Fast-food nostalgia is officially staging a royal comeback, and the internet is completely losing its mind. For nearly a decade and a half, late-night drive-thru runs just haven’t felt the same since Burger King quietly stripped its most regal, dippable menu item from its offerings. But after 14-15 long years of viral fan petitions, desperate tweets, and collective mourning, the King has finally surrendered to the demands of the public and is officially reviving the iconic Crown Nuggets for the first time since 2011. But the comeback isn’t just about shaped chicken nuggets — there’s also a limited-time summer promotion tied to the return that could make this revival even bigger than expected.
Crown Nuggets return after years of fan demand
Burger King is officially reviving its fan-favorite Crown Nuggets beginning June 2, marking the snack’s first nationwide return since disappearing from menus in 2011. Available for a limited time while supplies last, the playful crown-shaped chicken nuggets are making a comeback after years of requests from loyal customers eager to see the nostalgic item return. Fans can order them as part of the $3.99 King Jr. Meal, which includes a side and drink, or enjoy them in an 8-piece serving designed for sharing and dipping.
Originally launched in 2006, Crown Nuggets quickly became a recognizable menu favorite thanks to their unique shape and kid-friendly appeal. However, Burger King phased them out five years later as the company moved toward a more traditional nugget style and recipe aimed at attracting a broader audience. Since their retirement, the nuggets have only resurfaced briefly, including a small-scale test run at select Miami-area locations in 2021 that reignited excitement among longtime fans.
Burger King x Crayola: BK swaps toys for crayons in new summer partnership
Burger King is cranking up the creativity this summer by launching a vibrant new partnership with Crayola, the world’s leading brand for colorful, hands-on self-expression. Starting June 9, the co-branded King Jr. Meal will turn ordinary lunch breaks into an imaginative canvas. Instead of a toy, the meal will include a four-pack of Crayola crayons, as well as a crown and meal bag that you can color, giving kids and parents a fun, interactive way to bond over lunch long after the food is gone.
“We’ve been committed to creating awesome experiences for the whole family and listening to our Guests, and bringing back our Crown Nuggets allows us to do both of those things,” said Joel Yashinsky, Chief Marketing Officer, Burger King US&C. “And, by partnering with Crayola, the brand known for inspiring creativity and imagination to generations of families, we’ve created a King Jr. Meal experience that brings more fun and interaction to mealtime for Guests of all ages.”
The collaboration is a natural extension of both brands’ focus on family-centric fun, aiming to bring an extra splash of color to the typical drive-thru routine.
“Crayola has always been focused on creating fun for the whole family, making this partnership with Burger King a natural fit,” said Anna Roca, Head of Global Partnerships, Crayola. “Together, we’re creating moments that encourage families to be engaged, get creative and make everyday mealtime experiences even more colorful.”
Parents and collectors will need to act fast, as the Crayola-themed King Jr. Meals will only hit participating restaurants nationwide for a limited time beginning June 9, available strictly while supplies last.
Sources: Burger King, All Recipes