Which product did McDonald’s launch nationwide in 1983 after earlier regional testing?

McDonald’s launched Chicken McNuggets nationwide in 1983 after earlier regional testing.

McDonald’s introduced Chicken McNuggets in 1983 as bite-sized pieces of reconstituted chicken coated in a seasoned breading. The product was developed with help from food scientists, including René Arend, and was designed to provide a chicken alternative to the chain’s hamburger-centered menu.

Before the national launch, supply limitations affected the product’s expansion. McDonald’s needed enough poultry-processing capacity to support demand across its restaurant system. Once that challenge was addressed, Chicken McNuggets became a major part of the brand’s menu identity.

Chicken McNuggets are distinct from the McChicken sandwich, which is a separate product. They also should not be confused with later limited-time chicken items, because the 1983 launch established the enduring McNuggets name.