Big chickens dominate the poultry world with their impressive size and remarkable qualities. They are not only incredible in terms of size but also in terms of character and productivity.
These chickens are known for their friendly and docile nature, and their massive size typically makes them the center of attention in any flock. Also, they tend to be versatile and can be used for both meat and egg production.
Continue reading to discover the different breeds of large chickens in the world, as well as what they look like, how they behave, and what they are used for.
What Is the Largest Chicken Breed in the World?
The largest chicken in the world is the Jersey Giant. It came from the crossing of Orpingtons, Javas, and Langshans.
This breed was created in New Jersey in the 1870s by the Black brothers, John and Thomas, in an effort to meet the need for large fowl at the time.
Both sexes of this bird are large and sturdy, with males averaging 13 to 15 pounds and 20 to 26 inches in height, while females can weigh around 10 pounds and stand 15 to 20 inches tall.
The Jersey Giant chicken is not just large in size but also in personality. They are known for being docile and calm, often compared to gentle giants. They’re big, yet they’re friendly, and they love being around other animals and people.
They are also productive layers, laying anywhere from 160 to 200 extra-large brown eggs per year— and that includes the winter when most other breeds stop laying.
Top 22 Largest Chicken Breeds
This section will explore the top 22 largest chicken breeds, shedding light on their unique traits and why they are cherished in the poultry world.
1. Jersey Giant Chicken
| Origin: | United States |
| Height: | 16–26 in (40.6–66 cm) |
| Hen Weight: | 10–12 lbs (4.5–5.4 kg) |
| Rooster Weight: | 13–15 lbs (5.9–6.8 kg) |
| Egg Production (Annual): | 150–200 eggs |
| Egg Color: | Brown |
| Egg Size: | Large |
| Temperament: | Calm, friendly, docile |
The Jersey Giant chicken is the world’s largest chicken breed. Males of this breed can grow to be as tall as 26 inches, while females average between 16 and 20 inches.
The legs of these giant birds are willow in color, while their plumage comes in blue, black, and white.
Jersey Giants were first bred in Burlington County, New Jersey, in the late 19th century. This breed was developed with the intent of replacing the turkey for meat production.
This giant chicken breed is not just about size, though. Jersey Giants are a calm and friendly breed, making them a great pet for chicken owners.
Despite their size, they are not considered an aggressive breed. Moreover, they are known to lay huge brown eggs. While they may not lay as many eggs as other breeds, they are particularly good winter layers.
Check out this video for a closer look at this breed:
2. Brahma Chicken
| Origin: | United States |
| Height: | 26–30 in (66–76.2 cm) |
| Hen Weight: | 7–10 lbs (3.2–4.5 kg) |
| Rooster Weight: | 8.8–12 lbs (4–5.4 kg) |
| Egg Production (Annual): | 150–200 eggs |
| Egg Color: | Brown |
| Egg Size: | Large |
| Temperament: | Gentle, reserved |
Often referred to as the “King of Chickens,” the Brahma is a breed that commands attention due to its large size and striking appearance. These chickens are known for their beautiful plumage and gentle nature.
Having Brahmas on my farm, I can describe them as a robust and hardy breed, and they thrive in cooler climates.
Interestingly, I noticed that my Brahma hens tend to lay more eggs during the cooler months, providing a steady supply of eggs when other breeds start to slow down.
These chickens are not only good layers but they are also regarded as one of the best types of chickens for meat.
They also have a calm and friendly temperament. They are not flighty or skittish, and their large size often places them high in the pecking order.
Despite their intimidating size, they are known to be gentle with children and can become quite attached to their owners.
The Brahma chicken is a versatile breed that offers both beauty and utility. Their gentle nature, coupled with their impressive size and plumage, makes them a standout addition to any backyard flock.
3. Cochin Chicken
| Origin: | China |
| Height: | 16–21 in (40.6–53.3 cm) |
| Hen Weight: | 7.5–8.8 lbs (3.4–4 kg) |
| Rooster Weight: | 10–11 lbs (4.5–5 kg) |
| Egg Production (Annual): | 150–180 eggs |
| Egg Color: | Brown |
| Egg Size: | Medium |
| Temperament: | Friendly, easygoing, docile |
The Cochin is a large chicken breed developed in China and is known as one of the few chickens that have distinctive feathered feet. The skin beneath their feathers is yellow, adding to their unique appearance.
