Chicken Breed Selector

Check out the many chicken breeds available for your backyard flock!

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Ameraucana
Aseel
Austra White
Australorp
Barnevelder
Bielefelder
Black Cochin Standard Chicken
Brahma
Breed 1
Buckeye
Cinnamon Queen
Cochin
Cornish
Cubalaya
D`uccle
Delaware
Dominique
Easter Egger
Faverolles
Fayoumi
Hamburg
Houdan
Japanese Bantam
Jersey Giant
Lakenvelder
Legbar
Leghorn
Light Brahma
Marans
New Hampshire
Old English Game
Olive Egger
Orpington
Phoenix
Plymouth Rock
Polish
Rhode Island
Rosecomb Bantam
Rouen
Sebright
Sex Link
Silkie
Spitzhauben
Sultan
Sumatra
Sussex
Turkey
Welsummer
Wyandotte
Yokohama
Easter Egger Easter Egger
Top Pick
Easter Egger
Easter Egger chickens are known for their unique appearance and colorful eggs, ranging from pale blue to green. With diverse feather patterns and high egg production, they're perfect for backyard flocks and free-range setups. These friendly birds add charm and...
High Egg Production
Top Picks
Multi-Colored Eggs
Large Eggs
4 or 
More / wk
Heat
Tolerant
Blue Laced Red Wyandotte featuring a medium build, weighing 6-9 lbs, prized for its excellent egg-laying abilities and suitability for backyard flocks due to its hardiness. Blue Laced Red Wyandotte featuring a medium build, weighing 6-9 lbs, prized for its excellent egg-laying abilities and suitability for backyard flocks due to its hardiness.
Top Pick
Blue Laced Red Wyandottes
The Blue Laced Red Wyandotte is a stunning dual-purpose chicken, known for its rich red feathers laced with slate-blue. Ideal for eggs and meat, this breed thrives in any environment. The Chicken Coop Company offers a production line, perfect for...
High Egg Production
Brown Eggs
Docile
Egg / Meat Bird
Large Chickens
4 or 
More / wk
Top Picks
Cold Hardy
Lavender Ameraucana Chicken, known for its stunning lavender plumage and blue egg-laying abilities. Lavender Ameraucana, featuring a pea comb, fluffy cheeks, and a friendly yet active temperament.
Top Pick
Lavender Ameraucana
Lavender Ameraucanas are true Ameraucana chickens, known for their moonlight-like plumage and thick beards. They lay vibrant blue or green eggs and thrive in cold climates with their extra-insulating hackle feathers. Reliable layers, they produce up to five eggs weekly,...
High Egg Production
Top Picks
Docile
Large Eggs
Multi-Colored Eggs
3 or Less / wk
Heat
Tolerant
Black Laced Gold Wyandotte Chicken, a striking American breed known for its golden feathers with intricate black lacing, friendly temperament, and reliable production of medium to large brown eggs. Black Laced Gold Wyandotte, featuring a robust build, cold hardiness, and a calm demeanor, ideal for families and backyard flocks due to their adaptability and gentle nature.
Top Pick
Black Laced Gold Wyandotte
The Black Laced Gold Wyandotte, originating in Wisconsin in the 1880s, is prized for its striking black-laced golden feathers and gentle temperament. Hardy and productive, this breed lays 180-260 brown eggs annually and thrives in various climates, making it perfect...
High Egg Production
Docile
Brown Eggs
Large Chickens
4 or 
More / wk
Top Picks
Cold Hardy
Rhode Island Red Rhode Island Red
Top Pick
Rhode Island Red
The Rhode Island Red, the state bird of Rhode Island, is a top choice for brown egg production and backyard flocks. Our heritage strain, bred since 1936, is resilient and prolific. Recognized in 1904, these chickens are ideal for natural...
High Egg Production
Brown Eggs
Large Eggs
Egg / Meat Bird
4 or 
More / wk
Top Picks
Heat
Tolerant
Black Laced Red Wyandotte featuring a medium build, weighing 6-9 lbs, prized for its decent egg-laying abilities and suitability for backyard flocks due to its hardiness. Black Laced Red Wyandotte with a robust appearance, recognized for its cold hardiness, longevity, and suitability as a pet due to its striking plumage and friendly nature.
Top Pick
Black Laced Red Wyandotte
The Black Laced Red Wyandotte is a stunning dual-purpose chicken, known for its rich red feathers laced with slate-blue. Ideal for eggs and meat, this breed thrives in any environment. The Chicken Coop Company offers a production line, perfect for...
High Egg Production
Brown Eggs
Large Eggs
Large Chickens
Docile
4 or 
More / wk
Top Picks
Cold Hardy
Barred Plymouth Rock Barred Plymouth Rock
Top Pick
Barred Plymouth Rock
Discover the charm of exhibition-type Barred Plymouth Rock chickens! Known for their striking barred plumage, calm temperament, and cold-hardiness, these dual-purpose fowl are perfect for showing and egg production. With a rich history in poultry exhibitions, they make a stunning...
Brown Eggs
Large Eggs
Large Chickens
Egg / Meat Bird
Docile
Cold Hardy
4 or 
More / wk
Top Picks
Heat
Tolerant
 Silkie chicks with fluffy, downy feathers and black skin, known for their friendly temperament and suitability as pets or show birds due to their small size and low maintenance requirements. Silkie Bantam with fluffy, down-like feathers and black skin, known for its gentle temperament and suitability as a pet or show bird due to its small size and low maintenance requirements.
