When I first started raising chickens for meat, I quickly realized that picking the right breed makes all the difference. Some chickens are fantastic egg-layers, but others are specifically bred for their fast growth and tender, delicious meat. Since I wanted to ensure that the birds I raised would provide plenty of food for my family, I had to carefully choose breeds that are known for meat production.
Whether you’re a homesteader like me or just someone who wants to raise their own food, having the right breeds is key. Here are ten of the best chicken breeds I’ve found that are perfect for putting on the dinner table.
1. Cornish Cross
The Cornish Cross is the gold standard for meat production. Known for their rapid growth, these chickens can reach a market-ready weight in just six to eight weeks. They have broad breasts, tender meat, and are what you’ll commonly find in grocery stores. If you’re looking for fast results, this is your go-to breed.
2. Jersey Giant
As the largest purebred chicken, the Jersey Giant lives up to its name. These birds grow slowly compared to Cornish Cross but can reach weights of up to 13 pounds for males. Their meat is flavorful and hearty, making them a popular choice for those who prefer a traditional breed with a substantial size.
3. Freedom Ranger
Freedom Rangers are a favorite among backyard farmers because they balance quick growth with high-quality meat. They take a bit longer to mature than Cornish Cross—around 9 to 11 weeks—but their meat has a rich flavor, and they are well-suited for free-range environments.
4. Bresse
Often called the “best-tasting chicken in the world,” the Bresse breed hails from France and is prized for its gourmet-quality meat. These birds are known for their marbled, tender flesh and distinctive blue legs. Although they take longer to mature and can be harder to find, the flavor is worth the extra effort.
5. Orpington
While Orpingtons are better known for being excellent dual-purpose birds, they also produce good-quality meat. These chickens are slower to mature but can reach a solid size, with males weighing up to 10 pounds. Their meat is succulent, and their gentle temperament makes them easy to raise.
6. Delaware
Delaware chickens were once a primary breed used for broiler production before the rise of Cornish Cross. They grow relatively fast and provide flavorful meat. Delawares are also good layers, making them a great option if you want both eggs and meat from the same flock.
7. Red Ranger
The Red Ranger is similar to the Freedom Ranger but slightly smaller and more suited for free-range conditions. They mature in about 12 weeks and produce leaner, healthier meat. Because they are good foragers, they can be more cost-effective to raise, especially if you have plenty of space for them to roam.
8. New Hampshire Red
New Hampshire Reds are another dual-purpose breed that produces tasty meat. These chickens grow faster than other heritage breeds and are known for their robustness. Their meat has a mild flavor, and the breed’s hardiness makes them well-suited for various climates.
9. Sussex
The Sussex is a hardy, dual-purpose breed that offers flavorful meat and a decent egg supply. These chickens can weigh up to 9 pounds and have tender, juicy flesh. They are good foragers, so they thrive in free-range systems, making them a great choice for sustainable farming.
10. Dorking
The Dorking is an ancient breed that’s well-loved for its superior meat quality. These birds have tender, flavorful flesh that stands out from other breeds, though they take longer to mature. Their distinct five-toed feet and gentle nature make them an interesting addition to any flock.