This breed is primarily kept for exhibition, showcasing their striking appearance. They are available in a variety of colors, such as black, blue, buff, cuckoo, partridge, grouse, and white. They even have a bantam variant for fans of smaller chickens.
Moreover, Cochin chickens are a popular breed among chicken keepers due to their calm and friendly nature.
These chickens are also good layers and make excellent mothers, often used to hatch the eggs of certain breeds like turkeys and ducks.
4. Malines Chicken
| Origin: | Belgium |
| Hen Weight: | 8–10 lbs (3.6–4.5 kg) |
| Rooster Weight: | 10–11 lbs (4.5–5 kg) |
| Egg Production (Annual): | 140–160 eggs |
| Egg Color: | Cream |
| Egg Size: | Large |
| Temperament: | Friendly, docile, calm |
The Malines chicken, also known as Coucou De Malines, is a Belgian breed known for its large size and friendly nature.
These chickens are one of the heaviest chicken breeds; roosters weigh over 11 pounds, and hens can weigh up to 10 pounds. Despite their size, they are very docile and make excellent pets.
Their appearance is striking, with a large head, a small white beak, and bright red wattles, comb, and earlobes. Their dense feathering makes them cold-hardy, although their large comb can be prone to frostbite.
Moreover, this breed comes in eight recognized colors in Belgium, with the black cuckoo pattern being the most common.
Malines were originally bred as a source of chicken meat, but they are also decent egg layers, laying up to 160 eggs per year.
They require more space than the average chicken due to their size, though you don’t have to let them roam free to make them happy. These chickens do well in confinement.
5. Dong Tao Chicken
| Origin: | Vietnam |
| Hen Weight: | 6–9 lbs (2.7–4 kg) |
| Rooster Weight: | 10–11 lbs (4.5–5 kg) |
| Egg Production (Annual): | 80–120 eggs |
| Egg Color: | White |
| Egg Size: | Medium |
| Temperament: | Reserved, independent, calm |
The Dong Tao chicken, also known as the Dragon chicken, is a rare breed of large chicken originating from Vietnam.
This Vietnamese chicken breed has mostly black feathers, and their large feet are a striking feature that makes them stand out from other chicken breeds.
They are one of the most expensive chicken breeds in the world and have also become a symbol of wealth and prosperity in their native land due to their unusually large and thick legs.
However, the Dong Tao chicken is more than just a decorative fowl. They’re highly prized for their meat, which is considered a delicacy in Vietnam.
Despite their great value, the Dong Tao is a challenging breed to raise since they are sensitive to temperature changes and have trouble hatching due to their large legs.
6. Cornish Chicken
| Origin: | England |
| Hen Weight: | 7.5–8 lbs (3.4–3.6 kg) |
| Rooster Weight: | 7.7–10 lbs (3.5–4.5 kg) |
| Egg Production (Annual): | 160–180 eggs |
| Egg Color: | Brown |
| Egg Size: | Small |
| Temperament: | Docile, Laid-back |
The Cornish chicken, commonly referred to as the Indian Game, is a large chicken breed that is highly regarded for its meat. They have a long history and are considered one of the oldest English game chicken breeds.
Originating from Cornwall, England, this breed was initially intended for cockfighting but was found to be more suited for meat production due to its muscular build.
Meanwhile, if fighting rooster and gamefowl breeds are your interest, we have carefully studied and compiled 21 of the best game breeds for your reading pleasure.
Further, there are several color variations of this breed, including the original black, white, white-laced red, and buff.
Cornish chickens are known for their docile temperament and can be quite calm compared to other breeds.
Furthermore, these chickens are known for their hard feathers without down, which may make them susceptible to cold. Despite this, they are resistant to most common poultry diseases.
7. Orpington Chicken
| Origin: | England |
| Height: | 12–16 in (30.4–40.6 cm) |
| Hen Weight: | 6–8 lbs (2.7–3.6 kg) |
| Rooster Weight: | 8–10 lbs (3.6–4.5 kg) |
| Egg Production (Annual): | 200–280 eggs |
| Egg Color: | Brown |
| Egg Size: | Large |
| Temperament: | Friendly, sociable |
Large in size, the Orpington chicken is highly regarded for its meat and prolific egg-laying. Orpingtons are favored for meat production because of their plump bodies, rounded breasts, and ample muscular growth.
