Green Tea Chia Pudding (3 Ways I Actually Want to Eat It)

Chia pudding is one of those things that sounds amazing in theory.

But if we’re being honest, a lot of chia pudding tastes like sadness and effort.

I still make it though because when you do it right it’s easy, filling, and it helps me stay steady with energy and cravings. It’s also a perfect snack meal when I don’t feel like cooking but I still want something that supports me.

This version uses green tea because I’m focusing on it this month, and I love how it makes the flavor feel lighter and cleaner.

And because I get bored easily, I’m giving you three ways to make it so you actually want to eat it.

If you want the full February focus foods list I’m using this month, link that sentence to your February focus foods post.

The base recipe (makes 2 servings)

You need:

• 1 cup strong brewed green tea, cooled
• 3 tbsp chia seeds
• 1 to 2 tsp maple syrup or honey (optional, adjust to taste)
• 1/2 tsp vanilla (optional but makes it taste better)
• pinch of sea salt (tiny pinch, but it matters)

How to make it:

1. Brew green tea strong. Let it cool.
2. In a jar or bowl, whisk green tea + chia + sweetener + vanilla + pinch of salt.
3. Wait 5 minutes, whisk again (this prevents clumps).
4. Cover and refrigerate at least 2 hours, or overnight.

That’s the base. Now pick your flavor.

Version 1: Blood Orange Citrus (bright and refreshing)

This one feels like a little reset.

Add:

• 2 to 3 tbsp blood orange segments (or regular orange)
• 1 tsp zest if you have it (optional)
• optional extra drizzle of honey if you like it sweeter

How I do it:
Spoon pudding into a bowl or jar, top with citrus, and eat it cold.
If you want it softer and less tangy, let the citrus sit on top for a few minutes before eating.

Version 2: Creamy Vanilla (simple and comforting)

This is the one I make when I want it to feel more like dessert, but still clean.

Add:

• 2 to 3 tbsp plain yogurt (dairy or plant based)
• a splash of vanilla
• optional cinnamon

How I do it:
Stir the yogurt into the finished pudding right before eating.
It makes it creamier and takes away that watery chia vibe.

Version 3: Chocolate (husband friendly)

If you have someone in the house who rolls their eyes at “healthy pudding,” start here.

Add:

• 1 tbsp cocoa powder
• 1 to 2 tsp maple syrup or honey (chocolate needs a little sweet)
• optional pinch of cinnamon or instant espresso powder

How I do it:
Whisk cocoa into the base mixture before chilling.
If it thickens too much overnight, add a splash of tea or water and stir.

This one tastes like a treat, but it still feels light.

How long it lasts

• Keeps 3 days in the fridge
• I like it best on day 1 and day 2
• Stir before eating, because chia does what chia does

Fixes (if it turns out weird)

Too thick

Add a splash of green tea or water and stir.

Too thin

Add 1 more teaspoon chia, wait 15 minutes.

Clumpy

You skipped the second whisk. Do the 5 minute whisk next time. It makes a difference.

Tastes bland

Add the pinch of salt and a touch of vanilla. Those two small things change everything.

If you deal with reflux or sensitive digestion

Chia is usually gentle, but portions matter.

• Start with a smaller serving
• Keep the citrus topping light if acidity bothers you
• Eat it earlier in the day if late snacks trigger reflux

No drama. Just adjustments.

My honest take

This is one of my favorite “I don’t feel like cooking” snacks because it still feels like I’m taking care of myself.

And I like recipes like this because they’re repeatable. Once you get the base right, you can change the flavor a hundred ways without thinking.

If you’re doing February focus foods with me, this is an easy one to keep in rotation.

Link that sentence to your February focus foods post.

Quick question

If you try this, which version would you make first: citrus, creamy vanilla, or chocolate?

Disclaimer:
This content is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making changes to your diet, supplements, or lifestyle, especially if you have existing conditions or take medication.

💌Want plant-based tips each week

Join the Plant Based Flex newsletter. It’s free, and when you confirm your email I’ll send you a 7-Day Kickstart Wellness Bundle to help you thrive beyond 60.

👉 Join the newsletter!