Only able to get 5 Chickens - help me pick breeds!

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Hello and welcome!
I am one who has had a bit bad experiences with Orpingtons. I first got two Cuckoos, both of which were a little standoffish, and one died at a year old from water belly.
I then had a pair of Buffs, and they were very shy, and didn't really seem to know how to 'chicken', always on their own, not really taking part in anything.
None of them were good layers.

I absolutely love Sussex, in all colours, but partially the Coronations and Lights.
Very hardy, great layers, (my oldest is laying an egg most days though her third winter)
and have a lot of personality, while still being very easy to handle.
 
I have an all Orpington flock and I personally love them! The roosters are very nice and ask of them are very patient to let kids chase them around and grab them. Some of the hens don't like being touched, though. They'll let me be near them, but I better not think of touching them. On the other hand, I have a few hens who're happy to just sit next to me while I read or whatever. It really does just depend on the bird, but it sounds like the Sussex ad Orpingtons are the way to go based on everyone's feedback. also I've heard that RIR's are great layers, but not very nice.
 
:welcome Glad to have you! As many had mentioned, true ameraucanas can be sourced from breeders, the birds advertised as americanas are just EEs. I would suggest Orpingtons as well. Australorps are a good one. I would say keep the BR and EE on your list. Wyandottes and Salmon Faverolles are a good choice. BCMs are another good option, usually friendly, and lay really beautifull dark brown eggs. Good luck!
 
Welcome! Before reading your list I was going to suggest Barred Rock and Easter Egger so looks like you’ve done your research. Our EEs are only 6ish weeks old so no help on how they’ll be as adults but our Barred Rock (hen) is the sweetest of our adults. Our accidental roo was not so he had to go. Best of luck and make sure you post pics once you do get some
 
If you want true Ameraucanas and are going through a hatchery take a look at Cackle.

Also I recommend them and weirdly Spitzhauben as best friends with me chickens. If I'm out side they are with me. If I sit down they come sut with me. If I bend over Anne Queen of Butts is sitting on my butt. She's an Ameraucana.

Just to let you know I spent the first week and a half I had them with them for 50 to 75 percent of the day. Treats, the wet their crumble kind, given from my hand. When I went back to work I spent 2hrs after work with them. I pull up in the car now and they come running. I speak out the back door and they come running, even if the small yard gate is closed.
 
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