From a ski-thru McDonald's in Sweden to the origins of the Chicken McNugget, the iconic fast-food item has a fascinating history. Olivia Foley's recent trip to experience McSki highlights the global reach of the brand, while the story behind the McNugget reveals a journey of innovation and adaptation.
The Chicken McNugget, a staple on McDonald's menu since the 1980s, almost had a very different beginning. According to McDonald's, the idea originated from experiments by executive chef René Arend, who was initially developing "onion nuggets." When that recipe didn't quite pan out, Chairman Fred Turner suggested a pivot to chicken in 1979, leading to the birth of the McNugget.
Initial tests in select markets proved successful, and by 1983, McNuggets were officially launched across the United States. Originally offered in six, nine, and 20-piece options, today's customers can choose from four, six, 10, 20, and even 40-piece boxes.
The McNugget's international debut followed in 1984, expanding to Canada, Japan, France, and Germany. A 2014 video by McDonald's Canada provides insight into the McNugget's production process, from the initial separation of chicken breasts to the grinding, seasoning, and addition of chicken skin as a binder. The mixture is then formed into four distinct shapes – the "Bow Tie" (or "Bone"), "Ball," "Bell," and "Boot" – before being breaded, battered, par-fried, frozen, and finally, fried again at individual McDonald's locations.
These shapes, as explained in a 2023 McDonald's video, are designed for consistent cooking and ease of consumption. Initially offered with Honey, Sweet and Sour, Hot Mustard, and Barbecue dipping sauces, the McNugget has seen over 25 different sauce variations in the U.S. alone. In 2003, the recipe was updated to use only white meat chicken.
From its humble beginnings as an experimental "onion nugget" to its current status as a global fast-food icon, the Chicken McNugget's journey is a testament to culinary innovation and adaptation.
