I like Buff Orpingtons because I have two and they're the friendliest chickens in my flock of five, they're the first ones to jump onto your knee and ask for treats
Silver Phoenix hands down over all the different breeds we have. The hens are inquisitive,friendly,handled easily,lay good, and the best setting hens we have. One has a batch of new chicks and its in the 30s here. The roos are awesome is all I can say. Second choice would be the Spitzhaubens.