. Soak the potato slices in cold water for about 20 minutes—drain and pat dry with paper towels.

In a large bowl, combine the potato slices, oil, garlic powder (optional), salt, and pepper. Spread the potato slices in a single layer on two baking sheets. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown and crisp, turning once during baking.

Directions For Cooking Fried Potato Chips

Preheat oil in a big pot. Cut potatoes into thin slices using a mandoline or a sharp knife. Fry potatoes in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 3 minutes per batch. Sprinkle with salt (for with other flavorings) and serve hot.

Potato chips make a fantastic snack and serve as a delightful canvas for your preferred flavors. Whether you’re in the mood for adventurous new tastes or to stick to your tried-and-true favorites, these chips are guaranteed to cater to all your cravings.

Worry not for those who prefer the simplicity and convenience of ready-made options – we’ve got you covered with a recipe for creating your potato chips at home. So, there’s no need to wait any longer. Grab a bag or two and have a delightful snacking adventure.

What are Potato Chips?

Slices of Potato Chips

These delectable treats are a type of snack food crafted from thin slices of potatoes, traditionally deep-fried, but now many are baked for a healthier twist. They’ve become a go-to snack on the move and are often paired with various dips and sauces.

But hold on, the potato chip world is vast – countless brands, some being divine while others not so much. Every nation boasts an array of flavors and varieties, making it a true chip lover’s paradise.

So, if you think reviewing potato chips is irrelevant to a travel site, think again, my friend! Knowing the best chips from different corners of the world can elevate your travel-snacking game to divine levels.

History of Potato Chips

The history of potato chips traces back to an unexpected culinary mishap in 1853 when George Crum, a chef in Saratoga Springs, New York, revolutionized snacking forever. Faced with a customer’s complaint about thick and soggy French fries, Crum had a stroke of genius – he sliced the potatoes paper-thin and fried them to a perfect crisp. 

The delighted customer fell in love with the new creation, and thus, the potato chip was born. Today, potato chips have become a staple snack food, dominating global markets as the largest snack food sector. From their accidental inception to their current status as a favorite indulgence, potato chips have undoubtedly earned their place in snack history.

See Related: Strange Foods in America You Should Try

Different Types of Potato Chips

Nowadays, two main types of potato chips; baked and fried.

The Baked Potato Chip

Bowl of Bake Potato Chips

Baked potato chips are a healthier option than regular chips. They are made with potatoes, olive oil, and salt. They are a great snack when looking for something crunchy and salty.

Numerous brands of baked potato chips are on the market, but some of the best include Kettle BrandLay’s, and Cape Cod.

These brands offer a selection of flavors and textures, so you will likely find one you love. If you’re searching for a healthier option, try baked chips instead of regular chips. You’ll be glad you did!

The Fried Potato Chip

Bowl of Fried Potato Chips and a Glass of Beer

Plenty of potato chips are on the market, but which is the best? In my opinion, the best potato chips are those that are fried.

The simple reason for this is variety. There is a wider variety of delicious fried chips out there because it is faster, easier, and cheaper to make potato chips by frying them than by baking them.

Then, the techniques are employed in frying these slices of crunchy heaven. Among the top-tier fried potato chips are extra-crunchy and super-adult kettle-cooked chips.

Kettle-cooked chips are a type of chip that is made by boiling potatoes in oil. The potatoes are then cut into thin slices and fried in oil at a low temperature.

Baked Potato Chip vs. Fried Potato Chips

Regarding the battle of potato chips, there are two contenders: the baked and the fried. Baked potato chips win the health game, using way less oil and boasting fewer fats and calories than their fried counterparts.

They offer a satisfying crunch but sometimes fall short in the flavor department due to lower fat content and less salt. Beware some dry and cardboard-like varieties that can survive a day on the counter without losing their crunch.

Alternatively, fried potato chips take the flavor crown with their delightful indulgence and endless variety. They may not be the healthiest option, but if you want to indulge in the tastiest experience, go for the fried ones. In the ultimate showdown of baked vs. fried, you must decide whether health or flavor wins your snacking heart.

Why are Potato Chips Addictive?

Potato Chip

Thin and Thick-cut chips for a hearty crunch

There are a few different potato chips, but my favorite is the thick-cut chip – particularly if it’s crinkle-cut. The thick-cut chip is nice and hearty with a crunchy bite, and the wrinkled grooves are scientifically proven to enhance the flavor of the chip.

Thin chips have their place in the world. There’s nothing quite like the delicate crunch of a classic Lays or Walkers chip from the grab bag in your lunchbox.

