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
Chantecler
Cinnamon Queen
Cochin
Cornish
Cubalaya
D`uccle
Delaware
Dominique
Easter Egger
Faverolles
Fayoumi
Hamburg
Houdan
Japanese Bantam
Jersey Giant
Jungle Fowl
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
Black Laced Gold Wyandotte Black Laced Gold Wyandotte
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
Black Australorp Black Australorp
Black Australorp
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
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
Blue Laced Red Wyandottes Blue Laced Red Wyandottes
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
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
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
Silkie Bantam Special Silkie Bantam Special
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
Blue Ameraucana Blue Ameraucana
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
Welsh Harlequin Ducks Welsh Harlequin Ducks
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
Cold Hardy
Egg / Meat Bird
Multi-Colored Eggs
Rare Breeds
Broody
Splash Silkie Bantam
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
Splash Laced Red Wyandottes Splash Laced Red Wyandottes
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
Lavender Ameraucana Lavender Ameraucana
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
Black Ameraucana Black Ameraucana
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
Bielefelder Bielefelder
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
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
French Black Copper Marans French Black Copper Marans
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
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
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
Cornish Bantams Cornish Bantams
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
Buff Orpington Bantam Buff Orpington Bantam
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
Easter Egger™ Bantam Easter Egger™ Bantam
Easter Egger™ Bantam
The Silver Sebright Bantam is a rare, true bantam breed with unique feathering and no standard-sized counterpart. Developed by John Sebright in the early 1800s and recognized in 1874, this beautiful bird is known for its lack of sickle feathers...
Rare Breeds
Small Chickens
Bantam Breeds
Docile
Multi-Colored Eggs
3 or Less / wk
Silver Sebright Bantam Silver Sebright Bantam
Silver Sebright Bantam
The Silver Sebright Bantam is a rare, true bantam breed with unique feathering and no standard-sized counterpart. Developed by John Sebright in the early 1800s and recognized in 1874, this beautiful bird is known for its lack of sickle feathers...
Rare Breeds
Small Chickens
Bantam Breeds
Docile
Multi-Colored Eggs
Black Tailed Buff Japanese Bantam
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
White Silkie Bantam
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
Blue Silkie Bantam
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
Black Silkie Bantam Black Silkie Bantam
Top Pick
Black Silkie Bantam
The Black Bearded Silkie Bantam is a rare, affectionate bantam breed with soft, fur-like feathers, turquoise earlobes, and a deep purple comb. Known for their gentle temperament, these Silkies make excellent pets and are exceptional at brooding, often hatching and...
Rare Breeds
Small Chickens
Bantam Breeds
Docile
Broody
Multi-Colored Eggs
3 or Less / wk
Top Picks
Rainbow Assorted Females Rainbow Assorted Females
Rainbow Assorted Females
Create a vibrant, diverse flock with Rainbow Assorted Females, featuring hens of various feather and egg colors. Enjoy a steady egg supply with different laying cycles, plus the unique personalities and temperaments of multiple breeds, all adding charm and delight...
High Egg Production
Brown Eggs
Large Eggs
Egg / Meat Bird
Large Chickens
4 or 
More / wk
Black Laced Red Wyandotte Black Laced Red Wyandotte
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
Red Jungle Fowl Red Jungle Fowl
Red Jungle Fowl
The Red Jungle Fowl, a direct ancestor of all domestic chickens, is ideal for free-ranging. Smaller than standard breeds, it excels in predator evasion. With a lineage traced back to the San Diego Zoo, The Chicken Coop Company has preserved...
Brown Eggs
Rare Breeds
Small Chickens
4 or 
More / wk
White Ameraucana White Ameraucana
Top Pick
White Ameraucana
The White Ameraucana chicken is a rare, USA-origin breed known for laying blue eggs. It has a docile, friendly nature and thrives in both confinement and free-range environments. Recognized in 1984, this breed is hardy and productive, with slate blue...
High Egg Production
Top Picks
Docile
Large Eggs
Multi-Colored Eggs
3 or Less / wk
Lavender Orpington Lavender Orpington
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
Barnevelder Barnevelder
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
Speckled Sussex Speckled Sussex
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
Salmon Faverolle Salmon Faverolle
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
Delaware
Top Pick
Delaware
The Delaware chicken, developed in the 1940s in Delaware, USA, is a dual-purpose breed known for its rapid growth and brown egg production. With nearly white plumage and distinctive black feathers, this breed has made a strong comeback after near...
High Egg Production
Top Picks
Docile
Brown Eggs
Large Eggs
Large Chickens
Egg / Meat Bird
4 or 
More / wk
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
White Leghorn
Top Pick
White Leghorn
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
Ginger Red Old English Game Bantam Ginger Red Old English Game Bantam Ginger Red Old English Game Bantam
Ginger Red Old English Game Bantam
The Ginger Red Old English Bantam is a captivating and low-maintenance chicken breed, perfect for families and hobbyists alike. Renowned for its striking appearance and friendly demeanor, this Bantam requires minimal space and integrates well with other chickens. Whether you're...