Silkie Bantam Special
The Silkie Bantam Surplus Package offers a selection of charming Silkie Bantams in a variety of potential colors, including White, Black, Blue, Buff, and Splash. Known for their gentle nature, Silkies make a unique and beautiful addition to any flock,...
Rare Breeds
Small Chickens
Bantam Breeds
Docile
Broody
Multi-Colored Eggs
3 or Less / wk
Heat
Tolerant
Lavender Orpington Chicken, a large, friendly breed with silvery-blue feathers, known for its calm nature and moderate egg production of light brown eggs. Lavender Orpington Chicken, a large, friendly breed with silvery-blue feathers, known for its calm nature and moderate egg production.
Top Pick
Lavender Orpington
Lavender Orpingtons are a rare, gentle breed with striking light blue plumage, perfect for families. They thrive in cold climates and lay 175-200 light brown eggs annually. Though not APA-recognized, their consistent color and calm nature make them a standout...
High Egg Production
Top Picks
Docile
Brown Eggs
Large Chickens
Egg / Meat Bird
3 or Less / wk
Cold Hardy
Bielefelder Chicken, a dual-purpose breed known for its docile nature, large brown eggs, and striking black-and-gold plumage. Bielefelder Chicken, a dual-purpose breed known for its docile nature, large brown eggs, and striking black-and-gold plumage.
Bielefelder
The Bielefelder chicken, a rare German breed, is prized for its dual-purpose qualities and auto-sexing ability. Developed in the 1970s, it lays large eggs and has a calm temperament, making it ideal for families. Males and females can be easily...
High Egg Production
Docile
Brown Eggs
Large Eggs
Large Chickens
4 or 
More / wk
Heat
Tolerant
Black Laced Silver Wyandotte Black Laced Silver Wyandotte
Top Pick
Black Laced Silver Wyandotte
The Black Laced Silver Wyandotte is a gentle, hardy chicken with stunning black-laced silvery white feathers. Known for their excellent mothering abilities and versatility in various environments, these hens lay medium to large eggs, making them ideal for backyard flocks.
High Egg Production
Docile
Brown Eggs
Egg / Meat Bird
4 or 
More / wk
Top Picks
Heat
Tolerant
Black Australorp Chicken Black Australorp Chicken
Black Australorp Chicken
The Black Australorp chicken, an Australian breed, is celebrated for its exceptional egg-laying ability and stunning, glossy black feathers with a green sheen. Known for their winter egg production, these hardy birds thrive in backyard flocks. Raised on non-GMO feed,...
High Egg Production
Brown Eggs
Large Eggs
Large Chickens
Egg / Meat Bird
4 or 
More / wk
Cold Hardy
Buff Orpington Buff Orpington
Top Pick
Buff Orpington
The Buff Orpington, an English breed recognized in 1902, is celebrated for its golden plumage, gentle nature, and dual-purpose qualities. Ideal for both egg production and meat, these large, calm chickens are perfect for family farms. Their broody nature makes...
High Egg Production
Top Picks
Docile
Brown Eggs
Large Chickens
3 or Less / wk
Cold Hardy
Light Brahma Light Brahma
Top Pick
Light Brahma
Light Brahma chickens are large, gentle, and ideal for cold climates. Known for their feathered legs, they lay brown eggs and make excellent brood mothers. Their striking white plumage with black accents, combined with their calm demeanor, makes them great...
High Egg Production
Top Picks
Docile
Brown Eggs
Large Eggs
Large Chickens
Egg / Meat Bird
3 or Less / wk
Cold Hardy
French Black Copper Marans Chicken, a dual-purpose breed known for its striking black plumage with copper highlights, feathered legs, and dark chocolate-brown eggs. French Black Copper Marans Chicken, a dual-purpose breed known for its striking black plumage with copper highlights, feathered legs, and dark brown eggs.
French Black Copper Marans
Marans chickens hail from the western region of France, specifically from the town that shares their name. Among the various Marans varieties, the Black Copper Marans stand out for their large, rich, dark chocolate-brown eggs. Notably, these eggs are the...
High Egg Production
Docile
Brown Eggs
Large Eggs
Large Chickens
3 or Less / wk
Cold Hardy
Blue Ameraucana Chicken, a medium-sized breed known for laying blue eggs and its distinctive pea comb, muffs, and beards. Blue Ameraucana chicken with fluffy beard and slate-blue feathers
Top Pick
Blue Ameraucana
The Blue Ameraucana is a stunning chicken breed known for its deep blue feathers, slate legs, and blue-tinted eggs. With muffs, beards, and a pea comb, they thrive in colder climates. Calm and eye-catching, they’re perfect for any flock. Note:...
High Egg Production
Docile
Large Eggs
Multi-Colored Eggs
Top Picks
3 or Less / wk
Heat
Tolerant
Speckled Sussex Chicken, a dual-purpose breed known for its striking mahogany plumage with white speckles, friendly temperament, and reliable production of medium to large light brown eggs. Speckled Sussex, featuring a curious and chatty nature, robust build, and excellent foraging abilities, ideal for backyard flocks and families due to their gentle disposition and adaptability.
