Many people choose their chickens according to their ability to lay eggs, while others select them based on their appearance! Black, yellow, red, and white chickens are among the colors you can find. An eye-catching feature of a pure white chicken is its stunning plumage.
Whatever your requirements, there is a chicken out there to meet your needs, whether it is a docile white breed, a good egglayer, or a chicken which lays a certain colored egg. To assist you in your quest for the perfect backyard chicken, we share our top 15 white chicken breeds.
When you hear the word "white chicken", you think of the White Leghorn. All of their plumage is white, and their combs and wattles are large, floppy, and bright red. Compared to other breeds, they hold their tails quite high, which allows their purely white feathers to show off.
They are well known not only for their classic appearance but for their egg-laying abilities as well. In a typical week, they lay at least four large white eggs.
Chickens like these are great for those on a low budget because they are always looking for their next meal in the grass, which reduces the amount you have to spend on food.
You shouldn't expect a lap chicken, however, since they can be flighty and nervous around humans. Here is more information about Leghorn Chickens.
What if Wyandotte, White Leghorn, and Cochin were combined? There is such a breed, and it is known as the Rhode Island White.
They resemble Rhode Island Reds, but have one key difference: they are white. Rhode Island Whites are a separate breed from Rhode Island Reds, which are well-known.
In contrast to the White Leghorn, this breed has a rose-shaped comb instead of a single comb. A wonderful addition to virtually any flock, they are also incredibly friendly.
Since 2015, their population has declined due to a lack of popularity similar to their red counterpart. You'll be raising white chickens and maintaining their population with this breed.
There is no mistaking a Silkie once you have seen one! White is the breed's most popular color variety, with its silky, fur-like plumage.
Its walnut-shaped, deep red comb is covered by a crested pom-pom, which gives the breed its distinctive appearance. Even more than their black eyes, you might notice their unusual light blue earlobes standing out even more than their all-white plumage.
Their skin, muscles, and bones are all black, regardless of the color of their plumage. The breed is not only beautiful and unique but also makes a wonderful family pet. This breed is prone to be bullied by other breeds due to its laid-back personality.
Unlike any other white chicken breed, this one is unique!
Rare and unique-looking, the Araucana chicken is a rare species. Their white variety is the most beautiful, but they are available in several colors.
You can find either purely white ones or ones that have darker speckles. In any case, their white plumage is what makes them unique and makes them stand out.
Identifying Araucanas is easy thanks to their ear tufts. The lack of a tail is another distinctive feature of these animals. Despite some people thinking their lack of a tail is a disadvantage and limits their balance, they seem to be able to cope quite well without one.
The majority of Araucana strains are quite friendly and well suited to children, although some strains can be nervous and flighty.
If you are interested in raising an Araucana, click here for more information.
Originally from Turkey, Sultan chickens are known for their incredibly distinctive appearance. Their white feathers and blue shanks and toes are their most distinctive features.
The Sultan can be compared to the combination of Araucanas and Silkies. A crest, beard, and muffs are also present along with the V-shaped comb. Colder climates do not suit Sultans despite their extensive feathering. Their docility and friendliness make them suitable for most backyards.
They are, however, extremely rare and are expensive.
A Bresse Gauloise is actually recognized in four colors, including the Bresse de Bény. The white variety is shown here. The White Bresse variety is very common in the UK, so if you're in the region and looking for one, then this is the variety for you.
It is a beautiful white chicken with blue and gray legs. You shouldn't expect a completely white chicken if that is your main concern, as they do have some yellowish tints in their plumage.
Bresses are rare outside of France, thus making them one of the most expensive in the world. Expect to pay around $30 per chicken if you plan on buying this rare breed.
The whitetails and saddle feathers of Yokohama roosters are unbelievably long and beautiful. They can grow their tails up to three feet per year. Compared to chickens, hens have fewer dramatic features.
The Yokohama has brown plumage with white speckles, unlike most breeds on this list. It is almost always white on their necks, tails, and wingtips, sometimes covering their brown plumage entirely.
Their quiet and gentle disposition ensures they do not cause much trouble, despite being mainly bred for show purposes and ornamental purposes. In most climates, they enjoy free ranging and are active.
A Yokohama chicken may be the perfect white chicken for you if you want a unique and dramatic chicken.
A Hamburg is known for its stunning plumage and comes in 6 different colors. Their white or silver spangled plumage is possibly the most impressive.
Against their blue legs and white tails and blue legs, their bright red wattles contrast very well with their white earlobes & rose combs. When first stumbled upon, Hamburgs were named Pheasant Fowls because of their stunning long & full tails.
Despite being bred mainly for their looks, most modern breeds make excellent layers as well. It is a rare breed that lays a lot of eggs into its older years. It's true that they keep on giving!