Plus, store-brand potato chips, typically even thinner (because it’s cheaper), are great “training” chips for toddlers that won’t slice their gums up like a rogue Dorito or Kettle Brand chip.

An abundance of flavor options

When it comes to potato chips, the world is a flavor-filled playground! The options seem endless, from the classic sour cream and french onion to the tangy barbeque, the spicy jalapeno, and the zesty salt and vinegar. 

But hold onto your taste buds because the chip universe goes far beyond the ordinary. Ever heard of squirrel-flavored chips from Walkers? Or how about Lay’s cucumber flavor in China? Kettle Brand takes a bold step with Maple Bacon flavored kettle chips, while Pringles indulges in mint & chocolate and cinnamon & sugar flavors for the winter holiday season.

With many adventurous choices, from the quirky to the downright delicious, the world of potato chip flavors is an irresistible journey for any snack connoisseur.

Wide selection of brands

The options for potato chips are virtually endless, making it an exciting and sometimes overwhelming journey to find the perfect chip. The world of potato chip brands is vast and diverse, offering many flavors, textures, and styles to suit every snacker’s preference.

Each brand brings its unique twist from the artisanal crunch of Kettle Brand to the stackable delight of Pringles, the hearty goodness of Cape Cod, the exotic flair of Terra, and the global appeal of Walkers/Lay’s.

Many organic and gluten-free options

Organic and gluten-free potato chips are becoming more popular as people become more health-conscious. Small companies, such as Abeles & Heymann in Brooklyn, New York, make some of the best organic potato crisps or chips.

Provide a satisfying crunch and crispy texture.

That addictively crispy texture makes them America’s all-time favorite snack. When you take that first bite, your taste buds awaken to the salty, savory flavor goodness that keeps you returning for more. And with a range of brands, there’s no shortage of options to satisfy your chip cravings.

But what’s the secret behind that perfect crunch? Some chip packages may list modified corn starch and citric acid among the ingredients, which are additives that enhance the texture and preserve the mouthwatering freshness of the chips. So don’t worry!

These are safe and necessary for delivering the delicious and crispy potato chip experience you crave. When it comes to snacking, no other treat can compare to the delightfully satisfying and addictive crunch of a potato chip.

What Makes for a Great Potato Chip?

When it comes to defining a great potato chip, it all comes down to personal taste and preferences. Are you craving a classic flavor or feeling adventurous for a unique alternative? With a wide array of brands available, each with its loyal following, your favorite chip might be someone else’s second choice.

Of course, your budget also plays a role, as potato chips can range from affordable to premium prices. Potato chips can range from a few dollars to over $100 for a single bag. But above all, a great potato chip is the one that brings you pure snacking joy and satisfaction.

No MSG Is At the Top of the List For Most People

Ah, the ever-controversial MSG – it’s no stranger to the world of potato chips and processed food! Though commonly associated with Asian cuisine, many potato chip varieties contain this flavor enhancer, making them irresistibly addictive – you can’t stop at one! 

But fear not, astute snackers, for according to the reputable Mayo Clinic, there is no scientific link to the reported side effects of MSG. The so-called “Chinese Restaurant Syndrome” attributed to MSG is unfounded and even considered somewhat racist. 

In the developed world, MSG is a common ingredient found in numerous dishes, and you’ve likely been enjoying it without even knowing. So, next time you savor those finger-licking yummy potato chips, rest assured that the MSG isn’t a sneaky villain but merely an enhancer that elevates the snacking experience to new heights.

Baked Chips? A Healthy Alternative?

The memories of those old baked potato chips are enough to send a shiver down my spine. But fear not, for times have changed, and so have the baked chips. No more salted cardboard box taste, hooray! 

These modern baked delights are exceedingly moreish, offering a healthier alternative to their fried counterparts. Packed with more potassium, lower fat content, and fewer artificial flavors per serving, they’re guilt-free indulgence at its best. 

Some even come with a bonus boost of Vitamin C! Of course, I won’t rely on Sun chips for all my nutritional needs. No, that would be wild! But as a tasty snack, the new generation of baked potato chips is genuinely a treat to cherish. So, let’s embrace the evolution of chips and enjoy the crunch without guilt.

See Related: Potato Soup

Unique Flavors and Time-Tested Favorites Bring It Home

When it comes to chips, it all boils down to one crucial factor – the flavor! From classic, time-tested favorites to unique and daring creations, the taste determines whether a chip rises to the top or fails. 

Cheese-flavored chips should leave extra powder on your fingers, and sour cream and onion chips should coat you with cream and onion goodness. And don’t start on those barbecue chips – they should practically let you baste spareribs with your fingers after indulging. 

