McDonald's to give away FREE McNuggets this week - here's how to get yours

As the summer months rapidly approach, McDonald's is gearing up for a season of giveaways - and this week is no exception.

This Wednesday, May 22, the fast food behemoth is giving away Chicken McNuggets to anyone who orders through the company's mobile app.

As prices across the food sector continue to skyrocket, the burger joint is looking to reward loyal customers during the midweek giveaway.

The one-day offer from participating restaurants is for a free six-piece Chicken McNuggets for those who download the app and join MyMcDonald's Rewards.

The burger behemoth is kicking off summer with an irresistible giveaway - free Chicken McNuggets this Wednesday

No purchase is necessary, and adding one of the fast food giant's signature dipping sauces to the order also comes at no extra cost.

The company, whose prices have climbed in some places in the last several years, says Wednesday's offer is merely the beginning of a long summer of deals.

A McDonald's spokesperson said the company is aiming to provide special offers to customers, alongside its standard affordable prices.

At present, some 90 percent of McDonald's franchisees in the US offer meal bundles for $4 or less, said the spokesperson - though the beloved burger institution was lambasted across the web not too long ago for offering its classic bundle - a Big Mac, fries, and a drink - for an eye-watering $18 at some locations.

The offer is eligible at participating restaurants for anyone ordering through the McDonald's app

To address the concerns brought about by a general 'affordability' crisis, and drooping sales among low-income and other customers, McDonald's plans to introduce a $5 meal deal this summer.

The meal is slated to include a four-piece Chicken McNugget, small fries, a small drink, and either a McDouble burger, or a McChicken sandwich.

Meal deals have become a renewed focus of some popular chains as skyrocketing prices become fodder for the chattering class on the internet.

A recent 'viral moment' saw burger chain Five Guys get roasted for a customer's $24 receipt for a single meal.

Chris Kempczinski, the CEO and president of McDonald's recently spoke during an investor call about the company's attitude toward customers who have become more discerning about every dollar they are spending in a tough economy.

McDonald's plans to introduce a $5 meal deal this summer, which will include a four-piece Chicken McNugget, small fries, a small drink, and either a McDouble burger, or a McChicken sandwich

'Consumers continue to be even more discriminating with every dollar that they spend as they faced elevated prices in their day-to-day spending, which is putting pressure on the [quick-service restaurant] industry,' he said.

He underlined the necessity of a 'nationwide value message' for the company, as average consumers continue to grapple with inflationary prices that are squeezing their ability to afford a way of life they've become accustomed to being able to afford.

Some parts of the US are making that into even more of a challenge for everyday Americans - like in California, where the minimum wage recently rose to $20, forcing most fast food restaurants to at least consider raising their prices.