50+ Best Chicken Breeds For a Backyard Flock

Chicken Breeds

Are you a homesteader, hobby farmer, or chicken lover looking to start your own backyard flock? If so, there are tons of great chicken breeds that make for the perfect choice. With over 50 breeds to choose from ranging in size, egg production quantity and quality, color variation and temperament type there is certainly an ideal breed match waiting. Before choosing your chickens it’s important to familiarize yourself with some basic elements of chicken breeds – this post will provide some insight on what might work best for you! Whether you’re looking small bantam varieties or large-bodied birds; bright colors or neat pastels; high egg production volume or tolerant behavior – we’ve got you covered. Read on as we evaluate all the best chicken breeds for a backyard flock!

The Top 50 chicken breeds

Rhode Island Red

This Chicken breed is the best bird around. Hen’s have excellent egg laying ability as well as a meaty frame for dual purpose. They are generally friendly and docile.

selective focus photography of brown hen
  • Size :
    • Rooster : 8.5lbs
    • Hen : 6.5 lbs
  • Egg production :
    • Large in size
    • 200-300 a year
  • Egg color :
    • brown
  • Temperament :
    • calm and docile
  • Dual purpose (egg and meat production) :
    • Yes
  • Weather tolerance :
    • Hardy

Plymouth Rock

This is another dual purpose chicken breed, with a good egg laying ability and also good for meat production. These chickens are generally friendly and docile and like to perch on high places.

black and white chicken head
  • Size :
    • Rooster : 8.5lbs
    • Hen : 6.5 lbs
  • Egg production :
    • Large in size
    • 200-300 a year
  • Egg color :
    • Brown
  • Temperament :
    • calm and docile
  • Dual purpose :
    • Yes
  • Weather tolerance :
    • Hardy

Leghorn

This breed is known for their large white eggs, which makes them a great choice for egg production. They can be skittish at times but are generally calm in personality.

  • Size :
    • Rooster :6 lbs
    • Hen : 4.5 lbs
  • Egg production :
    • Large in size
    • 200-320 a year
  • Egg color :
    • White
  • Temperament :
    • Nervous but generally friendly
  • Dual purpose :
    • Yes
  • Weather tolerance :
    • Very hardy

Brahma

This is a dual purpose chicken breed. They are large and stately birds that are good for both meat and eggs. They have a docile temperament and can be quite friendly.

shallow focus photography of two white hens
  • Size :
    • Rooster : 12 lbs
    • Hen : 9.5 lbs
  • Egg production :
    • Large in size
    • 150-180 a year
  • Egg color :
    • brown
  • Temperament :
    • Calm, docile, but large
  • Dual Purpose :
    • Yes
  • Weather tolerance :
    • Cold Hardy

Ameraucana

This breed is known for their blue eggs, making them a colorful addition to any flock. They are docile and friendly birds that love to explore.

  • Size :
    • Rooster : 6.5lbs
    • Hen : 5.5 lbs
  • Egg production :
    • Varies in size
    • 300-320 a year
  • Egg color :
    • blue
  • Temperament :
    • active and friendly
  • Dual purpose :
    • No
  • Weather tolerance :
    • Hardy

Wyandotte

This breed is a good dual purpose bird, with great egg production and meaty frames for eating. These chickens are quite friendly and docile and have strong personalities that make them a favorite of the barn yard!

  • Size :
    • Rooster : 8.5 lbs
    • Hen : 6.5 lbs
  • Egg production :
    • Medium in size
    • 200 – 220 a year
  • Egg color :
    • Medium brown eggs
  • Temperament :
    • Friendly and talkative with strong personalities
  • Purpose :
    • Layer
  • Weather tolerance :
    • Hardy

Sussex

This is a dual purpose breed, with a large frame and good egg laying ability. Sussex chickens are known for their docile temperament that makes them perfect for children. This breed also is one of the dual purpose chicken breeds.

  • Size :
    • Rooster : 8 lbs
    • Hen : 6 lbs
  • Egg production :
    • Large in size
    • 200-280 a year
  • Egg color :
    • Huge brown eggs
  • Temperament :
    • Docile and friendly
  • Dual purpose :
    • Yes
  • Weather tolerance :
    • Hardy but slower to mature than other

Silkie

This breed is known for their unique soft fur-like feathers and sweet nature. They are not the best egg layers but make great pets and show birds.

