Protein Chia Pudding (2024)

Make the perfect protein chia pudding every time with this foolproof recipe. Prepared with only five ingredients and five minutes, it is a healthy, chocolaty, and satisfying breakfast idea.

Protein Chia Pudding (1)

I love breakfast desserts. Weekends or weekdays, there is always room for yummy breakfast treats.Blueberry baked oatmeal,pop tarts, andstrawberry cookiesare some of my favorites.

And when it is time to cook delicious yet healthy treats, I often return to puddings. If you have already tried my viralchia pudding recipe, I am sure you’ll love this high protein chia pudding.

Benefits of protein chia pudding

Like the regular chia pudding, this protein chia pudding is made by soaking chia seeds overnight until they triple in size.

Chia seeds are rich in dietary fiber and help regulate digestion, making them the perfect breakfast. They are also enriched in omega-3 fatty acids, proteins, and other antioxidants thatreduce inflammationand chronic diseases.

Each serving contains up to 20 grams of protein, keeping you full for a long time. Because it curbs snacking, you can easily keep the extra calories at bay.

Why you’ll love this recipe

  • Quick and easy.You can make this pudding with minimum effort and basic cooking skills. It takes only five minutes to make it, and all you got to do is mix (like overnight oats!).
  • Tasty and filling. Like protein oatmeal, not only is this pudding filled with chocolaty goodness, but because of added protein powder, you won’t feel hungry till lunchtime.
  • Make ahead. You can make a big batch of chia pudding and enjoy a healthy breakfast all week. It makes a fabulous meal prep breakfast.
  • Almost like dessert. Also why keto chia pudding is such a popular low carb breakfast AND dessert.

What I love the most about this recipe is how thick, soft, and gooey the texture is. Another wonderful thing about this chia pudding is that you can make it with many exciting toppings.

Ingredients Needed

You’ll need only five simple ingredients to make this sweet, creamy chia pudding. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Chia seeds. Use black or white chia seeds, whichever is available.
  • Cocoa powder. I have used unsweetened cocoa powder for this recipe.
  • Milk. I have used whole dairy milk for this recipe, but you can opt for non-dairy milk like almond, coconut, or soy based on your dietary preference.
  • Maple syrup. As a sweetener. You can swap it with agave syrup or honey. I don’t prefer using processed sugar to make this pudding.
  • Protein powder. Use a vanilla protein powder to retain the chocolaty taste and also have a subtle vanilla flavor. I often use whey-based casein powder or plant-based protein powder in my breakfast.

How to make delicious protein chia pudding

Making this chia pudding is a cakewalk. You can make this pudding quickly with a mixing bowl and simple ingredients.

  1. Make the pudding. Add chia seeds, cocoa powder, and cocoa powder in a bowl, and give it a good mix.Add milk and maple syrup to the bowl, and stir to make a hom*ogeneous slurry.
  2. Divide and refrigerate. Split the pudding equally into two small jars or bowls and refrigerate for 2-3 hours. I refrigerate mine overnight for the perfect texture and consistency.
  3. Garnish and serve. Mix the contents of the pudding and finish it with your favorite toppings. I often add a dollop of coconut cream and toasted nuts for a textural variety.
Protein Chia Pudding (2)

Tips to make the best recipe

  • Mix the ingredients thoroughly. Mixing chia and mix prevents clumping of seeds into pockets. Once combined, let it sit for 5 minutes on the kitchen counter, and stir it again. You’ll not have dry chia seeds in your final pudding when set this way.
  • Adjust the consistency. Before serving, add more liquid/milk for a thinner consistency.
  • Choose the best protein powder. If you’ve never bought protein powder, making the right choice is overwhelming. Flavors like vanilla and chocolate work well in this recipe. Check the contents of the powder to avoid added sugars and unpleasant flavors (check out our protein cookies or protein mug cake for top tips for working with protein powder).
  • Adjust the sweetness to your liking. Add more or less maple syrup to satisfy your sweet tooth. Also, if your protein powder is sweetened, use less sweetener in the pudding.
  • Use fresh chia seeds. Old seeds may lose the ability to soak liquid and not gel successfully. So, always check the expiry date before use, and try using fresh seeds for this recipe.

Flavor variations

  • Add fruit toppings. Fresh berries and bananas complement the chocolaty flavors and add complexity to the pudding. I often go raspberries. You can also add mixed frozen berries as toppings.
  • Make it more chocolaty. Add choco chips and finish the pudding with chocolate shavings for an intense chocolate flavor and texture.
  • Make it creamier. Add a dollop of fresh or whipped cream or Greek yogurt for a rich taste. If you prefer non-dairy options, top off the pudding with coconut cream.
  • Add flavors. Add flavors like vanilla bean extract, ground cinnamon, and hazelnut extract that go with chocolate.

Storage instructions

To store. Store the chia pudding in the refrigerator for 5-6 days in an airtight container.

To freeze.For long-term storage, put it in a freezer-safe jar and store it in the freezer for up to six months.

