If you’ve spent even a minute scrolling through health and wellness content on Instagram or TikTok lately, chances are you’ve seen the viral Chunky Chia Pudding making waves across meal prep accounts. While the original trend has been shared and remixed by many creators, one of the early popularizers of this particular version appears to be @erinliveswhole, known for her easy, nutrient-packed recipes.
We’re putting our own spin on it today with a vibrant and nourishing version featuring blueberries, hemp hearts, and pistachios, a perfect trifecta for gut health, energy, and satiety.
Why Chia Pudding Deserves a Spot in Your Daily Routine
Chia seeds may be tiny, but they pack a serious nutritional punch. Here’s why incorporating them daily is a smart strategy:
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Rich in Omega-3s: Chia seeds are one of the best plant-based sources of anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids.
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Gut-Loving Fiber: Just two tablespoons deliver nearly 10 grams of fiber, supporting regular digestion and a healthy microbiome.
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Sustained Energy: Thanks to their blend of fiber, protein, and fat, chia seeds provide steady energy and help curb cravings.
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Mineral Support: They’re also a good source of calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus, key for bone and hormone health, especially for women in midlife.
Why Chunky Is Better
Unlike traditional chia pudding, which is typically blended or silky-smooth, the “chunky” version is more like a parfait-meets-oatmeal hybrid. It layers or stirs in add-ins like fruit, nuts, and seeds, making every bite texturally interesting and satisfying.
This version is also:
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Perfect for meal prep: Make a few jars at once and store in the fridge for up to 5 days.
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Customizable: Swap berries, nuts, or seeds based on your needs or what’s in season.
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No added sugar needed: The natural sweetness from fruit does the job, or you can add honey or maple syrup for a sweeter version.
Add Protein for the Win
To boost the protein, we recommend stirring in a scoop of Legion Whey+ or Plant+ protein powder just before serving. Vanilla works beautifully here and mix well with the creamy texture.
Blueberry & Pistachio Chunky Chia Pudding
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup chia seeds
- 3/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 cup almond milk (or milk of choice)
- 1 tbsp maple syrup or more to your desired sweetness
- 1/8 cup pistachios, chopped
- 1/8 cup pumpkin seeds
- 1/8 cup hemp hearts seeds
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp cinammon
- 1/2 cup frozen blueberries
Instructions
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In a medium mixing bowl, combine all ingredients and stir until combined.
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You can divide now into 3 smaller dishes, or wait unto the chia seeds have gelified and then divide.
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Best served the next morning, or at least 3 hours from the time of mixing.
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Top with more berries, pistachios and enjoy.
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Optional: Stir in 1/2 scoop vanilla protein powder into each serving if desired.