Homemade Chicken Feed (4 DIY Recipes!)

Making your own chicken feed gives you more control over what your hens eat.

You can use fresh, natural ingredients, avoid fillers, and often save money compared to store-bought feed. It also lets you adjust the mix to match what your chickens need.

This article shares 4 easy feed recipes for laying hens that are 16 weeks or older. Each one is balanced for protein and fat, using common grains and simple add-ins.

Some recipes use mealworms or fish meal for protein, while others stick to plants like peas and lentils.

You’ll also learn how to change a recipe if your hens need more fat, where to find ingredients without spending too much, and what to watch out for.

These mixes are easy to follow and safe to use, even if you’re new to raising chickens.

Chicken Feed Basics

To keep your chickens healthy and laying well, their feed needs to have the right balance of nutrients. The main things they need from feed are protein, fat, energy (from grains), vitamins, minerals, and calcium.

Most laying hens do best with 16–18% protein in their diet. Protein helps with egg production, feather growth, and body strength.

Fat is also important — not just for energy, but for absorbing certain vitamins. Hens usually need at least 4% fat, especially during cold weather or heavy laying periods.

If the feed doesn’t meet these needs, you may see fewer eggs, thin shells, weight loss, or poor feather condition.

Feed should also be clean, dry, and fresh. Moldy or old feed can make chickens sick. It's also important to offer clean water at all times, since chickens won’t eat much if they’re thirsty.

Key Ingredients Used in Homemade Chicken Feed

Here are the common ingredients used in the recipes shared in this article. Most of these can be found at feed stores, bulk food sections, or online in large quantities.

Grains and Seeds (Carbohydrates and Energy)

• Wheat – A steady source of energy and some protein.
• Oats – Helps with digestion and adds fiber.
• Barley – Adds variety, but should stay under 20% of the total feed.
• Millet – Small seed that adds energy and can improve feed texture.
• Corn – A high-energy grain; some prefer non-GMO cracked corn.

Protein Sources

• Mealworms – Dried worms with high protein. Chickens love them.
• Fish Meal – Rich in protein but may be hard to find or contain unwanted additives.
• Split Peas & Lentils – Plant-based proteins that are affordable and easy to store.
• Soybean Meal – Common in bulk feed, but some prefer to avoid soy.

Supplements

• Kelp – Adds trace minerals and supports yolk color.
• Garlic Powder – May support the immune system.
• Diatomaceous Earth (Food Grade) – Believed to help reduce pests in feed.
• Oyster Shell or Aragonite – Needed for calcium, especially in layers.
• Nutri-Balancer – A premixed vitamin and mineral powder often used in balanced feeds.

Optional Add-Ins

• Red Pepper Flakes – Can deepen yolk color.
• Black Oil Sunflower Seeds – Add fat, protein, and useful nutrients.

Natural Protein Sources for DIY Chicken Feed

Protein is the most important part of chicken feed for laying hens. Here are some natural sources you can use and what you should know about each:

Mealworms

• High in protein.
• Easy to add in dry form.
• Chickens often eat them first.
• More expensive, but a clean option for non-GMO diets.

Fish Meal

• Also high in protein and widely used in commercial feed.
• May contain heavy metals or be hard to find.
• Can have a strong smell, which some people try to avoid.

Split Peas and Lentils

• Affordable and easy to buy in bulk.
• Can be used dry, soaked, or sprouted to improve digestibility.
• Some hens may avoid them if they are too large or too dry.

Soybean Meal

• Very high in protein.
• Easy to find in feed stores.
• Some chicken keepers avoid soy due to allergies or concerns about GMOs.

If your feed is low in protein, your hens might stop laying, or their eggs could get smaller. These protein sources can be mixed in different amounts depending on your hens’ needs, the season, and your budget.

Homemade Chicken Feed Recipe 1: Whole Grain Blend with Mealworms

This recipe is made with whole grains and dried mealworms. It’s a good choice if you want to avoid fish meal but still reach the right protein level for laying hens.

It’s simple to mix and uses ingredients that are easy to store and measure.

Goal

• Protein: 16%
• Fat: 3.77%

This makes it a balanced feed for hens that are 16 weeks or older. The fat level is slightly below what laying hens need, so adding fatty treats like black oil sunflower seeds or suet is helpful.

