Step into the world of colossal poultry, where size meets stunning color, with the Blue Giant Jersey Chicken. As of late 2025, this impressive breed continues to captivate backyard poultry enthusiasts and commercial breeders alike, not just for its sheer size—it’s one of the largest chicken breeds in the world—but for its rare, slate-blue plumage that sets it apart from its black and white counterparts. This comprehensive guide, based on the most current breeder and hatchery data, will reveal the seven most astonishing facts about these gentle giants.

A true dual-purpose breed, the Blue Jersey Giant offers a unique combination of substantial meat production and reliable egg-laying, all wrapped up in a calm, docile package. Whether you’re looking to diversify your flock or simply curious about the genetics behind their striking color, the following facts will give you an in-depth understanding of why the Blue Giant is a highly sought-after addition to any homestead.

The Blue Giant Jersey Chicken: A Comprehensive Profile

The Jersey Giant breed itself originated in New Jersey, USA, in the late 19th century, specifically to replace the turkey as a large table bird. The Blue variety, while newer than the original Black, has gained significant popularity for its aesthetic appeal and the same impressive production qualities. It is officially recognized by the American Poultry Association (APA).

• Breed Name: Blue Jersey Giant Chicken
• Origin: New Jersey, USA
• APA Recognition: Yes (recognized in black, white, and blue varieties)
• Purpose: Dual-Purpose (Meat and Eggs)
• Rooster Average Weight: 11 to 13 lbs (Up to 20 inches tall)
• Hen Average Weight: 8 to 10 lbs (Some sources suggest up to 13-15 lbs)
• Egg Production: Moderate, approximately 150–200 eggs annually
• Egg Size & Color: Extra-Large, Brown to Light Cream
• Temperament: Docile, Friendly, Calm, and Sweet-Natured
• Maturity Rate: Slow (takes about 6 months to reach full size)

7 Astonishing Facts That Make the Blue Giant Unique

While all Jersey Giants are impressive, the Blue variety carries a distinct set of characteristics that make it particularly desirable for small farms and backyard flocks. These facts highlight the unique blend of beauty, utility, and gentle nature this breed possesses.

1. They Are One of the Largest Chicken Breeds in the World

The "Giant" in their name is not an exaggeration. Blue Jersey Giants are truly massive, rivaling the Brahma chicken in size. A mature rooster can easily weigh up to 13 pounds, with some reaching 15 pounds, and stand up to 20 inches tall. This imposing size is a key reason they were originally bred as a substitute for the turkey. Their large frame makes them excellent for meat production, though they are slow to mature, taking about six months to reach their full, imposing size.

2. The Blue Color is Governed by an Incomplete Dominant Gene

The striking, even slate-blue plumage of the Blue Jersey Giant is not a pure color but a genetic marvel. The blue color results from an incomplete dominant gene that dilutes black pigment. This means that when you breed two Blue Jersey Giants together, the offspring will not all be blue. Instead, the hatch will typically result in three color variations:

• 50% Blue: The desired color, with one copy of the blue gene.
• 25% Black: The original color, with no copies of the blue gene.
• 25% Splash: A much paler, almost white bird with flecks of blue or black, resulting from two copies of the blue gene.

This intricate color genetics is what makes breeding for a consistent blue flock a fascinating challenge for dedicated breeders.

3. They Lay Extra-Large Brown Eggs Consistently

Despite their primary reputation as a meat bird (dual-purpose), the Blue Giant hen is a respectable layer. They produce a moderate volume of extra-large eggs, averaging between 150 and 200 eggs per year. This consistent production of large, brown eggs makes them a practical choice for a family flock. While they may not compete with high-production layers like Leghorns, their large egg size and year-round laying—even during colder months—provide a steady supply of quality eggs for the homestead.

4. They Possess an Exceptionally Docile Temperament

For a bird of their size, Blue Jersey Giants are surprisingly calm, docile, and sweet-natured. This gentle disposition is one of the breed's most celebrated characteristics, making them excellent pets and suitable for families with children. Furthermore, the roosters are often noted for having exceptionally good temperaments, which is a major advantage in a flock, as aggressive roosters can be a significant hazard. Their calm nature also makes them easy to handle and less prone to destructive behaviors in the coop.

5. They Are a Cold-Hardy Breed Built for Winter

Originating in the northeastern United States, the Jersey Giant is bred to withstand cold climates. Their substantial body mass and dense feathering provide excellent insulation, making them a hardy and reliable chicken for regions with harsh winters. They are clean-legged (no feathers on their legs), which helps them avoid issues with mud and ice accumulation common in feathered-leg breeds, further contributing to their cold hardiness and ease of care.

6. The "Splash" Variety is a Byproduct of Blue Breeding

As mentioned in the genetics section, the "Splash" Jersey Giant is intrinsically linked to the Blue variety. When a breeder works to produce Blue chickens, approximately 25% of the clutch will be Splash. Splash birds are visually unique, featuring a white or very light gray base with distinct, dark blue or black speckles. While not the primary goal for those seeking the solid blue color, the Splash Jersey Giant is a stunning and equally large bird that often becomes a favorite among owners for its unique, painterly appearance.

7. They Are Slow to Mature, Requiring Patience from Breeders

One of the trade-offs for their immense size is a slow maturation rate. Unlike many commercial broiler breeds that reach market weight in a few months, the Blue Jersey Giant takes its time, requiring about six months to fully mature. This slow growth contributes to a deep, rich meat flavor preferred by heritage breed enthusiasts. Breeders must be patient, as the full potential of their size and laying capacity is not realized until they are fully grown. This slower development cycle is a key factor in their conservation as a heritage breed.

Caring for Your Blue Giant Flock

Caring for these large birds is straightforward, thanks to their docile nature, but their size does necessitate a few special considerations. Their large bodies require more space than smaller breeds. Ensure your coop provides ample roosting space and that the nesting boxes are large enough to accommodate the hens comfortably, which helps prevent egg breakage.

• Coop Space: Allow a minimum of 4 square feet per bird inside the coop.
• Roosting: Keep roosts lower to the ground (12-18 inches) to prevent leg injuries when they jump down, as their heavy weight makes them prone to joint issues.
• Nesting Boxes: Use extra-large nesting boxes to accommodate the hens and their extra-large eggs.
• Diet: Due to their slow growth, a high-quality, protein-rich grower feed is essential during their first six months to support healthy bone and muscle development.

The Blue Giant Jersey Chicken is more than just a novelty; it is a magnificent, productive, and friendly bird. Its unique slate-blue color, coupled with its immense size and reliable dual-purpose utility, ensures its status as a premium heritage breed for years to come.