Delaware chickens were developed in Delaware, USA, and were originally known as Indian Rivers. Although initially successful, this is a breed that is now considered to be rare. They are usually white in color with some black barring on the tail feathers and a single comb.

It is a dual purpose breed that is quick to mature. The hens lay around 280 brown eggs per year, and lay through the colder winter months. Delaware chickens tend to make good brooders and are reliable at sitting on their eggs. They have a calm temperament and are easy to handle, yet they do tend to be slightly noisier that other breeds.

They are hardy birds that enjoy foraging in a free range environment but they are adaptable to smaller enclosures. Although tolerant of colder conditions, care should be taken to avoid the comb getting frostbite. The mature males weigh around 3.6 kg and the females 2.7 kg.