Name: Protein Chia Pudding Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 2 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 scoop (25 grams) vanilla protein powder; 1 ½ cups unsweetened vanilla almond milk, plus more as needed; 4 Tablespoons chia seeds; ½ Tablespoon maple syrup, honey or sweetener of choice; ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract, optional; ½ cup Greek yogurt (or non-dairy yogurt); Granola, for topping; Fresh berries, for topping; Nut butter, for topping

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a creamy, protein-packed breakfast that practically makes itself overnight. This Protein Chia Pudding Recipe is exactly that—a delicious, nutrient-dense start to your day that feels indulgent yet fuels you for hours.

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Protein Chia Pudding Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Protein Chia Pudding Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Protein Chia Pudding Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

I've made chia puddings before, but adding protein powder was a game changer. It gives this recipe a creamy, rich texture and keeps me full well beyond the morning. I’m excited to share why this version is a staple in my kitchen.

High Protein Boost: Combining chia seeds and protein powder makes this pudding a powerhouse of sustained energy.
Super Quick Prep: You mix it in under 5 minutes, then enjoy the magic of overnight thickening.
Customizable Toppings: I love playing with fresh berries, crunchy granola, and a spoonful of nut butter on top—adds texture and flavor layers.
Perfect for Any Diet: Dairy-free or not, vegan options or traditional—you can tailor it to your preference with simple swaps.

Ingredients & Why They Work

This Protein Chia Pudding Recipe blends ingredients that complement each other both in nutrition and texture. You want your chia to puff up just right, and the protein powder adds richness without overpowering the subtle vanilla flavors.

Vanilla Protein Powder: Look for a smooth, mild vanilla to avoid gritty texture and overpowering sweetness; plant-based or whey both work wonderfully.
Unsweetened Vanilla Almond Milk: Keeps the pudding dairy-free and light; the vanilla flavor adds a subtle sweetness without extra sugar.
Chia Seeds: These little guys are the magic—they absorb the liquid and create that signature pudding texture while packing fiber and omega-3s.
Maple Syrup (or honey/sweetener of choice): Adds just enough natural sweetness without being cloying; feel free to adjust to your taste.
Vanilla Extract (optional): Intensifies the vanilla notes and makes everything taste more vibrant.
Greek Yogurt (or non-dairy yogurt): Adds creaminess and a tangy balance; plus, it ups the protein content even more.
Granola (for topping): Provides crunch and texture contrast; I love homemade granola but store-bought works too.
Fresh berries and nut butter (for topping): Fresh berries bring freshness and a slight tartness, while nut butter adds richness and a nutty punch.

Note: Exact ingredients and measurements are listed in the recipe card below.

Make It Your Way

I love tweaking this Protein Chia Pudding Recipe to suit whatever mood I’m in or what I have on hand. Its flexibility is why it stays on my weekly rotation.

Variation: One time, I swapped out the almond milk for coconut milk and it gave the pudding a subtle tropical creaminess that was amazing with pineapple and toasted coconut toppings.
Dairy-free: Simply use your favorite plant-based yogurt and make sure your protein powder is vegan friendly.
Sweetness Levels: Adjust the maple syrup or honey according to whether you use a sweeter or more neutral protein powder.
Extra Boost: Adding a spoonful of cacao powder or cinnamon can spice things up without extra sugar.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Protein Chia Pudding Recipe

Step 1: Mix Your Base

I start by whisking the almond milk and vanilla protein powder in a bowl until the powder completely dissolves. If I’m in a hurry, I use a mason jar with a lid and shake it vigorously. This step is crucial so your pudding doesn’t have any clumps of protein powder—smooth is the goal!

Step 2: Add Chia Seeds and Sweetener

Next, I stir in the chia seeds, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. I like to give it a good stir or another shake in the jar to ensure everything is well combined. Then, I let the mixture sit for 5 minutes before stirring again—this helps break up any chia clumps from forming.

Step 3: Let It Set in the Fridge

Cover the container and pop it in the fridge for at least 1 to 2 hours, or better yet, overnight. This chilling time is key—chia seeds soak up the liquid and create that silky pudding texture we all love. When it's ready, it should be thick but still creamy, not runny.

Step 4: Assemble & Serve

I love scooping the pudding into glasses then layering with a dollop of Greek yogurt, a handful of fresh berries, a drizzle of nut butter, and a sprinkle of granola for crunch. It’s these final touches that bring it to life—feel free to get creative here!

Top Tip

Through my many attempts with this Protein Chia Pudding Recipe, I’ve learned some handy little tricks that guarantee the best results every time.

Whisk Well: Make sure your protein powder dissolves fully in the milk before adding chia to avoid gritty lumps.
Double Stir: Stir after 5 minutes sitting to keep chia from clumping together.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh berries and quality granola make a huge difference in texture and flavor.
Adjust Liquid: If your pudding is too thick when ready, add a splash of almond milk to loosen it up without losing creaminess.

How to Serve Protein Chia Pudding Recipe

protein chia pudding - Serving Suggestion

Garnishes

I’m a huge fan of topping this pudding with fresh berries—blueberries and raspberries are my go-to—and a crunchy layer of granola. A spoonful of almond or peanut butter over the top adds that luxurious nutty richness that keeps me coming back.

Side Dishes

This pudding pairs beautifully with a side of sliced bananas or a lightly toasted whole-grain bagel. Sometimes I’ll add a hard-boiled egg on the side for extra protein if I’m feeling super hungry.

Creative Ways to Present

For special brunches, I’ve served this pudding layered in tall glasses with colorful fruit parfait layers. It looks impressive but is so simple to assemble! Adding edible flowers or a dusting of cinnamon creates an elegant touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store any leftover Protein Chia Pudding in an airtight jar in the fridge for up to 3 days. The texture stays wonderfully creamy, and I just give it a good stir before digging back in.

Freezing

Personally, I don’t freeze chia pudding because the texture can get a bit icy. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.

Reheating

This pudding is best served cold, but if you want it warmer, I gently heat it on the stove or in the microwave for just 20-30 seconds and stir in a splash of almond milk to keep that creamy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use other protein powders in this Protein Chia Pudding Recipe?

Yes! You can use whey, plant-based, or collagen protein powders depending on your preference or dietary needs. Just choose one with mild flavor for the best results.

How long does the Protein Chia Pudding need to set?

Ideally, let it set for at least 1 to 2 hours in the fridge. Overnight is best for the fullest chia seed absorption and richest texture.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Use a plant-based protein powder and non-dairy yogurt to keep it vegan-friendly. Just make sure your sweetener choice aligns with your diet.

What’s the best way to avoid chia seeds clumping?

Stirring or shaking the mixture well right after mixing and again after 5 minutes helps prevent clumping. Using a mason jar with a good lid to shake the pudding works wonders.

Final Thoughts

This Protein Chia Pudding Recipe is one of those breakfast gems I come back to again and again—it’s fast, versatile, and genuinely tasty. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do and find your perfect combination of toppings to make it your own morning ritual.