About this recipe round-up post
If you’ve ever woken up too rushed to make breakfast, I promise, overnight oats are about to change your mornings. With just a jar, a few simple ingredients, and a bit of planning, you’ll have a creamy, energizing breakfast waiting for you in the fridge.
This isn’t just any oatmeal — adding chia seeds makes it thicker, creamier, and packed with extra nutrients. Think of this as your master guide to creating the best overnight oats with chia seeds, plus flavor-packed recipes inspired by dessert, fresh fruit, and classic breakfast pairings.
Why you will love overnight oats with chia
- Convenient: Prep once, enjoy all week.
- Healthy + filling: Whole grains, fiber, plant-based protein, and omega-3s.
- Endlessly customizable: From fruity to chocolatey to indulgent dessert flavors.
- Kid-friendly
Base recipe formula (for one serving)
- ½ cup rolled oats
- 1-2 Tbsp chia seeds
- 3/4 cup milk (almond, oat, soy, cashew or dairy)
- 1–2 Tbsp sweetener (maple syrup, honey, or agave)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Mix everything in a jar, cover, and refrigerate overnight (or at least 4 hours). Add toppings in the morning.
Home-cook to home-cook tips
- Texture control: If it feels too thick in the morning, try stirring in a splash of milk or coffee, depending on the flavor profile. Too thin? Add extra chia seeds next time. If you are making this for your kids, blend the chia seeds before adding them to the mix; the texture will be smoother.
- Best oats: Old-fashioned rolled oats give the perfect chew.
- Meal prep: Make a batch of 4–5 jars on Sunday for the week. You can make the base in a mixing bowl and then divide it into several jars.
- Kid-friendly swaps: Try using cocoa instead of coffee, add peanut butter and jam, or top with sprinkles for a fun treat.
- Serving hack: Layer in a glass to mimic parfaits or desserts (great for brunch).
- Extra protein: Top with Greek yogurt for extra protein
- About the Author
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I’m Ale Graf, a Mexican living in Texas and the creator of AleCooks and Piloncillo&Vainilla. I share easy, family-friendly recipes—some Mexican, mostly plant-based—that can be enjoyed all day, every day. My focus is on recipes that bring people together around the table, making mealtime simple, delicious and meaningful. I’m also the co-author of Yo Cocino Latino, and my recipes have been featured in numerous online magazines and publications.
Follow along on my social accounts for daily inspiration, tips, and delicious recipes! I’d love to hear about you! Send me a DM on Instagram, and let’s talk all things food 🍽️✨