Overnight Oats With Chia Seeds

Start your morning with a creamy, nutritious make-ahead breakfast that takes the stress out of busy schedules. These overnight oats with chia seeds are a wholesome choice, combining rolled oats and Greek yogurt with a touch of sweetness for a perfectly balanced meal.

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The magic of this dish happens while you sleep. As the mixture chills, the oats and chia seeds absorb the milk and yogurt, resulting in a thick, pudding-like texture that is both satisfying and delicious.

Ingredients

• Base
• 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
• Toppings (optional)
• ½ cup fresh berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries)
• 1 small banana, sliced
• 2 tbsp chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, or pecans)
• 1 tbsp nut butter (peanut, almond, or cashew)

Instructions

Step 1

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

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

Step 3

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

Step 4

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

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For the best texture, ensure the oats have at least 8 hours to chill. This dish can be made up to 3 days in advance when stored covered in the refrigerator. Always check labels for potential allergens; oats must be certified gluten-free for those with sensitivities.

Varianten und Anpassungen

To make this recipe dairy-free, simply use plant-based yogurt and milk. You can enhance the flavor profile by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or substitute the honey or maple syrup with agave or your favorite sweetener.

Serviervorschläge

Serve these oats chilled with a variety of toppings for added texture and flavor. Fresh berries and sliced bananas provide natural sweetness, while chopped nuts and a dollop of nut butter add a satisfying crunch and richness.

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Whether you're heading to the office or looking for a healthy start at home, these overnight oats are a reliable and delicious choice. Enjoy your nutritious, make-ahead breakfast!

Recipe FAQ

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

Steel-cut oats don't work well for overnight preparation as they remain too chewy and won't soften properly. Stick with rolled oats (old-fashioned) for the best creamy texture.

→ How long will these oats stay fresh in the refrigerator?

These overnight oats can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The oats will continue to soften and absorb liquid, so you may need to add a splash of milk before serving later days.

→ Can I make this dairy-free?

Absolutely. Substitute Greek yogurt with coconut yogurt, almond yogurt, or another plant-based alternative. Use any unsweetened plant milk like almond, oat, soy, or coconut milk instead of dairy milk.

→ Do I need to cook the oats?

No cooking required. The oats soften and absorb the liquid while chilling overnight, creating a creamy, ready-to-eat breakfast. The chia seeds also gel during this time, adding thickness and texture.

→ Can I reduce or omit the sweetener?

Yes. The honey or maple syrup can be reduced, omitted, or substituted with mashed banana, applesauce, or your preferred sweetener. Start with less and adjust to taste after the oats have chilled.