5-Minute Chai Spiced Breakfast Quinoa

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is fast to prepare yet feels indulgent and cozy thanks to the chai spice infusion. Quinoa provides a gluten-free source of complete protein, and chia seeds add fiber and omega-3s. It’s naturally sweetened with maple syrup and customizable with your favorite toppings, making it both healthy and delicious.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 cup almond milk
• 2 chai tea bags
• 2 cups cooked quinoa
• 2 tablespoons chia seeds
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• Toppings (optional):
  • 2 tablespoons almond butter
  • 2 tablespoons blueberry jam
  • 2 tablespoons seed mix (pumpkin, sunflower, sesame, etc.)

Directions

1. Heat almond milk in a saucepan until simmering. Remove from heat and steep chai tea bags for 5 minutes.
2. Remove tea bags and stir in cooked quinoa, chia seeds, maple syrup, and cinnamon.
3. Return to low heat and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until warmed through and slightly thickened.
4. Spoon quinoa mixture into bowls and add desired toppings such as almond butter, blueberry jam, and seed mix.
5. Serve warm.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 2-3 people.
Prep time: 2 minutes
Cook time: 5 minutes (plus steeping time)
Total time: 7 minutes

Variations

• Use coconut milk or oat milk instead of almond milk.
• Add diced apples or raisins for extra sweetness and texture.
• Substitute maple syrup with honey or agave nectar.
• Top with fresh fruit like sliced bananas or berries.
• Sprinkle with chopped nuts or shredded coconut for crunch.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover breakfast quinoa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to loosen the texture if needed.

FAQs

Can I use loose leaf chai instead of tea bags?

Yes, use about 2 teaspoons of loose chai and strain after steeping.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, cook quinoa and steep the chai milk in advance; reheat and combine when ready to serve.

Is quinoa gluten-free?

Yes, quinoa is naturally gluten-free and suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, it’s naturally vegan when using plant-based milk and maple syrup.

How thick should the final quinoa mixture be?

It should be creamy but spoonable—add more milk if too thick.

Can I use raw quinoa?

No, use cooked quinoa for this recipe.

Can I add protein powder?

Yes, mix in your favorite protein powder after cooking for an extra boost.

How can I reduce the sweetness?

Adjust or omit the maple syrup to taste.

Can I make this recipe without chia seeds?

Yes, but chia seeds help thicken and add nutrition.

What toppings work best?

Nut butters, jams, fresh fruit, nuts, and seeds complement the flavors well.

Conclusion

5-Minute Chai Spiced Breakfast Quinoa is a fast, flavorful, and nourishing way to begin your day. The warm spices of chai combined with protein-rich quinoa and wholesome toppings make this dish both comforting and energizing. Perfect for busy mornings or a cozy weekend breakfast, it’s a delicious twist on traditional porridge.

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