1. 1. Combine the Base Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, add the plain Greek yogurt, chia seeds, milk, and optional maple syrup or honey, and vanilla extract.

2. 2. Stir Thoroughly: Use a spoon or whisk to mix all the ingredients together very well. Make sure there are no clumps of chia seeds and everything is evenly incorporated. The mixture should look slightly liquidy, as the chia seeds will absorb the liquid.

3. 3. Add Strawberries: Gently fold in the sliced or chopped fresh or frozen strawberries. If using frozen, they can be added directly, but if you prefer them softer, let them thaw for a few minutes first.

4. 4. Chill and Thicken: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Allow it to chill for at least 15 minutes. This is crucial for the chia seeds to absorb the liquid and create a pudding-like consistency. For a thicker consistency, chill for 30 minutes to an hour, or even overnight.

5. 5. Check Consistency: Before serving, give the bowl a quick stir. The mixture should be noticeably thicker, similar to a pudding or thick oatmeal. If it’s too thick for your liking, you can add a splash more milk and stir again.

6. 6. Serve and Enjoy: Spoon the breakfast bowl into individual serving dishes. You can add a few extra strawberry slices or a drizzle of honey on top for garnish if desired.