They are also reliable layers of brown eggs, typically producing a moderate number of eggs throughout the year.
These chickens have a low stance, a rounded appearance, and an abundance of soft, fluffy feathers, making them look even larger than they are.
Moreover, Orpingtons are known for their beautiful plumage, which comes in several colors, including black, blue, buff, white, and even lavender.
Their friendly personality and versatility in purpose make them a favorite among chicken keepers.
8. Plymouth Rock Chicken
| Origin: | United States |
| Hen Weight: | 6.6–7.5 lbs (3–3.4 kg) |
| Rooster Weight: | 8.6–9.4 lbs (3.9–4.3 kg) |
| Egg Production (Annual): | 200–300 eggs |
| Egg Color: | Brown |
| Egg Size: | Large |
| Temperament: | Outgoing, adaptable, friendly |
Plymouth Rock chickens are one of the largest chicken breeds, with a solid and compact build. They have a broad, deep body, moderately long legs, and a medium-sized single comb.
This breed is well-regarded for its versatility and hardiness. While their primary use today is for backyard flocks, they were historically regarded as dual-purpose chickens that could provide a steady supply of meat and eggs.
Moreover, these chickens are known for their calm and docile temperament. They are a friendly chicken breed that’s easy to handle, which makes them suitable for families and beginner chicken keepers.
Their amiable nature and adaptability to various environments make them popular choices for backyard flocks and small-scale farming operations.
9. Faverolles
| Origin: | France |
| Hen Weight: | 7–7.7 lbs (3.2–3.5 kg) |
| Rooster Weight: | 8.8–9.4 lbs (4–4.3 kg) |
| Egg Production (Annual): | 150–240 eggs |
| Egg Color: | Brown, pink |
| Egg Size: | Large |
| Temperament: | Calm, friendly |
The Faverolles is another large breed of chicken known for its unique and distinctive appearance as well as its dual-purpose qualities.
Developed in the village of Faverolles in the 19th century, this breed quickly gained popularity for its beautiful appearance and practicality.
Faverolles have a distinct and eye-catching appearance. They are medium to large-sized birds with a stocky and compact build. It comes in several color varieties, including salmon, white, black, blue, and cuckoo.
Moreover, they are known for their feathered legs and feet, which are covered in abundant soft feathers, making them one of the fluffiest chickens with a round appearance.
These chickens are generally calm, easygoing, and enjoy human interaction. This makes them well-suited for backyard flocks and family environments. Furthermore, Faverolles are known for their adaptability and hardiness.
They can tolerate various climates and are relatively robust birds. Plus, their feathered legs provide them with additional protection against cold weather.
10. Sussex Chicken
| Origin: | England |
| Hen Weight: | 6.6–7 lbs (3–3.2 kg) |
| Rooster Weight: | 8.8–9.2 lbs (4–4.2 kg) |
| Egg Production (Annual): | 200–250 eggs |
| Egg Color: | Brown |
| Egg Size: | Large |
| Temperament: | Curious, docile, tolerant |
The Sussex chicken is a large British chicken breed that’s been around for over 200 years.
This dual-purpose breed has a long history and remains a popular choice among poultry keepers due to its versatility, hardiness, and suitability for both meat and egg production.
These chickens are characterized by a short, sturdy beak, a single comb, and a wide chest. They come in various color varieties, including white, red, light, speckled, and buff.
Each variety has a distinct feather pattern and coloration. For instance, the Speckled Sussex is multicolored, while the Light Sussex is white with black neck and tail feathers.
Moreover, Sussex chickens are known for their docile and tolerant nature, making them a great choice for families and children who want to keep a chicken as a pet.
11. German Langshan
| Origin: | Germany |
| Hen Weight: | 5.5–7.7 lbs (2.5–3.5 kg) |
| Rooster Weight: | 6.6–10 lbs (3–4.5 kg) |
| Egg Production (Annual): | 150–180 eggs |
| Egg Color: | Brown |
| Egg Size: | Large |
| Temperament: | Inquisitive, calm, docile |
The German Langshan is a large breed of chicken that stands out for its sleek, upwardly-curving backline and its tall height.