Keep in mind that your hardy Hamburg will hardly go broody, and if you enclose them, they will suffer. There is also a possibility that they can become aggressive towards other chickens.
Unlike Silkies, Frizzles have curly feathers rather than flat ones. Technically, they are a variation of existing breeds and not a unique breed. Frizzles such as Cochin, Silkie, and Barred Rock can be found, for example.
On the other hand, Cochins and Silkies have a wider selection of colors (including white) than Barred Rock Frizzles. It is evident from their plumage that they are quite different from each other.
This breed is known for its beautiful feathers and unique appearance, but it is also well-liked for its friendliness and ease of handling. You should be gentle when handling them because their feathers are delicate and can break very easily.
Sussex chickens are among the oldest breeds of chickens. The most popular color is speckled, but there are eight colors available. The red five-pointed comb of each hen contrasts beautifully with its white feathers and off-white shanks.
Most of their day will be spent foraging, so they don't require much care. Their roosters are somewhat docile, as well, making them a friendly breed. As a result, they are ideal for anyone looking for white chickens.
White Rock Chickens are also classic white chicken breeds. There is often confusion between them and the Rhode Island White or White Leghorn.
Upon birth, White Rocks have yellow combs which gradually turn red as they age. Keep track of the color of your hens' combs to predict when they will start laying eggs. Your White Rock will start laying once its comb turns red.
Because of their dense undercoat, their white feathers are fluffy. As a result, they are particularly cold-hardy.
In many cases, White Rocks become attached to their keepers as a result of their care. Getting them used to being handled at a young age will make them even friendlier.
As a result of their breeding for colder northern climates, White Wyandottes have thick feathering and rose combs. They blend into their snowy environment with their thick white feathers.
While this breed is large, it can be a bit reserved and prefers to be with others of its kind. For those seeking a flock of all-white birds, they are ideal. Keeping them healthy and engaged requires allowing them free range to be active. A Wyandotte's favorite pastime is scratching dirt.
The White Wyandotte breed is not usually known for being broody, so you can expect good laying throughout the year.
American Poultry Association only approves three colors of Jersey Giants. Pure white is stunning regardless of the fact that black was the first variety approved. Willow-colored shanks are typical of White Jersey Giants.
Their size also prevents them from being picked on. It's a drama-free chicken breed. Due to their size, hens often break eggs before hatching or step on chicks by accident.
Incubators are used by Jersey Giant breeders because of this reason.
There is no better chicken for suburban backyards than the California White Chicken. They are a cross between a Leghorn and a California Grey. However, if you receive them as chicks, do not be deceived. Initially, this breed looks yellow with black flecks, but when they reach 20 weeks, they will develop beautiful white plumage.
This breed is incredibly reliable and grows quickly. It is remarkable how well these medium-sized chickens handle confinement. As a result, they are suitable for suburban dwellers who use runs.
White Ameraucana chickens lay blue eggs, which makes them unique. The American Poultry Association recognizes white as one of several colors for Ameraucanas. Additionally, their skin will be white. They are known for their independence, but they are also extremely friendly and curious. They are a good choice for families.
And it gets better from there.
Throughout the year, they will provide you with beautiful blue eggs.
Here is more information about the White Ameraucana.
Best wishes on your quest to find your white chicken. Comment below and share with us which chicken breed you prefer for your backyard.
Whatever your requirements, there is a chicken out there to meet your needs, whether it is a docile white breed, a good egglayer, or a chicken which lays a certain colored egg. To assist you in your quest for the perfect backyard chicken, we share our top 15 white chicken breeds.
1. White Leghorn
When you hear the word "white chicken", you think of the White Leghorn. All of their plumage is white, and their combs and wattles are large, floppy, and bright red. Compared to other breeds, they hold their tails quite high, which allows their purely white feathers to show off.
They are well known not only for their classic appearance but for their egg-laying abilities as well. In a typical week, they lay at least four large white eggs.
Chickens like these are great for those on a low budget because they are always looking for their next meal in the grass, which reduces the amount you have to spend on food.
You shouldn't expect a lap chicken, however, since they can be flighty and nervous around humans. Here is more information about Leghorn Chickens.
- Weight: Hens (5lbs) Roosters (8lbs)
- Color: White
- Egg Production: about 4 or eggs more per week
- Egg Color: White
2. Rhode Island White
What if Wyandotte, White Leghorn, and Cochin were combined? There is such a breed, and it is known as the Rhode Island White.
They resemble Rhode Island Reds, but have one key difference: they are white. Rhode Island Whites are a separate breed from Rhode Island Reds, which are well-known.
In contrast to the White Leghorn, this breed has a rose-shaped comb instead of a single comb. A wonderful addition to virtually any flock, they are also incredibly friendly.
