All About the Delaware Chicken Breed

Delaware Chicken breed roaming in the grass — *Picture credit: Morning Chores*

The Delaware chicken breed is one of the most versatile and loved breeds for backyard chicken keepers. Known for their meat quality, reliable egg production and friendly personalities, Delawares are a dual-purpose breed that offers the best of both worlds. Surprisingly, I don't have one yet, but they’re high on my list!

History of the Delaware Chicken

The Delaware chicken originated in the United States during the 1940s, thanks to the breeding efforts of George Ellis in Delaware, Ohio. By crossing Barred Plymouth Rocks with New Hampshire Reds, Ellis aimed to create a fast-growing broiler with excellent meat quality and attractive white plumage with black barring.

Delawares quickly rose in popularity as a dual-purpose chicken breed, ideal for both meat and egg production.

Physical Characteristics of Delaware Chickens

Delaware chickens in the grass — *Picture credit: Backyard Chickens*

Delaware chickens are truly stunning birds. They have:

Bright white feathers with black barring on the neck, tail and wing tips
Medium to large size (roosters weigh 8–9 pounds, hens weigh 6–7 pounds)
Single combs and striking yellow legs with occasional dark markings

Delawares are hardy and thrive in both cold and warm climates, making them adaptable for a variety of backyard environments.

Delaware Chicken Temperament and Behavior

If you're looking for a friendly, easygoing breed, Delaware chickens are an excellent choice! They are:

Calm, docile and friendly with people
Easy to integrate with other breeds
Great for families and beginners
Excellent foragers. This can help with pest control in gardens. Of course, all chickens like to scratch and eat garden produce, so you’ll have to watch them close!

Just keep in mind that, like all chickens, they love to scratch and sample your garden produce, so supervision is key!

Egg Production and Broodiness

Delaware hens are solid layers, producing around 200 large, light brown eggs per year. They can also go broody occasionally, making them a good option if you want a natural hatching experience in your flock.

Delaware chicken eggs. Light brown — *Picture credit: Backyard Chickens*

Meat Production: Why Delawares Are a Top Choice

The breed is highly prized for its meat. Delawares grow quickly and yield tender, delicious meat, making them a popular choice for homegrown poultry meat production. Their efficient growth rate and body structure make them a practical addition to any homestead.

Caring for Delaware Chickens

Providing proper care for raising Delaware chickens is straightforward:

Coop Space: 4 square feet per bird inside the coop
Outdoor Space: 8–10 square feet per bird in the run
Biosecurity: This breed is pretty hardy and resistant to many common poultry diseases. However, clean water, good ventilation and regular coop cleaning are still vital for health and disease prevention.

Want to make coop care even easier? Check out all of the natural Strong Animal Chicken Essentials products that promote a healthier flock!

So Should You Add Delaware Chickens to Your Flock?

If you’re looking for a beautiful, hardy and dual-purpose breed, the Delaware chicken is absolutely worth considering. They bring reliable egg production, delicious meat, and a wonderful temperament to any backyard or homestead.

Honestly? I wish I already had a few pecking around my yard. Maybe next spring!

Until next time,

– The Wing Lady