When I first got chickens, I did what most people do – I bought a bag of commercial layer feed from the farm store and didn’t think twice. It was easy, it smelled like chicken food should smell, and the hens seemed to eat it just fine. But after a while, I started noticing a few things.
For one, the yolks from my neighbor’s hens (who raised them on a more natural diet) were a much richer orange than mine. Their eggshells were stronger too. And then there was the cost—commercial feed prices seemed to climb every time I went back to the store.
That’s when I started asking: Is there a better way to feed chickens?
The answer: homemade chicken feed.
Mixing your own isn’t just about saving a few dollars—it’s about knowing what your flock is eating, boosting egg quality, and sometimes even improving the health of the chickens themselves. In this article, I’ll walk you through the basics of homemade chicken feed options: the nutrition they need, common ingredients, easy DIY recipes (including corn-free, soy-free, and organic), and some tips I wish I knew earlier.
Why Make Your Own Chicken Feed?
People turn to homemade feed for different reasons. For me, it was partly curiosity and partly cost. But after doing it for a while, I’ve seen a few benefits that might convince you too:
- Control over ingredients – You decide if you want to go GMO-free, skip soy, avoid corn, or keep everything organic.
- Better eggs – Many folks notice their yolks turn a deeper golden orange and shells become stronger. I can vouch for that one.
- Sustainability – Using locally grown grains or even sprouting your own fodder makes the whole process more eco-friendly.
- Flock health – A more varied, nutrient-rich diet can reduce illness and stress in chickens.
Is it a little more work than just scooping from a bag? Sure. But it can also save you money in the long run and give you peace of mind knowing exactly what your hens are eating.
What Nutrients Do Chickens Actually Need?
Before you start tossing grains together, let’s talk basics. Chickens aren’t picky eaters (if you’ve ever seen them chase down a grasshopper, you know what I mean), but they do have specific nutritional requirements.
Protein
- Laying hens need about 16% protein.
- Meat birds (broilers) need 18–23% protein depending on age.
Protein comes from legumes, seeds, and animal-based sources like fish meal. Without enough, hens lay fewer eggs and may look scruffy. With too much, you could see digestive issues or overly rapid growth.
Carbohydrates
Think of these as the “fuel” that keeps your flock scratching and pecking all day. Grains like corn, oats, and wheat are the usual go-to.
Fats
Healthy fats help chickens absorb vitamins and give them energy. Sunflower seeds are a favorite here.
Vitamins
Chickens need a whole alphabet of vitamins: A, D, E, K, plus B vitamins like riboflavin, niacin, and folic acid. These support everything from feather growth to egg quality.
Minerals
Strong bones and strong shells depend on minerals like calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, manganese, and zinc. A lack of calcium is the fastest way to get weak eggshells—or worse, shell-less eggs.
👉 If that sounds like a lot to juggle, don’t worry. With the right mix of ingredients, it comes together naturally.
Core Ingredients for Homemade Chicken Feed
When you look at most DIY feed recipes, you’ll see the same basic categories: grains, legumes, seeds, and mineral supplements. Here’s what each brings to the table (literally).
Grains (Energy and Some Protein)
- Corn – High in carbs, low in protein. Good energy source but not enough on its own.
- Wheat – A little higher in protein than corn and helps with digestion.
- Oats – More fiber; chickens digest them better when rolled, crushed, or sprouted.
- Barley – Nutritious but has phytic acid that blocks some minerals. Sprouting helps.
Legumes (Protein Boosters)
- Field peas – 22–24% protein, and a great alternative to soy.
- Soybeans – High in protein but must be roasted first.
Seeds & Extras
- Sunflower seeds (black oil preferred) – Protein, fats, and immune support. Great in moderation.
- Flax seeds – Raise omega-3 levels in eggs (but don’t overdo it).
- Kelp meal – A mineral powerhouse with trace elements chickens need.
- Fish meal – Excellent protein and omega-3 boost, especially for layers.
Calcium Sources
- Crushed oyster shell – The classic.
- Baked and crushed eggshells – Free and effective.
- Limestone – Another option, often found at feed stores.
