Which McDonald’s product name was introduced in 1983 as the chain’s first major chicken menu brand?

Chicken McNuggets were introduced nationally by McDonald’s in 1983 as a major branded chicken product. Their distinctive name extended McDonald’s familiar “Mc” naming style to a new category.

The product had been developed before its national launch, with food scientist René Arend credited with creating the nugget form for McDonald’s. The bite-sized pieces were designed to be convenient, consistent, and easy to eat with dipping sauces.

Chicken McNuggets are sometimes confused with the McChicken, a chicken sandwich that belongs to a different product category. “Chicken McNuggets” refers specifically to the small, breaded chicken pieces.

The launch helped McDonald’s broaden its identity beyond hamburgers and fries. Chicken products later became a major part of the chain’s global menu and advertising.