Ingredients (Makes 23 Pounds)

• 5.5 pounds whole wheat berries
• 5.5 pounds whole oats
• 5.5 pounds cracked corn (use non-GMO if preferred)
• 2.75 pounds dry split green peas
• 2.75 pounds dry brown lentils
• 1 pound dried mealworms

Directions

1. Weigh each ingredient using a kitchen scale.
2. Combine everything in a large bin or container.
3. Mix well using a scoop or your hands.
4. Store the mix in a sealed container in a cool, dry place.

Important Notes

• Mealworms are needed to reach the 16% protein level. If you skip them, the mix becomes low-protein and should only be used as a treat (called “scratch”).
  
• The fat content is a little low. You can raise it by mixing in sunflower seeds or offering high-fat snacks.
  
• Dry lentils are safe, but dry beans are not — never use uncooked beans.
  
• Hens may eat the mealworms first, but they usually go back and eat the rest of the feed later.
  
• If feed spills on the ground, it may sprout. Sprouted grains are even more nutritious.
  
• Always offer flaked oyster shell on the side, especially if hens are laying thin-shelled eggs.
  
• Optional: Add a small amount of red pepper flakes or vitamin/mineral powder if you’re concerned about nutrient gaps.

This mix is easy to make, can be stored in bulk, and gives your hens a well-rounded diet without using fish meal.

Homemade Chicken Feed Recipe 2: Simple Percent-Based Mix with Fish Meal

This recipe is based on percentages, not fixed weights, which makes it easy to scale for any size flock. It includes fish meal for protein and a vitamin/mineral mix called Nutri–Balancer.

It's a flexible option for chicken keepers who want a straightforward, balanced feed and don't mind using fish-based protein.

Estimated Protein Level

• Around 14.3% based on ingredient values.

This is suitable for layers, but it may fall slightly below the ideal 16–18% range. You can raise the protein by adding more fish meal or sunflower seeds.

Ingredient Breakdown (by Percentage)

• 29% Corn
• 29% Wheat
• 20% Peas
• 10% Oats
• 10% Fish Meal
• 2% Poultry Nutri–Balancer (vitamin/mineral supplement)
• Free-choice Kelp (offered separately)
• Free-choice Aragonite (offered separately for calcium)

Directions

1. Measure out each ingredient by percentage of total weight or volume.
2. Mix the corn, wheat, peas, oats, fish meal, and Nutri–Balancer thoroughly.
3. Store the mix in a dry, sealed bin.
4. Offer kelp and aragonite separately in small feeders or bowls, so hens can eat what they need.

Important Notes

• If you want to keep the mix organic or non-GMO, make sure you source each ingredient with that in mind.
  
• Fish meal is an effective protein source, but some batches may contain mercury or additives. Choose a trusted source.
  
• Nutri–Balancer adds key vitamins and minerals. Skipping it could leave the mix lacking in important nutrients.
  
• Aragonite is a type of calcium. Crushed oyster shell or cleaned eggshells can also be used.
  
• Some people debate the high corn content, while others find it works well for energy.
  
• You can ferment this mix with water for improved digestion and nutrient absorption.
  
• Dry peas can be hard for some chickens to eat. Try soaking, sprouting, or lightly cooking them if needed.

This recipe is ideal if you want a balanced feed without measuring everything in pounds or cups. It works well for most backyard flocks and can be adjusted based on your hens’ needs.

Homemade Chicken Feed Recipe 3: High-Pea, Non-GMO Layer Feed

This recipe is built around plant-based ingredients and is designed to be non-GMO, fish-free, and worm-free.

It uses a high amount of split peas to reach the needed protein level and includes natural add-ins like kelp and garlic powder.

It's a good option for those who want to avoid animal-based protein sources.

Goal

• Protein: 17.5%
• Fat: 2.1% (add high-fat treats as needed)

This mix is strong in protein, but slightly low in fat. Fat can be boosted by offering black oil sunflower seeds or suet on the side.

Ingredients (Makes Just Over 28 Pounds)

• 19 cups split peas
• 14 cups hard red wheat
• 12 cups barley
• 10 cups millet
• 8 cups oats
• ½ cup kelp
• ½ cup garlic powder
• ½ cup food-grade diatomaceous earth

Directions

1. Measure out each ingredient by volume (cups).
2. Mix all ingredients in a large container or bin.
3. Store the mix in a sealed container in a cool, dry spot.
4. Feed about ¼ pound (½ cup) per hen per day.

Important Notes

• Split peas are the main protein source. Some chickens might avoid them, so you can grind them smaller or soak/sprout them for better acceptance.
  
• Barley should make up no more than 20% of a chicken’s diet. This recipe is close to that limit by volume, so don’t increase the amount.
  
