Understanding the Cost: How much do chips and queso at Chipotle?
Determining the exact cost of Chipotle's chips and queso can be tricky due to fluctuating prices and regional variations. However, based on information available in mid-2025, we can provide a reliable estimate for a standard order. For a regular order of chips and queso blanco, customers can expect to pay around $4.75. For a larger size, the price will be higher. It's important to note that prices may differ depending on your specific location and whether you order in-store, online, or through a third-party delivery app like DoorDash. The price of add-ons is sometimes cheaper when part of an entree. Chipotle has also been known to implement price increases periodically to offset rising ingredient costs.
Nutritional Breakdown of a Popular Side
For a complete picture of how this snack fits into your diet, it's essential to look beyond the price tag and examine the nutritional content. The caloric and macronutrient values can be substantial, especially for the larger size.
Regular Chips and Queso Nutrition
- Calories: ~770-780
- Total Fat: ~41-43g
- Saturated Fat: ~15-16g
- Carbohydrates: ~80-82g
- Protein: ~17-20g
- Sodium: ~790-880mg
Large Chips and Queso Nutrition
- Calories: ~1270-1290
- Total Fat: ~71-75g
- Saturated Fat: ~26-28g
- Carbohydrates: ~124-127g
- Protein: ~31-36g
- Sodium: ~1390-1570mg
A Diet-Conscious Perspective
For many people, a single serving of chips and queso can represent a significant portion of their daily caloric, fat, and sodium intake. For instance, the large size contains over 1,200 calories, which for some is more than half their recommended daily total. The high saturated fat and sodium content are also noteworthy for those monitoring their cardiovascular health.
- Hidden Calories: While often considered a simple side, the large portion size means the calories can add up quickly, especially when paired with an entree.
- Sodium Overload: The large size's sodium content (up to 1,570mg) is over two-thirds of the recommended daily limit for many adults.
- Satisfying but Dense: The combination of salty chips and creamy, savory queso is undeniably satisfying but lacks the nutrient density of other menu items. It offers fewer vitamins and minerals compared to sides featuring vegetables or legumes.
How Chips and Queso Compare to Other Chipotle Sides
To provide context for your dietary choices, here is a comparison of the nutritional content for regular portions of various Chipotle side dishes. Note that nutritional information can vary slightly over time and by location.
| Side Dish | Calories | Total Fat | Saturated Fat | Sodium |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Regular Chips & Queso | 770-780 | 41-43g | 15-16g | 790-880mg |
| Regular Chips & Guacamole | 770-780 | 41-43g | ~12g | 700mg |
| Regular Chips (alone) | 540 | 25g | ~3g | 390mg |
| Side of Queso Blanco | ~300 | 20g | 12g | 400mg |
As the table indicates, the nutritional profile of chips and queso is comparable to chips and guacamole, though the queso option often has a higher saturated fat and sodium count for the same caloric intake. A key takeaway is that the chips themselves contribute a large number of calories and fat, but adding queso significantly increases the saturated fat and sodium. Opting for just the chips, or ordering a smaller side of queso and sharing, can be a more mindful choice for calorie management.
Conclusion
While a delicious and tempting treat, a regular order of chips and queso at Chipotle comes with a notable price tag and a significant nutritional impact. With calories ranging from 770 to nearly 1,300 for a large size, it's wise to consider this as more than just a side and to factor it into your overall daily intake. For those on a strict diet or monitoring sodium and saturated fat, alternatives or smaller portions are advisable. Balancing your dietary needs with your food cravings is key to making informed and healthy choices at fast-casual restaurants like Chipotle. For more detailed nutrition information, always check the official Chipotle website or a reliable nutrition resource like Verywell Fit.
