Chia Overnight Oats Recipe

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Last Updated on March 28, 2025 by Toya

If you’re searching for a nutritious and easy breakfast idea, then you need to try this easy chia overnight oats recipe.

This simple yet delicious breakfast recipe can be made ahead of time and can be customized to suit your taste buds. Plus, these overnight oats are made with simple, easy-to-find ingredients like chia seeds, oats, and milk, and are the perfect ways to start your day on the right foot.

This recipe takes less than 5 minutes to make, and you absolutely must give it a try if you’re on the lookout for low-calorie, filling breakfast ideas that won’t break the bank!

And, if you’re looking for more great overnight oats recipes, you must also check out my other yummy overnight oatmeal recipes, including this scrumptious cinnamon overnight oatmeal recipe, my easy strawberry overnight oatmeal recipe, or my satisfying overnight oatmeal recipe made without yogurt! You’ll really enjoy these if you need more yummy breakfast ideas.

Now let’s see how to make overnight oatmeal with chia seeds!

Ingredients needed

Here are the essential ingredients you will need to make this easy overnight oats recipe:

• Chia Seeds: Chia seeds are the star ingredient of this recipe. They provide a source of healthy omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and also some protein. You can find chia seeds in most grocery stores or online. I personally like using

• Oats: Rolled oats work best for chia overnight oats, as they absorb the liquid well and create a creamy texture. You can use any brand of rolled oats you have on hand. But, if you’re on the lookout for the best option, I’d like to suggest these:

• Milk: Any type of milk will work for this recipe, including dairy, almond, soy, or oat milk. Choose your favorite type.
• Sweeteners (optional): To add sweetness to your chia overnight oats, you can use honey, maple syrup, agave nectar, or any other natural sweetener.
• Toppings (optional): Once you’ve made your chia overnight oats, you can add toppings to enhance the flavor and texture even more. Popular options include fresh or dried fruits, nuts, seeds, coconut flakes, or granola. I personally choose toppings based on how I’m feeling at the moment and you can do the same too!

How to Make Chia Overnight Oats

1. Start by measuring out all the ingredients. Then combine the oats and milk in a jar or container.
   
2. Add the chia seeds and any optional sweeteners, such as honey or maple syrup, and mix well until everything is well incorporated.
   
3. Cover the container with a lid and refrigerate it overnight, or for at least 4-6 hours.
   
4. In the morning, give the chia seed overnight oats a good stir and add any desired toppings, such as fresh fruit, nuts, or granola.
   
5. Enjoy your tasty and filling breakfast right away, or take it with you on the go!

Now that you know how to make chia overnight oats, you can follow these useful tips below and start customizing your recipe with various flavors, textures, and toppings. Be creative and have fun trying out new and unique variations of this wholesome and versatile breakfast recipe!

Tips for Making Chia Overnight Oats

Chia overnight oats are a versatile dish that can be customized to suit different taste preferences and dietary needs. Here are some tips to make the most of your chia overnight oats:

• Try spices and flavorings. Chia overnight oats can be made more interesting and delicious with the addition of different spices and flavorings. Try adding vanilla extract, cinnamon, or nutmeg to your oats for a warm, comforting taste. Just ¼ to ½ tsp of either of these is all you will need for the recipe!
• Add fruits and nuts: For a more crunchy texture and added nutrition, try topping your overnight oats with fresh or dried fruits, nuts, or other seeds. I like using berries, bananas, and almonds in my overnight oats.
• Adjust the liquid-to-oats ratio: Depending on your preferred consistency, you may want to adjust the amount of liquid you use in your chia overnight oats. A little more if you like milker consistency, and a little less if you like a thicker consistency.
• Use a variety of milk options: If you’re vegan or lactose intolerant, there are many milk alternatives that can be used in your chia overnight oats recipe. Some popular choices include almond milk, soy milk, coconut milk, or oat milk.

Possible Variations of Chia Overnight Oats

While the basic chia overnight oats recipe is already delicious and versatile, there are many other ways to vary this recipe. I like bananas, peanut butter, and honey, and so this is what, is used here, but there are many other ideas to consider:

Flavor Combinations

Chocolate-Banana: Add 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder and 1 mashed banana to the oats and milk mixture before refrigerating. And, if you don’t like mashed banana in your oats, wait the until the next morning and add fresh, sliced ripe banana to the top of your oats along with with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup and some chopped nuts.

Blueberry-Lemon: Stir in 1/4 cup of fresh or frozen blueberries and the zest of a lemon into the oats and milk mixture. Top it with a dollop of Greek yogurt and some blueberries the next day or when you’re ready to enjoy.

Possible Dietary Modifications

Vegan: Use plant-based milk such as almond, coconut, or soy milk instead of dairy milk. You can also skip the honey or maple syrup and use mashed bananas or dates for natural sweetness.

Gluten-free: Make sure to use certified gluten-free rolled oats, as regular oats may contain traces of gluten. You can also experiment with other gluten-free grains, such as quinoa. If you need some gluten free rolled oats suggestions, this is my favorite brand that you can grab on Amazon.

Keto-friendly: Replace the oats with a mixture of chia seeds and unsweetened shredded coconut or almond flour. Use unsweetened almond milk and add a tablespoon of natural nut butter for healthy fats.

Ready to make this easy recipe? Check out the recipe card below.