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Heather, a Fayetteville native and critical care nurse, and Clay, a Whitakers-born businessman, aren’t chasing profits—they’re planting roots. They live in Raleigh with their young daughters, hoping one day the girls will take up the mantle and continue the family-run tradition.
“We instantly fell in love with the inviting atmosphere, and after spending two hours chatting with Haley, the franchise owner, we were sold on the idea of opening our own,” Heather added.
Southern Hospitality That Sticks to Your Ribs
Forget digital coupons and sterile drive-thrus—this opening celebration is something else. The first 100 guests in line will walk away with free chicken salad for a year. That’s right—a whole year.
The very first guest in line at 10:30 AM will receive a large Quick Chick chicken salad every week for 52 weeks. The next 99 guests? One large Quick Chick every month for an entire year.
And the giveaways keep coming. On Thursday, June 19, the first 50 Chick Trio customers get a free 40-ounce tumbler. Friday brings canvas tote bags, and Saturday wraps up with complimentary 16-ounce tumblers. These aren’t marketing ploys—they’re heartfelt thank-yous from neighbors who know the value of giving back.
Made From Scratch, Served With Love
The menu boasts over a dozen chicken salad flavors—all handmade daily—and the Harmons have a few favorites that hit close to home.
“Our favorites are Olivia’s Old South and Dixie Chick because they remind us of our grandmothers’ homemade recipes,” Heather shared.
There are also sandwiches, soups, side salads, and desserts—all served up fast but never fast food. Whether it’s dine-in, patio seating, drive-thru, or delivery, this place offers the kind of convenience that doesn’t compromise on quality.
Building More Than a Business—It’s a Legacy
Heather continues to serve in healthcare while also working as a Territory Business Manager for a medical company covering two states. Clay left his land clearing company behind to go all-in on the restaurant.
Together, they’re not just opening a business—they’re laying the foundation for generational success and community stewardship.
Their soft opening is already making an impact, as proceeds are going toward the UNC Johnston Health Foundation’s Angel Fund. This vital charity helps cancer patients afford medicine, wigs, prosthetics, and transportation.
The cause hits home for the Harmons. Heather’s mother has been fighting stage four colon cancer for five years.
A Growing Brand With Old-School Values
Since 2008, Chicken Salad Chick has expanded from humble roots in Auburn, Alabama to 305 locations in 21 states. But don’t be fooled by the growth—its core mission hasn’t changed: “Spread Joy, Enrich Lives, and Serve Others.”
CEO Scott Deviney says the choice to expand into Smithfield was no accident.
“Smithfield has experienced significant growth in recent years, with Johnston County ranking among the fastest-growing counties in the state,” Deviney said. “Despite this momentum, the area still lacks a variety of dining options. We knew Heather and Clay’s passion and determination could help fill that gap.”
With accolades from Entrepreneur’s Franchise 500 and multiple food industry awards, Chicken Salad Chick is more than a feel-good story—it’s a success story. One grounded in faith, family, and food made with real care.
Real America, Served Fresh
In a time when big business seems more focused on boardroom politics than real people, the Harmons are doing something extraordinary: bringing heart, soul, and hospitality back to the American table.
And judging by the crowds lining up, Smithfield is ready for it.
Chicken Salad Chick of Smithfield will be open Monday through Saturday from 10:30 AM to 8 PM. But its doors are opening to something even greater—a community reborn around shared values, homemade recipes, and real human connection.
