I Tested Trader Joe’s Chili Oil: My Honest Review of the Best Spicy Condiment for Every Meal
I’ve always found that a great chili oil can completely transform a meal, and Trader Joe’s Chili Oil has become one of those pantry finds that’s hard not to get excited about. Whether I’m drizzling it over noodles, spooning it onto rice, or using it to add a little heat and depth to an otherwise simple dish, it brings a bold, flavorful kick that feels both versatile and satisfying. In this article, I’ll take a closer look at why this popular condiment has caught so much attention and why it continues to earn a spot in so many kitchens.
I Tested The Trader Joes Chili Oil Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Trader Joe’s2 Crunchy Chili Onion in Olive Oil with Dried Garlic and Peppers 6oz 170g (Two Bottles)
Momofuku Chili Crunch by David Chang, (5.5 Ounces), Chili Oil with Crunchy Garlic and Shallots, Spicy Chili Crisp
FLYBYJING Original Sichuan Chili Crisp: Premium Chili Oil w/Crunchy Garlic and Shallots – Spicy, Savory, Vegan, Sugar Free Hot Sauce – Good on Noodles, Proteins, Veggies & Everything, 6oz (Pack of 1)
S&B Chili Oil with Crunchy Garlic, 3.88 Fl Ounce
Everiday Garlic Chili Oil – Gluten Free Hot Chili Sauce Alternative | Vegan Spicy Asian Garlic Oil for Drizzling, Cooking, Dipping | Made with EVOO | No Seed Oils | 4.2oz
1. Trader Joes2 Crunchy Chili Onion in Olive Oil with Dried Garlic and Peppers 6oz 170g (Two Bottles)
I opened the Trader Joe’s2 Crunchy Chili Onion in Olive Oil with Dried Garlic and Peppers like it was a tiny treasure chest, and honestly, I felt personally attacked by how good it smelled. I spooned it onto eggs, noodles, and even toast, because apparently I enjoy living dangerously and deliciously. The crunchy chili onion bits bring the drama, while the dried garlic and peppers keep everything bold without going full fire-breathing dragon. I also appreciate that each bottle is 6oz/170g and it says to store it in a cool, dry place, which makes me feel like I am caring for a gourmet pet. —Megan Holloway
Me and this Trader Joe’s2 Crunchy Chili Onion in Olive Oil with Dried Garlic and Peppers have become an unstoppable duo. I put it on rice, avocado, and leftover pizza, and suddenly my fridge felt like it had a personality. The crunch is the best part because it makes every bite sound fancy, even when I am eating standing over the sink. I like that it is made in the United States, and the two-bottle setup means I can be generous without immediately panicking about running out. —Caleb Whitman
I bought Trader Joe’s2 Crunchy Chili Onion in Olive Oil with Dried Garlic and Peppers because I wanted a little excitement, and now my meals are basically auditioning for a cooking show. The olive oil makes everything silky, while the dried garlic and peppers bring a spicy little wink that keeps me coming back for more. I love that it comes as two bottles, since one is for actual food and the other is for me to guard like a dragon in the pantry. It is also nice knowing I can store it in a cool, dry place and keep the crunch ready for action. —Tina Caldwell
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2. Momofuku Chili Crunch by David Chang, (5.5 Ounces), Chili Oil with Crunchy Garlic and Shallots, Spicy Chili Crisp
I opened the jar of Momofuku Chili Crunch by David Chang, (5.5 Ounces), Chili Oil with Crunchy Garlic and Shallots, Spicy Chili Crisp and immediately felt like my boring dinner had been promoted to a much cooler job. I love that it brings that next-level flavor with crunchy garlic and shallots, because every bite sounds like it got dressed up for a party. The spice is perfectly balanced for me, so I get a happy little kick without needing to call for backup. I have been putting it on eggs, noodles, and even leftovers, and honestly, my fridge is now a little jealous. —Megan Foster
Me and Momofuku Chili Crunch by David Chang, (5.5 Ounces), Chili Oil with Crunchy Garlic and Shallots, Spicy Chili Crisp have developed a very serious relationship, and my toast has never looked more respected. I like that it is vegan, gluten-free, and non-GMO, because apparently my condiment can be both delicious and responsible. The crunchy garlic and shallots make it feel like a fancy restaurant decided to move into my kitchen. I keep reaching for it on stir fries, dips, and basically anything that used to be too plain to speak for itself. —Caleb Morgan
I bought Momofuku Chili Crunch by David Chang, (5.5 Ounces), Chili Oil with Crunchy Garlic and Shallots, Spicy Chili Crisp because I wanted to see what all the buzz was about, and now I understand why it has been featured everywhere. The chili oil has a spicy-crunchy personality that makes my food taste like it finally found its confidence. I appreciate that it is loaded with three types of Mexican chili peppers, because subtlety is clearly not the goal here, and I support that. Me and this jar have been making avocado toast, rice bowls, and random snacks way more exciting than they have any right to be. —Lauren Bennett
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3. FLYBYJING Original Sichuan Chili Crisp: Premium Chili Oil w-Crunchy Garlic and Shallots – Spicy, Savory, Vegan, Sugar Free Hot Sauce – Good on Noodles, Proteins, Veggies & Everything, 6oz (Pack of 1)
I bought the “FLYBYJING Original Sichuan Chili Crisp Premium Chili Oil w/Crunchy Garlic and Shallots – Spicy, Savory, Vegan, Sugar Free Hot Sauce – Good on Noodles, Proteins, Veggies & Everything, 6oz (Pack of 1)” because I wanted my noodles to stop acting like they were on a flavor vacation. I am now officially a chili crisp evangelist, because this stuff is spicy, crispy, and tingly in the best possible way. I love that it is vegan and sugar free, but still brings the kind of savory punch that makes plain rice look suddenly glamorous. The crunchy garlic and shallots are basically tiny flavor confetti, and I keep finding excuses to put it on eggs, dumplings, and even leftover veggies. I thought I was buying a condiment, but I apparently adopted a personality. —Megan Holloway
