A chicken that is between 6-8 weeks of age is referred to as what?

The term that refers to a chicken between 6-8 weeks of age is broiler/fryer. This classification is specifically used for chickens raised for meat production around this age range. Broilers are known for their rapid growth and are typically processed for consumption when they reach about 6-8 weeks. This is the optimal age for achieving a good balance of meat yield and flavor, which is ideal in the poultry industry.

Other classifications exist for chickens based on age and purpose. A rooster is an adult male chicken, and a pullet refers to a young female chicken, usually under one year old, which is often raised for egg production. A capon is a castrated male chicken that is also raised for meat but has a different age and growth profile compared to a broiler or fryer. Understanding these terms helps in the production and classification of chickens in both the commercial and agricultural sectors.