Place dates, chia seeds and oats in a food processor and pulse for 20-30 seconds; add in protein powder and syrup and pulse again until everything is combined.

Last, add almond butter and pulse. Mixture should form a giant ball--this is a good thing!

Line an 8x8 baking dish with coconut oil or wax paper and pour mixture into pan, using a spatula or your hands to press mixture down and smooth it out.

For chocolate topping: combine chocolate chips and oil in a microwave safe dish and heat for 2:00, stopping every 30 seconds to stir. Likewise, you can also heat mixture over stovetop.

Pour chocolate overtop of almond butter and tilt baking dish so the chocolate spreads evenly.

Place bars in the refrigerator for 20 mins or so.

Remove, cut them into bars and enjoy!