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Nothing satisfies a salty, crunchy craving like snacking on chips. But when it comes to tiding over hunger, that starchy bag of Doritos isn’t doing you any favors. Opting for a mix of carbs and protein can help keep your hunger under control, reduce blood sugar spikes, and balance energy levels. That’s where protein chips come in.
Protein chips aim to deliver the same crispy, crunchy goodness as conventional chips, just with more protein. And thanks to the higher protein content (anywhere from 5 to 20 grams), they might even help curb mindless snacking and fuel gains.
We tested and ranked the best protein chips and reviewed the nutrition facts and flavor so you can get right to what matters—snacking.
Here are our top protein chip picks:
- Highest-Protein Protein Chip: Twin Peaks Ingredients Protein Puffs ($25/21 g protein)
- Healthiest Protein Chip: Whisps Cheddar Cheese Crisps ($2/10 g protein)
- Best-Tasting Protein Chip: Kibo Chickpea Protein Chips ($30/6 g protein)
Are Protein Chips Healthy?
From a nutrient perspective, protein chips are a healthier snack option than regular chips. The higher protein content will keep you fuller, longer. However, just like any other packaged food item, protein chips can be high in preservatives, artificial flavors, artificial colors, and questionable ingredients. Look for options that cut back on the fluff.
How Much Protein Do Protein Chips Have?
Protein chips made from milk, whey, or soy proteins tend to clock over 10 grams of protein per serving. Plant-based protein chips–typically made with legumes or soy—have lower amounts, anywhere from 5 to 8 grams.
7 Best Protein Chips to Try
Here are the healthiest and best-tasting protein chip options, ranked from least to most grams of protein.
Kibo Chickpea Chips Himalayan Sea Salt
(6 g protein per serving)
Plant-based chip seekers, look no further. While most protein chips rely on some combo of animal-based ingredients for protein, Kibo Chickpea Chips stick to plant-based ingredients. One serving contains 6 grams of protein and 40 percent less fat than potato chips. These chips get their protein from chickpeas and split peas and come in three fresh flavors: Sea Salt, Mediterranean, and Pico de Gallo. Plus, they’re free of preservatives.
Amount of Protein: 6 g
Tasting Notes: Airy, Nutty
Protein Source: Chickpeas, Yellow Split Peas, and Soy Protein Concentrate
Hilo Life Nacho Cheese
(9 g protein per bag)
If only your favorite nacho cheese Dorito chip had a sibling that was more nutritious. Oh wait, it does—say hello to HiLo Life’s Nacho Cheese chip. These almond flour tortilla-style chips pack 9 grams of protein and only 3 grams of net carbs per serving. That means they’re light enough to be enjoyed as part of a meal but also substantial enough to have alone as a satisfying snack.
Amount of Protein: 9 g
Tasting Notes: Cheesy, Savory, Slight Spice
Protein Source: Milk, Whey Protein Concentrate, Pea Protein Isolate, and Chia Protein
Whisps Cheddar Cheese Crisps
(10 g protein per serving)
Many of the brands we reviewed use protein isolates (which are more processed and trickier to digest) as the main source of protein in their chips. But not Whisps. These cheesy crisps get their protein from one simple ingredient: aged cheddar cheese. Whether you eat them on their own or crumble these crisps on top of a salad or soup you’ll get 10 grams of protein per serving. The fact that they’re gluten- and lactose-free is also a big bonus.
Amount of Protein: 10 g
Tasting Notes: Salty, Cheddar
Protein Source: Cheese
Wilde Protein Chips Himalayan Sea Salt
(13 g protein per bag)
Simply can’t resist a classic potato chip? Swap them for Wilde’s Protein Chips. They have the same texture but are made from 100 percent all-natural chicken breast, egg whites, and bone broth. Which means they’re free of gluten, dairy, nuts, and grains. A single serving packs 13 grams of protein—enough to keep you full between meals.
Amount of Protein: 13 g
Tasting Notes: Salty, Crispy, Gritty
Protein Source: Chicken Breast, Egg Whites, and Bone Broth
Wholesome Provisions Salt & Vinegar Protein Chips
(15 g protein per serving)
Pro tip for maximizing snack satiety: Combine protein and fiber. Wholesome Provisions Protein Chips deliver both with a whopping 15 grams of protein and 5 grams of fiber per serving. By our standards, this light and airy chip could compete with any in the chip aisle for crunch and flavor.
Amount of Protein: 15 g
Tasting Notes: Vinegar, Umami
Protein Source: Soy, Whey, and Pea Protein Concentrate
Quest Nacho Cheese Tortilla Style Protein Chips
(18 g protein per serving)
Quest fans will be happy to know the brand also offers protein chips that contain just as much protein as their bars. True to their high-protein, low-carb ethos, these gluten-free, keto-friendly chips contain 18 grams of protein and only 4 grams of net carbs per serving. Thinner than a classic tortilla chip, Quest Protein Chips are light but pack a flavorful punch.
Amount of Protein: 18 g
Tasting Notes: Cheesy, slight spice
Protein Source: Milk Protein Isolate, Whey Protein Isolate
Protein Puffs
(21 g protein per serving)
At the risk of being too niche, remember those cheesy puff balls you could buy in bulk at Staples? Twin Peaks Ingredients Protein Puffs are the exact replica of those old-school cheese puffs except they’re packed with 21 grams of protein per serving. Keto-friendly, potato-free, soy-free, and gluten-free, this snack is accessible to many with dietary restrictions and comes in five flavors.
Amount of Protein: 21 g
Tasting Notes: Weak nacho cheese taste
Protein Source: Milk Protein Isolate, Milk, and Whey Solids