  • Size :
    • Rooster : 4 lbs
    • Hen : 3.5 lbs
  • Egg production :
    • Small in size
    • 100-120 a year
  • Egg color :
    • creamy white
  • Temperament :
    • Docile and friendly
  • Dual purpose :
    • No
  • Weather tolerance :
    • Hardy but cannot tolerate extreme cold weather conditions.

Cochin

This is a dual purpose breed, with good egg production and meaty frames. They are known for their friendly personalities and come in a variety of colors.

  • Size :
    • Rooster : 8-10 lbs
    • Hen : 6-8 lbs
  • Egg production :
    • Large in size
    • 150-200 a year
  • Egg color :
    • brown
  • Temperament :
    • Friendly, calm and docile
  • Dual purpose :
    • Yes
  • Weather tolerance :
    • Hardy and can tolerate colder temperatures.

Easter Egger

This breed is a cross between Ameraucana and other breeds, making it unique in color. They are good egg layers but can be more skittish than other breeds.

  • Size :
    • Rooster : 5-7 lbs
    • Hen : 4-6 lbs
  • Egg production :
    • Varies in size
    • 200-300 a year
  • Egg color :
    • Varies, may be green, blue or pink or olive green eggs
  • Temperament :
    • friendly but flighty
  • Dual purpose :
    • No
  • Weather tolerance :
    • Hardy but not recommended for very cold temperatures.

Leghorn Chickens

This is a dual purpose breed, with great egg production and meaty frames. They are active chickens that can be quite vocal.

  • Size :
    • Rooster : 6-7 lbs
    • Hen : 4-5 lbs
  • Egg production :
    • Large in size
    • 280-320 a year
  • Egg color :
    • white
  • Temperament :
    • Active, alert and vocal
  • Dual purpose :
    • Yes
  • Weather tolerance :
    • Hardy and can withstand cold temperatures.

Australorp

This is a dual purpose breed, with good egg production and meaty frames. They have a calm and docile temperament, making them perfect for backyard flocks.

  • Size :
    • Rooster : 8.5lbs
    • Hen : 6.5 lbs
  • Egg production :
    • Varies in size
    • 200+ a year
  • Egg color :
    • brown
  • Temperament :
    • active, calm, and friendly
  • Dual purpose :
    • yes
  • Weather tolerance :
    • Hardy

Dutch Bantam

Itty bitty little chicken but has a big personalities around the backyard. They are good egg layers and great for show as well as a pet.

  • Size :
    • Rooster : 21 oz.
    • Hen : 20 oz.
  • Egg production :
    • Small in size
    • 160-190 a year
  • Egg color :
    • White
  • Temperament :
    • Friendly and calm
  • Dual Purpose :
    • No
  • Weather tolerance :
    • not too cold hardy and do not tolerate heat well

Hamburg

This breed is known for its egg laying capabilities and striking colors. They are active birds, but have a docile temperament that makes them perfect for any backyard flock.

  • Size :
    • Rooster : 5 lbs
    • Hen : 4 lbs
  • Egg production :
    • small in size
    • 120-225 a year
  • Egg color :
    • white
  • Temperament :
    • active and talkative
  • Purpose :
    • Layer
  • Weather tolerance :
    • Very hardy

Rhode Island White

This breed is known for its fast growth rate and good egg production. They are also very friendly, making them a great choice for families with kids who want to help with chicken chores.

  • Size :
    • Rooster : 8.5 lbs
    • Hen : 6.5 lbs
  • Egg production :
    • Large in size
    • 250-280 a year
  • Egg color :
    • brown
  • Temperament :
    • Friendly and calm
  • Dual Purpose :
    • Yes
  • Weather tolerance :
    • Hardy

Barred Plymouth Rock

This breed is known for its good egg laying capabilities and hardiness. They are also friendly, which makes them a great choice for any backyard flock. Especially with young kids around. They are very gentle and friendly.

  • Size :
    • Rooster : 8 lbs
    • Hen : 6 lbs
  • Egg production :
    • Large in size
    • 200-280 a year
  • Egg color :
    • brown
  • Temperament :
    • Docile and friendly
  • Dual Purpose :
    • Yes
  • Weather tolerance :
    • Hardy but not recommended for very extreme cold temperatures.

