Wendy’s Saucy Nuggs launched Monday, offering fans seven new flavor combinations.
Although Wendy’s has long offered Nuggs—what the Dublin, Ohio-based chain calls chicken nuggets—accompanied by dipping sauces, Saucy Nuggs are tossed and coated with sauce, in flavor profiles that fit a range of taste buds. There’s Honey BBQ, Garlic Parm, Buffalo, Spicy Honey BBQ, Spicy Garlic Parm, Spicy Buffalo and fiery Spicy Ghost Pepper. Dippers have no fear—the new Nuggs are also served with a side of ranch or blue cheese sauce.
“This new innovation is all about providing a next-level culinary experience rooted in flavor,” John Li, global VP of culinary innovation at The Wendy's Company, said in a statement. "We crafted four unique sauces to complement the Wendy's nugget experience and to provide fans with a variety of chicken options that meet their lifestyles and palates. Whether fans want a bite-size snack or a full meal, we've got them covered with our new Saucy Nuggs."
Of the four base sauces, Honey BBQ provides smokiness and sweetness with a hint of honey, while Garlic Parm blends garlic and Parmesan for a flavor that veers toward the savory side. Buffalo sauce has buttery undertones with the tang of vinegar, and Spicy Ghost Pepper kicks up the heat with a chili known for its fiery taste.
Spicy Honey BBQ is a hotter variation of the original, while Spicy Garlic Parm ramps up the classic with four types of roasted garlic, and Spicy Buffalo delivers a burst of heat to that traditional flavor profile.
KFC debuted what it named Saucy Nuggets back in April, also boasting that its version comes “dripping in sauce,” saving the guest the extra step of dipping. The KFC nuggets come in five sauce flavors: Nashville Hot, Georgia Gold, Honey Sriracha, Korean BBQ and Sticky Chicky Sweet ‘n Sour. The chicken chain first introduced unsauced crispy white meat chicken nuggets in Spring 2023.
Wendy’s Saucy Nuggs officially roll out nationwide June 10, but all this week digital customers can be the first to try them by placing an order through the app or website for pickup or delivery. Wendy’s has lowered the in-app delivery fee to $0 until the national launch. And from June 12-18, DoorDash will be offering special deals on Saucy Nuggs.
The new Nuggs are available in Crispy and Spicy varieties in four-, six-, 10- or 20-piece sizes.
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