Top Pick
Speckled Sussex
The Speckled Sussex is a heritage chicken breed known for its beautiful speckled plumage and calm temperament. Excellent layers and great foragers, they thrive in various environments and make wonderful pets. Their striking appearance only improves with age as more...
High Egg Production
Top Picks
Brown Eggs
Large Eggs
Large Chickens
4 or 
More / wk
Cold Hardy
Speckled Sussex Chicken, a dual-purpose breed known for its striking mahogany plumage with white speckles, friendly temperament, and reliable production of medium to large light brown eggs. Speckled Sussex, featuring a curious and chatty nature, robust build, and excellent foraging abilities, ideal for backyard flocks and families due to their gentle disposition and adaptability.
Salmon Faverolle
The Salmon Faverolle is a charming and unique chicken breed, known for its fluffy beard, feathered legs, and five toes. Hens have lovely salmon and white plumage, while roosters sport striking black and bronze feathers. Gentle and friendly, they are...
High Egg Production
Docile
Brown Eggs
Large Eggs
Egg / Meat Bird
4 or 
More / wk
Cold Hardy
Splash Laced Red Wyandotte with a robust appearance, recognized for its occasional broodiness, longevity, and suitability as a pet due to its striking plumage and friendly nature. Splash Laced Red Wyandotte featuring a medium build, weighing 6.5-8.5 lbs, prized for its excellent egg-laying abilities and suitability for backyard flocks due to its hardiness.
Top Pick
Splash Laced Red Wyandottes
The Splash Laced Red Wyandotte is a stunning, friendly chicken with a unique laced feather pattern in mahogany and light grey. Excellent for egg production and backyard pets, they thrive in various environments. Not yet recognized by the Standard of...
High Egg Production
Brown Eggs
Docile
Large Chickens
Egg / Meat Bird
4 or 
More / wk
Top Picks
Cold Hardy
Olive Egger Chicken, a hybrid breed known for laying unique olive-green eggs, created by crossing blue and dark brown egg layers like Ameraucana and Marans. Olive Egger, featuring a docile temperament, hardiness in various climates, and medium to large olive-colored eggs, ideal for adding color to backyard flocks.
Olive Egger Chicken
The Olive Egger™ is a hybrid chicken that lays unique olive-colored eggs. At The Chicken Coop Company, we breed them using a pure Cream Legbar rooster and pure Welsummer hen. These chickens are reliable layers, with egg colors varying in...
High Egg Production
Large Eggs
Large Chickens
Docile
Egg / Meat Bird
3 or Less / wk
Cold Hardy
Black Jersey Giant Black Jersey Giant
Top Pick
Black Jersey Giant
The Black Jersey Giant chicken, originating in New Jersey in the 1880s, is known for its impressive size, reaching up to 14 pounds. This dual-purpose breed is excellent for meat and egg production, with striking black feathers that develop a...
High Egg Production
Top Picks
Docile
Brown Eggs
Large Chickens
Large Eggs
3 or Less / wk
Cold Hardy
Buff Brahma Chicken, a large and gentle breed known for its golden buff plumage with black accents, cold hardiness, and production of medium-sized brown eggs, ideal for backyard flocks. Buff Brahma Chicken, a dual-purpose breed prized for its calm nature, large size, and ability to thrive in various environments, laying up to 200 medium-sized brown eggs annually and making great pets.
Top Pick
Buff Brahma
Buff Brahma Chickens are gentle giants with buff feathers and black accents. Known for their hardiness and excellent winter egg production, these calm, large birds are well-suited for cold climates. Despite their size, they’re slow to mature but make excellent...
High Egg Production
Docile
Brown Eggs
Large Eggs
Large Chickens
3 or Less / wk
Top Picks
Cold Hardy
Buff Orpington Bantam with golden buff plumage, single comb, and pinkish-white beak, known for its docile temperament and good egg-laying abilities, producing over 150 small brown eggs per year. Buff Orpington Bantam featuring a compact body, small size, and friendly nature, prized for its ornamental value and suitability for backyard flocks due to its calm demeanor.
Top Pick
Buff Orpington Bantam
The Buff Orpington Bantam is a small, friendly chicken known for its egg production and adaptability. With a gentle temperament and cold-weather resilience, this bantam is a great addition to any backyard flock, whether free-range or in confinement.
Small Chickens
Bantam Breeds
Docile
Broody
Brown Eggs
High Egg Production
3 or Less / wk
Top Picks
Cold Hardy
Welsummer Chicken, a medium-sized breed known for its striking red-and-black partridge plumage, friendly temperament, and production of large, dark brown speckled eggs Welsummer, featuring a robust build, upright stance, and strong foraging instincts, ideal for free-range settings due to their intelligence and adaptability.
Welsummer Chicken
The Welsummer chicken, with its stunning brown and red plumage, is prized for high egg production and cold resilience. Friendly and adaptable, it thrives in various environments, making it a top choice for backyard flocks. Originating from Holland, it's beloved...
