The largest chicken breeds are prized for their impressive size, often exceeding 10 pounds and standing up to 36 inches tall, with robust builds and striking plumage. Originating from regions like the United States, Asia, and Europe, these breeds are bred for dual purposes—meat and egg production—or as ornamental additions to flocks. Their size makes them a focal point in backyards, appealing to hobbyists seeking both utility and visual impact.
These chickens adapt to confined coops or free-range environments, requiring sturdy, spacious shelters to accommodate their bulk. They thrive in temperate climates, with many being cold-hardy due to dense feathers, though they need shade and ventilation in hot weather. Secure coops are essential to protect against predators, given their visibility and slower movements.
Most large breeds are dual-purpose, with hens laying 150–250 large eggs annually, often brown or white, while their meat is valued for its quality. Some have aggressive temperaments suited for flock protection, while others are docile, making them family-friendly. Their diet demands more feed than smaller breeds, including grains and protein to support their size.
Challenges include higher feed costs, the need for larger coops, and managing aggression in some roosters. Their role in producing meat, eggs, or show-worthy aesthetics makes them valuable, but their size requires careful planning for space and care to ensure health and comfort in backyard settings.
Types of Largest Chicken
These breeds were selected based on their size (weight and/or height) and prominence in poultry sources, such as the American Poultry Association, hatchery catalogs (e.g., Murray McMurray, Cackle Hatchery), and websites like A-Z Animals, PangoVet, and Rarest.org.
Jersey Giant
The Jersey Giant is the largest chicken breed, with roosters weighing 13–15 lbs and standing 20–26 inches tall, featuring black, white, or blue plumage and a single red comb. Developed in New Jersey, USA, in the late 1800s by John and Thomas Black to rival turkeys, it’s a docile breed, ideal as a pet or for meat, with hens laying 150–200 large brown eggs yearly.
They adapt to confined or free-range backyards, are cold-hardy, but need sturdy coops and ample space due to their size. Their gentle temperament and imposing presence make them a backyard favorite.
Brahma
The Brahma is a massive breed, with roosters reaching 12–14 lbs and up to 30 inches tall, known for feathered legs and plumage in light, dark, or buff varieties. Originating in the United States from Chinese stock in the 1850s, it’s a gentle giant, laying 150–200 large brown eggs annually.
Brahmas thrive in small backyards or free-range setups, are extremely cold-hardy due to dense feathers, but need shade in heat. Their fluffy appearance and calm demeanor make them popular for exhibition and as pets.
Cochin
The Cochin is a large breed (8–11 lbs, up to 22 inches tall) with fluffy plumage covering legs, in colors like buff, black, or white, and a single red comb. Originating in Shanghai, China, in the 1840s, it sparked “hen fever” in the West due to its ornamental look.
Hens lay 150–180 small brown eggs yearly and are often broody. Cochins adapt to confined backyards, are cold-hardy, but need dry coops to protect feathers. Their dramatic, fluffy appearance and gentle temperament suit show or pet purposes.
Orpington
The Orpington is a robust breed (roosters 8–10 lbs, up to 16 inches tall) with soft, thick plumage in buff, black, blue, or white, and a single red comb. Developed in Kent, England, in the 1880s by William Cook, it’s a dual-purpose breed with a docile nature, laying 150–200 large brown eggs yearly. Orpingtons thrive in cold climates, adapt to confined or free-range backyards, and need shade in heat. Their calm demeanor and fluffy, showy feathers make them ideal for exhibitions and family flocks.
Malay
The Malay is one of the tallest breeds, reaching 30–36 inches and weighing 9–11 lbs, with sparse plumage in colors like black or red and a small walnut comb. Originating in Malaysia and Southeast Asia, it’s a gamefowl breed with an aggressive temperament, laying 50–100 small brown eggs annually. Malays prefer free-range backyards due to their height and energy, are hardy in warm climates, but need insulated coops in cold weather. Their towering stature makes them striking but challenging for beginners.