Jersey Giant

This breed is known for their large size and great egg production. They are also very friendly and calm, making them a great choice for those looking for a backyard flock. However this breed can be intimidating to kids and adults who are not fond of chickens.

  • Size :
    • Rooster : 13 lbs
    • Hen : 10 lbs
  • Egg production :
    • Large in size
    • 150-200 a year
  • Egg color :
    • brown
  • Temperament :
    • calm and friendly
  • Dual Purpose :
    • Yes
  • Weather tolerance :
    • Moderate

Faverolle

This breed is known for its gentle and friendly nature, making them a great choice for families with small children. They lay a good number of eggs but are not as productive as some other breeds.

  • Size :
    • Rooster : 8 lbs
    • Hen : 6.5 lbs
  • Egg production :
    • Large in size
    • 180 – 200 a year
  • Egg color :
    • light brown/pinkish
  • Temperament :
    • Calm and friendly, however roosters can be a little aggressive
  • Dual Purpose :
    • Yes
  • Weather tolerance :
    • Moderate

Houdan

This breed is known for its unique crest and muffs. They are a relatively quiet breed, but have a tendency to fly. They lay a good number of eggs, but again not as productive as some other breeds.

  • Size :
    • Rooster : 8 lbs
    • Hen : 6 lbs
  • Egg production :
    • Medium in size
    • 180-200 a year
  • Egg color :
    • white/creamy
  • Temperament :
    • Relatively quiet, but can be flighty. Docile with humans.
  • Dual Purpose :
    • No
  • Weather tolerance :
    • Moderate to cold, not recommended for hot climates.

Minorca

This breed is known for its large size and good egg production. They are also very active and can be prone to aggression. This makes them rather active and a bit nervous around kids. This is a great intermediate level breed.

  • Size :
    • Rooster : 9 lbs
    • Hen : 7.5 lbs
  • Egg production :
    • Large in size
    • 120-150 a year
  • Egg color :
    • White
  • Temperament :
    • active but nervous
  • Dual Purpose :
    • Yes but meat isn’t the juiciest
  • Weather tolerance :
    • Heat hardy but not in extreme cold

Andalusian

This breed is known for its beauty and distinctive coloring. They are good layers, but not as productive as some other breeds. They are also rather loud but docile.

  • size :
    • Rooster : 7lbs
    • Hen : 5.5 lbs
  • Egg production :
    • Large in size
    • 160-190 a year
  • Egg color :
    • brown
  • Temperament :
    • active and talkative
  • Purpose :Layer 
  • Weather tolerance :
    • Moderate

Maran

This breed is known for its dark chocolate brown eggs. They have a good laying rate and are quite calm, making them perfect for families with kids and an all around great breed for any backyard flock.

  • Size :
    • Rooster : 8.5 lbs
    • Hen : 7 lbs
  • Egg production :
    • Large in size
    • 150-200 a year
  • Egg color :
    • dark brown
  • Temperament :
    • active but calm
  • Dual Purpose :
    • Yes
  • Weather tolerance :
    • Moderate to hardy

Olive Egger

This breed is a hybrid of the Ameraucana and Marans breeds. They are known for their olive-colored eggs, making them an interesting addition to the egg basket. They are friendly and very active, making them perfect for families with kids.

  • Size :
    • Rooster : 8 lbs
    • Hen : 6 lbs
  • Egg production :
    • Large in size
    • 180-200 a year
  • Egg color :
    • Olive-colored
  • Temperament :
    • Friendly and active
  • Dual Purpose :
    • No
  • Weather tolerance :
    • Moderate to cold, not recommended for hot climates.

Appenzeller Spitzhauben

These are goofy little chickens! The Appenzeller Spitzhauben is a breed is known for its rose combed, v-shaped crest and the ability to fly. They are quiet and friendly, making them great for families with kids.

  • Size :
    • Rooster : 4.5 lbs
    • Hen : 3.5 lbs
  • Egg production :
    • Medium in size
    • 200-250 a year
  • Egg color :
    • White
  • Temperament :
    • active and flighty
  • Dual Purpose :
    • No
  • Weather tolerance :
    • Hardy in cold and heat

Orpington

This is a breed known for their great looks and docility. They are large birds and produce a good number of eggs, making them a great all-around chicken. These are the “golden retriever” of the chicken world! Many love to people please, especially if there are treats!

