Best chicken breeds for egg-laying These chicken breeds are known for reliable laying and friendly temperaments: Golden Comet Up to 300 eggs/year, starts laying as early as 15 weeks Rhode Island Red Hardy and assertive, great for both eggs and meat White Leghorn Lays around 280 eggs/year, active and alert Buff Orpington Calm, inquisitive, and good with families Ideal for backyard setups in the US, UK, or Australiaespecially in mild to warm climates. Early layers like Comets and Leghorns are especially helpful for first-time keepers.