Exhibit 23.1

CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statements (Form S-3 No. 333-149999 and Form S-8 Nos. 33-59686, 33-80072, 33-81690, 33-83196, 333-872, 333-40791, 333-67215, 333-93571, 333-51322, 333-53876, 333-73506, 333-96791, 333-99655, 333-101696, 333-103764, 333-109486, 333-119939, 333-140773 and 333-149460) of Microchip Technology Incorporated and subsidiaries of our reports dated May 31, 2011, with respect to the consolidated financial statements of Microchip Technology Incorporated and subsidiaries, and the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting of Microchip Technology Incorporated and subsidiaries, included in this Annual Report (Form 10-K) for the year ended March 31, 2011.

/s/ Ernst & Young LLP

Phoenix, Arizona

May 31, 2011