Which McDonald's product branding introduced the name “Chicken McNuggets” in 1983?

Chicken McNuggets were introduced nationally by McDonald's in 1983 under that distinctive product name.

The product had been tested in selected markets before its nationwide rollout. McDonald's developed the bite-sized, breaded chicken pieces as a menu item that could be prepared consistently and marketed with the company's “Mc” naming style.

The name became an important example of product branding within the McDonald's system. It joined established names such as the Big Mac and McChicken, making the item immediately identifiable as part of the chain's menu family.

Chicken McNuggets are sometimes confused with earlier chicken products or later menu variations. The original branded item was specifically called Chicken McNuggets, while sauces, limited editions, and regional versions were added afterward.