Homemade Chicken Feed Recipes
Here’s where it gets fun. Below are some tried-and-true recipes you can mix up at home. Adjust amounts based on your flock size and what ingredients you have access to.
1. Basic Layer Feed Recipe
This one works for most backyard hens.
- 30% corn
- 30% wheat
- 20% field peas
- 10% oats
- 5% sunflower seeds
- 4% fish meal or roasted soybeans
- 1% kelp meal
- Free-choice oyster shell for calcium
This hits that sweet spot of 16–17% protein, perfect for egg layers.
2. Corn-Free, Soy-Free Recipe
A great choice if you’re avoiding GMOs or allergens.
- 35% wheat
- 25% oats
- 20% field peas
- 10% barley (sprouted if possible)
- 5% flax seed
- 5% sunflower seeds
- Mineral supplement or kelp meal
- Oyster shell on the side
3. Organic Chicken Feed (50 lb batch)
If organic is your priority, look for suppliers like Azure Standard or local co-ops.
- 20 lbs organic wheat
- 15 lbs organic corn
- 10 lbs organic peas
- 3 lbs organic oats
- 2 lbs organic sunflower seeds
- 1 lb kelp meal (optional)
4. Broiler (Meat Bird) Recipe
Meat birds grow fast and need higher protein.
- 40% corn
- 25% wheat
- 20% roasted soybeans or fish meal
- 10% oats
- 5% sunflower seeds
This gives 20–22% protein, fueling healthy weight gain.
Extra Boosts for Healthier Chickens
- Fermented feed – Mix grains with water and let them ferment for 2–3 days. It boosts probiotics, improves digestion, and stretches your feed further.
- Herbs – Garlic, oregano, and thyme can naturally support immune health.
- Sprouted fodder – Barley, wheat, or sunflower sprouts add fresh greens year-round.
- Kitchen scraps – Veggie peels, garden leftovers, and fruit scraps are flock favorites.
How Much Should You Feed Chickens?
A good rule of thumb:
- Adult laying hen: about 1/4 pound (roughly half a cup) per day.
- Meat birds: more, depending on growth stage (expect 6–10 pounds per bird before processing).
And let’s not forget water. Chickens can survive without food for a bit, but without water, they’ll get stressed or worse within a day. Clean, fresh water is just as important as feed.
Common Mistakes When Mixing Chicken Feed
Even with the best intentions, I’ve made a few of these mistakes myself:
- Not balancing protein – Too low and egg production suffers; too high and digestion can go haywire.
- Forgetting grit – Chickens need grit to grind grains in their gizzard.
- Overfeeding treats like sunflower seeds – They’ll happily overeat and get fat.
- Skipping calcium – Soft-shelled eggs are usually the first warning sign.
FAQs About Homemade Chicken Feed
Can I raise chickens on homemade feed only?
Yes, if it’s balanced. Just make sure to provide grit and a calcium source like oyster shell.
Is homemade chicken feed cheaper?
It can be, especially if you buy grains in bulk or grow some yourself. At first, it may feel pricier, but long term, it usually pays off.
Can baby chicks eat homemade feed?
Chicks need starter feed with 18–20% protein. You can make your own by grinding grains finer and adding extra protein sources like fish meal.
Do I need supplements?
Sometimes. Kelp meal or premixed poultry vitamins can cover small gaps in nutrition.
Final Thoughts on Homemade Chicken Feed Options
Making your own chicken feed isn’t just about cutting costs – it’s about creating a healthier, more natural diet for your flock. Over time, I’ve noticed stronger eggshells, brighter yolks, and hens that just look… happier.
Is it more effort than scooping from a store-bought bag? Sure. But once you get into the rhythm of mixing batches, it becomes second nature. Plus, there’s something satisfying about seeing your chickens thrive on a feed you made yourself.
So whether you want corn-free, soy-free, organic, or just a cheaper option, the recipes above give you a solid starting point. Experiment, tweak, and see what works best for your flock.
Your hens will thank you—with more eggs, better eggs, and maybe even a little extra clucking around your feet at feeding time.