Makes 1 *Servings*
Per Serving: *35g Protein | 375 Cal*

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If you’re looking for a no-fuss breakfast that delivers serious satiety, supports your fitness goals, and feels like a treat, this High-Protein Matcha Chia Seed Pudding is the move. After 8 rounds of testing, adjusting macros, and perfecting the flavor-texture balance, I can confidently say: this one’s worth it.

This isn’t just another chia pudding—it’s intentionally crafted to keep you full, fueled, and focused. It’s subtly sweet, rich in fiber and omega-3s, and boosted with protein powder for an extra punch that adds flavor without added sugar. Plus, the matcha gives you a calm, clean energy boost to start your day right.

Why You'll Love This Protein-Packed Chia Pudding

High Protein, No Added Sugar – One scoop of your favorite protein powder not only boosts the protein content significantly but also adds creaminess and flavor without needing more sweetener.

Energizing, Not Jittery – Matcha provides a gentle caffeine lift and antioxidants, making it a smart swap for coffee if you're looking to ease into your mornings more calmly.

Perfectly Balanced Macros – I intentionally used 3 tablespoons of chia seeds—just enough to deliver a satisfying thickness without going overboard on calories or ending up with a gelled brick.

Meal Prep Friendly – It takes 5 minutes to throw together and stays fresh in the fridge for several days.

Tested and Refined – This wasn't a one-and-done recipe. It took 8 versions to land the perfect combo of texture, protein, and taste.

Ingredients

3 tablespoons chia seeds
1/3 cup hot water (not boiling)
½–1 teaspoon matcha powder (to taste)
1 scoop protein powder (vanilla or unflavored works great)
¾ cup milk of choice (dairy or non-dairy)
1–2 teaspoons honey or sweetener of choice
Pinch of salt
Optional: splash of vanilla extract

Instructions

Mix matcha + chia + hot water
In a jar or bowl, whisk matcha into hot water until fully dissolved and smooth. Stir in chia seeds. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes, stirring once or twice as it begins to gel.
Add remaining ingredients
Once the chia starts to bloom, stir in protein powder, milk, sweetener, salt, and vanilla if using. Mix or shake well until completely smooth and evenly distributed.
Chill
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, ideally overnight, until it thickens into a creamy, pudding-like consistency.

Make It Your Own

Use a flavored protein: Vanilla and matcha are a dreamy combo, but feel free to try coconut, almond, or even chocolate protein for a twist.
Add toppings: Sliced banana, berries, granola, hemp seeds, or a spoonful of nut butter work beautifully here.
Double or triple it: This recipe scales up perfectly for batch prepping breakfast or snacks for the week.

Nutrition Info (1 serving)

Calories: 375
Protein: 35g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fat: 12g

Tips for Success

1. Use hot (not boiling) water.
This helps dissolve the matcha fully and activates the chia seeds faster for a smoother pudding. Boiling water can alter the flavor of matcha, so aim for just-hot tap or kettle water.
2. Stir twice during the first 10 minutes.
After mixing the chia seeds in, give the pudding another stir after 5–10 minutes to prevent clumping and ensure even gel formation.
3. Choose a protein powder that mixes well.
Whey isolate or a high-quality plant-based blend works best. Avoid chalky or gritty textures—if your powder doesn't dissolve well, mix it separately with milk before adding.
4. Adjust matcha to your taste.
Start with ½ tsp for a mild flavor. Go up to 1 tsp if you're a matcha lover or want more of a caffeine kick.
5. Let it chill overnight for best results.
An hour in the fridge works in a pinch, but overnight gives you the thickest, creamiest pudding.
6. Sweeten to your preference.
Depending on your protein powder's sweetness, you might not need much honey (or any). Start low and taste before adding more.
7. Scale it up for meal prep.
Double or triple the batch and store in individual jars for a grab-and-go breakfast or snack all week.
8. Pick a high-protein milk.
Using dairy, soy, or ultra-filtered milk (like Fairlife) can boost the total protein content by 8–13g per serving.
9. Blend it for a smooth texture.
If you’re not a fan of chia’s gelled texture, blend the finished pudding until smooth. It turns into a creamy, mousse-like consistency.
10. Toppings matter.
Add fiber, crunch, or flavor with toppings like berries, hemp seeds, granola, or a spoonful of almond butter.

FAQs

Hot (not boiling) water helps the matcha dissolve better and jumpstarts the chia gelling process for a smoother final texture.
This amount was chosen after multiple rounds of testing to keep the calories in check and avoid an overly thick or slimy texture. It’s the sweet spot for both nutrition and mouthfeel.
Not exactly—but it’s lower carb than traditional oatmeal or yogurt parfaits. To reduce carbs further, skip the honey and use a low-carb sweetener and unsweetened almond milk.
Absolutely! Just omit the matcha and proceed with the rest of the recipe for a simple, high-protein chia pudding base you can customize however you’d like..

Final Thoughts

If you're on the hunt for a make-ahead, high-protein breakfast that tastes amazing, keeps you full, and fuels your morning with intention—this chia pudding is it. The matcha adds just the right amount of energy, and the carefully balanced ingredients make sure your macros are in check without sacrificing texture or flavor.

After eight rounds of testing, I can finally say: this one's a keeper.

High-Protein Matcha Chia Seed Pudding

Yield: 1

Author: Ashley aka The Protein Snack Queen

Prep time: 14 MinInactive time: 1 HourTotal time: 1 H & 14 M

A creamy, energizing chia pudding packed with protein and fiber. The perfect make-ahead breakfast or snack that keeps you full for hours. Lightly sweetened and infused with matcha for a subtle caffeine lift.