If you’ve never kept chickens, start with a breed that’s forgiving, calm, and a steady layer. The five below tick all three boxes. Want to match birds to your exact setup instead? Try the Breed Finder.
1. Australorp — the egg machine
Friendly, calm, and one of the best brown-egg layers there is (around 280 a year). Handles heat and cold well. A fantastic all-rounder. Read more →
2. Plymouth Rock — the hardy classic
Docile, cold-hardy, and productive. The barred variety is a backyard icon and very beginner-friendly. Read more →
3. Buff Orpington — the gentle giant
Big, fluffy, and famously sweet-natured — great with kids. Excellent in cold weather and a solid dual-purpose bird. Read more →
4. Speckled Sussex — the curious friend
Inquisitive, friendly, and a dependable layer that tolerates confinement or free-ranging equally well. Read more →
5. Rhode Island Red — the tough workhorse
Hardy, active, and one of the most productive brown-egg layers. Thrives almost anywhere with minimal fuss. Read more →
Before you buy
- Check your space. Plan ~4 sq ft of coop per bird — size it with the Coop Calculator.
- Get at least three. Chickens are flock animals and do poorly alone.
- Confirm local rules. Many towns limit flock size or ban roosters.
Beginner tip: docile, cold-hardy, broody-prone breeds are easier to manage than flighty high-strung ones — even if they lay a few fewer eggs.