If you're looking to turn your egg basket into a rainbow, you're in luck. While all fresh eggs are a joy, there's something extra magical about collecting shades of blue, green, chocolate, and even pink from your backyard flock. Whether you're an experienced chicken keeper or just getting started, these colorful layers will brighten up your coop and your breakfast plate.
Here are the top 5 chicken breeds that lay rainbow-colored eggs—and why they deserve a spot in your flock.
1. Easter Egger – The Wild Card
Easter Eggers are not a recognized breed, but rather a hybrid that lays an exciting surprise: eggs that can be blue, green, olive, or even pinkish. Each hen will typically stick to one color, but you won't know which until she starts laying. They’re friendly, hardy, and lay consistently—making them a favorite among backyard chicken keepers.
Egg color: Blue, green, olive, or pink
Personality: Friendly and curious
Eggs per year: ~250
2. Ameraucana – The True Blue Beauty
Often confused with Easter Eggers, true Ameraucanas lay consistently sky blue eggs and are recognized by the American Poultry Association. They come in a variety of colors and have fluffy "muffs" and beards that give them a quirky look.
Egg color: Light blue
Personality: Calm and reserved
Eggs per year: ~200
3. Olive Egger – The Earthy Layer
As the name suggests, Olive Eggers lay beautiful olive green eggs thanks to a cross between a dark brown layer (like a Marans) and a blue egg layer (like an Ameraucana). The result? A show-stopping green egg that adds depth to your rainbow egg dozen.
Egg color: Olive green (sometimes speckled!)
Personality: Varies by cross, usually mellow
Eggs per year: ~180–200
4. Marans – The Chocolate Layer
Marans (especially the Black Copper Marans) are famous for their rich, chocolate-brown eggs. Their eggs are so dark they almost look burgundy—making them a luxurious addition to your egg basket. Bonus: Their feathers are just as stunning.
Egg color: Deep chocolate brown
Personality: Gentle and elegant
Eggs per year: ~150–200
5. Isbar (or Silverudd's Blue) – The Speckled Green Dream
Pronounced “Ice-bar,” this Swedish breed lays green eggs that often come with speckles. The color is striking and they’re consistent layers. Isbars are rare in the U.S. but worth tracking down if you want something unique.
Egg color: Green (often speckled)
Personality: Active and friendly
Eggs per year: ~200–230
Final Thoughts
Adding color to your egg basket isn't just beautiful—it also makes for great Instagram posts, adorable farmers market cartons, and endless joy for kids and guests. Whether you’re after blues, greens, chocolates, or something in between, mixing these breeds will bring that rainbow to life—no dye required.
Have a favorite colorful layer we missed? Let us know in the comments below—and don’t forget to subscribe for more backyard chicken tips!