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When I first met our chickens I was surprised at how much pleasure I took in watching their little heads bobbing about as they foraged in the garden. I am now a chook lover, and possibly project a bit too much personality into their little community.
I am very much an amateur learning by trial & error, but I believe if they are bright eyed, have a bounce in their step and don't start too many in house disputes they are happy with their lot.
They may not be the brainiest of creatures, but they are smart enough that they need some mental stimulation, and are also amazingly curious. If they see any activity in their house they come running from all ends of the garden to watch, and as soon as the fresh straw is in place they dive in to check it out and rearrange it.
Not everyone wants free range chickens of course, and they can live very happily in an enclosure so long as there is room to scratch around, and a nice dry corner in the pen for a dust bath. Watch for personality clashes though. If there is not enough living space, or if the chooks are bored they can become aggressive and start picking on each other.
Heather Evershed