10 Essential Steps to a Backyard Mini Farm with Chickens

Step 3: Choose the Right Chicken Breeds for Beginners

This step is where things get really fun — and where I almost went completely overboard.

I remember standing in my local feed store surrounded by fluffy little chicks thinking, “I’ll just take one of each.” My husband’s face said otherwise. Lesson learned!

The Best Egg-Laying Breeds for Backyard Flocks

If fresh eggs are your main goal — and let’s be honest, it probably is — these three breeds are absolute rockstars:

Rhode Island Reds are practically bulletproof for beginners. They’re hardy, friendly, and can lay up to 280 brown eggs per year.

Buff Orpingtons are the golden retrievers of the chicken world — gentle, calm, and great with kids. Expect around 200 eggs annually.

Australorps hold the world record for egg laying — one hen once laid 364 eggs in 365 days. Yeah. They’re serious.

Kid-Friendly Breeds Worth Considering

If you’ve got little ones running around the backyard, temperament matters just as much as egg production.

Silkies and Cochins are famously docile and patient — perfect for curious little hands.

These breeds turn chicken keeping into a genuine family experience, which honestly makes the whole journey so much richer.

Cold-Hardy Breeds for Harsh Climates

Living in Minneapolis, Detroit, or Chicago? Winter hardiness is non-negotiable.

Look for breeds with small rose combs or pea combs — they’re far less susceptible to frostbite than large single-comb varieties.

Top cold-hardy picks include Wyandottes, Dominiques, and the already-mentioned Buff Orpingtons. These girls keep laying even when temperatures drop dramatically.

How Many Chickens Should You Start With?

I always recommend 3 to 4 hens for absolute beginners.

Chickens are social creatures — a lone hen is an unhappy hen. But too many birds too soon can feel overwhelming fast.

Three hens will typically produce 15 to 20 eggs per week — plenty for most families!

Where to Buy Your First Chicks

• 🐣 Local feed stores (Tractor Supply, local co-ops) — great for spring availability
• 🌐 Online hatcheries like Meyer Hatchery or Murray McMurray — ship directly to your door
• 📍 Local Facebook farming groups — often the best deals on started pullets

Once your breeds are chosen, it’s time to build their home!

Hit next to dive into Step 4, where we’re designing and building a chicken coop that’s equal parts functional and absolutely adorable. 🏡🐔