Dong Tao
The Dong Tao, or “dragon chicken,” is a rare breed (roosters 10–13 lbs, up to 36 inches tall) with thick, red-scaled legs, black or red plumage, and a single red comb. Originating in Vietnam, it’s prized for its delicacy meat, with hens laying 60–100 medium brown eggs yearly. Dong Taos thrive in free-range setups, are heat-tolerant, but need warm, sturdy coops in cold climates. Their massive legs and rarity make them ornamental, though egg hatching is challenging due to their large feet.
Cornish
The Cornish is a muscular breed (roosters 10.5–11 lbs, up to 16 inches tall) with tight plumage in colors like white or dark and a pea red comb. Developed in Cornwall, England, in the 19th century, it’s primarily a meat breed with a docile temperament when unprovoked, laying 100–150 medium brown eggs yearly. Cornish chickens thrive in free-range or confined backyards, need sturdy shelters for cold winters, and are hardy in mild climates. Their stocky build suits meat production and shows.
O-Shamo
The O-Shamo is a large Japanese gamefowl breed (roosters 10–12.4 lbs, up to 30 inches tall) with hard, sparse plumage in black, red, or white and a pea or walnut comb. Originating in Japan from Thai stock, it’s bred for strength and lays 50–100 small brown eggs annually. Its aggressive temperament suits rural, free-range backyards, requiring secure coops and warm climates. The O-Shamo’s muscular build and tall, upright stance make it a striking ornamental breed for experienced keepers.
Australorp
The Australorp is a large breed (roosters 8–10 lbs, up to 27 inches tall) with glossy black plumage (sometimes blue or white) and a single red comb. Developed in Australia from Orpington stock in the early 20th century, it’s a prolific layer, producing 250–300 large brown eggs yearly, with a friendly temperament. Australorps thrive in free-range or confined backyards, are hardy in various climates, and need shade in heat. Their sleek feathers and egg-laying prowess make them a backyard staple.
Plymouth Rock
The Plymouth Rock is a sturdy breed (roosters 8–9.5 lbs, up to 20 inches tall) with barred, white, or buff plumage and a single red comb. Originating in Massachusetts, USA, in the 19th century, it’s a dual-purpose breed with a calm temperament, laying 180–200 large brown eggs yearly. Plymouth Rocks adapt to confined or free-range backyards, are cold-hardy, and need shade in heat. Their classic barred pattern and friendly nature make them popular for homesteads.
Sussex
The Sussex is a versatile breed (roosters 7–9 lbs, up to 20 inches tall) with plumage in speckled, white, or red and a single red comb. Originating in England in the 19th century, it’s a dual-purpose breed with a docile temperament, laying 180–200 light brown or creamy eggs annually. Sussex chickens thrive in free-range or confined backyards, are cold-hardy, and need shade in hot climates. Their balanced frame and attractive plumage suit both utility and show purposes.
Langshan (Croad)
The Croad Langshan is a tall breed (roosters 8–10 lbs, up to 32 inches) with glossy black plumage, a single red comb, and long legs. Originating in China’s Langshan region in the 19th century, it’s a dual-purpose breed with a sociable temperament, laying 150–200 large brown eggs yearly. Langshans prefer free-range backyards, are hardy in temperate climates, and need insulated coops in cold weather. Their graceful silhouette and upright stance make them a striking addition to flocks.
Índio Gigante
The Índio Gigante, or “Indian Giant,” is a tall breed (roosters 10–13 lbs, up to 36 inches) with varied plumage (often red or black) and a small comb. Developed in Brazil in the 1980s from Malay and Shamo crosses, it’s an ornamental breed with a docile temperament, laying 150–250 large brown eggs annually. Índio Gigantes thrive in free-range backyards, are heat-tolerant, and need sturdy coops. Their extreme height and friendly nature make them a unique choice for enthusiasts.
Maline
The Maline is a large breed (roosters 10–12 lbs, up to 20 inches tall) with cuckoo-patterned feathers (black and white), a single red comb, and a robust build. Originating in Belgium in the 19th century, it’s a docile breed, laying 150–200 large brown eggs yearly. Malines adapt to confined or free-range backyards, are cold-hardy, and need shade in heat. Their attractive, barred plumage and easygoing nature make them suitable for family flocks and shows.