This breed was developed in Germany from imported Croad Langshans from China, which gave them their distinctive U-shaped back.
They come in both a standard size and a smaller bantam version. Moreover, they can be found in a range of colors, including black, blue, white, splash, and a brown-black variety.
German Langshans are commonly kept for their ornamental value, although they are also useful as egg layers and meat birds. These chickens develop rapidly and are generally healthy and robust.
Despite their size, they are known to be calm and friendly, making them a good choice for those looking for a large chicken breed that is easy to manage.
12. Malay Chicken
| Origin: | Malaysia |
| Height: | 26–36 in (66–91.4 cm) |
| Hen Weight: | 6.6–7 lbs (3–3.2 kg) |
| Rooster Weight: | 8.5–9 lbs (3.8–4 kg) |
| Egg Production (Annual): | 70–120 eggs |
| Egg Color: | Brown |
| Egg Size: | Medium |
| Temperament: | Alert, active, independent |
One of the tallest chicken breeds, the Malay chicken can grow up to 36 inches tall. This breed truly stands out in a flock with their incredible height, long, muscular legs, strong body structure, and long neck.
They have long, stiff feathers that often have an iridescent sheen. Their beak and legs are both yellow, and their legs have large scales instead of feathers.
Malay chickens are known for their bold and confident personalities. They are generally known as a flighty, skittish breed. They do not like to be confined and may not get along well with too many other chickens.
Despite their reputation for aggression and nervous temperament, many keepers describe them as friendly, curious, active, and energetic birds with strong and interesting personalities.
13. Wyandotte
| Origin: | United States |
| Hen Weight: | 6–7 lbs (2.7–3.2 kg) |
| Rooster Weight: | 7.7–8.8 lbs (3.5–4 kg) |
| Egg Production (Annual): | 200–240 eggs |
| Egg Color: | Cream, Brown |
| Egg Size: | Large |
| Temperament: | Calm, docile, reserved |
The Wyandotte chicken is a large breed of chicken that is renowned for both its stunning appearance and hardy nature.
This breed was developed specifically to withstand harsh northern winters, and they have a rose comb that tolerates cold weather well.
Moreover, these large-bodied birds are adorned with a dazzling array of feathers, making them one of the most visually attractive chickens around.
Wyandottes are dual-purpose birds, laying around 3 to 4 brown eggs each week. They are not known for being broody, but when they do decide to sit, they make diligent sitters and great mothers.
Furthermore, these chickens are not overly affectionate toward people but are not afraid of them either. They are known for being quiet and reserved, making them a good choice for an urban setting.
They do well in confinement or free-range environments, but like most chickens, they prefer the latter.
14. New Hampshire Red
| Origin: | United States |
| Height: | 25–30 in (63.5–76.2 cm) |
| Hen Weight: | 5–7 lbs (2.3–3.2 kg) |
| Rooster Weight: | 7–8.8 lbs (3.2–4 kg) |
| Egg Production (Annual): | 200–280 eggs |
| Egg Color: | Brown |
| Egg Size: | Large |
| Temperament: | Docile, curious, friendly |
A large, meaty bird, the New Hampshire Red is an American breed of domestic chicken known for its versatility in the poultry world.
Known for their chestnut-red feathers, New Hampshire Reds are descendants of Rhode Island Reds but with a more triangular body shape.
This breed is not only attractive; they’re also reliable egg layers, producing around 200 large brown eggs per year.
These chickens are known for their robust nature and adaptability to different climates. They can survive in cold climates and even thrive in extreme heat if given enough shade.
Moreover, New Hampshire Reds are known for their friendly disposition, making them great pets and an excellent addition to any backyard flock.
However, they can be a bit pushy when it comes to food, so it’s best to have multiple feeding stations if you have other, more docile breeds in your flock.
15. Rhode Island Red
| Origin: | United States |
| Height: | 24–27.6 in (61–70.1 cm) |
| Hen Weight: | 5.5–6.4 lbs (2.5–2.9 kg) |
| Rooster Weight: | 8.1–8.6 lbs (3.7–3.9 kg) |
| Egg Production (Annual): | 250–300 eggs |
| Egg Color: | Brown |
| Egg Size: | Large |
| Temperament: | Energetic, confident |
The Rhode Island Red is a breed that stands out for its vibrant personality and excellent egg-laying capabilities. They have a medium to large size and a well-rounded body shape.