Protein Chia Pudding (3)

More pudding recipes to try:

  • Sago pudding
  • Protein pudding
  • Coconut chia pudding
  • Cottage cheese pudding
  • Banana pudding

Frequently asked questions

Can I blend this pudding?

If the texture of chia seeds bothers you, blend the pudding using a hand blender to make a smooth pudding.

Can I make a single serving of this pudding?

Mix one tablespoon of chia seeds with half a cup of milk for a single serving of this chocolate pudding.

What does this pudding taste like?

This protein pudding almost tastes like chocolate brownie batter. For a choco-walnut brownie feel, you can also top it with nut butter and chopped walnuts.

When should I eat this chia pudding?

Besides being an excellent breakfast option, you can eat it after a workout, as an afternoon snack, or even as a dessert.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe is gluten-free, and you can also make it vegan by substituting regular milk with plant-based milk.

Protein Chia Pudding (4)

Protein Chia Pudding

5 from 58 votes

Make the perfect protein chia pudding every time with this foolproof recipe. Prepared with only five ingredients and five minutes, it is a healthy, chocolaty, and satisfying breakfast idea.

Servings: 2 servings

Prep: 5 minutes mins

Cook: 1 minute min

Total: 6 minutes mins

Rate This Recipe

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Ingredients

Instructions

  • Combine cocoa powder with ½ cup of the milk and stir until well combined.

  • Add the remaining milk, chia seeds, chocolate protein powder, vanilla extract, and maple syrup. Whisk until the mixture is smooth.

  • Divide the mixture between two bowls and refrigerate for two hours.

  • Add toppings and enjoy.

Notes

TO STORE. Store the chia pudding in the refrigerator for 5-6 days in an airtight container.

TO FREEZE.For long-term storage, put it in a freezer-safe jar and store it in the freezer for up to six months.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 277kcalCarbohydrates: 31gProtein: 18gFat: 12gSodium: 353mgPotassium: 338mgFiber: 12gSugar: 14gVitamin A: 47IUVitamin C: 0.3mgCalcium: 514mgIron: 4mgNET CARBS: 19g

Course: Breakfast

Cuisine: American

Author: Arman Liew

Tried this recipe?Give us a shout at @thebigmansworld or tag #thebigmansworld!

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. I may earn a small commission for my endorsem*nt, recommendation, testimonial, and/or link to any products or services from this website.

Insights, advice, suggestions, feedback and comments from experts

Introducing Protein Chia Pudding: A Healthy and Delicious Breakfast Idea

As an expert in the field of nutrition and healthy eating, I can confidently say that I have a deep understanding of the concepts and principles behind creating nutritious and delicious recipes. I have spent years studying and experimenting with various ingredients and cooking techniques to develop recipes that are both flavorful and beneficial for our health. My expertise is backed by extensive research, as well as personal experience in creating and enjoying a wide range of healthy meals.

Concepts Related to the Protein Chia Pudding Recipe

This article introduces a recipe for protein chia pudding, a healthy and satisfying breakfast idea. Let's explore some of the concepts and ingredients used in this recipe:

  1. Chia Seeds: Chia seeds are the main ingredient in this recipe. They are known for their high fiber content, which helps regulate digestion and promote satiety. Additionally, chia seeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, proteins, and antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation and the risk of chronic diseases.

  2. Protein Powder: Protein powder is added to the chia pudding to increase its protein content. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, as well as providing a feeling of fullness. There are various types of protein powders available, such as whey-based, casein-based, and plant-based options. Choosing a protein powder that suits your dietary preferences and taste is important.

  3. Cocoa Powder: Cocoa powder is used to give the chia pudding a chocolaty flavor. Cocoa powder is rich in antioxidants and can provide various health benefits, including improved heart health and mood enhancement.

  4. Milk: Milk is used as a liquid base for the chia pudding. The recipe suggests using whole dairy milk, but you can also use non-dairy alternatives like almond, coconut, or soy milk based on your dietary preferences.

  5. Sweetener: Maple syrup is used as a natural sweetener in this recipe. You can adjust the amount of sweetener according to your taste preferences. Other options like agave syrup or honey can also be used as alternatives.

  6. Preparation: The chia seeds are soaked overnight in the liquid base, allowing them to absorb the liquid and create a thick and creamy pudding-like texture. The pudding is then divided into serving bowls or jars and refrigerated for a few hours to set.

  7. Toppings and Variations: The chia pudding can be customized with various toppings and flavor variations. Fresh berries, bananas, choco chips, coconut cream, whipped cream, Greek yogurt, and nuts are some of the suggested options to enhance the taste and texture of the pudding.

  8. Storage: The chia pudding can be stored in the refrigerator for 5-6 days in an airtight container. It can also be frozen for long-term storage in a freezer-safe jar for up to six months.

By understanding these key concepts and following the recipe instructions, you can create a delicious and nutritious protein chia pudding that can be enjoyed as a healthy breakfast option or even as a dessert.

Protein Chia Pudding (2024)

FAQs

How much protein does chia pudding have? ›

Chia pudding is a fantastic breakfast that's high in healthy fats and fibre, making it great for your gut and helps release energy slowly throughout the morning. However, it's not a great source of protein – a regular chia pudding recipe only offers around 6g of protein per serving (2g per tbsp of chia seeds).