• The low fat content means hens may need fat-rich treats daily, like sunflower seeds or suet blocks.
  
• Kelp adds minerals and omega-3s that help yolk color.
  
• Garlic powder may help support immune health.
  
• Diatomaceous earth is used to help keep pests out of the feed and is believed by some to support gut health.
  
• Like the others, this mix can be fermented to make it easier to digest.

This recipe is ideal if you want a natural, plant-based feed that’s non-GMO and still meets the protein needs of laying hens.

Homemade Chicken Feed Recipe 4: Commercial-Style Bulk Formula

This recipe is similar to what many feed mills use. It’s made with processed ingredients like soybean meal and a commercial premix for vitamins and minerals.

The main goal here is simplicity and the ability to make large batches for bigger flocks.

It’s not focused on whole grains or natural-only inputs, but it offers reliable nutrition and is easy to put together using local feed store supplies.

Goal

• Balanced nutrition using common feed ingredients
• Easy to scale and mix in bulk

Ingredients (Per Ton)

• 1176 lbs corn (58.8%)
• 532 lbs soybean meal (26.6%)
• 51 lbs vegetable oil (2.6%)
• 191 lbs calcium carbonate (9.6%)
• 50 lbs CSA Chicken 50 Premix (50633) (2.5%)

Note: You don’t have to make a full ton. The percentages can be scaled down based on your needs.

Directions

1. Weigh each ingredient based on the total batch size you want to make.
2. Mix all ingredients thoroughly in a large bin or feed mixer.
3. Store in sealed bins and use within 6 months of the ingredient manufacture date.

Important Notes

• This mix uses soybean meal, a high-protein ingredient used in many commercial feeds. Some people avoid soy for dietary or GMO reasons.
  
• Corn provides energy but doesn’t offer much protein. The high amount here helps with energy needs, especially in colder months.
  
• Vegetable oil increases the fat content and improves the mix’s energy value.
  
• Calcium carbonate supports eggshell strength. It can also be replaced with crushed oyster shell or ground limestone.
  
• The CSA premix adds essential vitamins and minerals. Using a premix simplifies the process but depends on store-bought supplements.
  
• Substituting ingredients like corn or soy will change the feed’s nutrient profile and should be done with care.
  
• This mix doesn’t include whole grains or extras like herbs or kelp.

This formula works well for those who want a straightforward feed that’s easy to scale and doesn’t require special handling. It’s also useful for those with access to a local mill or bulk ingredient supplier.

How to Adjust Recipes Based on Your Flock’s Needs

Homemade feed recipes are a great starting point, but flocks often need small changes depending on their age, health, and the season.

By learning how to spot what your chickens need, you can adjust your mix without overhauling everything.

Adjusting Protein

Protein affects egg production, feather quality, and energy levels. If hens stop laying, begin molting, or look run down, they may need more protein.

Adding mealworms, fish meal, sunflower seeds, or soybean meal can help. On the other hand, if your flock is mostly older birds or pets that don’t lay often, slightly reducing protein might be fine.

Balancing Fat

Fat helps chickens absorb nutrients and stay warm in cold weather. Most hens need at least 4% fat in their diet.

If your mix falls short, you can add fat by mixing in black oil sunflower seeds, cracked corn, or a small amount of vegetable oil. This is especially useful during winter when hens burn more calories.

Feeding by Age

Chickens need different nutrients at different stages. Chicks need higher protein with a fine texture, while pullets require balanced feed without added calcium.

Mature hens need a full layer feed with added calcium and enough protein to keep up with egg production.

If you’re feeding a mixed-age flock, keep an eye on each group’s needs and feed them separately if possible.

Seasonal Changes

In cold months, chickens need more fat and energy.

In hot weather, focus on keeping feed fresh and dry, and make sure hens drink plenty of water. Molting hens need a protein boost, even if they aren’t laying eggs at the time.

Watching for Signs

Pay attention to eggs and behavior. Thin shells mean the hens need more calcium. Pale yolks can signal a need for more nutrients like kelp or fresh greens.

If hens are picking out only certain grains, try grinding the mix smaller or fermenting it to make it easier to eat.

Tips for Sourcing Ingredients Locally and Affordably

Buying ingredients for homemade feed doesn’t have to be expensive. With the right sources and a bit of planning, you can find quality grains, legumes, and supplements at a fair price.

Here’s how to make it work without breaking the budget.

Check Local Feed Stores and Mills

Start with local feed stores. Many carry bulk grains like corn, wheat, oats, and soybean meal.