High Egg Production
Large Eggs
Brown Eggs
Small Chickens
4 or 
More / wk
Heat
Tolerant
Brown Leghorn Chicken Brown Leghorn Chicken
Top Pick
Brown Leghorn Chicken
Brown Leghorns are prolific layers, producing up to 300 white eggs annually. Known for their early maturity and hardiness, they thrive in free-range environments with excellent foraging skills. Their non-broody nature ensures consistent egg production, making them ideal for egg-focused...
High Egg Production
Large Eggs
White Eggs
4 or 
More / wk
Top Picks
Heat
Tolerant
Rhode Island White Chicken Rhode Island White Chicken
Rhode Island White Chicken
Rhode Island White chickens, with their broad, deep bodies and excellent winter egg-laying ability, produce large, rich brown eggs. Known for their docile nature, these dual-purpose birds are ideal for both eggs and meat. They also play a key role...
High Egg Production
Brown Eggs
Large Eggs
Egg / Meat Bird
4 or 
More / wk
Heat
Tolerant
 Cornish Bantam Chicken with a compact build, pea comb, and short feathers, known for its friendly temperament and exceptional meat quality.  Cornish Bantam featuring a variety of colors including Dark, White, and White Laced Red, prized for its small size and active nature.
Cornish Bantams
The Cornish Bantam is a docile yet stout bantam chicken with a muscular build, short, wide-set legs, and a broad breast. Ideal for both meat and exhibition, these bantams are also good broodies and come in 8 APA-recognized color varieties.
Docile
Small Chickens
Bantam Breeds
Meat Bird
Broody
3 or Less / wk
Cold Hardy
Silver Laced Cochin Standard featuring a large build, weighing 8.5-11 lbs, prized for its fair egg-laying abilities and suitability for backyard flocks due to its hardiness
Silver Laced Cochin Standard Chicken
Silver Laced Cochin Standard chickens are gentle, large birds with beautiful fluffy feathers and feathered legs. Ideal as pets or for raising chicks, they lay small to medium brown eggs. A friendly and tame breed perfect for any flock, available...
Brown Eggs
Large Eggs
Large Chickens
Docile
Rare Breeds
3 or Less / wk
Cold Hardy
Dominique Chicken
Top Pick
Dominique Chicken
Dominique chickens, with their rich English history and distinct rose comb, are often mistaken for Barred Rocks. Revered for their calm nature and versatility, they thrive in free-range environments. Once nearly extinct, this heritage breed is now cherished in backyard...
High Egg Production
Top Picks
Brown Eggs
Large Eggs
3 or Less / wk
Cold Hardy
 Black Tailed White Japanese Bantam with a robust build, weighing 22 oz for hens and 26 oz for roosters, recognized for its fair egg-laying abilities, variable broodiness, and suitability as an exhibition bird due to its unique appearance and friendly disposition.
Black Tailed Buff Japanese Bantam
The Black Tailed Buff Japanese Bantam is a beautiful, historic bantam breed with arched tail feathers and short legs. Known for its friendly personality and striking appearance, this bantam is ideal for both pet and show purposes.
Rare Breeds
Small Chickens
Bantam Breeds
Docile
Broody
Multi-Colored Eggs
3 or Less / wk
Cold Hardy
Silkie Bantam featuring feathered legs and feet, five toes, and a small walnut-shaped comb, prized for its unique appearance and ability to thrive in small spaces, though it requires careful handling to prevent feather staining
Top Pick
Splash Silkie Bantam
The Splash Bearded Silkie Bantam is a rare, gentle bantam with pale plumage and dark patches, ideal for shows and as a family-friendly pet. Known for its brooding skills, this Silkie can even raise chicks from other breeds, making it...
Rare Breeds
Small Chickens
Bantam Breeds
Docile
Broody
Multi-Colored Eggs
3 or Less / wk
Top Picks
The Buff Silkie Bantam is known for its golden or honey-colored plumage, with soft, silky feathers that lack barbicels, giving them a fluffy appearance. They have feathered legs and feet, black skin and bones, and blue earlobes
Top Pick
Blue Silkie Bantam
The Blue Silkie Bantam is a lovable and gentle bantam with soft, fluffy feathers that feel like fur. Known for their affectionate nature and calm, soothing sounds, Silkies make excellent family pets and come in a variety of colors, including...
Rare Breeds
Small Chickens
Bantam Breeds
Docile
Broody
Multi-Colored Eggs
3 or Less / wk
Top Picks
Heat
Tolerant
Black Ameraucana, featuring a striking black plumage with slate-colored legs, known for its active and flighty yet friendly temperament. Black Ameraucana Chicken, a medium-sized breed known for laying blue eggs and its distinctive muffs, beards, and pea comb.
Top Pick
Black Ameraucana
The Black Ameraucana is a striking, hardy chicken known for its unique blue eggs and friendly nature. With a medium-length tail, distinctive muffs, and a small pea comb, this breed is a favorite among poultry enthusiasts. Add this versatile, long-laying...
High Egg Production
Docile
Large Eggs
Multi-Colored Eggs
3 or Less / wk
Top Picks
Heat
Tolerant
