Raising chickens can be both a rewarding lifestyle and a
profitable business—if you choose the right breeds. Whether you're focused on
selling eggs, meat, or both, selecting the right chickens can make a huge
difference in productivity and profit. Here are five of the most profitable
chicken breeds that perform well in both backyard and commercial settings.
1. Cornish Cross – Best for Meat Production
If your goal is to raise chickens for meat, the Cornish
Cross is the gold standard. These fast-growing broilers are ready for
processing in as little as 6 to 8 weeks and produce large, meaty breasts that
are ideal for market. While they’re not suited for free-ranging or cold
climates long-term, their rapid growth and feed conversion rate make them the
most efficient meat bird available.
Pros:
✔ Fast growth
✔ Excellent feed-to-meat ratio
✔ Preferred by commercial meat producers
2. Rhode Island Red – Dual-Purpose Superstar
The Rhode Island Red is one of the most versatile and
profitable breeds, offering both reliable egg-laying and decent meat
production. These hardy birds lay up to 250–300 large brown eggs per year and
have a calm temperament, making them ideal for small farms and backyard setups.
Pros:
✔ High egg production
✔ Cold-hardy and tough
✔ Great for both eggs and meat
3. Leghorn – Egg-Laying Champion
If you’re all about eggs, Leghorns are the way to go. These
active birds lay around 280–320 white eggs per year, making them one of the
top-performing layers. They do well in warmer climates and are great for
commercial egg farms due to their low feed consumption and high productivity.
Pros:
✔ Exceptional egg output
✔ Low maintenance
✔ Efficient feed use
4. Plymouth Rock – Friendly and Profitable
Plymouth Rocks (especially the Barred Rock variety) are a
favorite among homesteaders for their friendly nature and balanced production.
They lay about 200–250 brown eggs annually and also grow large enough to be
harvested for meat. They’re cold-hardy and do well in both confinement and
free-range settings.
Pros:
✔ Dual-purpose bird
✔ Docile and easy to handle
✔ Good egg layer and meat producer
5. ISA Brown – Commercial Egg Machine
The ISA Brown is a hybrid breed created for optimal egg
production. These hens can lay upwards of 300–350 eggs per year, making them a
top choice for small-scale egg businesses. They’re gentle, easy to manage, and
adapt well to various environments.
Pros:
✔ Outstanding egg production
✔ Low feed cost per egg
✔ Easy to care for
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right chicken breed depends on your specific
goals—whether you’re raising birds for eggs, meat, or both. With the right mix
of breeds like Cornish Cross for meat and ISA Browns or Rhode Island Reds for
eggs, you can create a productive and profitable poultry operation.