McDonald’s is bringing the heat back to its menu next month. Spicy Chicken McNuggets and Mighty Hot Sauce will return to participating restaurants nationwide beginning Sept. 1, but only for a limited time.
The return marks the first national appearance for the spicy nuggets since 2024. McDonald’s first introduced Spicy Chicken McNuggets in 2020, marking the first major flavor twist on the classic Chicken McNugget since the original item debuted in 1983.
McDonald's is bringing back its Spicy Chicken McNuggets to the menu for a limited time. https://t.co/98pSw37Nng
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The spicy version uses McDonald’s familiar chicken nugget with a tempura coating seasoned with aged cayenne and chili peppers. The result is a bolder bite that has built a loyal following among fans who want more than the standard McNugget flavor.
McDonald’s brought Spicy McNuggets back in 2021 after customers pushed for another chance to order them. But the chain has continued to treat the item as a limited-time release, keeping it off the permanent national menu despite repeated fan requests.
The return also includes Mighty Hot Sauce, which is back nationally for the first time since 2021. McDonald’s describes the sauce as a blend of crushed red pepper, spicy chilis, savory garlic and a touch of sweetness.
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The nuggets provide a mild level of heat on their own. Mighty Hot Sauce is meant for customers who want to push the spice level further, creating a pairing that delivers a sharper kick than most of McDonald’s regular sauces.
McDonald’s says the items will be sold while supplies last at participating restaurants. Some franchises may begin offering the nuggets ahead of the nationwide Sept. 1 launch, so customers should check their local location.
The temporary return gives fans another chance to see why Spicy McNuggets have become one of the chain’s most requested repeat items. But unless McDonald’s decides to listen to customers and make them permanent, the countdown to the next disappearance begins the moment they return.