‘Just as spicy as ever’: Fan-favorite spicy nuggets return to McDonald’s for a limited time

The Spicy Chicken McNuggets were first introduced onto McDonald’s menus in 2020 and have been featured on-and-off ever since.

WASHINGTON — McDonald’s is bringing back a fan-favorite item next week, adding spicy chicken nuggets back to the menu for a limited time. 

“We’re so back. And just as spicy as ever,” McDonald’s said in its announcement this week.

The Spicy Chicken McNuggets were first introduced onto McDonald’s menus in 2020 and have been featured on and off ever since. The last time they were seen on some menus was in 2024. 

In addition to the return of the nuggets, McDonald’s is also bringing back the Mighty Hot Sauce to really turn up the heat. The sauce features crushed red peppers, spicy chilis, savory garlic and a hint of sweetness. The sauce is also returning for the first time since 2021. 

When will spicy chicken nuggets return to McDonald’s?

The fast-food chain said fans of the spicy nuggets can start ordering them nationwide at participating locations starting Sept. 1. The return of the spicy nuggets is only for a limited time, McDonald’s said. 

McDonald’s describes the nuggets as a “hot” take on their classic McNuggets, breaded in a spicy tempura coating made with a “blend of aged cayenne and chili peppers.” 

The spicy nuggets were the first new McNuggets since they were first introduced to McDonald’s menus in 1983. 

The return of the spicy nuggets comes as Burger King launched its newest chicken nuggets and sauces. The chain said it revamped its chicken nugget recipe after honest feedback from its consumers. 

With the new nuggets, Burger King also released a slew of revamped sauces, including a new special savory sauce, honey mustard, buffalo and sweet ‘n sour.