Minorca
The Minorca is a large Mediterranean breed (roosters 7–9 lbs, up to 20 inches tall) with sleek black, white, or buff plumage, a large single red comb, and white earlobes. Originating in Spain, it’s known for laying 150–200 extra-large white eggs annually, with an active temperament. Minorcas prefer free-range backyards, are heat-tolerant, but need insulated coops in cold climates. Their elegant build and prolific egg-laying make them a striking, productive choice.
New Hampshire Red
The New Hampshire Red is a robust breed (roosters 8–9 lbs, up to 20 inches tall) with chestnut-red plumage, a single red comb, and yellow legs. Developed in the United States in the early 20th century from Rhode Island Red stock, it’s a dual-purpose breed with a friendly yet assertive temperament, laying 200–240 large brown eggs annually. New Hampshire Reds adapt to confined or free-range backyards, are cold-hardy, and need shade in hot climates. Their vibrant plumage and sturdy build make them a reliable choice for meat and egg production.
Delaware
The Delaware is a large breed (roosters 8–8.5 lbs, up to 20 inches tall) with white plumage, black barring on hackles and tail, and a single red comb. Developed in the United States in the 1940s, it’s a dual-purpose breed with a calm, friendly temperament, laying 180–260 large brown eggs yearly. Delawares thrive in free-range or confined backyards, are cold-hardy, and need shade in heat. Their white-and-black pattern and docile nature make them ideal for family flocks and homesteads.
Rhode Island Red
The Rhode Island Red is a sturdy breed (roosters 8–9 lbs, up to 20 inches tall) with deep, rusty-red plumage, a single red comb, and yellow legs. Originating in the United States (Rhode Island, Massachusetts) in the late 1800s, it’s a dual-purpose breed with a bold, calm temperament, laying 250–300 large brown eggs annually. Rhode Island Reds adapt to various climates, thrive in confined or free-range backyards, and need sturdy coops. Their rich color and productivity are prized by backyard keepers.
Wyandotte (Silver Laced)
The Silver Laced Wyandotte is a large breed (roosters 8–9 lbs, up to 18 inches tall) with black-tipped silver feathers, a red rose comb, and yellow legs. Originating in the United States in the 1870s, it’s a dual-purpose breed with a calm, assertive temperament, laying 180–260 medium brown eggs yearly. Wyandottes are cold-hardy, adapt to small backyards or free-range setups, and need shade in heat. Their intricate feather pattern and robust frame make them a show and utility favorite.
Faverolles (Salmon)
The Salmon Faverolles is a large breed (roosters 7–8 lbs, up to 18 inches tall) with salmon-colored plumage, a beard, muffs, feathered legs, and a single red comb. Developed in France in the 19th century, it’s a dual-purpose breed with a gentle, affectionate temperament, laying 150–200 medium brown eggs annually. Faverolles thrive in confined backyards, are cold-hardy but sensitive to wet conditions, and need shade in heat. Their ornate feathers and friendly nature suit family flocks.
Dorking (Silver-Grey)
The Silver-Grey Dorking is a large breed (roosters 8–9 lbs, up to 20 inches tall) with silver-grey plumage, black accents, and a single or rose red comb. Originating in England, possibly from Roman times, it’s a dual-purpose breed with a calm temperament, laying 150–200 large white eggs yearly. Dorkings adapt to confined or free-range backyards, are cold-hardy, and need dry coops to avoid dampness. Their historical lineage and solid build make them a classic choice.
Barnevelder
The Barnevelder is a large breed (roosters 7–8 lbs, up to 18 inches tall) with glossy black plumage laced with brown or green, a single red comb, and yellow legs. Developed in the Netherlands in the early 20th century, it’s a dual-purpose breed with a calm temperament, laying 150–200 large, dark brown eggs annually. Barnevelders thrive in free-range or confined backyards, are cold-hardy, and need shade in heat. Their laced feather pattern adds aesthetic appeal to flocks.
Aseel (Black)
The Black Aseel is a muscular breed (roosters 8–10 lbs, up to 27 inches tall) with glossy black plumage, a small pea comb, and a strong, upright stance. Originating in India, bred for cockfighting (now ornamental), it’s aggressive, laying 40–80 small cream eggs yearly. Aseels prefer free-range backyards, are heat-tolerant, and need secure, sturdy coops. Their tall, powerful build makes them striking but best for experienced keepers.
