Mrs. KF has expressed a desire to raise our own eggs and chickens, for reasons of ethical concerns about commercially raised chickens. I am rather half hearted about this, but at the same time a little bit interested.  Browsing the numerous options in the way of chickens(I would like dual purpose chickens) some hatcheries indicate a Buff Orpington might fit the bill, advertising them as "succulent" to eat, other hatcheries aren't quite so positive about the qualities of a BO.  Any ideas?  Rhode Island Reds are the most popular here I guess for small flocks, but I don't think they are noted for being great to eat, not bad, just not great.

KF. For a 'utility' breed I think the RRR or Light Sussex as good as any. Both are, I believe slightly better layers than the Orpington. If Mrs KF just wants a few hens around then the ones you have mentioned will be OK as dual purpose. However, I would put in a few Black Rock/Shavers to boost up the number of eggs.

You might also think about running a few Ross Cobs for their meat.

With a mixed bag such as you first suggested, I have found that most farmers don't bother eating the cockerels because there is simply not enough meat on them to make a roast. (Breast OK) The other snag with a mixed bunch is that when you want a cockerel for the pot, it is either too young or too old. And so you are left with a yard full of 'allsorts' which are slowly reverting to the original wild birds which lay less and do not put on weight.

Mind you. Every farm yard has got to have some hens scratching around in the hay barn etc.