If you’re new to raising chickens, choosing the right breed is essential for a smooth and rewarding experience. Some chicken breeds are particularly well-suited for beginners, offering easy care and reliable egg production.
In this article, we’ll introduce you to 17 beginner-friendly chickens that are known for their hearty egg-laying abilities.
Along with each breed, we’ll share key facts to help you make the best choice for your flock and ensure a successful start to your chicken-keeping journey.
1. Rhode Island Red
Rhode Island Reds add a vibrant touch to any backyard with their prolific egg-laying abilities, producing 250-300 eggs annually.
Known for their hardiness, they thrive in colder climates and are low-maintenance. These friendly, resilient birds adapt well to various environments, making them easy to care for.
Beyond egg production, they’re active and curious, offering plenty of entertainment. Whether you’re a seasoned keeper or a beginner, Rhode Island Reds make a reliable and charming addition to your flock.
2. Leghorn
Leghorns are the picture of a cartoon chicken with their white feathers and bright red combs, and they lay 280-320 eggs per year.
These active birds need plenty of space to frolic and forage, and their independent nature makes them low-maintenance.
While lively and always on the move, they are also hardy and adaptable to various climates. Ideal for beginners, Leghorns provide high egg production without the hassle, quickly maturing to keep your egg cartons full.
3. Australorp
Australorps combine beauty and productivity, laying 250-300 eggs annually. These glossy black birds are calm, friendly, and great for families with children.
They excel in foraging and thrive in various environments. Known for their adaptability, they’re a versatile choice for any climate.
With their hardworking nature, Australorps provide a steady supply of eggs, making them perfect for beginners seeking a dependable breed.
4. Plymouth Rock
Plymouth Rocks are the rock stars of the chicken world, with striking plumage and 200-280 eggs per year. Their hardiness makes them perfect for novice chicken keepers.
Known for adaptability, they thrive in both city and countryside environments and get along well with other breeds.
As excellent foragers, they help reduce feed costs. With both beauty and productivity, Plymouth Rocks are a great choice for any flock.
5. Orpington
Orpingtons are the golden retrievers of the chicken world—loyal, friendly, and fluffy! With 200-280 eggs per year, they’re as productive as they are personable.
Their calm nature makes them perfect for families and first-time chicken owners. Known for their docility, Orpingtons often follow their owners around like feathered sidekicks.
Hardy and adaptable, they thrive in various climates, offering both eggs and companionship.
6. Sussex
Sussex chickens are timeless classics, producing 250-300 eggs annually and adding charm with their speckled feathers.
Known for their versatility, they thrive in various climates and adapt easily to mixed flocks. Their calm, social nature and excellent foraging abilities make them a great choice for beginners.
Sussex chickens offer reliability, friendly companionship, and help reduce feed costs, making them an ideal addition to any backyard.
7. Barred Rock
Barred Rocks are the epitome of consistency, laying 200-280 eggs annually, making them a reliable choice for beginners.
Their adaptable nature allows them to thrive in various environments, from suburban backyards to rural homesteads.
With their striking black and white barred patterns, they are a visual delight. Known for their friendly nature, they get along well with both humans and other chickens, adding harmony to any flock.
Barred Rocks offer a perfect blend of beauty, productivity, and companionship for new poultry owners.
8. Wyandotte
Wyandottes thrive in cold climates with their hardiness and striking silver-laced plumage. They reliably produce 200-250 eggs annually.
Known for their docile, friendly nature, they’re great with families and other animals. Active foragers, they also adapt well to various conditions, making them ideal for novice chicken keepers.
With their elegance and productivity, Wyandottes are a top choice for any backyard flock.
9. New Hampshire Red
New Hampshire Reds are vibrant and productive, laying 250-300 eggs annually. With their rich russet feathers and playful, friendly temperament, they bring energy to any flock.
These hardy birds adapt well to various climates and mature quickly, making them ideal for beginners. Their mix of productivity and personality makes them a great choice for new poultry keepers.
10. Brahma
Brahmas are gentle giants, known for their calm, friendly nature. While they lay fewer eggs (150-200 annually), their size and demeanor make them ideal for beginners.
These hardy birds thrive in colder climates and are easy to care for, fitting well into most backyard setups. Their docile temperament makes them great with families and children.
For those seeking a sweet, laid-back companion, Brahmas are the perfect choice.
11. Golden Comet
Golden Comets are prolific layers, producing 280-320 eggs annually, making them a top choice for egg enthusiasts.
They mature quickly and are friendly, lively, and easy to integrate into any flock. Adaptable to various climates, they require minimal maintenance, making them perfect for beginners.
Golden Comets provide both companionship and reliable egg production, ensuring a bountiful backyard farm.
12. Sex Link
Sex Links are hybrid chickens known for their impressive egg production, laying 280-300 eggs annually. They mature early, providing a steady supply of eggs throughout the year.
Friendly and hardy, they thrive in various conditions, making them ideal for beginners. Their sociable nature ensures they get along well with other flock members, making them a reliable and productive choice.
13. Marans
Marans are known for their stunning chocolate-brown eggs, laying 200-250 annually, offering both quality and quantity.
Calm and composed, they make a great choice for backyard enthusiasts. With their glossy feathers and striking orange eyes, they add beauty to any flock.
Hardy and adaptable, they integrate well with other breeds, making them ideal for mixed flocks. Marans are perfect for those seeking elegance and charm in their chickens.
14. Cochin
Cochins are friendly, fluffy companions known for their charming personalities. While they lay 180-220 eggs annually, their delightful nature makes them a favorite.
Their dense plumage and feathered legs make them well-suited for colder climates. Easy-going and low-maintenance, Cochins are perfect for beginners.
Their docile nature makes them great with children and other animals, adding companionship to any flock.
15. Red Star
Red Stars are a top choice for prolific egg production, laying 280-320 eggs annually. These efficient foragers make them cost-effective for any backyard flock.
With their vibrant red feathers and lively nature, they stand out in any group. Hardy and adaptable, they thrive in various climates.
Low-maintenance and friendly, Red Stars are perfect for both beginners and experienced keepers.
16. Easter Egger
Have you ever seen a chicken with a flair for color? Meet the Easter Egger, a delightful breed known for its vibrant egg hues. From blue to green, these eggs are sure to brighten any breakfast table.
Beyond their egg-cellent contributions, Easter Eggers are celebrated for their curious and friendly nature. They’re a joy to have around children, making them perfect for family farms.
Did you know these chickens aren’t a true breed but a variety of mixed lineage? This genetic diversity contributes to their unique egg colors and charming personalities.
17. Hamburg Chicken
Petite yet proud, the Hamburg chicken is a stunning sight with its glossy, spangled feathers. Known for its elegance, this chicken doesn’t just rest on its looks; it’s a prolific egg layer too.
Hamburgs are sprightly and love to roam, making them perfect for free-range environments. Their active nature means they require a bit more space.
Interestingly, they have a history linked to Dutch origins and were once favored by European aristocrats. The Hamburg’s combination of beauty and productivity makes it a standout in any flock.