How to Integrate AI Tools into Your Workflow with n8n and MCP

Want to integrate AI tools into your workflow without writing tons of code? This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, using n8n with Claude’s MCP (Model Context Protocol) tools to create smarter automation flows. Plus, we’ll use N8N Docker for one-click deployment—making the whole process super easy. You’ll be ready to go in no time!

Background: What are n8n and MCP?

What is n8n?

n8n is an open-source workflow automation tool that allows you to connect different apps like LEGO blocks and automate tasks without needing to write code. It supports over 300 popular services. Imagine form responses automatically going into Google Sheets, sending alerts to Slack, or even asking AI to help process content—n8n makes it all possible!

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What about MCP?

MCP (Model Context Protocol) is an open standard developed by Anthropic to help large language models like Claude easily connect to external tools or data sources. Think of it as a bridge that links AI to the real world. With MCP, AI doesn’t just sit back and answer questions—it can actively look up data, use tools, and help build powerful workflows.

Let’s Get Started: Run n8n + MCP!

Now let’s walk through the full process. Just follow along, and you’ll have your own n8n running , fully equipped to use MCP tools.

Step 1: Deploy N8N Locally for free

open a Terminal on Mac OS - OR- Open CMD on Windows

docker volume create n8n_data

docker run -it --rm --name n8n -p 5678:5678 -v n8n_data:/home/node/.n8n docker.n8n.io/n8nio/n8n

Once running, you can access n8n by opening: http://localhost:5678

Step 2: Create Your n8n Account

On first launch, n8n will ask you to create an account. Just enter your email and password.

Step 3: Install the MCP Community Node

To use MCP with n8n, you need to install a community node (like a plugin):

• Open n8n and click the gear icon "⚙️ Settings"

• Switch to the "Community Nodes" tab

• Click "Install New Node" and type n8n-nodes-mcp

• Click "Install"—and it’s done!

Step 4: Add the MCP Client Node to Your Workflow

Now you can add an MCP node to your workflow:

• Create a new workflow (or open an existing one)
• Click "Add Node" and search for MCP Client, then add it to your flow

Step 5: Configure the MCP Client Node

Here’s where the magic happens. You define what the node should do (e.g., list available tools or run a specific one):

• Choose an operation inside the MCP node (e.g., "List Tools")
• Under "Credentials", select "MCP Client (STDIO) API"
• In the "Command" field, enter npx
• In the "Arguments" field, enter -y
• For example, to use the AirBnB MCP server, type -y @openbnb/mcp-server-airbnb

You can browse available MCP tools here: awesome-mcp-servers GitHub Page

Step 6: Run Your Workflow and See MCP in Action!

After setup, click the "Execute" button to run the workflow. You’ll see the MCP tools in action—looking up data, transforming it, or integrating with other tools.

Can’t Find the Right MCP Tool? Build Your Own!

If no existing MCP tool fits your needs, you can build your own—with AI’s help too!

• Use an AI dev tool (like Cursor or GPT) to generate MCP server code
• Deploy your MCP server
• In n8n, configure the MCP client node to connect to your custom tool

Now you’ve got a fully customized AI integration pipeline.

Wrapping Up: You’re Now an n8n + MCP Pro!

After completing these steps, you should now be able to:

• ✅ Deploy n8n with docker compose
• ✅ Install and configure the MCP node
• ✅ Enable Claude to use external tools
• ✅ Even build your own MCP tool

This combo makes your AI workflows incredibly powerful. If you found this helpful, feel free to share it—and let us know what cool stuff you build!