Jubilee Orpington Chicken, a dual-purpose breed known for its striking mahogany, black, and white plumage, gentle nature, and large light brown eggs.
Top Pick
Jubilee Orpington
The Jubilee Orpington Chicken, developed in 1897 to honor Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee, is a rare and charming breed known for its friendly disposition and unique mahogany, black, and white feather pattern. They are excellent layers, producing 3-5 cream-brown eggs...
High Egg Production
Docile
Brown Eggs
Egg / Meat Bird
Large Chickens
3 or Less / wk
Top Picks
Cold Hardy
French Black Marans Chicken, a dual-purpose breed known for its dark brown eggs, friendly temperament, and rich black plumage, ideal for small farms and homesteads. French Black Marans Chicken, a dual-purpose breed known for its dark brown eggs and friendly temperament, ideal for small farms and backyard flocks.
French Black Marans
The rich, black feathers that give the French Black Marans its name also give it a distinct difference from its sister Marans chickens. Like the other Marans chickens, this breed produces dark brown eggs other chickens cannot duplicate. Also, like...
High Egg Production
Docile
Brown Eggs
Large Eggs
Multi-Colored Eggs
Large Chickens
3 or Less / wk
Cold Hardy
Dark Brahma, featuring feathered legs, a docile temperament, and excellent brooding instincts, making them ideal for families and backyard flocks in cold climates. Dark Brahma Chicken, a large, gentle breed known for its striking black-and-white plumage, cold hardiness, and production of medium to large brown eggs.
Top Pick
Dark Brahma Chicken
The Dark Brahma is a calm, cold-hardy chicken breed with striking black and silver plumage. Renowned for winter egg-laying and excellent mothering, these large birds also serve well for meat production. Their feathered legs add charm but may require occasional...
High Egg Production
Docile
Brown Eggs
Large Eggs
Large Chickens
3 or Less / wk
Top Picks
Cold Hardy
Austra White Chicken Austra White Chicken
Austra White Chicken
Austra Whites are a hybrid chicken breed known for their prolific egg-laying abilities, producing 220-280 large, light brown to off-white eggs annually. Calm and friendly, they combine the best traits of White Leghorns and Black Australorps, making them ideal for...
High Egg Production
Brown Eggs
Large Eggs
Large Chickens
Docile
4 or 
More / wk
Heat
Tolerant
Welsh Harlequin Duck with striking plumage, known for its calm temperament, excellent egg-laying abilities, and friendly nature. Welsh Harlequin Duck featuring creamy white feathers with brown stippling, active foraging abilities, and a docile disposition.
Welsh Harlequin Ducks
The Welsh Harlequin duck is a productive and friendly breed, known for its egg-laying abilities and foraging skills. Developed in Wales, this breed is excellent for backyard flocks and can lay up to 300 eggs per year, with sexing possible...
High Egg Production
Docile
Large Eggs
Egg / Meat Bird
Multi-Colored Eggs
Rare Breeds
Broody
Heat
Tolerant
Black Rosecomb Bantam featuring a compact body, black legs, and a large rose comb, prized for its ornamental value and ability to thrive in confinement or flight. Black Rosecomb Bantam with sleek black feathers, a distinctive red rose comb, and rounded white earlobes, known for its gentle nature and impressive show qualities.
Black Rosecomb Bantam
The Black Rosecomb Bantam is a true miniature chicken with striking black feathers, a red rose comb, and white earlobes. Gentle yet proud, this bantam is ideal for shows and enjoys flying, making it a standout addition to any flock.
Small Chickens
Bantam Breeds
Docile
Rare Breeds
Multi-Colored Eggs
3 or Less / wk
Cold Hardy
 Black Tailed White Japanese Bantam with striking white body feathers, distinctive black tail feathers, and bright red comb and wattles, known for its elegant appearance and suitability as a show bird or pet due to its small size and active temperament.  Black Tailed White Japanese Bantam featuring extremely short legs, large wings that touch the ground, and a large upright tail, prized for its ornamental value and ability to thrive in small spaces, though it requires careful handling to prevent feather staining.
Black Tailed White Japanese Bantam
The Black-Tailed White Japanese Bantam is a petite, elegant breed from Japan with arched black tail feathers and ground-touching wings. Ideal as pets or show birds, they are easy to care for and thrive in small spaces.
Rare Breeds
Small Chickens
Bantam Breeds
Docile
Broody
Multi-Colored Eggs
3 or Less / wk
Cold Hardy
Silkie Bantam featuring feathered legs and feet, five toes, and a small walnut-shaped comb, prized for its unique appearance and ability to thrive in small spaces, though it requires careful handling to prevent feather staining
Top Pick
White Silkie Bantam
The Splash Bearded Silkie Bantam is a rare, gentle bantam with pale plumage and dark patches, ideal for shows and as a family-friendly pet. Known for its brooding skills, this Silkie can even raise chicks from other breeds, making it...
Rare Breeds
Small Chickens
Bantam Breeds
Docile
Broody
