Which McDonald's product launched in 1983 became the chain's signature bite-sized chicken brand?

Chicken McNuggets launched in 1983 and became McDonald's signature bite-sized chicken brand.

McDonald's developed the product with food scientists and suppliers after the company sought a chicken item that could be cooked, portioned, and served consistently across its restaurants. The pieces were made from chicken, shaped into small portions, coated, and fried, giving the product a form that differed from a conventional chicken sandwich.

Chicken McNuggets were introduced nationally in the United States in 1983 after earlier development and testing. Their name combined the familiar McDonald's “Mc” naming pattern with “nuggets,” a word that described their small, shareable shape.

The product helped broaden McDonald's branding during a period when customers were seeking alternatives to traditional hamburgers. It is distinct from the McChicken, which is a chicken sandwich, and from later limited-time chicken products. The McNuggets name refers specifically to the bite-sized pieces sold with dipping sauces.