The Brahma and Jersey Giant chicken breeds are known for laying the largest eggs, often weighing over 2 ounces each.
If you’re raising chickens for eggs, size matters. Large and jumbo eggs are prized for baking, cooking, and breakfast. Some chicken breeds consistently produce bigger eggs than others. This guide covers the best layers of large eggs and how to maximize egg size.
What Determines Egg Size?
Several factors influence how big a chicken’s eggs will be:
- Breed: Genetics play the biggest role in egg size potential
- Age: Hens lay smaller eggs when young, largest at 1-2 years old
- Diet: Protein-rich feed supports larger egg production
- Health: Stress and illness can reduce egg size
Best Brown Egg Layers
Rhode Island Reds
These iconic American birds lay 250-300 large to extra-large brown eggs annually. They’re hardy, productive, and adapt well to different climates. Rhode Island Reds are excellent for backyard flocks.
Black Copper Marans
Prized for their dark chocolate-colored eggs, Marans often lay jumbo-sized eggs. Some eggs are so large they won’t fit in standard cartons.
Barred Rocks
This dual-purpose breed lays about 200 large brown eggs yearly. They’re calm, cold-hardy, and great for families.
Best White Egg Layers
Leghorns
The top white egg layer, producing 280-320 large to extra-large eggs annually. Leghorns are small, efficient birds that dominate commercial egg production.
California Whites
A Leghorn hybrid that may surpass its parent in productivity. These calm birds lay 300+ large white eggs yearly.
Hybrid Egg Machines
Golden Comets
This Red Sex Link hybrid lays 250-300 extra-large brown eggs in their first year. They’re friendly and productive but have shorter productive lives.
ISA Browns
Another hybrid workhorse, laying 300+ large brown eggs annually. Their eggs often require jumbo cartons.
Other Notable Large Egg Layers
- Jersey Giants: True to their name, lay jumbo eggs (but fewer of them)
- Black Minorcas: Reportedly lay eggs “as big as your fist”
- Delawares: Heritage breed laying 200+ large brown eggs
- Buff Orpingtons: Friendly birds producing 200 large eggs yearly
Egg Size Classifications
| Size | Weight per Dozen | Weight per Egg |
|---|---|---|
| Peewee | 15 oz | 1.25 oz |
| Small | 18 oz | 1.5 oz |
| Medium | 21 oz | 1.75 oz |
| Large | 24 oz | 2 oz |
| Extra Large | 27 oz | 2.25 oz |
| Jumbo | 30 oz | 2.5 oz |
Maximizing Egg Size
To get the largest eggs from your flock:
- Choose breeds known for large egg production
- Provide 16-18% protein layer feed
- Ensure constant access to clean water
- Supplement with calcium (oyster shell)
- Minimize stress with proper coop management
- Allow 14 hours of light daily during laying season
According to Cackle Hatchery, hybrid layers typically produce larger eggs than pure breeds, though they don’t breed true. The Backyard Chickens community reports Black Copper Marans and Black Minorcas as consistently laying jumbo-sized eggs.
When to Expect Largest Eggs
Hens reach peak egg size at about 1-2 years old. Egg size increases gradually from their first small eggs at 5-6 months old. After 3 years, egg size may decrease slightly while production declines.