Moreover, they feature a single comb, moderately long legs, and smooth, close-fitting feathers.
The breed’s plumage varies from deep mahogany to a rich, dark red color, which gives them a striking and vibrant appearance.
Rhode Island Reds are versatile and hardy birds that can adapt to various conditions. They are known for their resilience and are not prone to diseases, making them an excellent choice for beginners.
Moreover, this breed is not flighty or nervous and is rarely flustered or panicked. However, potential owners should note that Rhode Island Reds can be assertive and may not get along well with more timid breeds.
They are also known to be quite vocal, which might not be ideal if you have close neighbors who prefer a quiet environment.
16. Delaware Chicken
| Origin: | United States |
| Hen Weight: | 5.5–6.4 lbs (2.5–2.9 kg) |
| Rooster Weight: | 7.7–8.6 lbs (3.5–3.9 kg) |
| Egg Production (Annual): | 280–320 eggs |
| Egg Color: | Brown |
| Egg Size: | Large |
| Temperament: | Sociable, calm |
The sturdy, medium to large-sized Delaware chicken is a breed known for its hardiness and productivity. When viewed from the side, these chickens look like inverted triangles due to their deep and broad body.
Their white feathers have black spots around their neck, wings, and tail, giving them a unique appearance.
Delawares are also known for their curiosity and love of free-ranging. They are excellent foragers and will explore every corner of your yard if allowed.
Moreover, they are quite assertive, often holding a high position in the pecking order of a mixed flock. Nonetheless, they are generally calm and gentle, rarely getting startled or flighty.
This breed is low-maintenance and needs only the essentials to survive, such as food, water, and shelter. They are generally strong and healthy, with a few serious health issues.
Regular checks for lice, mites, and worms are recommended, just like with any other chicken breed.
17. Australorp
| Origin: | Australia |
| Height: | 22–27 in (55.8–68.5 cm) |
| Hen Weight: | 4.8–6.8 lbs (2.2–3.1 kg) |
| Rooster Weight: | 7–9 lbs (3.2–4.1 kg) |
| Egg Production (Annual): | 200–250 eggs |
| Egg Color: | Brown |
| Egg Size: | Large |
| Temperament: | Friendly, docile |
The Australorp is a large, fluffy chicken known for its striking iridescent black feathers. They are active birds that enjoy roaming around, foraging for insects, seeds, and grass.
This Australian national chicken breed is also known for their regal walk, which they inherited from their ancestor, the Orpington.
This breed is a favorite in my friend’s farm due to their calm and docile temperament, making them great and safe companions for his children, which includes a toddler.
Further, what I admired about my friend’s Australorps is that they are tolerant of a wide range of temperatures and environments, requiring no special treatments or housing.
Overall, Australorps are beautiful, friendly, and productive chickens that are well-suited for both beginners and experienced chicken keepers.
Whether you’re looking for hardy, productive birds or gentle pets, Australorps are worth considering.
18. Minorca
| Origin: | Spain |
| Hen Weight: | 4.8–6.8 lbs (2.7–3.6 kg) |
| Rooster Weight: | 7–9 lbs (3.2–3.7 kg) |
| Egg Production (Annual): | 170–220 eggs |
| Egg Color: | White |
| Egg Size: | Large |
| Temperament: | Flighty, noisy, active |
The Minorca is considered a large chicken breed with a slender appearance that shows its impressive muscle mass.
One of their most distinguishing features is their large, single combs, which stand upright and have multiple points.
Moreover, they have bright red faces, wattles, and long, slender legs, which are usually featherless or lightly feathered.
The Minorca chicken is known for laying large, white eggs, although its egg production has slowed as breeders have focused more on its appearance.
Furthermore, these chickens are hardy and do well in warm climates, though they require protection from frostbite in colder weather due to their large combs, wattles, and earlobes.
Minorcas are friendly and curious, making them a fun addition to any flock. They are comfortable around people, diligently foraging during the day, but also happy to interact with their keepers.
19. Araucana
| Origin: | Chile |
| Hen Weight: | 4.8–6 lbs (2.2–2.7 kg) |
| Rooster Weight: | 6–7 lbs (2.7–3.2 kg) |
| Egg Production (Annual): | 150–180 eggs |
| Egg Color: | Blue |
| Egg Size: | Medium to large |
| Temperament: | Docile, friendly |
Known for its large blue eggs and distinctive physical traits, the Araucana chicken is a South American treasure.
