How cool that you DH is on your side!!!
Did this thread make you think of getting a chicken or did you want a chicken and then found this thread?
Just a quick note: I think you should get at least two. From what I have read, they are very social animals and would get lonely.
You could get something called a chicken tractor. Basically a chicken wire enclosure with an open bottom and a small coop that can be moved around the yard (google it). That way your cat can't get at the chickens. But if you get larger chickens, I think your cat should not pose a threat...