Tortilla appetizer

On busy days, I often make these tortilla rolls with smoked chicken. You don't need to prepare anything hot, and you won't dirty many dishes. I've noticed that they can be quickly prepared right on the kitchen counter, and they keep well in the fridge until you need them. Usually, they are ready in a few minutes, and if you let them cool a bit, they slice more easily.

Quick info

Total time: 40 minutes (includes cooling in the fridge)
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooling time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 small rolls (one tortilla cut into 4)
Difficulty: very easy
Recipe type: quick appetizer

Ingredients

1 tortilla wrap
3 slices of smoked chicken breast
1 tablespoon of herb cream cheese
2 lettuce leaves (any type works)
A small piece of cucumber (about 7-8 cm, to taste)

Preparation method

1. Spread the tortilla on a clean surface. I usually use a wooden board or a large plate.

2. Spread the herb cream cheese over the entire surface, without pressing too close to the edge so it doesn't ooze out when rolling.

3. Place the lettuce leaves over the cream, covering as much of the tortilla as possible.

4. Lay the 3 slices of smoked chicken breast over the lettuce. Don't overlap them too much, so it doesn't get too thick in the middle.

5. Slice the cucumber lengthwise into thin sticks. Arrange them on one side of the tortilla, where you will start rolling.

6. Roll the tortilla tightly, starting from the cucumber side. Try to tighten it as much as you can, so the roll doesn't fall apart when cut.

7. Wrap the resulting roll in aluminum foil as tightly as possible. Keep it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This step helps set the shape and allows for a cleaner cut.

8. Remove the roll from the foil and cut it into 4 equal pieces. I use a thin-bladed knife, cleaned between cuts.

9. Arrange the pieces on a platter.

Why I make this recipe often

I like them because they require no cooking, are quick to make, and look good on the table, especially when you have guests or want to prepare something in advance. The filling is simple and balanced, and the rolls keep well in the fridge for a while.

Tips and variations

Tips

Use fresh cucumber, not too watery, so it doesn't make the tortilla soggy.
If you want cleaner cuts, leave the roll in the fridge longer.
Don't put too much cream cheese, or it might ooze out while rolling.
Substitutes

Smoked chicken breast can be replaced with lean ham, pastrami, or turkey breast.
You can use plain cream cheese if you don't have the herb kind.
Any type of lettuce works, even spinach leaves.
Variations

You can add other finely chopped vegetables, such as bell peppers or carrots.
If you prefer, use whole wheat tortillas.
Serving ideas

The rolls can be cut thinner, like finger food.
Arrange them on lettuce leaves, on a platter with other cold appetizers.
They are also suitable as a packed lunch for school or work.

Frequently asked questions

Can I make the recipe with boiled or grilled chicken?
Yes, if you have boiled or grilled chicken breast, you can use it instead of smoked. Thinly sliced, it works well.

How long can I keep the rolls in the fridge?
I've kept them for up to 24 hours, well wrapped. After this time, the tortilla starts to get soggy.

Can the rolls be frozen?
I don't recommend it because the tortilla and vegetables become mushy after thawing.

Can I use another type of cream cheese?
Yes, any spreadable cream cheese works.

Nutritional values

Approximately, one serving (one small roll, from a quarter of a tortilla) has about 80-100 kcal, with approximately 5 g of protein, 5 g of carbohydrates, and 4 g of fat. These are just estimates, values may vary depending on the brand of ingredients used.

Storage and reheating

The rolls store best in the fridge, wrapped in aluminum or plastic foil. I recommend consuming them within 24 hours. Reheating is not necessary and not recommended, as they are served cold. If they sit too long, the tortilla tends to get soggy from the vegetables and cheese.

 Ingredients: 1 tortilla, 3 slices of smoked chicken breast, 1 tablespoon of herb cream cheese, a small piece of cucumber, 2 lettuce leaves

 Tags:  appetizers tortilla