Strawberry Overnight Oats With Chia

Name: Strawberry Overnight Oats With Chia
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup rolled oats; 1 cup milk (or dairy-free alternative); 1/2 cup Greek yogurt; 1/4 cup chia seeds; 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced; 1-2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (optional); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Fresh Healthy Meals Favorites

I absolutely love starting my morning with a nutritious and delicious bowl of strawberry overnight oats. The combination of fresh strawberries, creamy yogurt, and nutty chia seeds creates a perfect harmony of flavors and textures. I prepare this easy recipe the night before, allowing the oats to soak up all the goodness overnight. It's a convenient and healthy option that keeps me full and satisfied throughout the day, making breakfast a delightful experience rather than a rush.

Created by

Serena Whitaker

Last updated on 2026-01-24T13:31:35.094Z

When I first tasted strawberry overnight oats, I was amazed at how such a simple dish could be so fulfilling. The magic lies in the chia seeds, which absorb the liquid and create a delightful pudding-like texture. I remember making my first batch and being blown away by the freshness of the strawberries combined with the creamy yogurt. It's both refreshing and energizing, making mornings so much easier.

One of my tips is to slice the strawberries just before serving for the best flavor. This not only keeps them fresh but also enhances the dish's vibrant colors. Plus, you can customize it by adding other fruits or nuts—each variation gives it a unique twist!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Refreshing strawberry flavor that bursts in every bite
Nutritious chia seeds packed with omega-3 fatty acids
Convenient make-ahead option for busy mornings

The Role of Chia Seeds

Chia seeds are not just a trendy health food; they play a crucial role in the texture of your overnight oats. When soaked, they absorb liquid and expand, creating a thick, pudding-like consistency that enhances the creaminess of the dish. This texture makes each spoonful satisfying and helps keep you feeling full longer. Be mindful to use the right proportions; too many chia seeds can lead to a gummy texture, so sticking to 1/4 cup as suggested is ideal.

Additionally, chia seeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and protein, making your breakfast not only delicious but also nutritious. If you're looking to lower caloric intake, you can reduce the chia seeds to 2 tablespoons without significantly affecting the recipe's thickness or nutritional benefits.

Choosing the Right Strawberries

Fresh strawberries are key to elevating the flavor of your overnight oats. When selecting strawberries, look for ones that are bright red and plump with a sweet aroma. Avoid any that are dull in color or show signs of mold. To enhance the flavor, you can macerate the reserved strawberries. Simply toss them with a teaspoon of sugar or a splash of lemon juice and let them sit for about 10 minutes before adding them as a topping. This technique releases their natural juices and intensifies their sweetness.

Should strawberries be out of season, feel free to substitute with other berries like blueberries or raspberries. Frozen strawberries can also work, but it's best to thaw them beforehand to avoid excess moisture in your oats.

Make-Ahead Breakfast Tips

Preparing your strawberry overnight oats the night before not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. For best results, use glass jars or airtight containers that can hold moisture without becoming soggy. If you're storing them in the fridge for more than a day, consider leaving the final toppings, like honey or extra strawberries, until you're ready to eat, as this keeps them fresher.

This recipe is also easily scalable for meal prep. If you want to make several servings, simply multiply the ingredients by the number of servings desired, but keep in mind that the soaking time remains the same. Perfectly portioned overnight oats can last in the fridge for up to five days, making it an ideal breakfast option for the week.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to prepare your delicious strawberry overnight oats:

Ingredients

1 cup rolled oats
1 cup milk (or dairy-free alternative)
1/2 cup Greek yogurt
1/4 cup chia seeds
1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
1-2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (optional)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Make sure to have everything measured out for a smooth preparation process.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your strawberry overnight oats:

Combine Ingredients

In a medium bowl, mix the rolled oats, milk, Greek yogurt, chia seeds, honey or maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir until well combined.

Add Strawberries

Fold in half of the sliced strawberries, reserving the other half for topping later.

Chill in the Fridge

Transfer the mixture to two jars or containers, cover, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the oats to soften and the chia seeds to thicken the mixture.

Serve

When ready to eat, top with the remaining strawberries and enjoy!

Your delicious strawberry overnight oats are now ready to fuel your day!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider sprinkling some nuts or seeds on top before serving. This adds a nice crunch and extra nutrition.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. The oats will continue to absorb moisture, so if you notice them becoming too thick, add a splash of milk to restore creaminess before serving. Avoid freezing the oats, as the texture of the yogurt and chia seeds changes significantly upon thawing, which may lead to an unappealing consistency.

For best taste and freshness, consume strawberry overnight oats within 3-4 days. If you plan to eat them after this time, consider preparing a smaller batch for optimal flavor.

Variations and Additions

Feeling adventurous? Add a tablespoon of nut butter like almond or peanut to your oat mixture before chilling for a protein-packed breakfast. You can also incorporate spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg for an aromatic twist. For crunch, top with your favorite granola or a sprinkle of nuts just before serving.

If you're aiming for a dairy-free option, substitute the Greek yogurt with coconut yogurt, and choose a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk. This switch maintains the creamy texture while making the recipe suitable for various dietary preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. Just make sure to thaw them first for the best texture.

→ How long can I store leftover oats?

Stored properly in the fridge, the oats can last up to 3 days.

→ Can I make it dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute regular milk and yogurt with almond milk or coconut yogurt.

→ What can I add for extra flavor?

You can add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or mix in other fruits like bananas or blueberries.