  • Size :
    •  Rooster :10 lbs
    •  Hen : 8 lbs
  • Egg production :
    • Large in size
    • 160-190 a year
  • Egg color :
    • brown
  • Temperament :
    • Super friendly
  • Dual Purpose :
    • Yes
  • Weather tolerance :
    • Hardy

Naked Neck

This breed is known for its unusual looks, as it has no feathers on its neck. They are hardy birds and can handle both hot and cold climates. They lay a good number of eggs, usually about 200 or more.

  • Size :
    • Rooster : 8 lbs
    • Hen : 6 lbs
  • Egg production :
    • Medium in size
    • 200-250 a year
  • Egg color :
    • White
  • Temperament :
    • active but calm
  • Dual Purpose :
    • Yes, good for meat and eggs.
  • Weather tolerance :
    • Heat and cold hardy. Good choice for extreme climates.

Serama

This is a tiny breed, perfect for small backyards. They are friendly and very quiet, making them great pets as well. They lay a good number of eggs for their size.

  • Size :
    • Rooster : 1.5 lbs
    • Hen : 1 lb
  • Egg production :
    • Small in size
    • 100-120 a year
  • Egg color :
    • White
  • Temperament :
    • Friendly and quiet
  • Dual Purpose :
    • No, not for meat.
  • Weather tolerance :
    • Heat and cold hardy, but not recommended for extremely hot or cold temperatures.

Polish

The Polish chicken is known for its beautiful crest and plumb. They are rather loud but friendly birds, making them perfect for families with some land. They lay a good number of eggs, usually around 160-190 per year.

  • Size :
    • Rooster : 7.5 lbs
    • Hen : 5.5 lbs
  • Egg production :
    • Large in size
    • 160-190 a year
  • Egg color :
    • White
  • Temperament :
    • Noisy and friendly
  • Dual Purpose :
    • No
  • Weather tolerance :
    • Hardy in cold, but not recommended for hot climates.

Ancona

This breed is known for its beautiful patterned feathers and their ability to fly. They are active birds, making them a great choice for families without neighbors. They lay a good number of eggs and are dual purpose.

  • Size :
    • Rooster : 6lbs
    • Hen : 4.5 lbs
  • Egg production :
    • Large in size
    • 220-290 a year
  • Egg color :
    • white
  • Temperament :
    • Active and alert but docile
  • Dual purpose :
    • Yes
  • Weather tolerance :
    • Very Hardy

Buckeye

They are known for their hardiness and great egg laying potential. They are friendly and active, making them a great family choice. They also lay large brown eggs, adding to the egg basket!

  • Size :
    • Rooster : 9 lbs
    • Hen : 6.5 lbs
  • Egg production :
    • Large in size
    • 200-220 a year
  • Egg color :
    • brown
  • Temperament :
    • Calm and friendly
  • Dual Purpose :
    • Yes
  • Weather tolerance :
    • Hardy

Dorking

This breed is known for their five toes, giving them an extra bit of grip on the roost! They are docile and friendly, and an over all nice barnyard breed.

  • Size :
    • Rooster : 9 lbs
    • Hen : 7 lbs
  • Egg production :
    • Large in size
    • 140 – 180 a year
  • Egg color :
    • off white
  • Temperament :
    • calm and docile
  • Dual Purpose :
    • Yes
  • Weather tolerance :
    • Moderate

New Hampshire Red

These beautiful, bright red chickens are known for their hardiness and great egg production. They are active birds but not too flighty, making them a great all around choice.

  • Size :
    • Rooster : 8.5lbs
    • Hen : 6.5 lbs
  • Egg production :
    • Large in size
    • 200-220 a year
  • Egg color :
    • brown
  • Temperament :
    • vary from gentle to unfriendly
  • Purpose :
    • Layer
  • Weather tolerance :
    • Moderate

en : 6.5 lbs

Delaware

This breed is known for its white mottled feathers and its egg laying abilities. They are friendly and docile birds, making them a great addition to the coop. They are also dual purpose and originally bred for meat production.

