1. 1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a jar with a lid or a small bowl, add the rolled oats, protein powder, and chia seeds. If you’re using a pinch of salt, add it now. Stir these dry ingredients together thoroughly to ensure the protein powder is well distributed and won’t clump.

2. 2. Add Wet Ingredients: Pour in the milk, Greek yogurt, maple syrup (if using), and vanilla extract (if using).

3. 3. Mix Thoroughly: Stir all the ingredients together very well. Use a spoon to scrape the bottom and sides of the jar or bowl to make sure there are no dry pockets of oats or protein powder. The mixture should look fairly liquid at this stage, but don’t worry, it will thicken significantly.

4. 4. Seal and Chill: Place a lid tightly on your jar or cover your bowl with plastic wrap. Transfer it to the refrigerator.

5. 5. Allow to Thicken: Let the oats chill for at least 4 hours, but ideally overnight (8 hours or more). This chilling time is crucial for the oats and chia seeds to absorb the liquid and become thick and creamy.

6. 6. Check Consistency and Serve: The next morning, open your jar or uncover your bowl. The oats should be thick and creamy. If they seem too thick, you can stir in a tablespoon or two of extra milk to reach your desired consistency.

7. 7. Add Toppings and Enjoy: Stir in any desired toppings, such as fresh fruit, nuts, or a drizzle of honey, and enjoy your ready-to-eat, high-protein breakfast!