But hey, not all flavors need to cake your fingers; swimming in salt n vinegar, cheese, onion powder, chili lime, or jalapeno might be a bit much. It’s all about finding the right balance of flavor intensity. 

Uniqueness also plays a role – while nacho cheese is good, some of us might opt for Salt n’ Vinnies every time. Cheddar and sour cream? Oh, that’s a winner for many. But let’s admit it, Lay’s Thai Baked Scallop with Butter flavor might be too much flavor.

Don’t Be Afraid of the Local Brands

Did you know that over 1000 different brands of local potato chips in the United States are stocked on regional store shelves? Some of these small-batch chips are amazing and deserve the extra price!

The best one I’ve ever tried is from Rocky Mountain Natural Products. Their jalapeno fiesta chips give you a real kick in the pants through your tongue with a beautiful combination of sweet and spicy.

The benefit of the local brand is that you’re generally getting local ingredients, fewer preservatives, and you’re supporting local jobs with each purchase.

Thick Cut, Extra Crunchy, and Not So Greasy

When it comes to the ultimate potato chip, thickness matters! Say goodbye to those thin, spindly chips that crumble at the slightest touch. They might taste good, but they’re better suited as a batter for baked chicken than a chip (PRO TIP: Potato chips make GREAT batter).

A great chip should be thick enough to withstand dipping without turning into crumbs and deliver that satisfying crunch that elevates your snacking experience. But be careful not to go overboard on the crunch factor; we don’t want you giving yourself outpatient oral surgery every time you bite down on a chip.

Looking at you, kettle chips with your slightly curved over potato chips – we love the crunch, but let’s keep it dentist-friendly. So, fellow chip enthusiasts, keep an eye out for those thick-cut, extra crunchy, and not-so-greasy chips that will surely have you reaching for more.

See Related: Ways to Avoid the Fast Food Trap

As a Bonus: GMO-Free

No matter where you stand on GMOs, the fact that some chips have begun labeling their products as being GMO-free is helpful to some customers. If you’re keen on avoiding GMOs in your diet, you no longer have to exclude the potato chip completely. That is a beautiful thing!

FAQ

What are the best potato chips?

A wide array of fantastic potato chip choices exists, with Ruffles, Doritos, and Lay’s ranking among the top favorites. Each brand boasts a delectable, buttery flavor that will win the hearts of all who indulge.

What are sweet potato chips?

Opting for sweet potato chips presents a wholesome substitute for traditional potato chips. Rich in fiber and vitamin A, these delectable snacks boast a delightful balance of sweetness and saltiness, appealing to all palates. Their simple preparation makes them an accessible and enjoyable homemade treat, perfect for savoring at any time.

How do you make homemade potato chips?

Making your batch of delectable potato chips is a breeze. Thinly slice the potatoes, soak them in cold water, and then fry them in oil until achieving a luscious golden brown crispiness.

Alternatively, you can bake them in the oven for a healthier alternative.
Whichever method you choose, don’t forget to generously season with salt (and any other desired flavorings) before serving to elevate the taste to perfection.

What are some of the best flavorings for potato chips?

Some of the best flavorings for potato chips include cheese powder, garlic powder, BBQ powder, and sour cream powder. These all add a delicious depth of flavor to your chips that everyone will love.

What are some of the healthiest potato chips?

The best choices are cheese powder, garlic powder, BBQ powder, and sour cream powder. Each of these additions infuses your chips with a mouthwatering depth of flavor that is certain to captivate and delight everyone who indulges.

What are the best gluten-free potato chips?

Regarding gluten-free potato chips, a few excellent choices stand out; among them, Lay’s and Ruffles’ Gluten-Free Potato Chips top our list of favorites. These delectable chips offer the same irresistible flavors as their traditional counterparts, making them a delightful treat for everyone. Moreover, they are a perfect solution for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease, ensuring a worry-free and enjoyable snacking experience.

What are the best-flavored potato chips?

Among the favorites are Lay’s Sour Cream and Onion Potato Chips, Doritos Nacho Cheese Potato Chips, and Ruffles Cheddar and Sour Cream Potato Chips. These delectable snacks are packed with mouthwatering flavors that will delight your taste buds and keep you coming back for more.

What are the best organic potato chips?

When it comes to excellent organic potato chips, a couple of standout choices are Late July Organic Sea Salt Potato Chips and Kettle Brand Organic Potato Chips. These chips have earned our favorites’ status due to their commitment to using high-quality ingredients, resulting in a delightful taste that stands out.

Related Resources