High Protein Banana Chia Seed Pudding – Meal Prep!

This banana chia pudding is creamy, satisfying, and packed with 32 grams of protein, 17 grams of fiber, and healthy fats. Made with simple ingredients like ripe banana, chia seeds, Greek yogurt, almond milk, and vanilla protein powder, it’s the perfect make-ahead breakfast or snack that tastes like a healthier version of banana cream pie!

High Protein Banana Chia Seed Pudding – Meal Prep!

I’m filing this banana chia seed pudding under my long list of high-protein chia pudding recipes that I make on repeat.

The natural sweetness from mashed banana means there’s no need for added sugar (whoop!), while the protein-rich yogurt topping takes this banana chia pudding recipe to the next level. It is simple, nourishing, and packed with flavor.

Whether you’re looking for a healthy breakfast to prep ahead for busy mornings or a nourishing afternoon snack, this creamy chia pudding delivers!

And if you’re a fan of creamy chia pudding, be sure to try my coconut chia pudding, matcha chia pudding, and chocolate protein chia pudding for even more delicious flavors.

Why you’ll love this banana chia pudding

High in Protein and Fiber – Thanks to the combination of Greek yogurt, protein powder, and chia seeds, this recipe helps keep you feeling satisfied for hours! Chia seeds are also a good source of omega-3 fatty acids and are loaded with fiber.

Perfect Make-Ahead Breakfast – One of the best things about overnight chia pudding is that it requires just a few minutes of prep. Make it the night before and wake up to a ready-to-eat breakfast~

Naturally Sweetened – Ripe bananas add natural sweetness and flavor without needing maple syrup, brown sugar, or other sweeteners.

Simple ingredients you’ll need

Scroll down to view the recipe card below for the full ingredients list, nutrition facts, and step-by-step instructions.

• Banana – Use a ripe banana with plenty of brown spots for the best flavor and natural sweetness.
• Almond milk – I like using unsweetened almond milk, but any non-dairy milk works well. Oat milk, soy milk, hemp milk, or dairy milk can all be substituted.
• Plain Greek yogurt – Adds protein, creaminess, and a slight tang that balances the sweetness of the banana.
• Pure vanilla extract – Enhances the flavors.
• Vanilla protein powder – Boosts the protein content and enhances the banana cream flavor.
• Chia seeds – The star ingredient of any chia pudding recipe. Chia seeds absorb liquid and create that signature thick pudding texture while providing fiber, healthy fats, and plant-based nutrients.
• Cinnamon – The perfect spice to pair with banana.

For the protein yogurt topping: Greek yogurt, cream cheese, vanilla protein powder, and coconut oil.

How to make banana chia pudding

Step 1: In a medium bowl, combine the mashed banana, almond milk, Greek yogurt, vanilla extract, protein powder, chia seeds, and cinnamon. Stir well until fully combined.

Step 2: Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or overnight for best results. Give the mixture a good stir after about 5-10 minutes to prevent the chia seeds from clumping.

Step 3: In a small bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, cream cheese, protein powder, and melted coconut oil until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Spread the protein yogurt topping over the chilled creamy pudding and finish with fresh banana slices. Enjoy right away or store chilled until ready to eat.

Watch me make this tasty breakfast

The full how to video can be watched below, or on my YouTube channel!

Meal prep and storage

This banana chia pudding is ideal for meal prep!

Store the pudding in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. For best results, wait to add the banana slices until just before serving.

You can portion the pudding into small bowls or jars for grab-and-go breakfasts throughout the week.

Pro tips

• Use very ripe bananas for maximum sweetness.
• Stir the pudding twice during the first 10 minutes of chilling to prevent clumping.
• Let the pudding sit overnight for the creamiest texture.
• Add banana slices right before serving to keep them fresh.
• Adjust the thickness by adding an extra splash of milk if needed.

Substitutions, optional variations & dietary adjustments

Below you’ll find a list of substitutions that will work well in this banana pudding with chia seeds recipe. 

If you try something different out, please leave a comment below letting us all know how it turned out!

Banana – Use a very ripe banana for the best flavor and natural sweetness. You can swap the banana for pumpkin puree or applesauce, but the flavor and texture will be different.

Almond Milk – Any milk works here. Try oat milk, soy milk, cashew milk, coconut milk, or regular dairy milk.

Greek Yogurt – Plain Greek yogurt adds creaminess and protein. For a dairy-free option, use your favorite thick dairy-free yogurt.

Vanilla Protein Powder – Vanilla protein powder boosts the protein content and adds sweetness. You can leave it out if preferred, though the pudding will have less protein and may be slightly thinner and less sweet. Feel free to swap in a chocolate protein powder for a chocolate banana version.

Chia Seeds – Chia seeds are essential for thickening the pudding and cannot be directly substituted in this recipe.

Cinnamon – Add warmth and flavor to the pudding. Feel free to swap it for pumpkin pie spice or leave it out.

Cream Cheese – The cream cheese makes the topping rich and cheesecake-like. Use dairy-free cream cheese if needed.

Coconut Oil – Helps create a smooth, rich topping. Melted butter can be used instead, or simply omit it.

Banana Slices – Fresh banana slices are my favorite topping, but fresh berries, chopped nuts, cacao nibs, coconut flakes, or a drizzle of nut butter are all delicious options.

Frequently asked questions

Why didn’t my chia pudding thicken?

Chia seeds need enough time to absorb the liquid. Allow at least 3 hours of chilling time, though overnight chia pudding provides the thickest texture.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes. Simply use a dairy-free yogurt alternative and dairy-free cream cheese.

Can I use a whole banana?

Absolutely. Using a whole banana will make the pudding sweeter and slightly thicker.

Is this recipe good for breakfast?

Yes! The combination of protein, fiber, and healthy fats makes this a filling and balanced breakfast option that can help support stable energy levels throughout the morning.

More high protein chia pudding recipes you’ll love

• Raspberry overnight oats with matcha chia pudding parfaits
• Apple pie chia seed pudding
• Creamy lemon chia pudding

Save this banana bread chia pudding recipe to Pinterest and make it later!

If you try this banana chia seed pudding recipe, I’d love it if you left a star rating and comment below letting me know how it turned out!

XO

Heather