If you’re someone who craves bold heat, smoky depth, and tangy flavor, Chipotle Chips & Tomatillo-Red Chili Salsa is hands-down one of the most exciting sides on the Chipotle menu. This fiery yet balanced combo brings together crispy lime-seasoned tortilla chips and Chipotle’s spiciest house-made salsa, delivering a snack that’s vibrant, punchy, and incredibly satisfying.
Unlike milder options such as Fresh Tomato Salsa or sweeter choices like Roasted Chili-Corn Salsa, Tomatillo-Red Chili Salsa is designed for people who enjoy noticeable heat without sacrificing flavor. Made with roasted tomatillos, chile de árbol, New Mexico chilies, garlic, and cumin, it delivers a smoky, complex spice that lingers just long enough to keep you coming back for more.
What Is Chipotle Chips & Tomatillo-Red Chili Salsa?
Chipotle Chips & Tomatillo-Red Chili Salsa is a classic Chipotle side that includes:
- Freshly fried corn tortilla chips, lightly salted and finished with real lime juice
- Tomatillo-Red Chili Salsa, a smoky, spicy salsa made with roasted tomatillos and red chili peppers
Both components are prepared fresh daily in-store, ensuring maximum flavor and texture.
What Makes This Combo Unique
- Bold smoky heat rather than simple spiciness
- Tangy acidity from tomatillos
- Traditional Mexican spice blend (cumin, chile de árbol)
- Naturally vegan and gluten-free
- One of Chipotle’s spiciest salsa options
For spice lovers, this combo is often considered the ultimate chips & salsa experience at Chipotle.
Chips & Tomatillo-Red Chili Salsa
Price $3.00 / 570 kcal
Chipotle Chips & Tomatillo-Red Chili Salsa Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 570 | – |
| Total Fat | 25g | 38% |
| Saturated Fat | 3.5g | 18% |
| Cholesterol | 0mg | – |
| Sodium | 890mg | 37% |
| Carbohydrates | 77g | 26% |
| Dietary Fiber | 8g | 32% |
| Sugar | 1g | – |
| Protein | 7g | – |
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet.
Chipotle Chips & Tomatillo-Red Chili Salsa Ingredients
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Corn Tortilla Chips | Made from corn masa flour, fried in sunflower oil, seasoned with salt, and finished with lime juice. |
| Tomatillo-Red Chili Salsa | Roasted tomatillos, roma tomatoes, garlic, chile de árbol, New Mexico chilies, salt, black pepper, and ground cumin. |
Chipotle Chips & Tomatillo-Red Chili Salsa Allergens
| Allergen | Present? |
|---|---|
| Soy | ✔ Yes (via frying oil or processing) |
| Milk | ✖ No |
| Wheat (Gluten) | ✖ No |
| Eggs | ✖ No |
| Peanuts | ✖ No |
| Tree Nuts | ✖ No |
| Fish | ✖ No |
| Shellfish | ✖ No |
| Sesame | ✖ No |
Why You Should Order Chipotle Chips & Tomatillo-Red Chili Salsa
- Bold, Smoky Flavor — Roasted chilies and tomatillos bring depth and tang.
- Gluten-Free — Made from corn masa flour.
- Vegetarian-Friendly — No animal products.
- Perfect Snack Size — Enjoy on your own or share with a friend.
- Affordable Add-On — Only $2.85 for a flavorful combo.
Flavor Profile: What Does It Taste Like?
Chips
- Crunchy
- Lightly salted
- Bright citrus finish
Tomatillo-Red Chili Salsa
- Smoky and roasted
- Tangy and acidic
- Mild-to-medium heat
- Earthy spice notes from cumin
Together, they create a spicy, tangy crunch that’s deeply satisfying.
Spice Level: How Hot Is Tomatillo-Red Chili Salsa?
