What product did McDonald’s introduce nationally in 1983 as part of its modern brand identity?

McDonald’s introduced Chicken McNuggets nationally in 1983.

The bite-sized, breaded chicken pieces had been developed earlier and tested in selected markets before receiving a nationwide launch. Their standardized shape, portioning, and dipping-sauce format helped McDonald’s expand its identity beyond hamburgers and fries.

The product was developed with help from food scientists, including René Arend, McDonald’s executive chef. The company sought a chicken item that could be prepared consistently in restaurants and fit the quick-service model.

Chicken McNuggets are often confused with the McChicken, which is a chicken sandwich rather than a bite-sized product. They also differ from later menu items such as Chicken Selects. The McNuggets launch became an important branding moment because it established chicken as one of McDonald’s major global product categories.