The 5 Must-Know Secrets Behind Chicken Salad Chick Westerville: Ohio’s Original 'Chick' Location

For residents and food lovers in the Columbus-area, the Chicken Salad Chick in Westerville, Ohio, holds a special place: it was the brand’s first-ever foray into the Buckeye State. As of this current date, December 15, 2025, the location continues to thrive as a cornerstone of the company’s aggressive Midwest expansion, offering its signature Southern-inspired, fast-casual chicken salad concept to a loyal following. This deep dive uncovers the unique history, the exact location details, and the menu’s best-kept secrets that make this spot a beloved dining destination in the Westerville-Polaris community. The success of the Westerville store, which debuted in 2019, paved the way for multiple other Ohio locations, including the company-owned Hamilton Quarter restaurant. From the moment it opened its doors, it introduced central Ohio to a world of flavor that goes far beyond the average deli offering, establishing a high bar for quality, freshness, and Southern hospitality.

A Full Look at Chicken Salad Chick Westerville: Location and Pioneering Franchise History

The Chicken Salad Chick experience is built on a foundation of variety and freshness, but the Westerville location’s story is rooted in its role as a pioneer. It was the first to bring the Alabama-based concept to the state of Ohio, setting the stage for significant regional growth.

• Location Type: Franchise-Owned (The First Ohio Location)
• Pioneering Franchise Owner: Jen Crichfield
• Original Opening Date: June 12, 2019
• Primary Address: 687 Worthington Road, Westerville, OH 43082
• Shopping Center: Westar Plaza (near Fresh Thyme Market)
• Significance: The *Ohio debut* that proved the concept could flourish in the Midwest.

This specific location, situated in the bustling Westerville-Polaris area, is a testament to the brand's commitment to community. Local entrepreneur Jen Crichfield blazed the trail for the brand's footprint in the Columbus-area, demonstrating the demand for high-quality, handcrafted chicken salad. The success of this initial venture quickly led to the opening of a second Columbus-area location in Hamilton Quarter (6304 East Dublin Granville Road), further solidifying the brand’s presence.

The Signature Menu: A Guide to the 12 'Chicks' You Must Try

What truly distinguishes the Chicken Salad Chick is its menu, which features nearly a dozen distinct variations of chicken salad, known affectionately as the “Chicks.” Each recipe is handcrafted daily and falls into one of four flavor categories: Traditional, Savory, Fruity & Nutty, and Spicy. Navigating this extensive menu can be a delicious challenge, so here is a breakdown of the must-try entities that have earned the Westerville location a strong 4.4 out of 5 rating from visitors.

1. The Traditional Favorites (Must-Try Classics)

These are the foundational flavors that built the brand, perfect for those who appreciate the simple elegance of a well-made classic.

• Classic Carol: The signature recipe that started it all. This timeless favorite features all white-meat shredded chicken, finely minced celery, mayonnaise, and the brand’s secret seasoning. It is the gold standard for a traditional chicken salad.
• Olivia’s Old South: A Southern-inspired twist, this version adds sweet pickles and egg to the base, offering a comforting, homestyle flavor profile.
• Dixie Chick: A simple, onion-free classic chicken salad, ideal for those who prefer a straightforward, clean taste.

2. The Fruity & Nutty Selections (Sweet & Savory)

For a lighter, sweeter experience, these options incorporate fresh fruits and crunchy nuts, making them excellent choices for a light lunch or a summer picnic.

• Fanciful Fran: A delightful mix of Fuji apples, seedless grapes, and pecans, balancing sweetness and crunch.
• Fruity Fran: Similar to Fanciful Fran, but without the pecans, catering to those with nut allergies or preferences.
• Cranberry Kelli: A popular choice featuring dried cranberries and slivered almonds, providing a tart and nutty bite.

3. Bold & Savory Flavors (The Adventurous Choices)

If you prefer a more robust or herb-forward taste, the savory category offers unique and complex flavor combinations.

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• Jalapeño Holly: A fan-favorite that brings a kick of heat with diced jalapeños, offering a spicy yet creamy profile.
• Sassy Scotty: Combines ranch dressing, bacon, and shredded cheddar cheese for a hearty, savory flavor reminiscent of a loaded baked potato.
• Barbie: A fun, vibrant option that includes black olives and green onions, giving it a Mediterranean flair.

Beyond the 'Chicks': Sides, Soups, and Catering Services

While the chicken salad is the star, the Westerville location's menu features a full range of complementary items, ensuring the fast-casual concept provides a complete, satisfying meal.

The menu extends far beyond the core chicken salad offerings, providing excellent options for a full meal or catering for events in the Westerville and Columbus-area.

Fresh Sides and Soups:

• Broccoli Salad: A classic Southern side featuring fresh broccoli florets, bacon, and a sweet-and-tangy dressing.
• Grape Salad: A decadent, creamy side dish that is a staple of Southern cuisine.
• Pimento Cheese: Available in several varieties, including the traditional *Southern Rock* and the spicy *Jalapeño Jack*, perfect for scooping or on a sandwich.
• Daily Soup Specials: The restaurant offers rotating daily soup specials, such as creamy tomato bisque or hearty chili, ideal for pairing with a half-sandwich.

Sandwiches and Melts:

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For those looking for something different, the menu includes classic deli options. The Chick Melt is a standout, featuring your choice of chicken salad served warm on a grilled croissant. Other options include the classic BLT and the fully loaded Turkey Club.

Catering and Quick Chicks:

The Westerville location is also a top choice for office catering and family meals. The Quick Chicks section allows customers to purchase chicken salad by the pound, making it easy to take home the *Classic Carol* or *Jalapeño Holly* for events or weekly meal prep. This convenience has made it a favorite for local businesses in the Westar Plaza and surrounding areas.

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The Impact of the Ohio Debut on Midwest Expansion

The successful launch in Westerville in 2019 was a pivotal moment for the Chicken Salad Chick franchise. It demonstrated that the Southern-inspired concept could successfully translate to the Midwest market. This Ohio debut, led by franchise owner Jen Crichfield, set the stage for aggressive expansion. As of late 2025, the brand continues to target key states like Ohio, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Wisconsin for development. The company reported system-wide sales figures above $394.2 million in 2024, highlighting the enormous success and popularity of the concept. The Westerville location remains a high-performing anchor store, symbolizing the brand's commitment to quality and community as it continues its growth trajectory across the region. The commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients and providing exceptional Southern hospitality ensures that the original Ohio "Chick" remains a must-visit destination.