Overnight oats with chia are a quick and yummy breakfast that you can make the night before! Just mix rolled oats, milk, and chia seeds in a jar and let it soak overnight.
This tasty mix is creamy, filling, and super healthy! I love adding fruits or honey in the morning for extra flavor. It’s like a little breakfast gift waiting for you!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rolled Oats: Use rolled oats for the best texture, as they soak up the liquid well. If you’re out of rolled oats, quick oats work too but may become mushy.
Chia Seeds: Chia seeds are key for thickening the oats. If you’re allergic or don’t have any, try ground flaxseeds as a substitute, though they may not thicken as much.
Milk: Dairy milk makes for a creamy base, but almond, oat, or coconut milk work great too for a dairy-free option. I often use almond milk for its nutty flavor!
Sweetener: Honey or maple syrup adds sweetness, but you can skip it or use agave syrup if you want to keep it vegan. I love using ripe mashed bananas for natural sweetness.
Nuts: Walnuts and almonds add crunch, but feel free to use any nuts or seeds you like, such as pecans or pumpkin seeds for variety!
How Do I Get the Perfect Creamy Texture?
A common challenge is achieving that creamy, thick texture. Here’s how to make your overnight oats spot on:
- Mix the oats and chia seeds thoroughly with the milk and sweetener. This ensures everything soaks evenly.
- Use a container with a tight lid to prevent odors from affecting your oats in the fridge.
- Let it sit overnight; this will help the oats absorb all the liquid and the chia seeds expand.
- Stir well in the morning. If it looks too thick, just add a splash of milk to loosen it up before serving.
Enjoy the delicious results! This recipe is flexible and can adapt to your taste preferences, making breakfast easy and enjoyable!
Overnight Oats with Chia
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- 1/2 banana, sliced
- 2 tablespoons chopped nuts (e.g., walnuts or almonds)
- Additional chia seeds for topping
- Fresh strawberries (optional, for serving)
- Ground cinnamon (optional, for sprinkling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and should be left in the fridge overnight, or for at least 4 hours. This means you can whip it up in the evening and have a ready-to-eat breakfast waiting for you in the morning!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Ingredients:
Start by taking a clean jar or bowl. Add the rolled oats, chia seeds, and milk. If you want a little sweetness, stir in the honey or maple syrup, and add the vanilla extract if using. Use a spoon to mix everything together until it’s well combined.
2. Cover and Refrigerate:
Once mixed, seal the container with a lid or cover it with plastic wrap. Place it in the fridge and let it chill overnight. This ensures the oats and chia seeds absorb the liquid and soften properly.
3. Stir and Add Toppings:
The next morning, take your oats out of the fridge. Give it a good stir to mix everything together. If it looks too thick, feel free to add a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency. Now, layer in half of the sliced bananas and chopped nuts, stirring them if you like, or just sprinkle them on top.
4. Final Touches:
Top your oats with the remaining banana slices, more chopped nuts, a sprinkle of chia seeds, and if you love it, a dash of ground cinnamon. This adds a lovely flavor!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Your delicious and nutritious overnight oats are ready to eat! To make it even better, serve it with some fresh strawberries on the side for a fruity kick. Dig in and enjoy!
Feel free to customize your overnight oats with different fruits, nuts, or sweeteners according to your taste. It’s an easy and wholesome breakfast that’s just perfect for busy mornings!
Can I Use Quick Oats Instead of Rolled Oats?
Yes, you can use quick oats if that’s what you have! However, keep in mind that quick oats may become a bit mushy since they absorb liquid faster than rolled oats. If you prefer a sturdier texture, stick with rolled oats.
Can I Make This Vegan?
Absolutely! Just use a plant-based milk like almond, soy, or oat milk, and replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for sweetness. It will be just as delicious!
How Do I Store Leftover Overnight Oats?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give them a good stir before eating. You can add a splash of milk if they seem too thick after sitting in the fridge.
What Other Toppings Can I Use?
The possibilities are endless! You can top your overnight oats with fresh or dried fruits, seeds (like pumpkin or sunflower seeds), nut butters, or even yogurt for added creaminess. Get creative with your favorite toppings!
