Chia seed popularity has surged due to growing consumer interest in health-promoting “superfoods,” driven by their rich nutritional profile including high fiber, omega-3s, and protein content, as well as their versatility and ability to be incorporated into various dietary trends like plant-based and gluten-free diets.

Social media platforms, health influencers, and wellness campaigns have further fueled this trend, spreading awareness of their benefits for heart health, digestion, and weight management.

I’m a little late to the chia seed pudding bandwagon, I know. But that doesn’t mean I can’t be an enthusiast. The chia seed has been having a moment for what seems like the past five years. That’s probably because its uses are limitless. But upon discovering you could also use them to make creamy, dreamy pudding, I had to give it a go. Consider this recipe my whittled down, super simple version. Anyone can make it! Plus, it’s packed with omega-3s and is the perfect on-the-go breakfast.

The humble chia pudding, star of the overnight breakfast, now adapted into an easy and delicious protein-rich recipe! With less than 10 minutes of prep time, it’s perfect for a stress-free start to your day.

This delightful chia pudding is basically an alternate (and much more delicious!) way of getting your protein shake in. So, whatever protein powder you already use for your before/after gym/bed shake will work. This recipe is a simple and tasty protein-rich snack or dessert that is loaded with 20+ grams of protein!

I love to meal prep and for this week brekkies, I wanted to have a sweet, creamy snack that was loaded with protein because, it’s essential to refuel with enough protein to keep a healthy body (and mind!). On those busy mornings (I’m looking at you Mondays!) when you need a quick and easy breakfast, this chia seed pudding will be your new go-to! Its a creamy, satisfying breakfast or dessert perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a sweet treat without compromising on your nutritional goals.

Chia pudding is something I’ve had a long time love affair with. It’s creamy and indulgent tasting, while being packed with fiber and other important nutrients. This delightful treat not only tantalizes your taste buds but also nourishes your body with a host of health benefits. It’s a powerhouse of nutrients, boasting a rich blend of antioxidants, fibre, and omega-3 fatty acids.

Chia seeds have high amounts of calcium, zinc, magnesium, iron, selenium and copper. Often referred to as one of the world’s most nutritious foods they pack a mighty punch, aiding digestion, supporting heart health, and providing a sustained source of energy throughout the day.

For example…

2 tablespoons of chia seeds has:
64% more potassium than a banana
5 times more calcium than milk
41% of your daily fibre
3 x more iron than spinach
2 x the antioxidants of blueberries
100% more omega-3 than salmon

Indulge guilt-free in this healthy dish that not only satisfies your sweet cravings but also supports your well-being.  Its a delicious way to treat yourself while nourishing your body from the inside out.

This version uses coconut milk as the base, along with some protein or collagen powder to give it a boost of protein. I love to make a larger batch of my chia seed pudding base on Sundays to plan for the week ahead. It stays good in the fridge for up to 5 days, and I can take out what I need and then flavor it every morning with different add-ons or toppings.

Chia pudding is delicious, especially when paired with nuts and berries. Pack your pudding in mason jars for grab-and-go breakfasts. I leave room at the top of my jars to add lots of toppings! My favorites are whipped coconut cream (recipe below in notes) berries, chopped nuts, nut butters and coconut flakes and sometimes a squirt of my homemade chocolate sauce.

So, if you have a batch of this base recipe (simply double or triple it) in the fridge to make a quick breakfast or snack during the week, this chocolate pudding might just become your personal favorite. It rests overnight for a power-packed breakfast, treat, or snack. Irresistible goodness!

Creamy Chocolate Chia Protein Pudding

Don’t want to spend your mornings in the kitchen? Make this simple, 6-ingredient chocolate chia seed pudding that's naturally sweetened and so thick and creamy. Loaded with nutrients and perfect for breakfast, dessert or a snack.

Course Breakfast, Dessert, Lunch, Snack

Cuisine Healthy Clean Eating

Keyword chia protein pudding, chocolate chia protein pudding, chocolate chia smoothie bowl, clean eating breakfast, clean eating dessert or snack, creamy chocolate chia protein pudding

Servings 2

Ingredients

• 1 cup coconut milk
• 1/4 cup chia seeds
• 1/4 cup cocoa powder
• 2 scoops protein or collagen peptides powder
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Toppings Optional

• Whipped Coconut Cream –healthy homemade recipe below in notes
• Fresh fruit or berries
• Chopped nuts
• Shredded coconut
• Granola

Instructions

• In a medium bowl, vigorously whisk the milk, chia seeds, cocoa powder, protein powder, honey and vanilla extract until well combined. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes, then whisk again to prevent the chia seeds from clumping.

  Cover the chia pudding and refrigerate until thick and creamy, at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.

  Give it a good stir and divide into two servings. Enjoy with coconut whipped cream (recipe below in notes) and chosen toppings to serve.

Notes

Homemade Whipped Coconut Cream

Add even more nutrition and healthy qualities to many other dishes with nutrient-dense fluffy, whipped coconut cream.

It’s a dairy-free dessert topping that is not overly sweet and made with simple ingredients. This whipped coconut cream is just as thick, luscious, and creamy as dairy-full whipped cream and ideal for topping cakes, tarts, puddings, hot cocoa, and more.

Made with just 3 ingredients in 5 minutes of active time. Be sure to chill the canned coconut cream or milk the day before you need it.

Packed with healthy fats, tons of other good stuff and amazing flavour to help support a healthy, fit body.

Go here for the simple recipe:  Whipped Coconut Cream 

Print Recipe

If you are looking for more delicious, healthy, protein-rich, no bake desserts and treats to help you reach your health, wellness and fitness goals, you will love my collection here: Blended Bites