The Delaware is an American breed of chicken recognized for its distinctive plumage pattern, originating in Delaware during the mid-twentieth century. It was selected out of a common broiler hybrid cross between a Barred Rock rooster and a New Hampshire hen by George Ellis. It was named to reflect its place of origin. Delawares would reach their slaughter weight (about 5 to 7 lbs dressed) in about 3 to 4 months which, at the time, was considered remarkable. As such, this breed was once the standard for commercial meat production in the United States, but has since has fallen out of favor since the introduction of modern meat hybrids.

While they once numbered in the millions, in recent years, the Delaware is considered an endangered breed. In 2010, it was listed as 'critical' with fewer than 5,000 birds in existence, but later in 2024, their status was upgraded to 'recovering'.

Delaware chickens have a medium size with an average weight of around 8 lbs (3.5 kg) for cock birds and 6 lbs (2.8 kg) for hens. Their unique barred Columbian plumage features black-barred primaries, secondaries, hackles, and tail feathers, while their single, five-pointed comb and wattles are bright red. Other physical characteristics include a reddish horn-colored beak, reddish bay eyes, and yellow shanks and feet.

The Delaware offers valuable qualities in poultry farming including hardiness, quick maturation, good egg-laying abilities, and suitability for free-range operations. In terms of temperament, they are calm but not typically friendly birds. They typically lay between 200 to 280 extra-large to jumbo sized light-brown eggs every year.

In comparison with modern fast-growing commercial meat birds, Delawares grow slower, but are able to free range and forage for their own food, and will produce more tender, flavorful meat. Some homesteaders opt for alternative heritage breeds like the Delaware Enhanced Heritage Broiler or Freedom Rangers when a faster growth rate is required.

Overall, the Delaware is an adaptable breed with dual-purpose potential in both egg production and meat industry while maintaining its unique appearance and characteristics appreciated by poultry enthusiasts.