Multi-Colored Eggs
3 or Less / wk
Top Picks
Heat
Tolerant
 Buff Silkie Bantam featuring a compact build, weighing 32 oz for hens and 36 oz for roosters, prized for its docile nature, fair egg-laying abilities, and ability to thrive in small spaces, though it requires careful handling to prevent feather staining. Buff Silkie Bantam with golden-orange plumage, black skin, and fluffy, hair-like feathers, known for its gentle temperament and suitability as a pet or show bird due to its small size and low maintenance requirements.
Top Pick
Buff Silkie Bantam
The Blue Silkie Bantam is a lovable and gentle bantam with soft, fluffy feathers that feel like fur. Known for their affectionate nature and calm, soothing sounds, Silkies make excellent family pets and come in a variety of colors, including...
Rare Breeds
Small Chickens
Bantam Breeds
Docile
Broody
Multi-Colored Eggs
3 or Less / wk
Top Picks
Heat
Tolerant
Barred Cochin Standard featuring a large build, weighing 8.5-11 lbs, prized for its fair egg-laying abilities and suitability for backyard flocks due to its hardiness.
Barred Cochin Standard Chicken
The Barred Cochin Standard chicken is a rare, large, and gentle breed perfect for families and exhibitions. With unique feathering and a calm temperament, this hard-to-find variety is ideal for farm life and poultry shows. Order from The Chicken Coop...
Brown Eggs
Large Eggs
Large Chickens
Docile
Rare Breeds
3 or Less / wk
Cold Hardy
Splash Ameraucana, known for its active and flighty temperament, laying medium-large blue eggs with occasional green tints. Splash Ameraucana Chicken, featuring a unique splash-patterned plumage with blue and black markings on a white base.
Top Pick
Splash Ameraucana
Splash Ameraucanas are stunning white chickens with striking blue and black splashes. These visually unique birds, bred from blue Ameraucanas, produce a consistent Splash offspring when paired together. Known for laying beautiful green eggs, they are a vibrant addition to...
High Egg Production
Top Picks
Docile
Large Eggs
Multi-Colored Eggs
3 or Less / wk
Heat
Tolerant
French Wheaten Marans Chicken, a dual-purpose breed known for its docile nature, dark brown eggs, and distinctive wheat-colored plumage with black tail feathers. French Wheaten Marans, featuring a hardy build, feathered legs, and a calm temperament, ideal for backyard flocks and families due to their friendly disposition.
French Wheaten Marans
The French Wheaten Marans are a friendly and active breed, known for their beautiful light wheaten feathers and dark chocolate-colored eggs. These birds are a great addition to any flock, producing up to 180 eggs annually. Their calm demeanor and...
High Egg Production
Docile
Brown Eggs
Large Eggs
3 or Less / wk
Cold Hardy
Cinnamon Queen Cinnamon Queen
Top Pick
Cinnamon Queen
The Cinnamon Queen chicken, a crossbreed between Rhode Island Red and Silver-Laced Wyandotte, excels in egg production while boasting striking cinnamon-colored feathers. Known for their gentle nature, these hardy birds are perfect for backyard flocks, offering both beauty and high...
High Egg Production
Top Picks
Brown Eggs
Large Eggs
4 or 
More / wk
Cold Hardy
Barnevelder, featuring a medium size, cold hardiness, and a calm temperament, making them perfect for both confinement and free-range settings with moderate egg production. Barnevelder Chicken, a dual-purpose breed known for its striking dark brown eggs, beautiful plumage, and gentle disposition, ideal for backyard flocks and families.
Barnevelder
The Barnevelder chicken, known for its rich dark brown eggs, originates from the Netherlands. This hardy, quiet breed is perfect for confinement and features striking feather patterns, including the rare double laced variety. Ideal for both eggs and meat, Barnevelders...
High Egg Production
Brown Eggs
Large Eggs
3 or Less / wk
Cold Hardy
Cuckoo Marans Cuckoo Marans
Cuckoo Marans
The Cuckoo Marans is a rare, dual-purpose breed known for its striking black and white plumage and deep chocolate brown eggs. Originating in France, this fast-growing chicken is a favorite for its unique eggs, which may feature dark speckles, and...
Large Eggs
Multi-Colored Eggs
Large Chickens
Egg / Meat Bird
4 or 
More / wk
Cold Hardy
Black Sex Link Black Sex Link
Black Sex Link
The Black Sex Link is a hybrid chicken, created by crossing Rhode Island Red roosters with Barred Rock hens. This breed is prized for its reliable brown egg production, hardiness, and ability to be sexed by color at hatching, making...
High Egg Production
Brown Eggs
Large Eggs
4 or 
More / wk
Heat
Tolerant
White Leghorn Chicken
Top Pick
White Leghorn Chicken
White Leghorns are exceptional egg layers, producing up to 300 large white eggs annually. Originating from Italy, they are hardy, active, and ideal for free-range farming. With a fast growth rate and excellent feed efficiency, they are perfect for those...
High Egg Production
Large Eggs
White Eggs
Small Chickens
4 or 
More / wk
Top Picks
Heat
Tolerant
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High Egg Production

