Raising chickens can be a delightful endeavor, especially when they reward you with a bountiful supply of eggs.
If you’re new to the poultry world or simply want breeds that require minimal fuss, we’ve compiled a list of chicken breeds that are not only easy to care for, but also prolific egg layers.
These breeds are adaptable, friendly, and perfect for beginners and seasoned chicken keepers alike. Explore this fascinating world, and soon enough, you’ll find your backyard bustling with fluffy, content hens and an abundance of fresh eggs.
1. Rhode Island Red
The Rhode Island Red is cherished for its dual-purpose capabilities, offering both meat and a steady supply of brown eggs. This resilient breed adapts well to various climates, making it a favorite among backyard chicken enthusiasts.
Known for their hardy nature, these chickens can thrive in both free-range and confined environments. Despite their robust appearance, they are generally friendly and easy to handle.
Their inquisitive demeanor and ability to forage make them a joy to watch as they explore their surroundings. Expect around 260 eggs per year from these reliable layers.
2. Leghorn
Leghorns are famous for their prolific egg-laying, producing large quantities of white eggs. Their active nature makes them excellent foragers, thriving in free-range settings.
Despite their energetic behavior, Leghorns are relatively easy to care for, requiring minimal attention while providing maximum output. They boast a slender build and striking appearance, adding charm to any flock.
Though not known for being cuddly, their independence is a trait many appreciate. With the right environment, a Leghorn can lay over 280 eggs annually, making them a top choice for egg production.
3. Sussex
Sussex chickens are known for their gentle temperament and reliable egg production. They are a dual-purpose breed, providing both excellent eggs and quality meat.
Their friendly nature makes them a wonderful choice for families with children. Sussex hens are proficient foragers, enjoying the freedom of a garden or farmyard.
With their striking plumage and approachable demeanor, they easily become a beloved part of the flock. Expect a Sussex to lay about 250 eggs per year, adding both beauty and productivity to your backyard.
4. Plymouth Rock
The Plymouth Rock is an iconic American breed celebrated for its adaptability and steady egg production. With a balanced temperament, they make excellent companions for any backyard flock.
Their distinctive barred feather pattern and calm demeanor make them a favorite among chicken keepers. These birds are hardy and can withstand a variety of weather conditions, from cold winters to hot summers.
Plymouth Rocks are average to good layers, producing around 200 eggs annually. Their ease of care and pleasant nature make them ideal for both novices and experienced chicken keepers.
5. Australorp
Australorps are renowned for their incredible egg-laying abilities, often setting records for egg production. With their glossy black feathers and friendly disposition, they are a striking addition to any flock.
This breed is known for its calm and docile nature, making them easy to handle and perfect for families. Their adaptability to different environments ensures they thrive in both urban and rural settings.
An Australorp hen can lay over 250 eggs a year, providing both beauty and productivity. Their gentle temperament makes them ideal pets for chicken enthusiasts.
6. Orpington
Orpingtons are beloved for their friendly nature and impressive egg-laying capabilities. Their soft, fluffy feathers and calm temperament make them a joy to have around.
These chickens thrive in various environments, from small backyard coops to larger farm settings. Known for their cuddliness, Orpingtons are perfect for families with children.
Their steady egg production yields around 200 eggs per year, providing a reliable source of fresh eggs. The Buff Orpington is particularly popular, noted for its warm golden plumage and gentle disposition.
7. Wyandotte
The Wyandotte is admired for its striking appearance and dependable egg production. With their rose comb and robust build, these hens add elegance to any flock.
Known for their gentle and docile nature, Wyandottes are easy to manage and great for beginners. They thrive in various climates, making them a versatile choice for diverse environments.
Their beautiful feather patterns and hardy nature ensure they are both functional and ornamental. Expect a Wyandotte to lay approximately 200 eggs per year, making them a favorite among hobbyists and seasoned poultry farmers alike.
8. Barnevelder
Barnevelders are celebrated for their stunning feather patterns and easy-going nature. Originating from the Netherlands, they are excellent layers of brown eggs, adding a unique flair to any backyard flock.
These hens are friendly and enjoy interacting with people, making them a delightful presence in the garden. Their calm demeanor makes them suitable for families and smallholders alike.
Barnevelders are reliable layers, producing around 180 eggs annually. Their striking appearance and approachable nature make them a captivating addition to any poultry collection.
9. Cochin
Cochins are known for their distinctive feathering and gentle disposition. These fluffy chickens are not only eye-catching but also easy to care for, making them a popular choice for chicken enthusiasts.
While not the highest egg producers, they lay a respectable number of eggs each year, with their calm and friendly nature compensating for fewer eggs.
Cochins thrive in confinement or free-range and are excellent companions for those seeking a pet-like chicken. Expect around 150 eggs annually, alongside the joy of watching these endearing birds waddle around.
10. Marans
Marans are famed for their dark chocolate-colored eggs, adding a touch of luxury to any egg basket. These French birds are robust and adapt well to various environments, from free-range pastures to cozy coops.
Their calm and gentle nature makes them a pleasure to raise, and their unique eggs are always a conversation starter.
Marans lay approximately 150 to 200 eggs per year, depending on conditions. The combination of their striking appearance and rich egg color makes them a standout choice for any poultry enthusiast.
11. Ancona
Anconas are a lively and energetic breed, known for their distinctive mottled feathers and robust egg production. Originating from Italy, they bring a touch of Mediterranean charm to any flock.
These active birds are proficient foragers, thriving in free-range environments where they can explore and roam. Their independent nature makes them low maintenance, yet they remain friendly and approachable.
Anconas are good layers, producing around 200 eggs annually. Their striking appearance and spirited personality make them a delightful addition to the backyard.
12. Easter Egger
Easter Eggers are beloved for their colorful eggs and charming variety of appearances. These delightful hens lay eggs in shades of blue, green, and sometimes pink, adding a whimsical touch to any egg basket.
Their friendly and curious nature makes them a family favorite, especially for those with children. Easter Eggers are adaptable and thrive in diverse environments, making them suitable for various living conditions.
Expect around 200 eggs per year from these fun-loving birds. Their unpredictable egg colors and amiable personalities ensure they are always a conversation piece.