The Real Basics of Raising Backyard Chickens

At this point, chickens don’t feel like a wild idea anymore.

They feel… possible.

You’ve pictured fresh eggs.
You’ve pictured kids outside instead of on screens.
You’ve even caught yourself checking the backyard and thinking, “Okay, this could work.”

So let’s slow it down and talk about what you actually need to get started with backyard chickens—without the overwhelm, the myths, or the Pinterest pressure.

Because chickens are simpler than most people think… and more real.

Chickens vs. Coop vs. Run

What’s Required—and What’s Optional

First things first: chickens don’t just need stuff. They need safe basics.

Here’s how it breaks down.

Chickens

This part is obvious—but how many?

Most beginners do best starting with 3–6 chickens. Chickens are social animals, so one or two isn’t enough—but a big flock isn’t necessary either. The most common backyard breeds lay about 4–6 eggs per week, which works out to less than one egg per hen per day. With a small flock, that usually means a few fresh eggs spread across the week—not an overflowing counter or pressure to keep up. This size gives you enough eggs to feel rewarding, some flexibility if a hen takes a break from laying, and simpler care while you’re still learning. Starting small keeps chicken keeping enjoyable instead of overwhelming, and you can always grow later if it feels right.

The Coop (Required)

The coop is your chickens’ home base.

It’s where they sleep at night, lay eggs, and stay safe from weather and predators.

A good coop doesn’t have to be fancy—but it does need solid walls, proper ventilation, and a dry, protected space.

The biggest mistake beginners make is buying a coop that looks cute but isn’t built to last. We’ll talk more about that next.

The Run (Optional, But Helpful)

A run is a fenced outdoor area attached to the coop that gives chickens a safe place to be outside.

Some families choose to free-range, letting their chickens roam the yard during the day. Free-ranging can be wonderful. Chickens get more space, show natural behaviors, and help with bugs and garden cleanup. For people on larger properties or in very low-risk areas, this can work well.

But free-ranging also comes with tradeoffs. Chickens may wander into gardens, scratch up landscaping, or lay eggs in places you don’t expect. More importantly, free-ranging increases exposure to predators, even during the day. Many owners are surprised by how quickly hawks, dogs, or wildlife become a concern.

A run adds structure and safety. It gives chickens fresh air and room to move while keeping them contained and protected. For families in neighborhoods or with busy schedules, a run often reduces stress while still allowing chickens to live active, healthy lives.

There’s no single right answer. Some families free-range part-time. Others rely on a run full-time. Many do a mix of both.

Think of a run as a safety net. You may not use it every day, but when you need it, you’ll be glad it’s there.

Space Basics

Let’s Bust the Yard Size Myth

Here’s a big one.

You do not need acres of land to raise chickens.

Chickens don’t need a huge yard. They need smart space.

A simple guideline:

• Inside the coop: about 3–4 square feet per chicken

• Outside space: more is better, but structure matters more than size

We’ve seen happy, healthy flocks in small suburban yards, side yards, and even compact urban setups.

The key isn’t how big your yard is.
It’s how safe, dry, and well-planned the setup is.

Daily vs. Weekly Care

What Chicken Care Really Looks Like

This is where most people get nervous.

So let’s be honest.

Many families are surprised by how grounding this routine becomes. Chickens give the day a steady rhythm—something simple, consistent, and quietly rewarding.

The Honest Truth Most Guides Skip

Chickens don’t demand perfection—they need shelter, food, water, and protection. What they really care about is that someone shows up, and when you do, they give back more than eggs.

What’s Next?

Now that you know what’s actually required, there’s one big piece left that makes or breaks the whole experience.

Next: Let’s talk about coops—because not all are created equal.

Some save money in the short term and cost you later.
Some last one season. Others last decades.

And choosing the right one changes everything.

Need help picking the perfect coop? 

Check out the Gone Broody Design Center to go over sizes and features.

Contact Us anytime at (800) 407-2478 or contact@gonebroody.com.

Next Blog: Choosing a Chicken Coop Size: The Mistake Almost Everyone Makes