Basil seeds and chia seeds are not the same, but they share some similarities. Both seeds exhibit a gelatinous texture when soaked in liquid. However, there are differences between the two: Basil seeds are black, tiny, and round whereas chia seeds are generally larger than basil seeds and come in various colors, including black, white, and gray. Basil seeds swell up and form a gel-like coating when soaked in liquid whereas chia seeds are slightly larger seeds with a more consistent size and shape.