McNuggets

McNuggets are a chicken nugget product sold by McDonald’s. They were introduced in 1983 in the United States after market testing and development by McDonald’s chefs and suppliers, aimed at creating a bite-sized, breaded chicken piece that could be quickly prepared in restaurants. Since then, the product has become a staple of the McDonald’s menu in many markets, with variations by country.

The nuggets are made from white-meat chicken that is formed into small pieces, coated with a seasoned batter or breading, and then deep-fried. The exact recipe and texture can vary by region, and some markets use slightly different coatings or preparation methods while retaining the core concept of a fried, breaded chicken piece.

McNuggets are commonly served in multi-piece portions and are traditionally accompanied by a selection of dipping sauces. In the United States and many other countries, popular sauces include Sweet and Sour, Barbecue, Honey Mustard, Ranch, and Signature sauces, with regional offerings differing by market.

Production and distribution involve processing by McDonald’s suppliers, freezing the nuggets after coating, and shipping them to restaurants where they are heated in fryers in-store. The product has undergone reformulations and advertising changes over time, with ongoing attention to taste, texture, and nutritional considerations for different consumer groups.

Cultural impact includes broad recognition as a fast-food staple and a frequent subject of nutrition discussions. McNuggets remain one of the best-known McDonald’s items and have inspired various promotions, menu variations, and regional flavors worldwide.