Since 2015, their population has declined due to a lack of popularity similar to their red counterpart. You'll be raising white chickens and maintaining their population with this breed.
- Weight: Hens (6.5lbs) Roosters (8.5lbs)
- Color: White
- Egg Production: about 4 or eggs more per week
- Egg Color: Brown
3. White Silkie
There is no mistaking a Silkie once you have seen one! White is the breed's most popular color variety, with its silky, fur-like plumage.
Its walnut-shaped, deep red comb is covered by a crested pom-pom, which gives the breed its distinctive appearance. Even more than their black eyes, you might notice their unusual light blue earlobes standing out even more than their all-white plumage.
Their skin, muscles, and bones are all black, regardless of the color of their plumage. The breed is not only beautiful and unique but also makes a wonderful family pet. This breed is prone to be bullied by other breeds due to its laid-back personality.
Unlike any other white chicken breed, this one is unique!
- Weight: Hens (1.5-2lbs) Roosters (2-3lbs)
- Color: White
- Egg Production: about 2-3 eggs per week
- Egg Color: Cream to tinted
4. Araucana
Rare and unique-looking, the Araucana chicken is a rare species. Their white variety is the most beautiful, but they are available in several colors.
You can find either purely white ones or ones that have darker speckles. In any case, their white plumage is what makes them unique and makes them stand out.
Identifying Araucanas is easy thanks to their ear tufts. The lack of a tail is another distinctive feature of these animals. Despite some people thinking their lack of a tail is a disadvantage and limits their balance, they seem to be able to cope quite well without one.
The majority of Araucana strains are quite friendly and well suited to children, although some strains can be nervous and flighty.
If you are interested in raising an Araucana, click here for more information.
- Weight: Hens (5.5lbs) Roosters (6.5lbs)
- Color: White to off-white
- Egg Production: about 3 or more eggs per week
- Egg Color: Blue
5. Sultan
Originally from Turkey, Sultan chickens are known for their incredibly distinctive appearance. Their white feathers and blue shanks and toes are their most distinctive features.
The Sultan can be compared to the combination of Araucanas and Silkies. A crest, beard, and muffs are also present along with the V-shaped comb. Colder climates do not suit Sultans despite their extensive feathering. Their docility and friendliness make them suitable for most backyards.
They are, however, extremely rare and are expensive.
- Weight: Hens (4lbs) Roosters (6lbs)
- Color: White with blue
- Egg Production: about 2-3 eggs per week
- Egg Color: White
6. Bresse
A Bresse Gauloise is actually recognized in four colors, including the Bresse de Bény. The white variety is shown here. The White Bresse variety is very common in the UK, so if you're in the region and looking for one, then this is the variety for you.
It is a beautiful white chicken with blue and gray legs. You shouldn't expect a completely white chicken if that is your main concern, as they do have some yellowish tints in their plumage.
Bresses are rare outside of France, thus making them one of the most expensive in the world. Expect to pay around $30 per chicken if you plan on buying this rare breed.
- Weight: Hens (4.5-5.5lbs) Roosters (5.5-6.5lbs)
- Color: White with yellow tints
- Egg Production: about 4 or more eggs per week
- Egg Color: Cream
7. Yokohama
The whitetails and saddle feathers of Yokohama roosters are unbelievably long and beautiful. They can grow their tails up to three feet per year. Compared to chickens, hens have fewer dramatic features.
The Yokohama has brown plumage with white speckles, unlike most breeds on this list. It is almost always white on their necks, tails, and wingtips, sometimes covering their brown plumage entirely.
Their quiet and gentle disposition ensures they do not cause much trouble, despite being mainly bred for show purposes and ornamental purposes. In most climates, they enjoy free ranging and are active.
A Yokohama chicken may be the perfect white chicken for you if you want a unique and dramatic chicken.
- Weight: Hens (3-4lbs) Roosters (4.5-5.5lbs)
- Color: White and Brown
- Egg Production: about 1-2 eggs per week
- Egg Color: Tinted or Cream
8. Hamburg
A Hamburg is known for its stunning plumage and comes in 6 different colors. Their white or silver spangled plumage is possibly the most impressive.
Against their blue legs and white tails and blue legs, their bright red wattles contrast very well with their white earlobes & rose combs. When first stumbled upon, Hamburgs were named Pheasant Fowls because of their stunning long & full tails.
Despite being bred mainly for their looks, most modern breeds make excellent layers as well. It is a rare breed that lays a lot of eggs into its older years. It's true that they keep on giving!
Keep in mind that your hardy Hamburg will hardly go broody, and if you enclose them, they will suffer. There is also a possibility that they can become aggressive towards other chickens.
