12 Beautiful Golden Chicken Breeds

Golden chicken breeds represent some of the most sought-after types of chickens in farms and backyard coops the world over. These birds not only possess stunning golden plumage, but they are also some of the best egg layers you can find.

People love these golden chicken breeds for more than just their pretty feathers. They bring both beauty and function to the coop. Golden breeds can have very relaxed personalities, and they’re friendly to people, which is why they’re the go-to choice for hobbyists. They’re beautiful to look at, and they’re pretty useful, too.

These breeds also represent a connection to heritage and tradition. Whether it’s the Golden Laced Wyandotte’s hardiness or the Golden Sebright’s elegant demeanor, each breed brings unique qualities that contribute to the overall resilience and diversity of the flock.

Many of these breeds hail from different corners of the world. For example, the Golden Brahmas chicken originated in Asia and is named after the Brahmaputra River in India. The Golden Phoenix first hailed from Europe in the late 19th century. Each breed brings with them a rich history and cultural significance.

Learn more about some of the most beautiful golden chicken breeds in the world today.

1. Buff Orpington

The Buff Orpington chicken brings a warm and gentle vibe to the flock. They have a fluffy, golden plumage and a laid-back personality, making them a joy to have around. Plus, they’re reliable egg layers, contributing both to the beauty and utility of your backyard setup.

2. Rhode Island Red

Similar to their name, Rhode Island Reds exhibit a rich, deep golden-red color. Friendly and reliable, these birds are the workhorses of the backyard, consistently laying eggs and adding a touch of beauty to the flock with their reddish-gold plumage.

3. Golden Laced Wyandotte

With their striking black and gold feathering, Golden Laced Wyandottes are the showstoppers of the chicken world. Beyond their eye-catching appearance, they’re known for their hardiness, making them a solid choice for a variety of climates.

4. Golden Comet

The Golden Comet is a fan favorite when it comes to egg production. Sporting a stunning golden hue, these birds are the top choice for many agricultural business owners. They are extremely reliable for laying eggs, making them the practical choice for those seeking a no-nonsense, high-performing addition to their flock.

5. Golden Campine

Originating from Europe, the Golden Campine is a royal favorite. This chicken adds a touch of elegance to the flock despite their small size. The Golden Campine is an active forager, combining beauty with practicality.

6. Golden Brahmas

Typically much larger than the other breeds, the Golden Brahmas exhibit a touch of gold in their feathers. They’re known for their calm and gentle nature, making them an excellent choice for a backyard coop.

7. Sussex

In its golden variation, the Sussex is a chicken that everyone loves — birds and humans alike. These birds showcase a charming golden plumage and bring a sociable and easygoing nature to the coop. Sussex chickens can make any backyard flock a balanced community.

8. Golden Sebright

Golden Sebright chickens are the pint-sized dazzlers of the flock. These birds might be small, but their golden feathers make them stand out. Known for their confident and bold personalities, Golden Sebrights exhibit a certain charisma that makes them stand out in any flock.

9. Golden Penciled Hamburg

These birds bring a touch of distinctiveness to your flock with their captivating black and golden penciling. Originating from Europe, these birds are more than just visually striking. They’re great egg layers, too.

10. Golden Polish

Originating from the Netherlands, Golden Polish chickens are another distinctive and eye-catching breed. They are known for their unique crests and elegant appearance, and the crests are a unique feature. You’ll know them by the tuft of feathers on their heads, contributing to their unmistakable look.

11. Buff Brahmas

Buff Brahmas are substantial and gentle chickens that have earned a special place in backyard flocks. Like the Golden Brahmas, they also originate from Asia. They’re recognized for their large size, fluffy golden plumage, and feathered feet.

12. Golden Phoenix

This beautiful bird originally came from Germany, and they’re known for their long, flowing golden-red feathers. In addition to their striking appearance, Golden Phoenix chickens are known for their excellent flying abilities.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Lourens Botha/ via Getty Images