Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Arrange the saltine crackers in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, stir in the brown sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly for about 3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Pour the caramel mixture evenly over the crackers, making sure to cover them completely.
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the caramel is bubbly and golden.
Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle the chocolate chips over the hot caramel. Let them sit for a minute to soften, then spread the melted chocolate evenly over the top.
If desired, sprinkle chopped nuts over the chocolate layer for added crunch.
Allow the caramel crackers to cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for about 30 minutes to set the chocolate.
Once set, break into pieces and serve.