Their upright stance and lack of tail feathers give them a unique posture, while tufts of feathers protruding from their cheeks add character to their appearance.
When it comes to temperament, Araucanas can have varying personalities, depending on the individual. Some owners find them friendly and enjoy being handled, while others describe them as high-energy and nervous.
Moreover, they prefer raising their own chicks and are prone to being broody. Despite originating in warmer regions, Araucanas are surprisingly hardy in both cold and hot weather.
20. Leghorn Chicken
| Origin: | Italy |
| Height: | 18–25 in (45.7–63.5 cm) |
| Hen Weight: | 4.4–5.5 lbs (2–2.5 kg) |
| Rooster Weight: | 5.3–7.5 lbs (2.4–3.4 kg) |
| Egg Production (Annual): | 280–320 eggs |
| Egg Color: | White |
| Egg Size: | Large |
| Temperament: | Independent, active, alert |
The Leghorn chicken, a breed with Italian origins, is a medium to large-sized active bird with a stellar reputation for egg production.
Leghorns are easily recognized by their large, floppy combs and wattles, which serve as their cooling system. They come in various colors, including white, brown, black, and red, with the white variety being the most popular.
These chickens are independent and prefer to forage for their food, making them light eaters. They also have great flying abilities and can easily clear a 10-foot fence.
However, they are not pet chickens and can be quite nervous around strangers. Despite their flighty nature, they are not unfriendly and simply value their independence.
When it comes to egg production, Leghorn chickens are one of the best, laying up to 320 eggs per year.
If you’re an experienced chicken keeper looking for a breed that’s independent and efficient, Leghorn chickens could be an excellent choice.
21. White Faced Black Spanish
| Origin: | Spain |
| Height: | 20–25 in (50.8–63.5 cm) |
| Hen Weight: | 4.4–5.5 lbs (2–2.5 kg) |
| Rooster Weight: | 5.5–6.6 lbs (2.5–3 kg) |
| Egg Production (Annual): | 160–180 eggs |
| Egg Color: | White |
| Egg Size: | Large |
| Temperament: | Active, flighty, noisy |
One of the oldest and tallest Mediterranean chicken breeds is the White-Faced Black Spanish, sometimes referred to as Cara Blanca.
This breed is known for their unique appearance, with a full white face and big earlobes contrasting with their black plumage.
White-Faced Black Spanish chickens are not particularly friendly, displaying a wilder temperament than other breeds. They prefer to roam freely but can tolerate confinement if given enough space.
Despite their wild nature, they are not entirely aggressive chickens and can mix well into a flock.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that this breed requires more care than others due to their susceptibility to health issues.
They are not particularly hardy in extreme weather conditions, requiring close monitoring during intense heat and cold periods.
Despite these challenges, these chickens can have long, happy lives that frequently last longer than 8 years with the right care and attention.
22. Polish Chicken
| Origin: | Netherlands |
| Height: | 12–15 in (30.4–38.1 cm) |
| Hen Weight: | 4.4–5.5 lbs (2–2.5 kg) |
| Rooster Weight: | 4.4–6.6 lbs (2–3 kg) |
| Egg Production (Annual): | 150–200 eggs |
| Egg Color: | White |
| Egg Size: | Medium |
| Temperament: | Gentle, friendly, active |
The Polish chicken may not be as big as the other breeds on this list, but it is still a standout in any flock. With a head adorned with a wild array of feathers, they are often compared to a bird wearing a top hat.
Being the smallest breed on this list, Polish chickens are medium-sized and have an elegant, upright gait.
Originating from the Netherlands in the 15th century, Polish chickens were once considered one of the best egg layers. Even though they are mainly kept for exhibition purposes nowadays, hens can still lay 3 to 4 eggs every week.
Polish chickens are active birds and good foragers. They are also known to fly well, often seeking safety in trees when startled.
However, their head feathers can obscure their vision, making them easier prey for other animals. Therefore, they are safer when confined in a pen with plenty of things to keep them entertained.
We hope this article on the largest chicken breeds has been both helpful and informative. If you have any questions or would like to share your thoughts, please leave a comment below.
