Hickory dickory dock!
 

Is it acceptable to use hickory chunks as a potting media? Explanation of your response please.

I don't recommend it. Hickory (and Pecan) have large amounts of volatile oils and tannins in the wood, which can have a severe impact on plant health.

I use hickory as firewood flavor for bar-b-q .... make it into charcoal to get rid of the resin, oils and tannins....then use it for orchid mix