Bantams are small, cute, and come in all different breeds and colors! They are a fun addition to any backyard flock and their small size means they eat less, poop less, and require less space than a standard size chicken. However, it’s best to learn all about raising and caring for these mini chickens before deciding to add them to your backyard flock.

Brown Eggs

Brown egg-laying chickens, like the popular Rhode Island Red and Barred Plymouth Rock, are a favorite among backyard poultry enthusiasts and commercial farmers alike. These breeds are known not just for their rich, brown eggs but also for their hardy nature and amiable personalities. Brown egg layers often boast a gentle temperament, making them a joy to raise, especially for families with children. Whether you're an aspiring urban homesteader or an experienced farmer, these chickens offer a delightful blend of productivity and companionship.

White Eggs

White egg-laying chickens, known for their prolific egg production, are a staple in many backyard coops. Breeds like the Leghorn are particularly admired for their efficiency, often producing up to 280-320 eggs annually. These birds are not only valued for their productivity but also for their relatively low feed consumption, making them an economical choice for small and large-scale egg producers alike. With their sleek white feathers and active demeanor, they adapt well to various environments, from free-range setups to more confined spaces. For those passionate about sustainable farming or just looking to enjoy fresh eggs daily, white egg layers offer a reliable and rewarding experience.

Multi-Colored Eggs

Colored egg layers are fun to have as you never know quite what color of beautiful eggs you will get. These unique breeds, like the Ameraucana, Marans, and Easter Egger, are known for their vibrant egg shells that range from shades of blue and green to deep chocolate brown. Not only do these eggs add a splash of color to your breakfast table, but they also indicate the genetic diversity and health of the hens themselves. Imagine collecting a rainbow of eggs straight from your backyard coop—each egg a delightful surprise. These extraordinary chickens make for lively conversation starters and add a whimsical touch to any homestead. Whether you’re a seasoned chicken keeper or a curious newbie, colorful egg layers will bring joy and variety to your flock.

