Discover Delicious Chipotle Sides You Can’t Miss!
Quick Answer
Chipotle’s sides menu is filled with fresh and tasty options like chips, guacamole, queso, and salsas. Additionally, there are beans and rice available as sides. All of these items are made fresh daily with simple and real ingredients. These sides are suitable for people on all types of diets—whether you are vegan, vegetarian, or gluten-free. They complete any meal or can even serve as a small meal on their own.
Introduction
When people hear the name Chipotle Mexican Grill, they often think of burrito bowls, tacos, or salads. But the real joy of the meal doubles when it is accompanied by delicious sides. This guide covers all the side items at Chipotle—including their taste, ingredients, and which meals they pair best with.
The Role of Sides in the Chipotle Experience
Sides are not a luxury—they are a necessary component of the meal. For example, if you’re enjoying a chicken burrito bowl, adding chips or guacamole enhances the flavor and satisfaction. Chipotle’s commitment to fresh and healthy food clearly shines through in their side dishes as well.
Chipotle Sides Menu with Prices
| Side Item | Description | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Chips | Freshly fried tortilla chips | $1.95 |
| Chips & Guacamole | Chips served with Chipotle’s signature guac | $4.95 |
| Chips & Queso Blanco | Chips served with creamy white queso | $4.45 |
| Chips & Roasted Chili-Corn Salsa | Chips paired with mildly spicy corn salsa | $3.25 |
| Chips & Tomatillo Green-Chili Salsa | Chips with tangy green chili salsa | $3.25 |
| Guacamole (side only) | 100% Hass avocado with lime, cilantro, onion | $2.95 |
| Queso Blanco (side only) | Smooth white cheese sauce with jalapeños & spices | $2.45 |
| Roasted Chili-Corn Salsa | Sweet & spicy corn salsa side | $1.35 |
| Tomatillo Red-Chili Salsa | Fiery salsa with bold flavor | $1.35 |
| Tomatillo Green-Chili Salsa | Tangy tomatillo salsa | $1.35 |
| Fresh Tomato Salsa | Mild tomato salsa (pico de gallo style) | $1.35 |
| Extra Tortilla (Flour) | One soft flour tortilla on the side | $0.50 |
| Brown or White Rice (side) | Side portion of cilantro-lime rice | $1.50 |
| Black or Pinto Beans (side) | Side portion of beans | $1.50 |
| Fajita Veggies (side) | Bell peppers and onions sautéed with seasoning | $1.50 |
A Brief Overview of Chipotle’s Culinary Philosophy
Chipotle’s slogan is “Food with Integrity.” This means the food is made with real ingredients—no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives. Everything is fresh and clean, and the sides are no exception.
Guacamole: The Star of the Sides Menu
Guacamole is the standout item among Chipotle’s sides. Made fresh every day with avocados, onions, lime juice, and a touch of chili, this dip is not only flavorful but also nutritious. You can enjoy it with chips or add it to any entrée.
Chips and Guacamole: The Ultimate Combo
Chipotle’s chips are made from corn tortillas, fried in-house, and seasoned with lime juice and salt. When paired with guacamole, the crispy and creamy textures create a perfect balance.
Chips and Queso: A Cheesy Indulgence
Queso is a creamy and slightly spicy cheese dip made with Monterey Jack, aged cheddar, and peppers. For cheese lovers, it’s a delicious and indulgent side—especially when served with chips.