  • Size :
    • Rooster : 8.5 lbs
    • Hen : 6.5 lbs
  • Egg production :
    • Large in size
    • 190 -200 a year
  • Egg color :
    • Light brown
  • Temperament :
    • calm and gentle
  • Dual Purpose :
    • Yes, Bred Originally for Meat production
  • Weather tolerance :
    • Hardy

La Fleche

This is an old French breed that is known for its egg laying ability and their gorgeous black and white feathers. They are active birds but very docile, making them an ideal choice for families.

  • Size :
    • Rooster : 8 lbs
    • Hen : 6 lbs
  • Egg production :
    • Large in size
    • 160-180 a year
  • Egg color :
    • white/cream
  • Temperament :
    • Active but gentle
  • Dual Purpose :
    • No, not recommended for meat production.
  • Weather tolerance :
    • Hardy in cold, but not recommended for hot climates.

Sebright

This a rare breed that is known for its arching feathers and their quiet demeanor. They are gentle birds and lay small, cream colored eggs.

  • Size :
    • Rooster : 2 lbs
    • Hen : 1.5 lbs
  • Egg production :
    • Small in size
    • 80-100 a year
  • Egg color :
    • Cream/Off White
  • Temperament :
    • Quiet and gentle
  • Dual Purpose :
    • No
  • Weather tolerance :
    • Moderate to Hardy

Sumatra

This is an elegant looking bird with the most unique feathers of any chicken. They are active birds but not overly flighty, and they lay a good number of medium sized white eggs.

  • Size :
    • Rooster : 7 lbs
    • Hen : 5 pounds
  • Egg production :
    • Medium in size
    • 120-180 a year
  • Egg color :
    • White
  • Temperament :
    • Active but gentle
  • Dual Purpose :
    • No
  • Weather tolerance :
    • Moderate to Hardy.

Vorwerk

This is a rare breed of chicken that is rarely seen in the US. They are known for their unique looking feathers and their gentle nature. They lay a good number of large white eggs.

  • Size :
    • Rooster : 8 lbs
    • Hen : 6 pounds
  • Egg production :
    • Large in size
    • 160-180 a year
  • Egg color :
    • White
  • Temperament :
    • Gentle and friendly
  • Dual Purpose :
    • No, not recommended for meat production.
  • Weather tolerance :
    • Very Hardy and can tolerate cold climates.

Welsummer

This is a beautiful breed of chicken that is known for its gorgeous rust colored feathers and their good egg laying ability. They are active birds, but not overly flighty, and they lay a good number of large brown eggs.

  • Size :
    • Rooster : 7 lbs
    • Hen : 8 lbs
  • Egg production :
    • medium to large in size
    • 160-190 a year
  • Egg color :
    • dark brown
  • Temperament :
    • active and talkative
  • Dual Purpose :
    • no
  • Weather tolerance :
    • Hardy

Yokohama

This is a rare breed of bantam chicken that is known for its docile nature and small size but unusually long tail feathers. They lay very small, white eggs.

  • Size :
    • Rooster : 2 lbs
    • Hen : 1.5 lbs
  • Egg production :
    • Small in size
    • 90-100 eggs a year
  • Egg color :
    • White
  • Temperament :
    • Gentle and docile
  • Dual Purpose :
    • No, not recommended for meat production.
  • Weather tolerance :
    • Hardy in cold climates.

Conclusion

No matter what kind of backyard chicken you are looking for, there is a breed that will suit your needs. From the large and active La Fleche to the small but gentle Yokohama, each breed has its own unique characteristics when it comes to size, egg production rate, egg color, temperament and weather tolerance. With so many breeds available with varying qualities and features, any backyard enthusiast can find their perfect fit! Be sure to do your research on which type of bird would be best suited for both you and your environment before making a decision. Happy hunting!

Ready to get started on your backyard chicken journey? With so many breeds and varieties to choose from, you can now follow along with our curated list of the best backyard chickens and find the perfect fit for your home. Let us help you get started today with learning how to raise your own flock!

Hardy

Katie is a wife, mother and devoted Christian. Her passions include crafting beautiful things, working on the farm and assisting others in learning more about life. It's just what you're looking for - insight into living simply, expressing faith with grace or just advice from someone who's been there before - keep reading her blog!