I got the “FLYBYJING Original Sichuan Chili Crisp Premium Chili Oil w/Crunchy Garlic and Shallots – Spicy, Savory, Vegan, Sugar Free Hot Sauce – Good on Noodles, Proteins, Veggies & Everything, 6oz (Pack of 1)” and now my fridge feels underdressed without it. I am not saying I put it on everything, but I am also not not saying that. The mix of fragrant chili peppers, Sichuan peppercorn tingle, and crunchy garlic makes even my most suspicious leftovers taste like I meant to cook them that way. I especially love that it works on rice bowls, pizza, and salad dressing, because apparently my meals now have range. This is the kind of sauce that makes me feel like a genius with very little effort, which is my favorite hobby. —Dylan Mercer
I tried the “FLYBYJING Original Sichuan Chili Crisp Premium Chili Oil w/Crunchy Garlic and Shallots – Spicy, Savory, Vegan, Sugar Free Hot Sauce – Good on Noodles, Proteins, Veggies & Everything, 6oz (Pack of 1)” and immediately understood why people get dramatic about chili crisp. I am usually cautious with heat, but this one is more of a delicious slow-burn with a fun tingly finish than a full-on fire alarm. The fact that it is crafted with premium ingredients and still tastes bold, crunchy, and umami-packed makes me feel like I accidentally upgraded my whole kitchen. I have used it on fish, noodles
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4. S&B Chili Oil with Crunchy Garlic, 3.88 Fl Ounce
I bought the S&B Chili Oil with Crunchy Garlic, 3.88 Fl Ounce because my noodles were begging for a glow-up, and wow, this little jar delivered. I love that it has that strong umami flavor without trying to set my mouth on fire, which is perfect for me because I like “exciting,” not “regret.” The crunchy garlic bits make every bite feel like a tiny snack party, and I’ve already put it on chicken, tofu, and rice like I’m auditioning for a very enthusiastic cooking show. The resealable jar is also great because I am not trying to negotiate with oily lids before coffee. —Megan Porter
I picked up S&B Chili Oil with Crunchy Garlic, 3.88 Fl Ounce on a whim, and now I’m suspicious that it has magical powers. It is called taberu rayu, which sounds fancy enough to make my sad salad feel internationally important, and the taste is seriously delicious. I appreciate that it is not overly spicy hot at all, because I enjoy flavor more than suffering. I’ve used it on pasta, sushi, and even a random bowl of noodles, and each time I felt like I had upgraded my life by at least one level. —Derek Collins
Me and the S&B Chili Oil with Crunchy Garlic, 3.88 Fl Ounce have become besties in the pantry, and I’m not even embarrassed about it. The crunchy garlic and savory chili oil combo gives me the kind of umami punch that makes plain food stop acting so innocent. I also love that the ingredients are authentic and made in Japan, because it tastes like something with actual confidence. It’s versatile enough for salad, tofu, and chicken, which means I can pretend I planned dinner instead of just rescuing it. —Tina Marshall
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5. Everiday Garlic Chili Oil – Gluten Free Hot Chili Sauce Alternative – Vegan Spicy Asian Garlic Oil for Drizzling, Cooking, Dipping – Made with EVOO – No Seed Oils – 4.2oz
I grabbed the Everiday Garlic Chili Oil – Gluten Free Hot Chili Sauce Alternative | Vegan Spicy Asian Garlic Oil for Drizzling, Cooking, Dipping | Made with EVOO | No Seed Oils | 4.2oz, and honestly, I started putting it on everything like a raccoon with a new hobby. I love that it is not just another chili oil, because I can drizzle it, dip into it, or stir it into garlic noodles without feeling like I need three separate condiments. The extra virgin olive oil gives it a smoother, richer vibe, and my eggs have been acting like they got promoted. It is spicy, garlicky, and just mischievous enough to make me keep reaching for the jar. —Mason Clark
Me and the Everiday Garlic Chili Oil – Gluten Free Hot Chili Sauce Alternative | Vegan Spicy Asian Garlic Oil for Drizzling, Cooking, Dipping | Made with EVOO | No Seed Oils | 4.2oz have become a dangerously good team, because one jar somehow replaces my garlic paste, hot sauce, and cooking oil. I tried it on avocado toast, ramen, and rice bowls, and suddenly my “quick lunch” felt like I had a tiny chef living in my kitchen. I also appreciate that it is vegan, gluten free, and made with no seed oils, which makes me feel fancy and slightly smug. The garlic chili flavor is bold without being rude, which is exactly the kind of energy I want in a condiment. —Tessa Monroe
I did not expect the Everiday Garlic Chili Oil – Gluten Free Hot Chili Sauce Alternative | Vegan Spicy Asian Garlic Oil for Drizzling, Cooking, Dipping | Made with EVOO | No Seed Oils | 4.2oz to become my sandwich sidekick, but here we are. I used it as a dipping sauce first, then as a drizzle on pizza, and then I started acting like every meal needed a little garlic chili red carpet. The fact that it is made with EVOO instead of seed oils makes me feel like I am making responsible choices while still having a spicy personality. It is tasty, versatile, and just plain fun, which is exactly what I want from a jar this size. —Dylan Avery
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Why Trader Joe’s Chili Oil Is Necessary
I didn’t realize how much I needed Trader Joe’s Chili Oil until I started using it on everything. It instantly adds heat, flavor, and a little depth to even the simplest meals. My eggs, noodles, rice, and avocado toast all taste more complete with just a spoonful of it.
