Best type of breed for first time chicken raiser

[mtrull]

I am in the process of building a coop. I am looking to start out with about 10-12 hens. I feel like i have been looking at breeds of chickens for ages. I was just wondering what breeds of chicken you all would recommend. I live in Mississippi so it gets really hot here in the summer. I want to have happy girls and would like them to be good with children. I want them for pets and layers. Ill try my hand a breeding once I have learned a little more. They will have a large run area and will be able to forage. Thanks in advance!

 

[animalwild]

Silver Laced Wyandottes I have them and absurdly love them and they would do good in the hot weather

 

[mtrull]

We have been looking at those. They are beautiful birds! Thank you for your comment.

 

[TillyPeeps]

Rhodebars, just as hardy and good layers as Rhode Island Red, but supper friendly to both chickens and humans.

EE, lay colorful eggs and hardy. Since they are hybrid, some can be friendly, some can be skittish.

 

[debi54]

I've got Barred Rocks and Rhode Island Reds.
They're great layers and very friendly (no roos).
We raised them feom chicks so they got handled a bit.
Good luck and enjoy!