Some feed mills may offer custom mixing services or sell ingredients by the pound or in 50-pound bags. Ask if they carry non-GMO or organic options if that’s important to you.

Buy in Bulk

Buying larger quantities usually brings the cost down. If you have space to store it properly, buying 25- or 50-pound bags of peas, corn, or wheat can save money over time.

Be sure to store grains in sealed bins in a dry, cool place to prevent mold or pest problems.

Visit Bulk Food Stores

Stores like WinCo and other bulk food markets often carry lentils, peas, oats, and barley in large bins.

These are usually priced lower than pre-packaged items and can be weighed out in the amount you need. This is especially useful for small flocks or when trying a new recipe.

Order Online When Needed

Some ingredients like dried mealworms, kelp, or diatomaceous earth might not be available locally.

Online sellers, including farm supply stores and bulk food sites, usually have these in stock. Look for free shipping options or buy in larger amounts to reduce per-pound costs.

Share with Other Chicken Keepers

If you don’t have space to store bulk amounts or want to try several ingredients without buying full bags, team up with a neighbor or local chicken-keeping group.

Splitting bags of grain or mealworms can cut costs and reduce waste.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Homemade Feed

Homemade feed gives you control, but it also requires care. If the mix is off, your chickens might not get the nutrition they need.

Here are some common mistakes that can lead to health or egg-laying problems — and how to avoid them.

Skipping Key Nutrients

It’s easy to focus on grains and forget about vitamins, minerals, fat, and calcium.

Leaving out important parts like protein supplements, kelp, or oyster shell can lead to thin shells, weak birds, or poor egg production. Every recipe needs to be balanced, not just filling.

Using Unsafe Ingredients

Not all dry legumes are safe. While split peas and lentils are fine, raw dry beans are toxic to chickens unless fully cooked. Also, avoid any grains or seeds that show signs of mold, moisture, or insects.

Not Enough Fat

Some mixes come in below the minimum 4% fat needed for layers. If this isn’t corrected, hens may lay less often or lose weight. A simple fix is to add sunflower seeds, suet, or a small amount of vegetable oil.

Letting Ingredients Spoil

Grains and seeds can go stale, moldy, or attract pests if not stored well. Always keep feed in a sealed container in a cool, dry place. If you’re buying in bulk, check dates and use older stock first.

Feeding Too Much of One Grain

Grains like barley, corn, and oats each bring something to the table, but too much of one can throw off the balance.

For example, too much barley can lead to poor digestion, and too much corn may reduce protein levels. Stick to well-tested ratios and avoid making changes without checking the effects.

Start with the recipe that best fits your flock, then tweak it as you go based on their needs and how they respond.

Making your own chicken feed gives you full control over what your hens eat.

It can help you avoid unwanted ingredients, save money, and adjust the mix based on your flock’s age, health, and the time of year.

The four recipes shared in this article offer different approaches — from whole grain blends with mealworms to bulk-style mixes using fish meal or soybean meal.

Each recipe has its strengths. Some focus on being fully natural and non-GMO, while others aim for ease and flexibility.

No matter which one you choose, the key is to keep it balanced.

Make sure your hens are getting enough protein, fat, and minerals, and adjust as needed based on how they’re laying, growing, or molting.

With a little planning and observation, homemade feed can be a reliable and rewarding part of keeping healthy, productive chickens.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make chicken feed without soy, corn, or fish meal?

Yes. You can use peas, lentils, and mealworms as protein sources, and swap in grains like barley, wheat, or oats instead of corn. Just make sure the final mix still meets the hens' protein and fat needs.

2. How long can I store homemade chicken feed?

Feed made with whole grains and dry ingredients usually stays good for one to two months if kept in a cool, dry place. Always check for signs of mold or pests before using.

3. Can I ferment homemade chicken feed?

Yes. Fermenting makes nutrients easier to digest and can improve gut health. Use clean water, soak the feed for one to three days, and stir daily. Use the fermented mix right away and clean the container after each batch.

4. What feed should I use for chicks or pullets?

These recipes are meant for laying hens that are at least 16 weeks old. Chicks need starter feed with higher protein (18–20%) and a fine texture. Pullets (8–16 weeks) need a balanced grower feed with lower calcium.

5. How do I know if my hens are getting enough nutrients?

Watch for steady egg laying, firm shells, bright feathers, and normal behavior. If you see thin shells, pale yolks, or slow growth, review the protein, fat, and calcium in their feed and make small adjustments.