Shamo (Black)
The Black Shamo is a tall breed (roosters 8–11 lbs, up to 30 inches) with glossy black plumage, a pea or walnut comb, and a muscular frame. Originating in Japan from Thai stock, it’s a gamefowl breed with an assertive temperament, laying 50–100 small brown eggs yearly. Shamos thrive in free-range backyards, are hardy in warm climates, and need insulated coops in cold weather. Their upright posture and strength make them ornamental for rural settings.
Buckeye
The Buckeye is a large breed (roosters 8–9 lbs, up to 18 inches tall) with rich mahogany plumage, a pea red comb, and yellow legs. Developed in Ohio, USA, in the late 19th century, it’s a dual-purpose breed with a calm, curious temperament, laying 150–200 medium brown eggs yearly. Buckeyes adapt to confined or free-range backyards, are cold-hardy, and need shade in heat. Their deep red color and friendly nature suit homesteads.
Chantecler (White)
The White Chantecler is a large breed (roosters 7–8.5 lbs, up to 18 inches tall) with pure white plumage, a small cushion comb, and yellow legs. Developed in Canada in the early 20th century, it’s a dual-purpose breed with a calm temperament, laying 150–200 large brown eggs annually. Chanteclers thrive in cold climates, adapt to confined backyards, and need shade in heat. Their minimal comb reduces frostbite risk, making them ideal for northern flocks.
Java (Black)
The Black Java is a large breed (roosters 8–9.5 lbs, up to 20 inches tall) with glossy black plumage, a single red comb, and yellow legs. One of America’s oldest breeds, originating in the 19th century, it’s a dual-purpose breed with a calm temperament, laying 150–200 large brown eggs yearly. Javas adapt to free-range or confined backyards, are cold-hardy, and need shade in heat. Their sleek feathers and historical significance are notable.
Maran (Black Copper)
The Black Copper Maran is a large breed (roosters 7–8 lbs, up to 18 inches tall) with black plumage, coppery neck feathers, and a single red comb. Originating in France in the early 20th century, it’s a dual-purpose breed with a quiet temperament, laying 150–200 dark brown eggs yearly. Marans thrive in free-range or confined backyards, are hardy in temperate climates, and need shade in heat. Their unique egg color and elegant appearance are prized.
Wyandotte (Golden Laced)
The Golden Laced Wyandotte is a large breed (roosters 8–9 lbs, up to 18 inches tall) with black-and-gold laced plumage, a red rose comb, and yellow legs. Originating in the United States in the 1870s, it’s a dual-purpose breed with a calm temperament, laying 180–260 medium brown eggs yearly. Golden Wyandottes are cold-hardy, adapt to small backyards, and need shade in heat. Their vibrant, laced feathers add show appeal.
Orpington (Black)
The Black Orpington is a large breed (roosters 8–10 lbs, up to 16 inches tall) with glossy black plumage, a single red comb, and a broad frame. Developed in England in the 1880s, it’s a dual-purpose breed with a docile temperament, laying 150–200 large brown eggs annually. Black Orpingtons thrive in confined or free-range backyards, are cold-hardy, and need shade in heat. Their sleek, dark feathers enhance their ornamental appeal.
Plymouth Rock (White)
The White Plymouth Rock is a large breed (roosters 8–9.5 lbs, up to 20 inches tall) with pure white plumage, a single red comb, and yellow legs. Originating in the United States in the 19th century, it’s a dual-purpose breed with a calm temperament, laying 180–200 large brown eggs yearly. White Plymouth Rocks adapt to confined or free-range backyards, are cold-hardy, and need shade in heat. Their clean appearance suits homesteads.
Sussex (Light)
The Light Sussex is a large breed (roosters 7–9 lbs, up to 20 inches tall) with white plumage, black neck and tail accents, and a single red comb. Originating in England in the 19th century, it’s a dual-purpose breed with a docile temperament, laying 180–200 creamy eggs annually. Light Sussex chickens thrive in free-range or confined backyards, are cold-hardy, and need shade in heat. Their classic white plumage is a backyard staple.