Rare Breeds
Small Chickens
Bantam Breeds
Docile
Broody
Multi-Colored Eggs
3 or Less / wk
Black Standard Old English
Black Standard Old English
The Black Old English Standard is an ancient breed with Victorian roots, known for its striking black feathers, hardiness, and excellent predator awareness, making it a perfect backyard addition. Bred by Chicken Coop Company for nearly 40 years, it’s a...
Rare Breeds
Small Chickens
Multi-Colored Eggs
Bantam Breeds
Broody
3 or Less / wk
Bronze Heritage Standard Turkey Bronze Heritage Standard Turkey
Bronze Heritage Standard Turkey
The Heritage (Standard) Bronze Turkey is a historic breed known for its natural breeding ability, excellent foraging skills, and long lifespan. With roots tracing back to early American history, this bird combines beauty and sustainability, making it perfect for homesteads...
Docile
Large Eggs
Brown Eggs
Large Chickens
Rare Breeds
Egg / Meat Bird
Splash Rosecomb Bantam Splash Rosecomb Bantam
Splash Rosecomb Bantam
The Splash Rosecomb Bantam is a rare, true miniature chicken with a striking white and black feather pattern. Known for its beauty and gentle nature, this bantam is an ideal choice for shows and adds a unique touch to any...
Small Chickens
Bantam Breeds
Docile
Rare Breeds
Multi-Colored Eggs
3 or Less / wk
Blue Rosecomb Bantam Blue Rosecomb Bantam Blue Rosecomb Bantam
Blue Rosecomb Bantam
The Blue Rosecomb Bantam is a stunning true miniature chicken with blue feathers and large white earlobes. Recognized for its elegance and show-worthy qualities, this bantam is a spirited, proud bird perfect for poultry enthusiasts.
Small Chickens
Bantam Breeds
Docile
Rare Breeds
Multi-Colored Eggs
3 or Less / wk
Black Rosecomb Bantam Black Rosecomb Bantam
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
Dominique Bantam Dominique Bantam
Dominique Bantam
The Dominique Bantam is a calm, friendly bantam chicken with a rose comb and attractive barred feathers, similar to its standard-sized counterpart. Recognized in 1960, it’s perfect for backyard flocks, laying plenty of eggs and thriving as a show or...
Small Chickens
Bantam Breeds
Docile
Broody
Brown Eggs
Rare Breeds
3 or Less / wk
Golden Sebright Bantam Golden Sebright Bantam
Golden Sebright Bantam
The Golden Sebright Bantam is a striking miniature chicken, recognized for its unique lack of sickle feathers in males and lively personality. Perfect as a show bird, this breed was first developed in England and recognized in 1874, bringing elegance...
Rare Breeds
Small Chickens
Bantam Breeds
Docile
Broody
Multi-Colored Eggs
White Old English Game Bantam White Old English Game Bantam
White Old English Game Bantam
The White Old English Bantam is a beautiful, miniature game chicken with pure white feathers and classic Old English traits. Perfect for both pets and shows, these bantams are easy to care for and require minimal space, making them ideal...
Rare Breeds
Small Chickens
Bantam Breeds
Docile
Broody
Multi-Colored Eggs
3 or Less / wk
Wheaten Old English Game Bantam Wheaten Old English Game Bantam
Wheaten Old English Game Bantam
The Wheaten Old English Bantam is a popular miniature breed with beautiful brown and black feathers. Recognized by the American Standard of Perfection, this tame and easy-to-care-for bantam is perfect for showing or as a friendly addition to any small...
Rare Breeds
Small Chickens
Bantam Breeds
Docile
Broody
Multi-Colored Eggs
3 or Less / wk
Spangled Old English Game Bantam Spangled Old English Game Bantam
Spangled Old English Game Bantam
The Spangled Old English Bantam is a beautiful, show-quality bantam with a mix of striking feather colors. Recognized by the American Standard of Perfection, this breed makes an ideal show bird or pet due to its friendly nature and manageable...
Rare Breeds
Small Chickens
Bantam Breeds
Docile
Broody
Multi-Colored Eggs
3 or Less / wk
Silver Duckwing Old English Game Bantam Silver Duckwing Old English Game Bantam
Silver Duckwing Old English Game Bantam
The Silver Duckwing Old English Bantam is a beautiful, spirited bantam chicken with an elegant feather pattern. Known for its tame nature, this breed is ideal for families, shows, or as a charming pet in small flocks.
Rare Breeds
Small Chickens
Bantam Breeds
Docile
Broody
Multi-Colored Eggs
3 or Less / wk
Info
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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!

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!