Skip to content

Simple Essentials

Meal Plan & Prep | Save Money

Menu
  • About
  • YouTube channel
  • Meal Planning resources
  • Favourite products
  • Contact
Menu
Overnight oats chia pudding protein

High-Protein Overnight Oats with Chia Seeds

Posted on August 8, 2026August 8, 2026 by Simple Essentials

This is the breakfast I reach for when I don’t want to think about food first thing in the morning. Five minutes the night before, and it’s ready and waiting in the fridge when I wake up.

It’s simple, it keeps me full until lunch, and it’s got a solid hit of protein without turning on the stove.

Ingredients (1-2 serves)

  • 1/3 cup rolled oats
  • ¼ cup chia seeds
  • 1 tsp cacao powder
  • ¼ cup protein powder (I use vanilla whey protein, but any flavour works)
  • 200-250ml water (or milk of your choice)

Method

  1. Add the oats, chia seeds, cacao and protein powder to a 500ml container or small bowl and mix well.
  2. Pour in your water (or milk).
  3. Mix gently with a fork until everything is fully combined.
  4. Pop it in the fridge for a few hours, or overnight.
  5. Top with fruit (I love banana or apple with some cinnamon) or eat as is.
  6. Store in an airtight container in the fridge and eat within 3 days.

Roughly How It Stacks Up (Per Serve)

NutrientApproximate amount
Calories~430 kcal
Protein~36g
Carbs~40g (including ~18g fibre)
Fat~16g

These numbers are a guide only, based on a standard whey-style protein powder and water. Protein powders vary a lot brand to brand, so check your own label for the most accurate protein and calorie count. Using milk instead of water will also add to the totals.

A Couple of Notes

  • Oats are naturally gluten-free, but can pick up traces of gluten during processing. If you need this gluten-free, look for oats labelled “certified gluten-free.” or replace oats with quinoa flakes.
  • The texture firms up a lot in the fridge, so if you like it looser, add a splash more liquid before eating.

Looking for more recipe inspiration?

  • Check out my favourite recipes here!

Recent Posts

  • High-Protein Overnight Oats with Chia Seeds
  • 7 Day Budget challenge: Lunch & Dinner
  • Crusty Easy Bread Recipe

Categories

  • Budget Meal Challenges
  • Finance
  • Meal planning and food
  • Organisation and home
  • Planning and goals
  • Recipes
  • Travel
© 2026 Simple Essentials | Powered by Minimalist Blog WordPress Theme