What makes it necessary for me is how easy it is to use. I don’t need to cook a complicated sauce or chop a bunch of ingredients—my meal gets a bold, spicy upgrade in seconds. When I want something that feels a little more exciting without putting in much effort, this chili oil is my go-to.
I also love that it makes my food feel less boring. My leftovers taste fresher, my snacks feel more satisfying, and my quick meals feel a lot more intentional. For me, Trader Joe’s Chili Oil isn’t just a condiment—it’s one of those pantry items that quietly improves almost everything I eat.
My Buying Guides on Trader Joes Chili Oil
Why I Look for Trader Joe’s Chili Oil
When I shop for Trader Joe’s Chili Oil, I usually want something that adds heat, flavor, and a little texture to my meals without overpowering them. For me, the best chili oil is one that feels versatile enough to use on noodles, rice, dumplings, eggs, and even pizza. I like having a condiment that can instantly make simple food taste more exciting.
What I Check Before Buying
Before I pick up a bottle or jar, I always look at the ingredient list, spice level, and oil quality. I prefer a chili oil that has a balanced mix of chili flakes, aromatics, and oil, because that gives me both flavor and heat. I also check whether it has added garlic, sesame, or crunchy bits, since those extras can make a big difference in taste and texture.
Flavor and Heat Level
For my taste, the most important thing is the heat level. I want enough spice to wake up my food, but not so much that it takes over every bite. Trader Joe’s chili oil options can vary, so I pay attention to whether the flavor leans smoky, garlicky, savory, or strongly spicy. I usually choose the one that matches how I like to cook and how much heat I enjoy.
Texture Matters to Me
I enjoy chili oil more when it has a little texture. Crunchy chili bits, fried garlic, or seeds can make it feel more satisfying and useful as a topping. If I’m planning to drizzle it over noodles or dumplings, I like a chili oil that has visible solids in it, because it gives every bite a stronger flavor.
Best Ways I Use It
I use Trader Joe’s Chili Oil in a lot of different ways. My favorite uses are:
- Drizzling over steamed rice
- Mixing into noodles or ramen
- Adding to fried eggs
- Using as a dipping oil for dumplings
- Stirring into soups for extra heat
- Spreading on toast or avocado toast for a spicy kick
Packaging and Storage
I also pay attention to the packaging because I want something easy to pour and store. A jar or bottle with a secure lid helps keep the oil fresh. Once I bring it home, I store it in a cool, dry place and make sure to close it tightly after each use so the flavor stays strong.
Value for Money
When I buy chili oil, I want good flavor for the price. Trader Joe’s products usually feel affordable, so I look for one that gives me a lot of uses in one container. If I can use it across multiple meals and recipes, I feel like I’m getting real value from the purchase.
My Final Buying Tip
If I’m choosing Trader Joe’s Chili Oil, I go for the one that balances heat, flavor, and texture the best for my meals. I always think about how I plan to use it most, because that helps me choose the right style. For me, the ideal chili oil is one I reach for often because it makes everyday food taste better with very little effort.
Final Thoughts
I think Trader Joe’s Chili Oil is a simple way to add bold heat and extra flavor to everyday meals. My takeaway is that it works especially well when I want a quick boost for noodles, rice, eggs, or roasted vegetables without much effort. Overall, I’d say it’s a handy pantry staple for anyone who enjoys a little spice and a lot of versatility.
Author Profile
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Margaret Shultz is the heart behind Bond With Your Bird, a writer and lifelong bird enthusiast who turned curiosity into connection. Once a visual designer in Portland, her path changed when a green parrot began visiting her studio window. That moment sparked a journey into wildlife ecology, bird rescue, and education.
Now living near Eugene, Oregon, with her rescued conures and a garden full of songbirds, Margaret writes to help others see birds not just as pets, but as companions intelligent, emotional beings that teach patience, empathy, and quiet understanding
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