Easy Overnight Chia Oats

I can’t tell you how delicious these Overnight Chia Oats are!

You all probably know by now that I’m a huge fan of overnight oats. For example, my Hot Chocolate Overnight Oats have been a big hit!

However, these Quick & Easy Overnight Chia Oats are a little different. They’re more of a mixture between a chia pudding and overnight oats = heaven! The combination of the tart raspberries, sweet oat milk and subtle vanilla flavour makes this breakfast seriously worth getting up for.

I love adding chia seeds to my breakfasts as they’re packed with omega 3 fatty acids and are a brilliant source of fibre, healthy fats and protein. Not only this, they also contain calcium, manganese, magnesium and phosphorus. They really are nutritional powerhouses!

You can prepare these overnight chia oats in advance to meal prep for the week ahead. I like to layer them up in jars with raspberries, nut butter and yoghurt for a quick, grab & go breakfast that will fuel me for the morning.

If you make these Quick & Easy Overnight Chia Oats, please make sure to comment below or tag me in your recreations over on Instagram using @georginaburgess_ (I absolutely love to see them!)

Is Chia Pudding Good To Eat Every Morning?

Chia pudding can be a healthy and convenient breakfast option to enjoy [in moderation] as part of your morning routine. Packed with fiber, healthy fats, and essential nutrients, chia seeds offer various health benefits, including aiding digestion, promoting fullness, and providing a source of omega-3 fatty acids.

However, it’s important to ensure a balanced diet by incorporating a variety of foods into your breakfast rotation. While chia pudding can provide valuable nutrients, it’s best to vary your morning meals to ensure you’re getting a wide range of nutrients from different sources. Additionally, be mindful of the ingredients you use in your chia pudding, opting for wholesome choices and avoiding excessive added sugars.

But certainly, this overnight chia oat/pudding recipe is nice and healthy!

How To Make My Overnight Chia Oats

1. Rolled Oats (1/3 Cup): Rolled oats are a great source of complex carbohydrates and dietary fiber. They provide energy, help regulate blood sugar levels, and promote a feeling of fullness. They also contain vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
   
2. Chia Seeds (3 tbsp): Chia seeds are highly nutritious, packed with fiber, healthy fats (omega-3 fatty acids), and protein. When mixed with liquid, chia seeds absorb the liquid and create a gel-like texture, which is why they’re often used in puddings and as a thickening agent.
   
3. Oat Milk (2/3 Cup): Oat milk is a plant-based milk alternative made from oats. It’s typically fortified with vitamins and minerals, and it can be a good source of calcium and vitamin D. Oat milk is known for its creamy texture and mild flavor, making it a popular choice for various recipes.
   
4. Vanilla Extract (1 tsp): Vanilla extract adds flavor to the pudding. It provides a sweet and aromatic element to the dish. Vanilla extract is commonly used in both sweet and savory dishes.
   
5. Cinnamon (1 Pinch): Cinnamon is a spice that adds warmth and depth to your chia pudding. It also has potential health benefits, such as anti-inflammatory properties and potential blood sugar regulation.
   
6. Salt (1 Pinch): Salt enhances the overall flavor of the dish. Even in sweet dishes like pudding, a touch of salt can help balance the flavors and make the other ingredients stand out.

Is Chia Pudding Actually Good For You?

Yes, chia pudding can be a nutritious and healthy option, depending on how it’s prepared and the other ingredients you use. Chia seeds themselves are incredibly nutritious and offer several health benefits:

1. Rich in Nutrients: Chia seeds are a great source of fiber, healthy fats (especially omega-3 fatty acids), protein, vitamins, and minerals (such as calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus).
   
2. Dietary Fiber: Chia seeds are high in soluble fiber, which can help promote healthy digestion, regulate blood sugar levels, and contribute to a feeling of fullness, potentially aiding in weight management.
   
3. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Chia seeds are one of the few plant-based sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for heart health, brain function, and reducing inflammation.
   
4. Antioxidants: Chia seeds contain antioxidants that help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals.
   
5. Hydration: When soaked in liquid, chia seeds can absorb many times their weight in water, forming a gel-like substance. This can help with hydration and maintaining a feeling of fullness.

However, the overall nutritional value of chia pudding also depends on the other ingredients you use. If you prepare your chia pudding with wholesome ingredients like plant-based milk, fresh fruits, and minimal added sugars, it can be a very healthy option to enjoy. On the other hand, if you use excessive amounts of sweeteners, high-calorie toppings, or sugary mix-ins, the overall healthiness of the dish, obviously, can be compromised.

To make a truly nutritious chia pudding (like this overnight chia pudding), consider the following tips:

• Use a quality milk alternative, such as almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk, that’s fortified with essential nutrients.
  
• Add fresh fruits like berries, sliced bananas, or diced mangoes to provide natural sweetness and additional vitamins and antioxidants.
  
• Limit or avoid adding refined sugars and use natural sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar in moderation.
  
• Include a variety of toppings like nuts, seeds, and granola for added texture and nutritional benefits.