In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the rolled oats, milk, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together and place the saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent the oats from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
Once the oats begin to bubble and thicken slightly, it’s time to add the chia seeds. Stir them in continuously to ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the oatmeal. The chia seeds will help to thicken the mixture further, creating a wonderfully creamy consistency.
Reduce the heat to low and let the oatmeal cook for about five minutes. Continue to stir as it simmers until it reaches your preferred thickness. Some people like their oatmeal runnier, while others prefer it thick and hearty, so feel free to adjust the cooking time as needed.
Remove the saucepan from the heat. Now, stir in the vanilla extract and your choice of sweetener, like honey or maple syrup. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully combined, ensuring the flavor is distributed evenly throughout the oatmeal.
Gently fold in most of the sliced strawberries, saving a few for garnish. The heat from the oatmeal will slightly soften the strawberries, releasing their sweet juices. Serve the oatmeal immediately in bowls, topping it with the remaining strawberry slices and fresh mint leaves for a beautiful presentation.