Good Breeds for Beginner Chicken Owners

[GoldenCuckoo]

I am not exactly a beginner chicken owner, I have had chickens for two years, but I was wondering what would be good, functional breeds?
I have Red Sex Links, Silkies, Cochins, Ameracaunas, Wellsummers, Golden Laced Wyandotte, and Cornish Rocks.
I've also recently hatched Golden Cuckoo Maran crosses.
All my roosters are going to the butcher and that is about 3/4 of my flock.

So, what are some good chicken breeds that are hardy in any weather, lay really well (color doesn't matter), and are overall a good chicken?
Thanks!

 

[Framac]

Where do you live?

 

[GoldenCuckoo]

I live in Hegins, Pennsylvania.

 

[Framac]

Well, depending on your setup, and how cold it gets where you are, choosing birds with small combs will reduce the chance of frost bite. Pea Comb Birds like Ameracaunas, EE, ETC which are good layers. I love Jersey giants, which for me have been great layers. Wynadottes are also nice birds.

 

[3riverschick]

Hi,
Ligonier, PA here. They are predicting the frigid winters for the
next several years. So pick a rose comb breed. Much less
chance of frostbitten combs. Rose Comb Rhode Island Reds
are wonderful birds. Some top breeders in PA. Get Heritage Stock,
not hatchery birds. Many RIR threads on BYC. Look for the ones
labeled "Heritage" . A bunch of folk are also popularizing the
Buckeye again. I believe it is also a rose comb breed? Buy from
a breeder, not a factory. Both breeds have national Clubs
with great breeder referrals. Excellent breeders of these breeds
on the BYC Heritage Large Fowl Thread-Phase II.
https://www.backyardchickens.com/t/849075/heritage-large-fowl-phase-ii/5110#post_13108606
Come on over and jump right in! Looking forward to seeing you there.

Best,
Karen