Chocolate Chia Overnight Oats with Greek Yogurt

Chocolate Chia Overnight Oats with Greek yogurt is an easy, healthy, protein-packed breakfast recipe that tastes like dessert. Layered with rolled oats, creamy Greek yogurt, fiber-filled chia seeds, maple syrup, and plenty of rich and chocolatey cocoa powder – this oatmeal recipe comes together in minutes and is perfect for meal prep – no cooking required!

These Healthy Chocolate Overnight Oats are rich, creamy, and packed with a double layer of chocolate thanks to crunchy cacao nibs and cocoa powder. A simple and nutritious breakfast that also works well as a pre or post-workout meal.

Assemble the oats in the evening, pop them in the fridge overnight (or for at least 3 hours), and enjoy an easy grab-n-go breakfast when you wake. And if you love chocolate for breakfast, my cottage cheese chocolate mouse is another must-try recipe… but I digress!

This no-cook oatmeal breakfast is loaded with protein (14 grams!), fiber, and healthy fats to help keep you satisfied until lunchtime. Want extra protein? Stir in a scoop of your favorite high-quality protein powder (check out my high-protein overnight oats for more deets!).

Ingredients needed

This chocolate overnight oats recipe is made with simple, affordable everyday ingredients. The combo of oats, Greek yogurt, and chia seeds gives you a filling breakfast that is easy to make and so delicious. Here’s what you’ll need to make it:

• Rolled oats: Old-fashioned rolled oats are the best for making overnight oats because they get thick and creamy and create a pudding-like texture. Be sure to buy certified gluten-free oats to keep this recipe gluten-free. Instant oats can also work in a pinch but tend to be mushier. I don’t recommend steel-cut oats as the texture is too hard and won’t soften.
• Milk: I like to use unsweetened almond milk best. Oat milk is another plant-based option that works well as it’s naturally rich, sweet, and creamy. If you want added protein, opt for cow’s milk.
• Greek yogurt: Adds a rich creamy texture and plenty of protein to the recipe. Non-fat, low-fat, and full-fat work well, so use whichever option aligns with your health, wellness, and/or weight goals. If you want to keep this recipe vegan – be sure to choose a plant-based yogurt.
• Chia seeds: Adds healthy fats & fiber to the overnight oats while also helping to thicken them a bit for the perfect texture.
• Maple syrup: Naturally sweetens the oats. You can also use liquid stevia or a monk fruit alternative or a sugar-free option.
• Cinnamon: Adds a warm, cozy flavor.
• Cocoa powder: Unsweetened cocoa powder adds a rich chocolate flavor.
• Cacao nibs: Made from raw cocoa beans, cacao nibs are rich without being sweet. They add a great crunchy texture to the oats as well. If preferred, you can swap in mini chocolate chips but keep in mind that this will increase the sugar content of the oats.

How to make this recipe

1. Combine ingredients: In a mason jar or bowl, mix the oats, milk, Greek yogurt, chia seeds, maple syrup, cinnamon, and cacao nibs until everything is well incorporated.
2. Soak: Cover the jar or bowl and place in the fridge for a minimum of 3 hours and preferably overnight until your oats are cold and creamy.
3. Serve: Before serving you can add an extra dollop of Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of cacao nibs or another favorite topping if you’d like. Enjoy!

What does chocolate overnight oats taste like?

If you’ve never tried it, the idea of cold oatmeal might sound unpleasant. But, trust me, it’s SO good! It’s almost like chocolate pudding, but even more delicious and hearty. Plus, you can heat up your overnight oats, if you prefer, see below in ‘expert tips’.)

Looking for more flavors of overnight oats? Try our Blueberry Lemon Overnight Oats, Peanut Butter Banana Overnight Oats and my Strawberry Peanut Butter Overnight Oats.

Serving suggestions

I love this chocolate oatmeal as-is, but the addition of your favorite toppings makes it special. Here are some great options:

• Flavored Greek yogurt (or dairy-free yogurt)
• Fruit, like sliced bananas or berries
• Drizzle of peanut butter or almond butter
• Sprinkle of cacao nibs, chopped nuts, or mini chocolate chips

Storage recommendations

Chocolate overnight oats will keep fresh in the fridge for up to 4 to 5 days. Store in an airtight container or sealed mason jar. Before eating, stir well and add an extra splash of milk, if you’d like.

Thanks so much for reading! If you make this recipe I would love for you to give it a ★ rating below.  And be sure to follow me on YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook for more healthy food inspiration. Cheers!