Large Eggs

If you’re a backyard chicken family looking to maximize your egg production with larger eggs, consider adding breeds like the Australorp, Sussex, or Rhode Island Red to your flock. These hens are known for consistently laying large, delicious eggs that make breakfast a delight and baking a breeze. Not only do these breeds excel in egg size and quantity, but they are also hardy and adaptable, making them ideal for various climates and care levels. Whether you're new to raising chickens or a seasoned pro, these large egg layers will bring both joy and productivity to your backyard flock.

Meat Bird

Raising chickens for meat, also known as broilers, can be an incredibly rewarding experience for backyard farmers. Unlike their egg-laying counterparts, broilers are specifically bred for rapid growth and a higher meat yield. Typically, these chickens reach market weight in just 6-8 weeks. Popular breeds like Cornish Cross and Red Rangers offer different advantages, from faster growth rates to more robust health. Providing them with a well-balanced diet, ample space to roam, and proper care will ensure they thrive and produce tender, flavorful meat. Whether you're interested in sustainable living or simply want to enjoy homegrown poultry, raising meat chickens allows you to take control of your food source and savor the fruits of your labor.

Egg / Meat Bird

Dual-purpose chicken breeds are often referred to as “BBQ Special” chickens which are prized for their versatility in both egg production and meat quality. Breeds such as the Cornish, New Hampshire or Norfolk Grey would be three examples. How great is it to get eggs and then be able to have chicken for dinner? Bon appetit!

Heat
Tolerant

Birds are heat tolerant

Cold Hardy

If you live in a cold climate cold-hardy chickens are your best bet! These resilient birds, like the Buff Orpington and Rhode Island Red, thrive in chilly climates, thanks to their thick plumage and robust health. Not only do they keep laying eggs when temperatures drop (not as quickly mind you), but they're also known for their friendly and docile nature, making them ideal for having as backyard chickens.

Broody

When a hen goes broody, she instinctively wants to sit on eggs and hatch them, which can be a natural way to expand your flock without needing an incubator. Watch out as she becomes aggressive in defending the eggs. It’s fascinating to watch her dedicatedly turn the eggs and cluck softly to them. However, a broody hen can sometimes become territorial and may stop laying new eggs, focusing solely on her current brood. To manage a broody hen, ensure she has a comfortable, safe nesting area and consider separating her from other chickens to reduce stress.

Docile

A docile chicken is one that's calm, friendly, and easy to handle, making it perfect for backyard flocks. These chickens are known for their gentle nature, which makes them great companions for families and novice chicken owners. Breeds like the Buff Orpington, Silkie, and Australorp are renowned for their docile temperament. Not only do they provide a steady supply of fresh eggs, but their easygoing personalities also make them a joy to watch and interact with in your backyard.

Top Picks

These are our top picks for backyard chicken owners. They have the best combination of egg production, temperament, and hardiness to make your backyard chicken-raising adventures thrive.

Small Chickens

Raising small chickens can be a ton of fun for backyard chicken farmers. These miniature cluckers, often referred to as bantams, are perfect for small spaces, offering the charm and productivity of larger breeds without the need for large coops or runs. They're not only easier to handle due to their size, but they also lay adorable, small eggs that are just as delicious. With their vibrant personalities and diverse feather patterns, small chickens add a unique touch to any backyard chicken-raising adventure, making them both a practical and aesthetically pleasing choice.

Large Chickens

Large chickens can be a wonderful addition to your backyard flock! These gentle giants, such as Brahmas and Orpingtons, are known not only for their impressive size but also for their friendly and docile nature. Their larger bodies mean they tend to lay bigger eggs, providing you with a more substantial breakfast. Plus, with their fluffy feathers and calm demeanor, they make great pets for families and can easily become the centerpiece of your chicken coop.

Bantam Breeds

Bantam breeds are perfect for backyard chicken owners looking to add a touch of charm to their flocks. These miniature chickens, which are about half the size of standard breeds, boast a variety of vibrant feather patterns and friendly personalities. Not only do they require less space and feed, but their smaller eggs are also a delightful addition to any breakfast table. Whether you're a seasoned backyard chicken owner or just starting, bantams can provide a unique and rewarding experience.

Rare Breeds

If you're a backyard chicken owner looking to add a unique touch to your flock, consider rare chicken breeds. The Ayam Cemani, known for its striking all-black appearance, not only looks exotic but also carries a mystical allure. Meanwhile, the Swedish Flower Hen offers a burst of color with its naturally vibrant plumage, making your coop look like a living bouquet. And let's not forget the charming Cream Legbar, famous for laying beautiful blue eggs and being incredibly friendly. These rare breeds not only enhance the visual appeal of your backyard but also contribute to the genetic diversity of your flock. Ready to explore more? Discover how these fascinating birds can make your chicken-keeping experience truly extraordinary!