Overnight oats with chia are a smart and simple breakfast. Just mix oats, chia seeds, milk, and your favorite fruits for a creamy, tasty treat waiting for you in the morning.
I love how I can prep this the night before, and breakfast is ready to go! Plus, adding banana or berries makes it even better. Who knew healthy could taste so good? 🍌
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: Rolled oats are perfect for overnight oats because they absorb liquid well without getting too mushy. If you’re in a pinch, quick oats can work, but they might become softer overnight.
Chia Seeds: These little seeds are a great way to thicken your overnight oats while adding fiber and omega-3s. If you don’t have chia seeds, flax seeds can be a good substitute, though the texture will be a bit different.
Milk: You can use any milk — dairy, almond, soy, or oat. If you like creaminess, whole milk is excellent, but almond or coconut milk gives a nice flavor too. Just pick what suits your diet!
Sweetener: Honey or maple syrup adds sweetness, but you can leave it out for a lower-sugar option. For those needing a sugar-free choice, try stevia or monk fruit sweetener.
Fresh Fruits: Bananas and blueberries are fantastic choices, but feel free to experiment! Other great fruits are raspberries, peaches, or even apple slices in the fall.
How Do I Make Chia Seeds Work in Overnight Oats?
Chia seeds are vital in this recipe for creating a creamy texture. They expand and absorb liquid when soaked. Here’s how to use them effectively:
- Mix chia seeds with the oats right away to ensure they hydrate together.
- Allow the mixture to sit in the fridge overnight, giving the chia seeds ample time to absorb the milk.
- If you prefer a smoother texture, you can blend the oats, chia seeds, and milk with a hand blender after soaking.
Mixing well before refrigerating helps ensure an even consistency and prevents clumping. This way, you will have delightfully creamy oats in the morning!
Overnight Oats With Chia
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds
- 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1 banana, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh blueberries
- 1 small strawberry, sliced (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped walnuts
- 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt or dairy-free yogurt (for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes of prep time, and it will need to sit in the fridge for at least 6 hours or overnight. Perfect for a grab-and-go breakfast in the morning!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix The Base:
In a jar or container with a lid, combine the rolled oats, chia seeds, milk, honey or maple syrup (if you’re using it), vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are combined nicely.
2. Chill Overnight:
Seal the container tightly and place it in the refrigerator overnight, or for at least 6 hours. This allows the oats and chia seeds to absorb the liquid, creating a creamy texture.
3. Morning Prep:
When you’re ready to enjoy your overnight oats, take them out of the fridge and give the mixture a good stir. If the oats are too thick, feel free to add a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency.
4. Add The Toppings:
For a fun presentation, arrange banana slices against the inside of the jar. Then, spoon the oats into serving bowls or jars if you prefer. Top with Greek yogurt, fresh blueberries, sliced strawberries, and chopped walnuts.
5. Final Touches:
If you’d like, sprinkle a few extra chia seeds or drizzle some honey on top for added sweetness and flair.
6. Enjoy!
Dig in with a spoon and enjoy your nutritious and delicious breakfast. You’ve earned it!
Can I Use Quick Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Yes, you can use quick oats, but keep in mind that they might become softer and mushier than rolled oats. If you prefer a chunkier texture, stick with rolled oats.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! Just substitute the regular milk with any plant-based milk, such as almond, soy, or oat milk. It will work perfectly and still give you a delicious dish!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
You can store leftover overnight oats in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to prevent browning on the banana, consider adding it fresh each morning.
What Other Toppings Can I Use?
The options are endless! Try adding nuts, seeds, coconut flakes, chocolate chips, or any seasonal fruits you love. Customize it based on your preferences to keep it exciting!
