McDonald’s Shakes Up European Menus with 90s Nostalgia in the UK and a Massive Chicken Expansion in Germany

Let’s face it, keeping up with fast-food menus these days is practically a full-time job. Just when you think you’ve figured out your go-to order, the Golden Arches decide to mix things up. Over the next few weeks, McDonald’s is rolling out some rather massive changes across Europe. British fans are getting a heavy dose of nineties nostalgia, while diners over in Germany are looking at a completely overhauled chicken menu designed to hit the spot.

The Ultimate Adult Happy Meal Hits Britain

If you grew up in the nineties, this one is right up your street. McDonald’s UK has teamed up with Warner Bros. to release what’s essentially an adult Happy Meal. Landing in branches nationwide from Tuesday, 3rd February, the limited-edition Friends Meal gives you a choice between a Big Mac, nine Chicken McNuggets, or a McPlant. Obviously, that comes with fries and a drink, but the real draw here is the exclusive collectibles. There are six to pick up in total, with each toy based on a member of the iconic sitcom gang – Rachel, Monica, Phoebe, Joey, Chandler, and Ross.

Monica’s Marinara and App Exclusives

The sitcom theme doesn’t stop at plastic toys. The chain is also introducing Monica’s Signature Marinara Sauce. Billed as a tribute to the show’s resident chef, it’s a limited-time, tomato-based dip packed with garlic, onion, and herbs. It launches right alongside another new side dish: Pizza Mozzarella Dippers, which are crispy breadcrumbed bites of pizza-flavoured cheese. Even the McCafé cups are getting a themed makeover. Plus, if you use the McDonald’s app, you can unlock exclusive rewards, including a chance to win mugs featuring classic set pieces like the orange sofa, the fountain, and Monica’s famous purple door frame.

Germany Goes All-In on Poultry

While the UK is leaning heavily into retro television, McDonald’s Germany is focusing purely on its food. Launching under the banner “Immer goldrichtig” – which roughly translates to “always spot on” – their new Chicken Platform is all about matching the right meal to the right moment. This campaign is bringing a serious amount of variety to German restaurants, with a wave of brand-new items hitting the tills.

Waffles, Spices, and Bun-less Burgers

Perhaps the biggest talking point is the new Chicken & Waffle sandwich, available from 25th February to 24th March. It pairs a crispy chicken breast with savoury bacon, sandwiched between two maple syrup-infused waffle-style buns. It is a genuine sweet and savoury clash. If you prefer a bit of heat, the Korean Style McCrispy throws an exotic sesame and soy sauce into the mix, alongside cheddar, bacon, and cucumber. There are also new Caesar Bacon options available as both a wrap and a McCrispy burger later in March. Then there’s the rather unconventional Chicken Chicken Stack. Landing on 30th March and available exclusively via the app, this item ditches the traditional bread entirely, using two pieces of fried chicken to hold the bacon and melted cheddar together.

Returning Classics and a Cheeky Nugget Bonus

Naturally, they haven’t forgotten the fan favourites. The legendary Chicken Big Mac is making a comeback, along with standard chicken wings and the fiery McSpicy range. But here’s a brilliant little twist for the regulars. For a very short window – between the 25th and 28th of February – anyone buying a box of nine Chicken McNuggets will actually find a tenth one hidden inside. It’s a clever little thank-you gesture to their loyal customers, and frankly, who is going to complain about a free nugget?