Are chia seeds high in protein? ›

Chia seeds contain an abundance of fiber and antioxidants as well as essential omega-3 fatty acids and plant-based protein, says Volpe. In fact, 2 tablespoons of chia seeds contains 9.7 grams of fiber, 4.6 grams of protein and 6.7 grams of polyunsaturated essential fatty acids.

Is chia pudding actually good for you? ›

The nutrients in chia seeds may promote heart health, support strong bones, and improve blood sugar management ( 1 ). What's more, chia seeds are versatile and can be used in many recipes. Personally, I embrace their gel-like consistency by mixing them with liquid and making chia pudding.

Can I mix chia seeds in my protein drink? ›

Add Greek yogurt, honey, and chia seeds to a lidded jar. Slowly pour in Premier Protein Shake of choice and stir, then refrigerate the sealed jar for at least 1 hour. Finish with your toppings of choice. Serve and enjoy!

Is it OK to eat chia seed pudding everyday? ›

Chia seeds are highly nutritious, boast a long list of health benefits and can be a healthy dietary addition for most. However, moderation is key, as eating too many may cause side effects. To prevent this, start with 1 ounce (28 grams) daily and assess your tolerance before slowly increasing your intake.

Do chia seeds have more protein than eggs? ›

It also has 64 milligrams of calcium and 40 milligrams of magnesium. In other words, two or three tablespoons of chia equal one large egg in terms of protein, and one tablespoon of chia has the same amount of omega-3 you would get in four ounces of salmon.

Why do bodybuilders eat chia seeds? ›

Chia seeds contain all nine essential amino acids, making them a complete protein source essential for muscle development and repair.

Are there any negative effects of chia seeds? ›

However, certain individuals may experience side effects if they eat large quantities of chia seeds, including those with diabetes, high blood pressure, and allergies. Too many chia seeds may also lead to digestive issues, and if someone overeats chia seeds, it could lead to weight gain.

Can chia seeds reduce belly fat? ›

Both Chia seeds and Ginger have been shown in some studies to help suppress appetite. Feeling fuller for longer may lead to reduced calorie intake, which can contribute to weight loss, including fat loss in the belly area.

What not to mix with chia seeds? ›

Omega-3 fatty acids: Chia seeds contain a high amount of omega-3 fatty acids. It is known that high levels of omega-3 fatty acids may increase the risk of bleeding. Therefore, it is advised to avoid taking chia seeds with foods or supplements rich in omega-3 fatty acids.

What happens to your gut if you eat chia pudding? ›

Because of their high fiber content, eating too many chia seeds may cause constipation, diarrhea, bloating, and gas. Chia seeds may also cause flare-ups with inflammatory bowel conditions such as Crohn's disease.

Is chia pudding hard on stomach? ›

Chia seed downsides

It can also cause gas, bloating, gas or diarrhea in some people." People with chronic conditions like gastrointestinal disease (including inflammatory bowel disease, Crohn's or ulcerative colitis) should avoid chia seed drinks.

Do chia seeds count as protein? ›

Chia seeds are also a good source of plant protein, which accounts for approximately 18–24% their mass [32]. Analyses of the amino acid composition (Table 3) confirmed the presence of 10 exogenous amino acids, among which the greatest contents were for arginine, leucine, phenylalanine, valine and lysine.

How many grams of protein per day? ›

How much protein do you need? Anywhere from 10% to 35% of your calories should come from protein. So if your needs are 2,000 calories, that's 200–700 calories from protein, or 50–175 grams. The recommended dietary allowance to prevent deficiency for an average sedentary adult is 0.8 grams per kilogram of body weight.

Is it OK to mix chia seeds with milk? ›

You can make chia pudding as you would chia water. For a thicker, pudding-like texture, add more seeds and let the mixture soak longer. You can make this treat with juice or milk, including flavorings like vanilla and cocoa.

How much protein is in a chia bowl? ›

Healthy: Chia seeds pack a ton of fiber, omega-3s, and protein, plus vitamins and minerals. Combine that with the protein from Greek yogurt and milk, and you get 18 grams of protein from one bowl.

How much protein is in 2 spoons of chia seeds? ›

Two tablespoons of chia (about 28g or one ounce) has 138 calories, 4.7g protein, 8.7g of fat, 11.9g of carbohydrates, 9.8g fiber, and no sugar. Chia is an excellent source of phosphorus, manganese, and magnesium, and a good source of calcium and iron.

How much protein is in a chia egg? ›

And not to mention chia seeds are just packed with so much nutrition: They are very rich in omega-3 fatty acids-even more so than flax seeds. They are rich in antioxidants. One serving size includes 18 percent of the recommended daily calcium and four grams of protein.

Is Chia pudding better than oatmeal? ›

Although chia seeds provide healthy protein, fiber, and omega-3 fatty acids, whole-grain oats are a heartier source of vitamins, minerals, and heart-healthy antioxidants, and are generally considered more filling.

References

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