On Chipotle’s spice scale:
- Fresh Tomato Salsa → Mild
- Roasted Chili-Corn Salsa → Mild
- Tomatillo-Green Chili Salsa → Medium
- Tomatillo-Red Chili Salsa → Medium-Hot
It’s spicy, but not overwhelming — most people can enjoy it comfortably.
Best Pairings With Chipotle Chips & Tomatillo-Red Chili Salsa
| Menu Item | Price | Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Side of Guacamole | $2.95 | 230 Cal |
| Chips & Queso Blanco | $5.20 | 780 Cal |
| Chicken Burrito Bowl | $8.95 | 625 Cal |
| Steak Burrito | $9.45 | 665 Cal |
| Sofritas Salad (Vegan) | $8.45 | 540 Cal |
| Barbacoa Tacos (3) | $9.45 | 490 Cal |
| Carnitas Bowl | $8.95 | 610 Cal |
| Large Chips & Large Guacamole | $8.70 | 1270 Cal |
| Veggie Burrito | $8.45 | 685 Cal |
How Chipotle Makes This Combo Stand Out
- Freshly Fried Chips — Crisp texture and seasoned with salt and lime.
- Salsa Roasted for Depth — Tomatillos and chilies are roasted for smoky richness.
- Balanced Heat — Mild-to-medium spice that enhances without overpowering.
- Authentic Flavor Profile — Traditional ingredients like cumin and chile de árbol.
Expert Tips for Enjoying Chips & Tomatillo-Red Chili Salsa
- Mix with Guacamole — Creamy avocado helps balance the heat.
- Add to a Burrito Bowl — Use salsa as a topping for extra flavor.
- Double Dip — Pair with queso blanco for a smoky-cheesy combo.
- Use Chips as Scoops — Perfect for loading up with rice, beans, and protein.
- Pair with a Cold Drink — Lemonade or iced tea cools down the spice.
Health & Dietary Considerations
- Vegetarian — No meat or dairy.
- Gluten-Free Chips — Made from corn masa.
- Vegan — 100% plant-based.
- Good Fiber Content — 8g per serving.
- Moderate Calories — Lighter than queso-based combos.
FAQs
Is the Tomatillo-Red Chili Salsa spicy?
Yes, it has a mild-to-medium heat from red chili peppers, balanced by tangy roasted tomatillos.
Are the chips gluten-free?
Yes, they’re made from corn masa flour and fried in sunflower oil.
What makes this salsa smoky?
The combination of roasted chilies, garlic, and tomatoes gives it a deep, smoky flavor.
Is the combo vegetarian?
Yes, both chips and salsa are vegetarian-friendly.
Is it vegan?
Yes, it contains no animal-based ingredients.
Does it contain soy?
Yes, soy may be present from frying oil or processing equipment.
How many calories are in it?
It has 570 calories per serving.
What’s the sodium content?
It contains 890mg of sodium.
How much protein does it have?
It provides 7g of protein.
Is it good for sharing?
Yes, it’s perfect for two people or as a side dish.
Can I order chips and salsa separately?
Yes, both are available individually.
Is it healthy?
It’s a plant-based option with fiber, but also contains fried chips, so best in moderation.
How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate salsa and store chips in an airtight container.
Can I reheat chips?
Yes, in an oven for a few minutes to restore crispness.
What’s the best drink pairing?
Lemonade or sparkling water to balance spice.
Can I add this salsa to my entrée?
Yes, it works great in burritos, bowls, and tacos.
What’s the main difference between Tomatillo-Red and Tomatillo-Green Salsa?
The red version has a smokier, slightly spicier flavor profile compared to the tangier green salsa.
Conclusion
The Chipotle Chips & Tomatillo-Red Chili Salsa is a bold and flavorful combo that’s perfect for spice lovers. The smoky heat of the salsa pairs beautifully with the crisp, salty chips, creating a snack that’s both satisfying and full of character.
At just $2.85, it’s an affordable way to add a spicy kick to your Chipotle experience. Try pairing it with guacamole or queso blanco for an even more indulgent dipping spread.
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