Overnight Oats With Chia Seeds

Experience the perfect start to your day with these overnight oats. This creamy, nutritious make-ahead breakfast features rolled oats, Greek yogurt, and chia seeds, offering a touch of sweetness that is perfect for busy mornings. It is an easy, vegetarian-friendly option that takes only 10 minutes of active preparation.

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With 310 calories and 46 grams of carbohydrates per serving, this breakfast provides sustained energy. By allowing the ingredients to soak for 8 hours, the oats and chia seeds absorb the liquid to create a satisfying, pudding-like consistency that is both wholesome and delicious.

Ingredients

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1 cup unsweetened milk (dairy or plant-based)
• ½ cup Greek yogurt
• 2 tbsp chia seeds
• 1–2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• ½ tsp pure vanilla extract
• ½ cup fresh berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries) (optional)
• 1 small banana, sliced (optional)
• 2 tbsp chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pecans) (optional)
• 1 tbsp nut butter (peanut, almond, or cashew) (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Combine Ingredients

In a medium bowl or large jar, combine oats, milk, Greek yogurt, chia seeds, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir well to blend.

Step 2: Chill Overnight

Cover and refrigerate overnight (at least 8 hours), allowing oats and chia to absorb the liquid.

Step 3: Adjust Consistency

In the morning, stir the mixture. If too thick, add a splash of milk to reach desired consistency.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Top with fresh berries, banana slices, chopped nuts, or nut butter as desired. Serve chilled.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For the best results, ensure the mixture is tightly covered while refrigerating. Using a jar with a lid is ideal for storage and portability. Remember that the soaking time is essential for the chia seeds to fully expand and create the signature creamy texture.

Varianten und Anpassungen

This recipe is highly adaptable. For a dairy-free version, use plant-based yogurt and milk. You can swap honey or maple syrup for agave or your preferred sweetener, and add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor. For those with sensitivities, ensure your oats are certified gluten-free.

Serviervorschläge

Serve your oats chilled directly from the refrigerator. Enhance the presentation and flavor by layering fresh berries, sliced bananas, and a spoonful of nut butter. For a satisfying crunch, top with chopped almonds, walnuts, or pecans just before eating.

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By incorporating these overnight oats into your weekly routine, you can enjoy a consistent and healthy breakfast without the morning stress. Simple, delicious, and full of nutrients, it is the ultimate solution for a productive day.

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ How long do overnight oats need to chill?

Let the mixture refrigerate for at least 8 hours, preferably overnight. This allows the rolled oats and chia seeds to fully absorb the liquid and soften properly. You can prepare them up to three days in advance.

→ Can I use steel-cut oats instead of rolled oats?

Steel-cut oats require more liquid and longer soaking time—about 12 hours or more. For best results, stick with rolled oats (old-fashioned oats), which soften beautifully overnight.

→ What milk works best for this preparation?

Any unsweetened milk works wonderfully. Dairy milk adds creaminess, while almond, oat, coconut, or soy milk provide plant-based alternatives. Choose based on your dietary preferences and taste.

→ How do I adjust the consistency?

If the mixture is too thick after chilling, stir in a splash of milk until you reach your desired texture. For thicker oats, reduce the initial liquid slightly or add another tablespoon of chia seeds.

→ Can I warm these oats before serving?

Absolutely. Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. The texture will remain creamy, though the chia seeds may become slightly more gelatinous.

→ What other toppings work well?

Fresh berries, sliced bananas, chopped nuts, nut butter, shredded coconut, dark chocolate chips, or dried fruit all complement the creamy base. Spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom add warmth.