- Weight: Hens (4lbs) Roosters (5lbs)
- Color: White/Speckled Silver
- Egg Production: about 4 eggs per week
- Egg Color: White
9. White Frizzle
Unlike Silkies, Frizzles have curly feathers rather than flat ones. Technically, they are a variation of existing breeds and not a unique breed. Frizzles such as Cochin, Silkie, and Barred Rock can be found, for example.
On the other hand, Cochins and Silkies have a wider selection of colors (including white) than Barred Rock Frizzles. It is evident from their plumage that they are quite different from each other.
This breed is known for its beautiful feathers and unique appearance, but it is also well-liked for its friendliness and ease of handling. You should be gentle when handling them because their feathers are delicate and can break very easily.
- Weight: Hens (5-6lbs) Roosters (7-8lbs)
- Color: White
- Egg Production: about 2-4 eggs per week
- Egg Color: Cream or Brown
10. White Sussex
Sussex chickens are among the oldest breeds of chickens. The most popular color is speckled, but there are eight colors available. The red five-pointed comb of each hen contrasts beautifully with its white feathers and off-white shanks.
Most of their day will be spent foraging, so they don't require much care. Their roosters are somewhat docile, as well, making them a friendly breed. As a result, they are ideal for anyone looking for white chickens.
- Weight: Hens (7lbs) Roosters (9lbs)
- Color: White
- Egg Production: about 4 or more eggs per week
- Egg Color: Brown
11. White Rock
White Rock Chickens are also classic white chicken breeds. There is often confusion between them and the Rhode Island White or White Leghorn.
Upon birth, White Rocks have yellow combs which gradually turn red as they age. Keep track of the color of your hens' combs to predict when they will start laying eggs. Your White Rock will start laying once its comb turns red.
Because of their dense undercoat, their white feathers are fluffy. As a result, they are particularly cold-hardy.
In many cases, White Rocks become attached to their keepers as a result of their care. Getting them used to being handled at a young age will make them even friendlier.
- Weight: Hens (6.5lbs) Roosters (7.5lbs)
- Color: White
- Egg Production: about 5 eggs per week
- Egg Color: Brown
12. White Wyandotte
As a result of their breeding for colder northern climates, White Wyandottes have thick feathering and rose combs. They blend into their snowy environment with their thick white feathers.
While this breed is large, it can be a bit reserved and prefers to be with others of its kind. For those seeking a flock of all-white birds, they are ideal. Keeping them healthy and engaged requires allowing them free range to be active. A Wyandotte's favorite pastime is scratching dirt.
The White Wyandotte breed is not usually known for being broody, so you can expect good laying throughout the year.
- Weight: Hens (6-7lbs) Roosters (8-9lbs)
- Color: White
- Egg Production: about 3-4 eggs per week
- Egg Color: Cream and Brown
13. White Jersey Giant
American Poultry Association only approves three colors of Jersey Giants. Pure white is stunning regardless of the fact that black was the first variety approved. Willow-colored shanks are typical of White Jersey Giants.
Their size also prevents them from being picked on. It's a drama-free chicken breed. Due to their size, hens often break eggs before hatching or step on chicks by accident.
Incubators are used by Jersey Giant breeders because of this reason.
- Weight: Hens (11lbs) Roosters (15lbs)
- Color: White
- Egg Production: about 2-4 eggs per week
- Egg Color: Light Brown
14. California White
There is no better chicken for suburban backyards than the California White Chicken. They are a cross between a Leghorn and a California Grey. However, if you receive them as chicks, do not be deceived. Initially, this breed looks yellow with black flecks, but when they reach 20 weeks, they will develop beautiful white plumage.
This breed is incredibly reliable and grows quickly. It is remarkable how well these medium-sized chickens handle confinement. As a result, they are suitable for suburban dwellers who use runs.
- Weight: Hens (5.5lbs) Roosters (7lbs)
- Color: White
- Egg Production: about 5-6 eggs per week
- Egg Color: White
15. White Ameraucana Chicken
White Ameraucana chickens lay blue eggs, which makes them unique. The American Poultry Association recognizes white as one of several colors for Ameraucanas. Additionally, their skin will be white. They are known for their independence, but they are also extremely friendly and curious. They are a good choice for families.
And it gets better from there.
Throughout the year, they will provide you with beautiful blue eggs.
Here is more information about the White Ameraucana.
- Weight: Hens (5.5lbs) Roosters (6.5lbs)
- Color: White
- Egg Production: about 3-4 eggs per week
- Egg Color: Blue
Conclusion
Adding or starting a backyard flock of new breeds of chicken can be a daunting task. You have hopefully found your next white-feathered chicken after going through our list. You will both have a happier outcome with your chicken if you are knowledgeable about the breed you choose and take proper care of it.Best wishes on your quest to find your white chicken. Comment below and share with us which chicken breed you prefer for your backyard.
