If you’ve ever found yourself standing in the kitchen holding a leftover crust or half a cantaloupe wondering, “Can the girls eat this?” — you’re not alone.
Backyard chicken keeping isn’t just about fresh eggs—it’s about the connection, the rhythm of daily care, and the joy of tossing a treat or two for your ladies.
Let’s break down what your chickens can eat, what to be cautious with, and why moderation and variety matter.
Bread: Yes, in Moderation
Chickens can eat bread, but think of it more like dessert than dinner.
- Safe Types: Whole grain, stale (but not moldy), plain toast.
- Avoid: Moldy bread or sugary pastries.
Tip: Tear it into small pieces and serve as a treat, not a staple. Bread is low in nutrients and can fill them up without giving them much fuel.
Cantaloupe: Absolutely!
Chickens go wild for cantaloupe. The juicy flesh and even the seeds are a hit.
- Bonus: Rich in vitamins A and C, which support immune health.
Bell Peppers: Yes, but Skip the Plant
The colorful flesh of bell peppers is safe and even nutritious.
- Can Eat: Red, yellow, green bell pepper flesh.
- Avoid: The stems, leaves, and seeds of the plant (part of the nightshade family, which can be toxic).
Bell peppers add a vitamin C punch—and the girls love the crunch!
Oranges: Yes, but Not All Flocks Love It
Chickens can eat oranges, but they don’t always want to.
- Safe in small amounts: Citrus is acidic and can sometimes interfere with calcium absorption if overfed.
Jalapeños: Surprisingly, Yes!
Chickens can handle spicy foods. In fact, they don’t have the receptors for capsaicin (the compound that makes things “hot” to us).
- Safe: Flesh, seeds, and even the heat.
- Good for: Circulation and potential parasite prevention.
Other Chicken-Friendly Treats
| Food | Safe? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cooked rice/pasta | Yes | Plain only, no butter or sauce |
| Leafy greens | Yes | Kale, lettuce, spinach—all good |
| Apples (no seeds) | Yes | Core and slice—seeds contain cyanide |
| Watermelon | Yes | A summer favorite—rind included |
| Pumpkin | Yes | Seeds are a natural dewormer |
| Tomatoes (ripe) | Yes | No stems or leaves (nightshade family) |
| Grapes | Yes | Cut in halves for safety |
What to Avoid
Not everything in the kitchen is fair game. Here's what to keep out of the coop:
- Avocado (especially the pit and skin)
- Raw potato peels or green potatoes
- Chocolate or anything sugary
- Moldy or spoiled food
- Uncooked beans (contain lectins)
Feed First, Treats Second
While treats are fun (and we’re big fans), they should only make up about 10% of your chickens’ diet. A high-quality layer feed should always come first.
Feeding your flock is part science, part joy. Watching your hens peck through a fruit salad of kitchen scraps is one of those simple pleasures that makes backyard chicken keeping so rewarding.
Just remember—when in doubt, leave it out. And when you’re sure, toss it in and enjoy the show.
Looking for more tips on what to feed (and what to avoid)? Follow us at The Poultry Supply Co. for real-life chicken keeping advice, feeder hacks, and simple gear that makes flock care easier.