Chipotle Sides Menu – Comparison Table
| Side Item | Price (USD) | Flavor Profile | Spice Level | Vegan/Vegetarian/Gluten-Free | Best Paired With |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chips | $1.95 | Salty, lightly tangy | None | ✅ Vegan / GF | Guacamole, Salsa |
| Guacamole (side) | $2.95 | Creamy, tangy, fresh | Mild | ✅ Vegan / GF | Chips, Bowls, Tacos |
| Chips & Guacamole | $4.95 | Rich, creamy, crisp | Mild | ✅ Vegan / GF | Standalone or with meals |
| Chips & Queso Blanco | $4.45 | Cheesy, mildly spicy | Medium | ❌ Not Vegan / ❌ GF | Burritos, Nachos |
| Queso Blanco (side) | $2.45 | Smooth, rich, spicy | Medium | ❌ Not Vegan / ❌ GF | Chips, Tacos |
| Chips & Salsa | $3.25 | ✅ Vegan/GF | Varies | Savory, spicy, or mild | Light snacking |
| Fresh Tomato Salsa | $1.35 | Mild, fresh | Mild | ✅ Vegan/GF | Any entrée, rice, beans |
| Roasted Corn Salsa | $1.35 | Sweet, slightly spicy | Mild–Medium | ✅ Vegan/GF | Burrito Bowls, Chips |
| Green Chili Salsa | $1.35 | Tart, herbal, mildly spicy | Medium | ✅ Vegan / GF | Chips, Chicken Bowls |
| Red Chili Salsa | $1.35 | Smoky, hot | Hot | ✅ Vegan / GF | Steak, Barbacoa |
| Cilantro-Lime Rice | $1.50 | Tangy, herbaceous | None | ✅ Vegan / GF | Entrées or side meals |
| Black/Pinto Beans | $1.50 | Earthy, savory | None | ✅ Vegan / GF | Rice, Bowls, Tacos |
| Fajita Veggies | $1.50 | Sweet, peppery | None | ✅ Vegan/GF | All entrées |
| Extra Tortilla | $0.50 | Soft, mild | None | ❌ Not GF | Build-your-own wraps |
Chips and Salsa: Classic and Versatile
If you want something light, salsa with chips is the perfect choice. You can choose from tomato (mild), corn (medium), green chili (medium-hot), and red chili (hot) salsas based on your spice preference.
Cilantro-Lime Rice as a Side
Chipotle’s brown or white rice, flavored with lime and cilantro, serves as a great side. Light and fresh, it pairs well with beans or meat for a light meal.
Chipotle Sides—Taste and Texture Table
| Side Item | Taste Profile | Texture |
|---|---|---|
| Chips | Lightly salted, nutty corn flavor | Crispy, crunchy |
| Chips & Guacamole | Rich, creamy, tangy with citrus and herbs | Crunchy chips + smooth guac |
| Chips & Queso Blanco | Mildly spicy, cheesy with jalapeño notes | Crunchy chips + silky cheese dip |
| Chips & Roasted Corn Salsa | Sweet, smoky, mildly spicy | Crunchy + juicy corn kernels |
| Chips & Green-Chili Salsa | Tangy, bright, mildly spicy | Crunchy + slightly chunky salsa |
| Guacamole (side only) | Buttery, tangy, fresh herbs | Creamy with small avocado chunks |
| Queso Blanco (side only) | Cheesy, slightly tangy, mildly spicy | Velvety and thick |
| Roasted Chili-Corn Salsa | Sweet with smoky and spicy undertones | Juicy and slightly crisp |
| Tomatillo Red-Chili Salsa | Bold, smoky, fiery | Smooth and saucy |
| Tomatillo Green-Chili Salsa | Tart, fresh, mildly spicy | Thin and slightly chunky |
| Fresh Tomato Salsa | Mild, fresh, slightly acidic | Chunky with diced veggies |
| Extra Tortilla (Flour) | Mild, slightly sweet and salty | Soft, chewy, pliable |
| Brown/White Rice | Savory, lime-infused, slightly salty | Fluffy and slightly firm |
| Black/Pinto Beans | Earthy, mildly seasoned | Tender and creamy |
| Fajita Veggies | Sweet onions, peppery, slightly smoky | Tender with a slight crunch |
Conclusion: Why Chipotle’s Sides Menu Stands Out
While burritos and bowls take center stage, the sides quietly deliver excellence. Whether it’s guacamole or lime-seasoned chips, each item is fresh, healthy, and delicious.
Whether you’re craving something light or looking to round out a full meal, Chipotle’s sides have something for everyone. Plus, they’re customizable—vegan, vegetarian, or gluten-free options are available for all.
Though the sides menu is smaller in size, it’s big in quality and flavor impact. It truly elevates your dining experience. So next time you visit Chipotle, don’t skip the sides—sometimes, the best parts of the meal are found on the side.